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WELCOME
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First Impression
A word from the editor-in-chief
March 2020
Editorial Editor in Chief Khalid Ahmed Juman Deputy Editor in Chief Ahmed Khunji Art Director Nils Albrechtsen Features Editor Tariq Khonji Editors Amy Vaya Mohammed Hassan Charlie Holding Marketing and Sales International Media Sales Director Hussain Al Zaimoor Production Production Support Venkatesan J. S IT support Digital Manager Hussain Al Anjawi
DURRAH LUXURY MAGAZINE PO Box 13990, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain T. +973 77077777 F. +973 17226555 volume 12 Issue 03 SPRING 2020
BD 3.5 Sr 35 DHS 35 KD 2.5 US$ 10
47
Vacheron Constantin new Égérie collection
Here we are with yet another luxurious issue of Durrah! As our dear readers have come to expect by now, we spare no effort and no expense to craft a magazine filled to the brim with interesting insights and the latest offerings from locations around the globe. I’m always delightfully surprised by the sheer number of talents and magnificent creations to be found in our quest to capture the finer things in life. In this issue, we cover the historic visit of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister to the Vatican where he met with His Holiness Pope Francis and explored further methods of cooperation between the two nations. Bahrain has always been a beacon of tolerance and understanding and the visit of HRH will no doubt serve to further cement that legacy. Also in this issue, we visit the story of Optica, one of Bahrain’s longest brands in operation, as we talk to Chairman Mohamed Al Hasan. We also get the latest inside scoops from the senior figures leading the world’s most prestigious brands in jewellery, watches, hospitality and the automotive industry.
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We delve into the creative mind of Iraqi artist and Professor of Sculpture at University of Sharjah’s College of Fine Arts Mutasim Al Kubaisi, who molds the most though-provoking creations, and we discuss the unique artistic medium of the opera with Umberto Fanni, Director General of Royal Opera House Muscat, who illuminates on the mesmerizing performances and the public’s embrace of the leading arts and culture organization in the Sultanate of Oman. And as always, it wouldn’t be Durrah without the most breathtaking travel sights, the finest dining destinations, the latest in designer brand apparel, and the numerous articles that cater to the palette of the most discerning connoisseurs. Where there’s luxury, there’s Durrah.
Cover Image Inspired by her Durrah is a premium quarterly English-language luxury lifestyle magazine, covering topics including VIP interviews, fashion, yachting, architecture, art and culture, jewellery and travel, Durrah’s quality is unsurpassed. Durrah, in Arabic, translates to ‘Pearl’, and focuses on luxury that is based on substance and lifestyle with intellect, rather than excess. On contemporary living that evolves from deepset roots, rather than globalization, ensuring an inherently authentic flavour for a globally travelled audience. With a core focus on the colourful fusion of both traditional and modern elements that make up the Arabian identity, Durrah aims to promote and preserve all of the elements that make the Arabian Gulf so unique. Durrah adopts international standards, however also remains closely connected to Middle Eastern heritage, culture and achievements, all of which are prominently featured.
Enjoy your read! ISSN 2210-1322
DURRAHMAGAZINE
Khalid Ahmed Juman Editor in Chief
www.durrah.bh e.mail: info@durrah.bh
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Discover The Collection City Center Bahrain +973 17564991
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CONTENTS
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CONTENTS
March 2020
Volume 12 Issue 03 Spring 2020
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First Impression
Unleashing the Panther
Editor’s Letter
The iconic Panthère De Cartier collection
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HRH Crown Prince’s historic visit to the Vatican
Interview with Zenith CEO, Juilen Tornare
Bridges of Tolerance
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Vision of Success
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Alluring Charm
Salvatore Ferragamo’s Varina Spring/ Summer 2020 collection
Watchmaking Alchemy
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Interview with Umberto Fanni, Director General of Royal Opera House Muscat
Timeless Elegance
Égérie by Vacheron Constantin
The Art of Stories
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The Ultimate Luxury Retreat
Interview with Al Hasan Group Chairman and Optica Executive Director, Mohamed Al Hasan
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The new OMEGA Constellation Gents’ collection
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Interview with Jetex CEO Adel Mardini
Evolving Passion
Interview with NS by Noof founder, Noof Al Shekar
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Exceeding Expectations
Interview with Al Zain Jewellery CEO, Theo Swart
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A History of Refinement
Time to Impress
Versace’s Greca Logo Spring-Summer 2020 Collection
Interview with Regent Porto Montenegro General Manager, Kai Dieckmann
Sky High Service
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Exceptional Luxury
Interview with INFINITI Middle East Managing Director, Markus Leithe
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Louvre Abu Dhabi’s Furusiyya: The Art of Chivalry between East and West
Perfumes for women
The Dolce & Gabbana Fall 2020 Menswear Collection
Shining Armor
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In True Form
Alluring Fragrances
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Ode to Women
Artistic Craftsmanship
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Interview with artist Mutasim Al Kubaisi
Stella McCartney’s Spring/Summer 2020 Collection
Evolving Tradition
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Royal Insignia’s bespoke gifts
Emporio Armani’s Spring Summer 2020 Collection
Brunello Cucinelli’s Spring Summer 2020 Kids Collection
Crafting Luxury
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Telling Stories Through Perfume
Interview with Dolce&Gabbana perfumer, Jean-Christophe Herault
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Fresh and Bold Perfumes for men
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Dreams and Horizons
Berluti’s Autumn Winter 2020 Collection
Contemporary Elegance
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Amgad Al Adab’s Winter Collection 2020
The latest in ladies’ brand name bags
Young Vibes
Exquisite Style
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Yosra El Barkouky’s Fall-Winter 2020 Collection
The latest in designer brand women’s shoes
Luxurious Sensations
Stepping in Style
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CONTENTS
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Modern Art Studio and Rolex boutique
The best hotels in the world
The Supercar Capsule by
Timeless Prestige
Redefining Hospitality
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Luxury Showcase
SUPERFUTUREDESIGN*
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140
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Luxurious shopping destinations
The best spas in the world
Kiswah Jewellery’s unique range of luxury collections
Boutique Experience
Serene Treatments
Inspiring Art Pieces
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Sunseeker’s all-new Manhattan 68
Interview with Mandarin Oriental, Milan Executive Chef, Antonio Guida
Must Haves for Men
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190
126
Top dining locations
Luxury items for women
Interview with artist Dana Jumaan
Badge of Luxury
Exceptional Luxury
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Life Without Limits The Oceanco Bravo Eugenia
Culinary Art
Refined Taste
184
Luxury items for Men
Must Haves for Women
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196
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The Rolls-Royce Black Badge Family
Unity in Diversity: Religions in Bahrain
Discover Waikiki
Driving In Style
The Many Faces of Us Paradise on Earth
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Kingdom of Coexistence
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Car reviews
Gulf Construction Expo and Gulf Interiors Expo 2020
Final Pearl
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SAKSME.COM
ZIMMERMANN
ONLY AT SAKS
City Centre Bahrain
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EVENT
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01, 02, 04 HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister with His Holiness Pope Francis
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Bridges of Tolerance In a landmark visit that underscores the Kingdom of Bahrain’s diversity and religious freedom, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister met with His Holiness Pope Francis and the Vatican’s Secretary of State, His Eminence Cardinal Pietro Parolin.
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A crossroads of commerce and culture since ancient times, Bahrain today is a melting pot where all cultures are respected, and people of different religious beliefs worship openly. This historical tradition of openness is best characterised by the existence of a Christian Church dating all the way back to 1893, a Hindu temple two centuries old, and Bahrain being home to the only synagogue in the region. In 2017, His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa authored the ground-breaking ‘Kingdom of Bahrain Declaration’, which calls for an end to religious extremism and decrees religious freedom to be guaranteed by law in Bahrain. To reaffirm Bahrain’s spirit of tolerance and moderation, HRH the Crown Prince met with
His Holiness Pope Francis to share their views on common human values which stretch across cultures and religions. HRH communicated his deep appreciation for the tireless efforts of His Holiness the Pope and the Vatican state in building bridges of understanding and tolerance. During the visit, HRH the Crown Prince highlighted Bahrain’s progressive views on religious freedom, noting the Kingdom has a distinguished history of embracing different cultures and religions while upholding the values of diversity. HRH stressed to His Holiness that the Kingdom will continue to promote religious freedom and diversity as part of its ambitions to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
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EVENT
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“To reaffirm Bahrain’s spirit of
tolerance and moderation, HRH the Crown Prince met with His Holiness Pope Francis to share their views on common human values which stretch across cultures and religions.” 03
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HRH conveyed to His Holiness Pope Francis the greetings of HM the King and his wishes of further prosperity for the Vatican. He spoke of Bahrain’s intention to further strengthen its friendship with the Vatican state and promote the values of peace and stability. At the conclusion of the visit, HRH and Pope Francis exchanged gifts to commemorate the visit. HRH
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presented His Holiness with a small chest with geometric figures evoking the seasons, while His Holiness offered back a medallion with an inscription about peace. HRH the Crown Prince also met with the Vatican’s Secretary of State, His Eminence Cardinal Pietro Parolin, during which he pledged the Kingdom’s commitment to inter-faith understanding and cultural diversity. HRH highlighted the
Kingdom’s diverse society and embracement of all religions and faiths, which reflects HM the King’s far reaching vision of peace and harmony. The Gulf region’s largest Catholic church, Our Lady of Arabia, is currently under construction in Bahrain and is expected to be completed next year. The land on which it is being built was gifted to the church by HM the King.
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03, 05 HRH meets HE Giuseppe Conte, Prime Minister of the Italian Republic 06 HRH with the Vatican’s Secretary of State, His Eminence Cardinal Pietro Parolin
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Vision of Success Al Hasan Holding Group Chairman and Optica Executive Director Mohamed Al Hasan discusses eyewear trends, community engagement, and the importance of building on a family legacy.
01 Al Hasan Family
Can you please tell us a bit about the company’s history?
How have your customers changed over the years?
My father, Abbas Al Hasan, spent years mastering his skills as an optician before he founded the company in 1972. In the beginning, the company was called New Optical House and our customers were mainly British and American Navy personnel who needed reading glasses. In 1986, as the company grew bigger and more established, we rebranded to become Bahrain Optician. In 2012, I stepped back from the day to day running of the business and delegated more responsibilities to my brothers and sons who took the company to new heights as Optica.
With more than 46 years of expertise in our industry, we have developed a very broad and loyal customer base. In the past, wearing glasses was regarded as an inconvenient necessity but today, they are perceived as stylish accessories. As a result, we are attracting younger customers who understand that fashion and function can go hand in hand.
What is the most popular eyewear product that you offer today? We offer a wide variety of products ranging from contact lenses to frames and sunglasses as well as eye care accessories. We carry leading global brands such as RayBan, Cartier, Rudy Project, Gucci, Lindberg, Chanel, L.G.R, Zeiss. Just to name a few. We are also the agent in Bahrain for Sunglass Hut, which is part of the Italian-based Luxottica Group, the world’s largest eyewear company.
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What are the qualities that make Optica so successful? I think that the selection of quality products we offer plays an important role in our overall success. However, you need more than just popular products to run a successful business. Decades of experience, exceptional customer service, and a dedicated team of highly skilled professionals are what make Optica stand out. We frequently attend leading global optometry events to enhance their knowledge and stay up to date with the industry’s latest trends and developments.
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What are the near future plans for Optica?
How do you decide which brands to carry?
E-commerce is changing the way that companies around the world do business and Optica is no exception. We are currently working to develop our capabilities in this important area, which will allow us to reach new customers around the globe. We already have business arrangements with leading delivery companies like DHL and Aramex to help ensure our customers can easily receive the products they order from us online. We currently have a presence in Bahrain and Qatar, and we are looking to expand with new stores across the GCC.
At Optica, our customers are very decerning and we are committed to providing only quality products. We already carry leading brands and consistently check their latest offerings to make sure that customers in Bahrain have access to the newest styles.
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02 Optica’s branch in Doha Festival City 04 Optica’s branch in Seef Mall 03 Optica stores carry leading eyewear brands 05, 06 Founder Abbas Al Hasan
What kind of initiatives or services does Optica provide to the community? We have a very strong relationship with the Royal Charity Organisation (RCO) and are proud
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“Decades of experience, exceptional customer service, and a dedicated team of highly skilled professionals are what make Optica stand out�
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to support the important work it does in the Kingdom. Every year, we donate new glasses to widows and orphans registered with the organisation. We also run an annual campaign giving customers a 30% discount on new frames when they donate their old ones. The old frames are inspected for quality and cleaned before being donated to the RCO. Moreover, we recently introduced a new brand called Sana and 10 per cent of all proceeds from these frames will go directly to charity groups in Bahrain. Giving back to the community in the Kingdom is a privilege and we consistently look for new ways to do this. For the past 10 years, we have made eye tests more accessible to the sick and elderly by arranging home visits. We also offer this free-ofcharge service to companies in Bahrain.
What are some of the main challenges impacting the eyewear industry? Unscrupulous companies selling counterfeit sunglasses are one of the main issues. The most important quality for sunglasses is how well they protect against UV light, which can cause extreme damage to your eyes. Not only can fake sunglasses fail to prevent UV rays but they can enhance the damage, as your pupils will dilate and absorb even more of the light. Ray-Ban is one of the most popular brands in the world and this style is often copied, which means you should always check to make sure they are genuine. In addition, one of the main challenges in today’s society is adapting to technology as people have become more digital-savvy. We try to raise their awareness of how Optica provides simple yet sophisticated solutions such as Zeiss lenses, which is a wellknown brand that offers a variety of product lines such as Drive Safe lens and Smart Life lens.
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How important is it to you that Optica is a family business? Optica has been a family business for more than 40 years, with the 3rd generation now at the helm. Building the family legacy is a huge responsibility, which we all take seriously. I am very proud of all that we have achieved so far, and I hope the 4th generation will want to continue this legacy and build on our success. The company’s roots are very important to us. We even have a small display of my father’s old optometry equipment and qualifications at our head office.
07 Optica in the early days 08 Chairman Mohamed Al Hasan
alhasanholding.net
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031-031 Chopard Advert.indd 31 © 2020 Danjaq and MGM. NO TIME TO DIE, and related James Bond Indicia © 1962-2020 Danjaq and MGM. NO TIME TO DIE, and related James Bond Trademarks are trademarks of Danjaq. All Rights Reserved.
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Evolving Passion 01
Noof Al Shekar reveals what turns a handbag into a fashion statement and the new vision for her luxury brand, NS by Noof. 01
Can you tell us a bit about the 2020 collection from NS by Noof? For 2020, we introduced a new range of unique handbag structures Spring/Summer 2020 includes Jazi, an exotic python skin clutch with a decorated front hand strap, Mini Zain, the petite version of our classic ‘Zain’ envelope bag which pays homage to the late Karl Lagerfeld and Mariyanna a versatile clutch that’s perfect for day and night. For Fall/Winter 2020, we will introduce Croco, a clutch made from exotic crocodile skin, Loli a diamond shaped bag to commemorate our ten-year anniversary, and Daisy, a new bag inspired by Art Deco designs.
What kind of material goes into making NS by Noof pieces? And which material have you found to be the most popular? Each NS by Noof piece is made from the finest materials. We used genuine leather, semi-precious stones and 18k gold and platinum plated brass. The most popular material of the brand would be the semi-precious stones and gold-plated brass in geometric designs, and the exotic skins making each piece a true masterpiece.
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“Each NS by Noof piece is made from
the finest materials. We used genuine leather, semi-precious stones and 18k gold and platinum plated brass.” 02
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Which of your pieces are you most proud of? Each piece I created has a special place in my heart because each one was created with love. Looking back over these ten years, I’m proud of how the shapes and designs have evolved from the first piece to the last one.
When did you realize you had a passion for design? I had a passion for design since childhood. I was always fascinated by fine art, fashion and jewelry. Every summer, after school closed, I used to sit with my sketchbook and design collections from my imagination. Today, this has become a reality.
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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL
01 Noof Al Shekar 02 Jazi Clutch 03 Safa Bag 04 Mini Zain bag
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“The key to making my inspiration
spark is mainly the geometric patterns, and the era which the pieces where inspired from.” 04
Which brand or designer do you admire the most? I admire the work of many designers, especially those who express their talent with passion and artistic touch. In fashion, I like the work of Jacquemus and David Koma. In architecture, I admire the work of the late Zaha Hadid. Her avantgarde approach to design is very inspiring, especially that she expressed her art though architecture.
What are the key ingredients needed for a handbag to spark your interest? The key to making my inspiration spark is mainly the geometric patterns, and the era which the pieces where inspired from. I love the glamour and elegance of the 50’s used in previous seasons and the 20’s for this season as well. I’m also inspired by classic black and white movies.
What type of challenges could a designer face when starting a new project? Like any new project, designers should know there would be setbacks and challenges. With that, they should have a solid plan and keep moving forward. Challenges designers might face between manufacturing and material sourcing is the practicality of the pieces, how to maintain a line with the same soul and feeling, and how to create the brand awareness when introducing it to a new market.
What are the future plans for NS by Noof? Our future plans are to expand in the market and have another line which is younger and funkier. As for the brand now, it presents my taste: very classic and timeless. Our future plans also include the younger vision of the brand. nsbynoof.com
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Exceeding Expectations
01 Al Zain Jewellery CEO, Theo Swart
Al Zain Jewellery CEO Theo Swart chats with Durrah about the company’s latest collections, its strong performance in 2019, and its ambitious expansion plans for 2020.
What did you think of this year’s Jewellery Arabia exhibition? This year we had two stands at the exhibition: a high jewellery stand, and a stand featuring our daily wear collections. We were very optimistic from the start and the turnout exceeded our expectations. It was a fantastic opportunity to meet with new and existing customers and showcase our latest offerings.
Can you tell us more about the new Hab El Hayl Evolution collection and what makes it different from the past iterations? This time we have introduced multiple spinning parts, the first edition was a single mechanism, now we have variants of three and four and we have also added new colours. We will still offer white, yellow, and rose gold as well as a multi-colour option. We have also introduced longer pendant necklaces and more variants of our most popular rings, giving customers the flexibility to stack them according to colours and styles that they like.
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What is the signature feature of Al Zain Jewellery that sets you aside from the rest? Our new high jewellery collection is truly unique in the Middle East. It breaks away from the traditional high-end style that customers are familiar with and features a more contemporary design. On the other side, we will always stay true to our roots and origin. We will continue creating items in line with Middle Eastern heritage and traditions, taking different elements and giving them a modern twist.
What is the biggest market for Al Zain Jewellery? We are a proudly Bahraini company, so the Kingdom remains our strongest market, followed by the UAE. We have plans to take our brand international, but for now, we remain firmly focused on the Middle East and our loyal customers here.
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02 Hab El Hayl Evolution 03 18K Hab El Hayl Evolution Necklace in Yellow Gold with Diamonds
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04 Al Zain Stand at Jewellery Arabia
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How would you describe Al Zain Jewellery’s customers? Our customers are sophisticated, forward thinking, and independent. They value having diversity in their style and don’t mind investing in quality. They are ready to make their mark on the world and do so with a touch of femininity.
What has been the biggest achievement for the brand in 2019? The growth and development of our product line is our biggest achievement. The launch of our latest Al Marriyah, Hab el Hayl, and high jewellery collections are all highlights that contributed to Al Zain’s impressive sales growth in 2019, surpassing our expectations.
What are some of the current trends you have noticed in the jewellery world? We have noticed that our millennial customers are looking for pieces that reflect their individuality, not necessarily something that would appeal to their mothers and grandmothers. We offer these items, which has help Al Zain to become what it is today.
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While many other brands are facing tremendous strain in tough economic times, our ability to reinvent our brand and our products is what sets us apart.
What challenges is the jewellery industry facing at the moment? The introduction of VAT in an already tough market is a challenge for many companies. The global decline in gold purchases is another challenge that has affected all jewellery businesses. Despite this, our sales growth in both gold and diamonds exceeded the worldwide market trend in 2019, which allows us to continue our proud tradition of crafting stunning pieces for discerning customers.
What should we expect from Al Zain Jewellery in 2020? We are expanding our presence in the Kingdom and will open two new stores at Bahrain International Airport’s new Passenger Terminal Building, as well as additional boutiques in the UAE, and renovating our existing boutiques to align with our new brand concept. alzainjewellery.com
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SPECIAL FEATURE
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Unleashing the Panther To celebrate the rich history of the iconic Panthère De Cartier collection, Cartier launches a new collection reimagined for 2020.
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01, 08 Italian fashion model and ambassador of the Panthère de Cartier collection, Mariacarla Boscono, 02 Panthère de Cartier bangle watch, 18 mm, quartz movement 03, 06 Panthère ambassador, British actress Annabelle Wallis
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The Panthère is an icon. An object of desire and fascination, everything about her exudes power, freedom and defiance. Sleek and untamed, she is indomitable, charged with a magnetism that reveals a personal strength of character. Panthers know their own kind; it is a tribe united by instinct and independence. Cartier and the panther: destinies intertwined. The Panthère has been a creative signature for Cartier since her first sighting, spot motifs on a watch in 1914. She graduated from the abstract to a figurative representation three years later when depicted flanked by cypress trees on a nécessaire gifted by Louis Cartier to Jeanne Toussaint in 1917.
This was the beginning of a tale of symbiosis between the Panthère and Jeanne Toussaint, who two years later ordered a further nécessaire in gold and black Canton enamel that again featured the Panthère. The creature thus became her personal signature. In 1948, the eccentric and liberated visionary fleshed out the creature in three dimensions. The Panthère has prowled the annals of the Maison ever since. Inspiring jewellery, watches, fragrances and accessories, she has been reinvented over time in naturalist, sculptural and graphic interpretations. The challenge is always to give her life and movement, which calls for inventive design and
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“The Panthère has been a
creative signature for Cartier since her first sighting, spot motifs on a watch in 1914.”
skilled craftsmanship. This active dialogue is key to her eternal creative vitality. Power: the Panthère conquers all. With a might that was mesmerising from the outset, she spoke for a generation of captivating personalities who identified with her – both male and female. She revealed the singular character of the Duchess of Windsor, María Félix, Juliette Greco, Barbara Hutton and many more. Mariacarla Boscono, Annabelle Wallis, Ella Balinska, Chang Chen, Karen Mok and Yasmeen Sabri are amongst her modern-day devotees. These fearless personalities, unafraid to break the rules, are drawn to the most dangerous creature in the Cartier menagerie for her powers of seduction and desire for power.
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04, 11 Panthère ambassador Ella Balinska wearing Panthère de Cartier and La Panthere YG Quartzz 05 Egyptian actress Yasmine Sabri, ambassador for the Panthère de Cartier collection
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Watchmaking Alchemy Zenith CEO, Juilen Tornare on industry trends, the exquisite Defy El Primero, and the watchmaker’s renewed embrace of feminine timepieces.
How was your experience at the first ever LVMH Watch Week? We are very happy with the result. The idea behind the event was to meet with a number of key retailers and members of the media in order to get the business off to a flying start at the beginning of the year. LVMH Watch Week was the first time the LVMH watch division has gathered together and reunited forces to share a special moment. It was a great experience.
You’ve recently added feminine timepieces to your lineups. What prompted you to put the focus on women for this year? We wanted to remind our customers and retail partners that we have a rich archive of ladies’ watches and classical pieces for both men and women. To underline this more inclusive direction, half of the new references unveiled in Dubai were for ladies, including a brand new iteration of the 36mm Defy Midnight watches, as well as 36mm versions of Zenith’s classical Elite watches. However, we weren’t content with making yet another ladies’ watch and these latest
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models are the first time that Zenith has conceived women’s watches from the ground up.
Definitely the Defy EL Primero 21. It had sell-out levels never before experienced by the brand!
Can you tell us a bit about the Defy El Primero 21 Land Rover?
What are the latest trends in the watchmaking industry?
Zenith has a long history with Land Rover and a number of models have been created from this partnership in the past few years. Dedicated to the new Land Rover Defender and limited to just 250 watches, the Defy El Primero 21 Land Rover is the most recent iteration in this series. Both are legends in their own rights, designed to appeal to urbanites with a taste for the occasional adventure. Like the matte metallic paint of the new Land Rover Defender, the 44mm case, caseback, bezel, pushers and crown of the Defy El Primero 21 Land Rover are all made from titanium and micro-blasted to achieve a matte, uniform, non-reflective surface. Like the Land Rover Defender, the Defy El Primero 21 Land Rover combines comfortable ruggedness with elegant minimalism.
Product creativity and novelty, as we have seen from our recent sales, still rule supreme. However, the caveat is that these two factors need to go hand-in-hand with practical, wearable watches at affordable price points while still appealing to a huge and upcoming millennial audience. I have often been quoted as saying that nobody wants to wear their grandmother’s watch and I stand by that! Aside from these factors, pre-owned watches grew exponentially in 2019 and I think this trend will continue along with online sales, not to mention watches designed and produced in conjunction with well-known individuals or brands such as our Defy El Primero 21 Carl Cox.
What has been the most popular Zenith model to date?
Hard to say but somewhere on top of my list is definitely the Defy El Primero 21 Carbon
What is your all-time favorite Zenith watch?
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which takes the natural good looks of the Defy EL Primero 21 to a new level. It’s the ultimate 21st century timepiece. Once again pushing the boundaries of precision Zenith-style, in addition to the faceted case and round bezel, both the crown and chronograph pushers in the Defy El Primero 21 Carbon are also forged from carbon, while randomly arranged alternating layers of carbon fibers create an unprecedented visual effect and make each case essentially unique. Aside from being simultaneously stealthy and edgy, the material has a versatile and easily wearable aspect.
What do you look for in a watch? Innovation, style, design, and precision. It’s a complex alchemy.
What should we expect next from Zenith? We have exciting new developments on the Chronomaster front, so stay tuned! 01
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Timeless Elegance Vacheron Constantin presents Égérie, the new collection entirely inspired by and dedicated to women. There are two distinctive realms in which craftsmanship, know-how and rarity would be nothing without passion, creativity and concern for details. Haute Horlogerie and Haute Couture share this same vocation, continuously reinvented by the artisans working behind the scenes. Égérie was born from the conjunction between these two fields of expertise. Haute Couture instilled a sophisticated style, subtly paired with the asymmetrical aesthetic faithfully perpetuating the Vacheron Constantin heritage. Imbued with this two-fold inspiration, the new Égérie collection weaves the face of watchmaking femininity according to Vacheron Constantin. A watch featuring a classic look “draped” with a mischievous touch reflecting today’s women: inspiring, independent and charismatic.
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A delicate interplay of textures and intertwined shapes, alternating flat and subtly raised areas; a pleated effect reminiscent of fabric; a singular asymmetry borne by a fluid aesthetic: such is the exquisite aesthetic of the Égérie watch. A feminine name for a watch inspired by women, from the famous nymph Egeria recurrently featured in Roman mythology to the contemporary muses who inspire artists, designers and other creative talents. Infused with an exquisitely feminine sensibility, the new Vacheron Constantin collection draws its refinement from the world of Haute Couture. A dial featuring a pleated pattern. A diamond ‘halo’ resembling slender braiding and accentuating the feminine shape of the case. And above all, sophistication in each and every detail, expressed through pleasingly harmonious geometry punctuated by 18-carat gold 01 Arabic numerals, daintily scalloped like lace.
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01, 04, 14 Égérie moon phase, stainless steel 02, 12 Égérie self-winding, 18K 5N rose gold 03 The crown of the Égérie moon phase is adorned with a cabochon-cut moonstone 05 Égérie moon phase diamondpaved, 18K white gold case set with 292 round cut diamonds 06-11 The Égérie high watchmaking journey 13, 15 Égérie moon phase, 18K 5N rose gold
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Égérie is also the modern interpretation of aesthetic codes cherished by Vacheron Constantin, which has been offering off-centre displays since the early 19th century, notably by playing on two intertwined circles. Égérie has made this its signature touch. The date or moon-phase integration is thus part of a subtle diagonal line formed by the Vacheron Constantin logo and the crown daringly taking its place between 1 and 2 o’clock. Depending on the model, the latter is adorned with a cabochon-cut moonstone or a rosecut diamond. This creative freedom is driven by a bold spirit that makes all the difference. The mischievous Égérie has a strong character
and this elegant watch is firmly embedded in its era. A watch that is a daily companion and a confidante of the most precious evenings. Composed of three models – self-winding, moon phase, moon phase diamond-paved – each offering its own versions in 18K pink gold, 18K white gold or steel, set with diamonds, Égérie is inherently versatile. Appearing on a “second skin” metal bracelet for the steel versions or with interchangeable straps for the gold versions (raspberry pink, night blue, candied chestnut), it offers pleasing variety. vacheron-constantin.com
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“Égérie is a collection inspired by, dedicated to - and exclusively for women” Alexander Schmeidt, Regional Brand director of Vacheron Constantin Middle East
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A History of Refinement Introducing the new OMEGA Constellation Gents’ collection.
For the Swiss watchmaker OMEGA, the pursuit of excellence is a lifetime’s work. In all of its most iconic collections, the brand is constantly innovating its designs to achieve advanced levels of sophistication and precision. This is particularly true for the famous Constellation Gents’ collection, which is now welcoming its 5th exciting generation of models. There are 26 new models to choose from in the diverse selection, all sized at 39 mm. Crafted from the most exquisite materials, such as 18K yellow gold, 18K Sedna™ gold and stainless steel, they all exude a refined sense of luxury and elegance. Following a similar makeover for its Constellation ladies’ models in 2018, all of the gents’ models have been given significant updates. These include polished and beveled edges along the case, claws
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“Customers are invited to discover
the many different combinations of colors and effects, which truly make these new models stand out.”
and bracelet, which deliver a renewed sense of refinement, slimmer bezels with redesigned Roman numerals, slimmer claws that fit gracefully around the case, a conical crown for added sophistication, redesigned hands and hour-markers, which have taken inspiration from the triangular facets of the Freedom Tower in New York, and metal bracelets with new mid-bar links and a comfort-release function, or leather straps in various colors. Finally, all of the 39 mm models in the Constellation Gents’ collection have been upgraded to Master Chronometer status – achieving the Swiss industry’s highest certification for precision, performance and magnetic resistance. Although the OMEGA Constellation line was first launched in 1952, it was the models released in 1982 that first introduced the familiar look that we
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recognise today. Most notably, the features of those 1982 models included the four “claws” on the side of the case, the barrel-shaped case with its halfmoon facets at the top and bottom, the mono-link bracelet and also the perfectly circular dial and indexes on the bezel. These details have remained an integral part of the Constellation collection through the years, including the softer and rounder 2nd generation in 1995; the robust “Double Eagle” in 2003; and the elegant Constellation ’09 in 2009. Today, we arrive at the 5th generation of this famous line. Customers are invited to discover the many different combinations of colors and effects, which truly make these new models stand out. omegawatches.com
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time to Impress Versace’s new Greca Logo Spring-Summer 2020 Collection appeals to both men and women.
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The gents collection features a masculine, contemporary allure that defines the Greca Logo timepiece, which stands out with its dimensional case and rectangular-shaped bracelet links. On the dial, a small seconds hand is placed at 6 o’clock; while an immediate recognition of the Brand is provided at 12 o’clock by the Versace logo and a three-dimensional Medusa. The iconography is reinforced by the Greca on the top ring, which is also punctuated by six screws. In the bracelet version, the timepiece’s sleek, innovative design is completed by the Versace logo alternately repeated on the links.
The women’s collection features a contemporary timepiece combining geometric shapes and feminine style, Greca Logo features a slim and round-shaped case that stands in contrast with the rectangular bracelet links. The top ring is marked by the screws and the Greca motif, which gives an immediate recognition of the brand reinforced by the Versace logo and a three-dimensional Medusa at 12 o’clock. In the bracelet version, the timepiece’s sleek design is completed by the Versace logo alternately repeated on the links. versace.com
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Alluring Charm Salvatore Ferragamo’s Varina Spring/ Summer 2020 collection is classic, sophisticated and feminine.
The Vara bow, iconic symbol of one of the Florentine house’s most famous shoes, inspires the aesthetics of Varina, becoming a new trendy detail of its elegant leather strap. Hymn to a classic, hyper-feminine refinement, Varina has a domed top ring that softly accentuates the whiteness of the dial, punctuated by four small studs at the indexes. Featuring a 22mm case, the new Varina watches come in stainless steel, IP Yellow Gold and IP Rose Gold with red cabochon on the crown. The Swiss made movements are Quartz 2H (Ronda 751) and the dial is made from white enamel with four metal studs at the indexes. The strap comes in black, mink, or Ferragamo red leather. ferragamo.com
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The Art of Stories
01, 03 The Royal Opera House Muscat 02 Umberto Fanni, Director General of Royal Opera House Muscat
Umberto Fanni, Director General of Royal Opera House Muscat, illuminates on the mesmerizing performances and the public’s embrace of the leading arts and culture organization in the Sultanate of Oman. 02
This upcoming season will mark the 10th Anniversary of the Royal Opera House Muscat and the 50th Anniversary of Oman’s modern Renaissance. What does ROHM have in store to celebrate those occasions? Let’s first note the context for these important milestones in the history of the Sultanate. The Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM) was established ten years ago by royal decree in accordance with the vision of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said as a gift to the people of Oman and all humanity in the interest of world peace and harmony. This noble aim was to be enacted through cross-cultural exchange in the global realm of performing arts. When His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said acceded to the throne of the Sultanate in 1970, he embarked on a comprehensive development program covering all sectors of the economy and society. This great initiative became known as The Renaissance and is celebrated every year on the 17th of November, the Sultanate’s National Day. Each November, Oman’s Royal Opera House presents a grand military music concert performed by all seven royal military bands, including three Armed Forces, the Royal Guard, the Royal Police and two Royal Calvary bands. Held outdoors on ROHM’s courtyard, this spectacular military concert is the most popular event of the year, attracting thousands of people. ROHM’s Military Music Concert is a harbinger of Oman’s National Day celebrations for which the Royal Opera House is illuminated in the colors of the
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flag. A few years ago, a stunning new show called Celebrating Oman, the Great Journey was produced by ROHM to honor National Day. It was performed before audiences totaling some 8,000 people. In November 2020, the Military Music Concert will be held along with some very special events in celebration of Oman’s 50th National Day and ROHM’s 10th Anniversary. ROHM’s new anniversary celebrations will be announced when Season 2020/21 is unveiled at a major Press Conference on the 12th of April 2020.
How would you describe your experience with Royal Opera House Muscat compared to your previous ones? What makes ROHM unique? I first came to know the Royal Opera House Muscat in my capacity as Artistic Director of Fondazione Arena di Verona when that company was engaged to perform Puccini’s grand opera, Turandot for the royal inauguration of Oman’s new opera house in October of 2011. Along with all my colleagues at Arena di Verona, including managers, technicians, singers and musicians, totalling more than 300 opera professionals, I was tremendously impressed, not only with the magnificence of the architecture and its palatial interior decoration, but also with the advanced technologies of the auditorium. All this was capped by the logistical competence and technical expertise of ROHM staff and the heart-warming hospitality that we were accorded. As a world class opera house, the Royal Opera House Muscat has a lot in common with the best opera
houses in Italy; and indeed, with the great opera houses of the world. And so, my generic experience as an artistic director, pianist and arts management professional has been invaluable in my roles as Artistic Director and Director-General of ROHM. Oman’s new performing arts institution was the first of its kind in the region and the Arab world. What is also unique about the Royal Opera House Muscat is the cultural context in which it operates. Oman is one of the few modern nations that has succeeded in preserving its traditional heritage and culture. The government is committed to further developing and safeguarding the nation’s cherished traditions, as is the Royal Opera House Muscat. In enacting its mission through programming, ROHM takes care to include a substantial number of Omani and Arab productions each season, while performing arts from the Western world are presented with sensitivity to local cultural norms. The Omanisation of ROHM management and staff currently stands at 78%. Our Omani colleagues bring valuable new perspectives and a wealth of fresh talent, just as our western colleagues bring a global wealth of knowledge and experience. We learn from each other in a fruitful combination that sparks innovation and creativity. Our cross-cultural perspectives inject greater universality in program selection and assure authenticity in developing new productions. While all world-class opera houses currently emphasize education and outreach initiatives in pursuit of expanding and growing audiences, it is doubly important for the Royal Opera House Muscat
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to engage effectively in educational initiatives adapted to local customs. In addition, ROHM creates special programs and customises operas for children and families. In January of 2019, ROHM inaugurated the House of Musical Arts, a new community-oriented facility, complete with a theatre equipped to host full scale operas and large symphony orchestras. Among other key features of the new complex are a comprehensive Music Library with listening facilities and an Exhibition Hall for both temporary and permanent exhibits. The advent of ROHM’s House of Musical Arts represents a paradigm shift in ROHM’s capacity to serve the community with state-of-theart education and outreach initiatives. I have found working with the Royal Opera House Muscat to be an exciting and inspiring experience that engenders new dimensions in creative productivity. It has proved to be an opportunity that enhances my ability to serve in the profession that I love.
How do you feel about the reception that opera has had in Oman so far? Was interest growing over the past few years? Along with ballet and Arab concerts, opera tops the charts for popularity with ROHM audiences. This should be seen in the context of ROHM’s seasonal average for filled seats which is well above 90%, indicating that interest in all ROHM programs has grown steadily over the past several years. Program selection is among the key factors contributing to ROHM’s success. In the realm of opera, we offer about six full-length works each season from a world repertoire that includes the great classics such as Verdi’s La Traviata, Puccini’s La Boheme and Bizet’s Carmen, as well as beautiful gems that are not as well-known, like Debiles’ Lakmé. ROHM also presents special series such as its recent programme of Rossini’s comic operas; and, among other targeted operas, works such as Banevich’s The Story Kai and Gerda that appeal to children and families as well as to people of all ages. This season marked the world premiere of ROHM’s new in-house production of Mozart’s Magic
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Flute set in Oman, along with the world premiere of Tarh el Bahr (The Sea Treasures), an original, all-Egyptian opera sung in Arabic with surtitles in English. Over the past few years, we have instituted the practice of engaging only Omanis as Extras for all operas. Such participation encourages attendance by friends and family members, as well as potentially developing Omani talent. Content in tune with local culture is important to the successful reception of operas at ROHM. Works produced in-house or coproduced with other great opera houses afford ROHM the opportunity to include innovative elements that appeal to local audiences. Attendance at operas is also encouraged and enhanced with marketing strategies and through educational initiatives such matinées and special performances for students; pre-performance talks; exhibitions of opera artefacts brought to life with illustrated “Mandoos” talks, and a series called Coffee and Dates in which star performers engage in informal discussion with patrons.
What were the most successful productions at the House recently? In the current program from January to April 2020, there were exceptionally enthusiastic standing ovations for a number of performances such as those by the famous jazz musician, Chick Korea who brought the house down; a gala concert by the prestigious Bolshoi Theatre Orchestra with solo singers under the baton of Philpp Chivhevski; and, the world premiere of ROHM’s new in-house production of Mozart’s Magic Flute set in Oman. And we can’t forget the tremendous success of the premiere a year ago of ROHM’s innovatively staged and brilliant co-production of Debiles’ Lakmé with eight prestigious opera companies spanning the globe from California to Australia. ROHM’s Lakmé is now on world tour, with the first stop this April in Beijing at the National Centre for Performing Arts.
What do you believe sets the opera apart from other mediums of art? Opera has a distinguished history of performance over the past four hundred years, during which it has
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evolved through great periods in Western Art from the late Renaissance through the Classical, Baroque, Romantic and Modern eras, and yet remains timeless. This is apparent when classic operas like La Traviata, La Bohème and Carmen engage audiences whether they are performed in period costume or interpreted in modern ways. Opera synthesizes the separate performing arts of dramatic theatre, singing and live orchestral music into a seamless whole of immense power. Because it integrates major performing arts, opera can have an impact on audiences that is stronger than any of the individual performing arts of which it is composed. Opera engages the senses with thrilling stories and the expression of deep passions, set to stirring music against evocative visual panoramas, today including cinematic and digitally created visual effects. The crafts of staging and designing sets, costumes and lighting that were integral to opera in its early history are now significantly enhanced through professionally trained staff working in specialized production departments, and employing sophisticated technologies that mobilize sets, create realistic backdrops, and introduce live scenic elements on stage, such as pools of water representing rivers or seas.
What should we expect from Royal Opera House Muscat in 2020? The Royal Opera House Muscat is currently presenting the 2020 section of Season 2019/20. The programs for Season 2020/21 will be announced this coming April. 2020 at the ROHM got off to a momentous start in a ground-breaking event with the world premiere of an original production of Mozart’s famous Magic Flute, created in-house by ROHM and set in Oman with Omani participation in the conceptualization of the opera and as actors and extras. ROHM’s hallmark distinction as an institution fostering diversity at high standards of quality continued in early 2020 with six opera and ballet programs, including Rossini’s comic opera, L’Inganno Felice and Donizetti’s L’Elisir d’Amore interpreted for children as The Factory of Ideas, the world premiere of an original Arab Opera, Tarh El Bahr (The Sea Treasures); an innovative version of The Nutcracker by the National Ballet of China; and, two Arab ballets from the Cairo Opera Company. The array of diverse productions presented from January to April 2020 encompasses many other genres, including a gala operatic concert with American stars; Tarabiyat with Arab stars; Tout Neuf, a nature discovery program for young children; Finiqia: The Legend Lives On, a spectacular work from Lebanon’s Caracalla Dance Theatre; a Night of Sufi Inshaad and Praise; and Beyond Time, a Taiwanese multi-layered show infused with Eastern and Western traditions. From September to December 2020, the Royal Opera House Muscat will feature a host of world-class productions in various genres from both the Western and Arab Worlds, to be announced this coming April. The highlights will feature exciting events to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Oman’s Renaissance and the 10th Anniversary of the Royal Opera House Muscat. rohmuscat.org.om
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The Ultimate Luxury Retreat Regent Porto Montenegro General Manager, Kai Dieckmann on creating a home away from home, the best visiting times, and leading the reins of the best 5-star luxury hotel in Montenegro. 01 The Venezia Wing of Regent Porto Montenegro
How would you describe your experience with Regent Porto Montenegro so far? I was exceptionally delighted to join Regent Porto Montenegro in March 2018 and it has been a very rewarding journey since. This is by far one of the most dynamic properties I have worked at during my career. Over the past two years, we completed the final part of the hotel with the completion of the third wing. We also became part of the mighty IHG Corporation which has placed the hotel and the country before the eyes of millions of travelers and Rewards Club members. With its impressive infrastructure of Sales, PR, Reservations and regional support teams, we are dedicated to widening the horizons for travelers and spreading the word about the destination faster than ever. Leading and implementing these changes has been a learning curve for me. I have personally and professionally learnt a lot from this hotel’s management and staff. This is a luxury hotel with a very distinct personality. I am impressed by the team’s efforts and the experience of every single member. A hotel can be placed anywhere, yet it’s the staff and people who bring the hotel to life and fill it with heart and soul.
What was the biggest challenge facing you when you first took the General Manager position?
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The final construction phase of the Baia wing during the summer season last year was the biggest operational challenge thus far. We had some cosmetic work ongoing during the high season, so handling deadlines and the completion of the project on the one hand, whilst ensuring the best luxury experience of every single guest was a great accomplishment realized through amazing teamwork last summer. Before moving to Montenegro, I did some research about the country and was amazed to see so many stunning articles from world-class media, as well as photographs of amazing landscapes and coastlines all hidden from the masses – but luckily only a fingertip’s reach for the true globetrotter. What these articles did not tell me - and I was pleasantly surprised to find out - is the personality of its people. Today, I am not only blown away by the country’s breathtaking landscapes, but also by its people, who give this country its heart and soul. Their sense of duty and responsibility to their guests, whether in their own homes, or at the hotel, is extraordinary. These values and a true spirit of hospitality are what makes my team a tightly knit “unit” able to overcome any kind of challenge. I admire their strong cultural identity that fosters debate and open communication with the aim of overcoming challenges and focus on the beautiful part of life! This makes big projects and daily tasks a pleasurable process that brings amazing results - and many reasons for laughter. The biggest strategic challenge that we are in the process of
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overcoming is to stretch the season, as a result of the ongoing destination marketing which we focus on during numerous sales calls and tourism fairs we attend. At the moment, we are focusing on maintaining our position as one of the top hotels in the country, by ensuring that we continue to provide superb standards of service, given by the best people. Montenegro is a very dynamic tourist destination that has attracted a number of world class luxury brands and maintaining our current number one position is an honor and a great challenge to take on.
What are the most popular attractions or offerings at Regent Porto Montenegro? Regent Porto Montenegro is set in one of the most stunning locations of the world: The Boka Bay. Boka Bay is truly unique. Over 120 churches, seven islands with their own very distinct local identity complemented by the breathtaking beauty of dramatic mountain slopes meeting the sea. Boka Bay is not only the region, it is also way of life that cherishes its Italian and Venetian influences. I am fascinated by the local legends and customs, which are unique to this region. The hotel itself – both inside and outside is very Instagramworthy! Our stunning swimming pools, with sensational views and first-class service are regularly named among the best in Europe and the Middle East. Everywhere you look is stunning scenery and alongside this visual
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02 Regent Porto Montenegro General Manager, Kai Dieckmann 03 Regent Pool Club 04 Regent Penhouse living room
feast, our restaurants offer a wonderful variety of gourmet menus that draw inspiration from the Adriatic region – always with our consistently brilliant service. All around the hotel, there is so much to do and see. Our most sought-after tour is the Boka Bay Boat Tour. It starts from the sleek marina of Porto Montenegro, right next to the hotel. Experienced skippers steer the boat through the Bay, for close up views of dramatic slopes meeting the calm sea. At Kotor Old Town we book an experienced tour guide for an hour’s private tour of this incredible UNESCO site. Then my personal recommendation would be to relax with a coffee and gelato at the main Square of Arms, to enjoy people watching and to soak up the ambiance of the town. This break fuels you up for the next stage of the boat tour to Perast; this old stone town described as “a part of Venice that drifted south.” This is the spot to have seafood for lunch on the seafront. Then it’s on the Our Lady of the Rocks, a little island with a chapel in the middle of the Bay, with a wonderful story of its creation.
How does Regent Porto Montenegro set itself apart from the competition? Regent Porto Montenegro is a story well told from the very beginning: The wonderfully understated interiors are the work of designer Tino Zervudachi of the famous design company Mlinaric, Henry & Zervudachi. This was the first hotel Tino designed
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“A hotel can be placed anywhere, yet it’s
the staff and people who bring the hotel to life and fill it with heart and soul.”
and as a result, it feels like a private home. There is a very subtle nautical theme, which adds a sense of place and a spirit of fun without being unwieldy. The design speaks to the past – when Porto Montenegro was a naval base – and to its present incarnation as a super yacht marina. The architecture of the hotel successfully ensures that this elegant pale yellow, terracotta-roofed building deftly acknowledges Boka Bay’s 400 years under Venetian rule, whilst blending beautifully into its modern maritime setting. But it most definitely is our service that is mentioned by guests over and over again as a distinguishing characteristic. It is true five-star service which is delivered with a lot of character through the warm personality of our team members. This genuine hospitality is praised on all social networks. In addition, we are proud to be the first hotel in the country and in the region to introduce Forbes Travel Guide standard of service, ensuring excellence at all times. These are just some of the points that differentiate us from our competitors and I invite you to experience them personally.
What are the busiest times or seasons for the hotel? The summer season is the busiest season for the hotel as the modern-day, jetsetter’s hotspot in the Mediterranean. I need to emphasize that summer is the most exciting time to visit given that Porto Montenegro nautical village is the epicenter of this year’s summer coastal events: Gala dinners with Michelin star chefs; an international fashion festival that features stars of the haute couture world, both new and established, in Montenegro, the Superwine festival as well as Polo in the Port, one of the most glamorous sporting events of the season. Guests booking their stay at Regent Porto Montenegro this summer can take advantage of the Pool, Club and Bay package which starts at only EUR 378.- per night in a Deluxe Room based on double occupancy and a bed and breakfast basis. This enticing package includes a private cabana experience inclusive of a 30-minute foot massage per person, one Porto Montenegro Yacht Club Pool experience for two including sunbeds and a welcome drink in addition to unlimited access to the Regent Spa. Visiting the country beyond the summer months has the charm of allowing travelers to experience the country as it is and come closer to its people and their laid-back lifestyle. The
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shoulder season would be my personal recommendation as the temperatures get to be balmy and pleasant for exploration of the country which is designed for outdoor living and an active lifestyle.
What are the latest trends in hospitality? In my opinion, it is the combination of hotels and experiences aimed at understanding and connecting the destination. We are in perfect position to combine both – Regent is a home away from home and after a luscious breakfast on the seafront it is time to visit either a local vineyard, winery, enjoy some olive picking or get involved in some cooking classes that take place in old stone houses on the seafront or up in the hills. Getting to know customs, flavors and the way people talk to each other is the perfect introduction to local culture. In addition, we see the rise of tailor-made experiences which has become a part of Regent’s DNA. Our guests and their needs are paramount and my team strives to be one step ahead at all times through small touches such as knowing the coffee preference at breakfast or remembering the particular massage which a guest enjoyed during his/her past stay and we will make sure to book it at the time of check in. The new Regent hallmark of Personal Havens has been implemented as a concept within the cabanas on our spacious Pool Club podium that features 2 pools overlooking the magnificent Boka Bay and impressive Porto Montenegro superyacht marina.
Are there any upcoming announcements you can share with our readers? We are about to publish our exciting summer calendar which will feature a number of glamorous events tailor-made for our guests ensuring they will have most memorable holidays. Also, we are delighted to see the improving connectivity of the region with Europe, the Americas and especially the Middle East this year. I would like to point the introduction of direct flights between Doha and Dubrovnik from where it is a scenic 75-minute transfer to Regent Porto Montenegro. Direct flights between Dubai and Tivat will resume in the summer months and I am looking forward to personally welcome all readers at Regent Porto Montenegro. regenthotels.com/regent-portomontenegro
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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL
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March 2020
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Sky High Service Durrah explores the world of bespoke travel concierge and what it takes to cater to HNWI clientele with Jetex CEO Adel Mardini.
Jetex recently won several FBO awards at the World Travel Awards. What do you believe gave you the edge to win over the competition? Creativity and innovation are part of the Jetex DNA. Over the years, they have ensured the brand’s success thorough our innovative approach and established the brand’s legitimacy. This combination of creativity and innovation is the foundation of our brand and figures at the heart of the delicate balance required to continually renew our offer while resolutely looking to the future, always respecting our unique heritage. At Jetex, we never compromise on quality. Because we embody the world of luxury travel in its most noble and accomplished form, we pay meticulous attention to detail and to perfection. From our VIP terminals to service, we cultivate our difference through this constant quest for excellence. With more than 500 professionals working around the clock across the globe, we have formed a truly international team that can facilitate the most sophisticated travel itineraries,
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has the unique expertise and know-how in the most remote parts of the globe. As for our award-winning FBOs, we have truly redefined the concept of private jet terminals – and I am delighted that our efforts continue to impress and be recognized with prestigious international accolades. We drew inspiration from luxury hotels and brought the finest elements to our terminals and lounges to ensure a seamless superlative travel experience to every Jetex passenger.
You also recently became the sole dealer for Honda Jet aircrafts in the Middle East. What kind of effect did that have on your operations and performance? We are proud that Honda appointed Jetex the Middle East sales representative for their new fast, quiet, and fuel efficient HondaJet Elite. We are the appointed sales representative across multiple regions that includes the GCC, Pakistan and Turkey. Jetex leverages its global network and our experience as an FBO operator to offer
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unrivaled sales and support for HondaJet Elite in the region. The airplane is a second-generation aircraft in the private jet category and is the fastest, furthest and highest-flying plane in its class. The new plane boasts many technological advancements and innovations including a unique Over-The-Wing Engine Mount configuration, composite fuselage and a Natural Laminar Flow fuselage nose and wing. These improvements mean passengers can enjoy a largest cabin in its category as well as comfortable seating for up to seven people including a pilot. Other onboard facilities include a full-service galley, private lavatory with optional belted seat and an exclusive Bongiovi sound system.
How has Jetex performed overall in 2019? What were the milestones or key events? Jetex had another record year, both in terms of revenue and results. The desirability of our brand, the reliability and quality of our products and services, the unique experience
offered to our customers, and the talent and the commitment of our teams and our truly global footprint are our strengths which have, once again, made the difference. However, to understand Jetex, you have to look beyond the figures. The company’s performance is, above all, the consequence of our long-term vision for the private aviation industry. We have established our presence in Sao Paulo as well as inaugurated our third location in Japan with the opening at Osaka Kansai. We were also particularly proud to be awarded five-star rating by The Global Star Rating System for Services by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. We received the highest rating for two iconic Jetex locations – Dubai and Paris.
What are the worldwide locations where Jetex is experiencing major growth? We have just inaugurated our latest location – the Jetex VIP Terminal in Marrakech, which is
01 Adel Mardini, Founder and CEO, at Jetex Dubai 02 Opening ceremony of Jetex Marrakech in presence of the Nadia Fettah Alaoui, Morocco’s Minister for Tourism 03 Jetex provides complete trip planning and flight support solutions globally 02 03
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04 His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, presented Five-Star Awards of The Global Star Rating System for Services to Jetex Paris – Le Bourget and Jetex Dubai
the largest private jet facility of its kind in North Africa. Each year, Morocco sees more than 10,000 private jet movements, making it one of the most important markets in Africa, while the Middle East and North African region is expected to see around 175,000 business aircraft movements in 2020. We anticipate private aviation in Africa to continue its rapid growth. We want Jetex to help usher in that growth and better serve the market’s increasing needs. The Jetex VIP Terminal is an exclusive space spanning 1,000 square meters, offering a moment of calm and serenity as well as the promise of an exceptional travel experience. The terminal’s private and confidential feel is a haven for customers wishing to enjoy a genuine moment of relaxation in tranquil surroundings, while the Jetex Experience Team takes care of any travel formalities and special requests. Furnished with designer pieces by Zaha Hadid, the modern facility is complemented by 25,000 square meters of aircraft parking and remains open 24/7 for the utmost convenience of private jet travelers. Dubai, naturally, continues its rapid evolution as a global aviation hub. We expect private jet passenger traffic to increase by 40% with the World Expo 2020 commencing in October. Asia Pacific continues to develop with more travelers seeking the convenience of private jet travel. We watch this market closely and explore various opportunities to develop our presence there.
What caliber of clientele does Jetex cater to? I am pleased to see that more and more travelers choose Jetex. Naturally, we cater to the very seasoned elite travelers who are accustomed to the most sophisticated experiences and appreciate finer things in life. They are accustomed to utmost conveniences, choose to skip the traffic and long lines by opting for an understated private jet experience to get to their destination in ease and luxury. However, what is unique about Jetex is that the brand appeals to a very broad audience and I am particularly delighted that we see more and more younger travelers at our terminals around the world. It is important for a luxury brand like Jetex to be desired, appreciated and understood by the younger audience. Jetex is a contemporary luxury travel brand, that exceeds expectations. It evolves with time, it is wellestablished in the digital world, it stays ahead of competition thanks to the latest technology and its unique design and creativity, which always exceed expectations. We also work with the finest luxury brands to create unique synergies across our FBO network that create unique appeal and experience 03 for our travelers.
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What kind of challenges do you face as a business with several FBOs around the world? The brand’s rapid international expansion required us to upgrade our in-house expertise in business development to ensure a seamless Jetex travel experience at all locations where are present. We have partnered with the leading brands and suppliers in many locations to ensure that we offer the finest in each destination. In the meanwhile, we are working tirelessly to ensure that the aesthetic appeal of our newest terminals is reflected across all Jetex destinations, regardless of their location and scale.
What advantages does private aviation offer? There is a true wealth of reasons why people turn to private aviation. The main ones include the freedom to set your own schedule and travel at your own pace, be efficient and discrete. This is what a modern high-end traveler is looking for. They want to be in a different environment, because they seek a perfect travel experience.
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Jetex has raised the standard of the private aviation sector. It was the first to introduce luxury hospitality elements to its FBOs and to offer one-stop solution whenever it comes to trip planning anywhere in the world. It has made private aviation more desirable, modern and much more sophisticated. While private jet travel has always been convenient once up in the air, Jetex has also made sure that the same level of exceptional service and convenience is also present on the ground at its luxurious FBOs.
What should we expect from Jetex in 2020? In a buoyant environment that remains uncertain in 2020, we continue to be vigilant and focused on our objectives for progress. We can count on the strength of our brand and the agility of our teams to reinforce, once again in 2020, our leadership in the universe of high-quality private aviation. This year, Jetex will again demonstrate its strong focus on innovation. Further progress will be made on many existing projects as well as a number of new launches. Powered by the creative momentum, our FBOs will further refresh
and enrich their offerings, which will be boosted by our customer-centric approach as we develop our brand. The growing use of digital technologies in our business activities will also enrich the customer experience that we offer, both online and at our VIP terminals. Over the last few years our market has become highly fragmented. There are more bespoke travel concierge services and niche luxury travel markets than ever before. Customer journeys and travel habits have become more complex. Now, in addition to magazines and other traditional media, our customers – especially young people – use a range of digital options to stay informed, communicate with friends and shop. Brand awareness and customer engagement are built on these many different touchpoints. Each one is an opportunity to express our brand’s unique values by accentuating our creativity and awakening more emotion. With this in mind, Jetex will redefine digital experience for private jet travelers and will once again surpass expectations. jetex.com
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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL
068
March 2020
Exceptional luxury INFINITI Middle East Managing Director, Markus Leithe on the highly anticipated launch of the all-new QX55 and the luxury brand’s electrifying future plans.
What are the major car launches we can expect from INFINITI this year?
What are the latest technologies adopted by INFINITI?
INFINITI will be unveiling the all-new QX55 later this year, which we believe will be a strong addition to our current model lineup. We believe it will be well received by Middle East buyers and look forward to seeing them on the road in the not too distant future. Further to this, the regional favorite QX80 will be receiving an interior upgrade across all levels with a new dual screen and TFT meter display. In addition, the QX80, QX50, Q60 and Q50 will offer the INFINITI InTouch system which will be available throughout the GCC in 2020.
As mentioned early, we look forward to the INFINITI InTouch system which will be implemented into the QX80, QX50, Q60 and Q50 throughout the GCC in 2020. This system will feature an improved interface with the adoption of a new, faster processor for an enhanced user experience across multiple functions. It’s highly interactive and I suggest visiting our showroom to experience the technology for yourself. Beyond this, INFINITI Middle East has developed a digital product brochure which includes an interactive 3D visualizer that will be available online and in showrooms throughout the region in early 2020. The digital brochure which can be accessed via phone, tablet or computer will be available on Q50, Q60, Q70, QX50, QX60 and QX80 allowing the user to view our products in all available color options of the exterior and interior allowing for unique customization. The user can even turn on the lights of the car, open the doors and feel like they are sitting behind the wheel all before walking into a showroom.
What are the qualities that sets the INFINITI brand apart from the competition? INFINITI prides itself on the quality and design of our products. In the Middle East specifically, our owners experience exceptional quality service for their vehicles, which we believe sets us apart from the rest. We pride ourselves on making every INFINITI owner feel like family and are always striving to provide the best owner experience possible.
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What are some the most popular campaigns launched by INFINITI recently? INFINITI Middle East has recently launched a road safety campaign called ‘Eyes on You’ which promotes child safety in vehicles by reaching out to the children and parents who drives the roads every day. The campaign has received the support of road and transport authorities and we are proud to be a positive voice on this very important cause within our industry.
How would you describe the current market performance for the luxury segment in the region? In this Middle East market, I believe that luxury goods will always have a place. Aspirational brands will always be desired and because of this, the market will continue to sustain. That said, the luxury segment will need to remain competitive by adapting to the continually changing demands of luxury buyers.
What are the biggest challenges facing the automotive industry these days?
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There is no doubt that the automotive industry in the past years has been flooded with innovations as well as a few significant industry disruptors, however, I believe that this opens the door for opportunity throughout the industry. INFINITI plans to electrify its portfolio in the next three years as it looks towards the future of automotive product offerings, while also working closely with our dealer partners to create a seamless offline and online customer experience that defines the future of car retailing.
What are the latest trends in the automotive industry? I believe usability is an ever-growing trend in automotive as technologies take center stage in today’s vehicles. Besides offering a wide range of automated safety features inside our vehicles we have created the INFINITI Driver’s Guide which is an augmented reality app to display information on your vehicle that would usually be buried in the pages of your traditional user manual. Users simply point their phone at a button or section of the car interior to get detailed information to make usability easy and an ultimately better ownership experience. We have also seen that our clientele want to be able to interact with us not only in showrooms during business hours, but at any point of any day. That’s why we are continuing to develop a seamless online and offline experience to be able to cater to our clients when it is most convenient for them. infiniti-me.com
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SPECIAL FEATURE
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March 2020
Shining Armor Louvre Abu Dhabi’s latest international exhibition, Furusiyya: The Art of Chivalry between East and West takes visitors on a journey through the culture of knights in the Middle Ages, from Christian Europe to Islamic lands in the Middle and Near East.
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01, 05, 06 Visitors observing the exhibits 02 Helmet, Iraq, Turkey or Caucasus, c. 1450–1500, steel damascened with silver and traces of gold, iron, Abu Dhabi, Louvre Abu Dhabi, © Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi / Photo: Thierry Ollivier
Through more than 130 artefacts, the exhibition showcases how the emergence of knights as a social class, their art of war, as well as their favorite pastimes has manifested throughout the visual culture of the Middle Ages. Spanning the early 11th to the 16th centuries, the exhibition features objects ranging from arms and armor, written and illustrated treatises and manuscripts, to heraldic and decorative objects. Alongside a historic account and comparative study between knightly culture in East and West throughout the Middle Ages, Furusiyya: The Art of Chivalry between East and West will also bring to light knightly values, namely courage, bravery, honor and generosity – as well as the parallels between these across both cultures. Furusiyya: The Art of Chivalry between East and West is held in partnership with Musée de Cluny, musée national du Moyen Âge in Paris, and Agence France-Muséums which produced this exhibition. The exhibition is curated by Chief Curator Dr. Elisabeth Taburet-Delahaye, former Director of Musée de Cluny, musée national du Moyen Âge, alongside Co-Curators Dr. Carine Juvin, Curator of the Department of Islamic Art at Musée du Louvre and Michel Huynh, Head Curator at Musée de Cluny, musée national du Moyen Âge.
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Through a strongly immersive scenography designed by Vincen Cornu Architecte, the exhibition unfolds across three main chapters – Riding, Fighting, and the Life of a Knight, all highlighting different aspects of this particular social class. Introducing the visitor to the many similarities between the Islamic East and Christian West, the showcase begins with two monumental horse armors – Louvre Abu Dhabi’s spectacular Ottoman Horse Armor from the late 15th century, installed alongside a European Horse and Knight Armor from the first quarter of the 16th century, on loan from Musée de l’armée, both showcasing the relationship between the rider and his horse, skill and decoration, and majesty and brute strength.
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March 2020
“The impact of what this exhibition
In the first part of the exhibition, visitors will understand the development of this particular social class, manifested through art, artefacts and archaeological remnants. The second chapter of the exhibition, through illuminated treatises, weapons and armory, examines the techniques and education around fighting in East and West. The final chapter of the exhibition explores knightly pastimes related to combat, and the arts of chivalric cultures.
focuses on has remained relevant throughout history.�
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03 Bowl with horseman, Eastern Iran, Nishapur, 10th–11th century, ceramic, slip painted under a colourless glaze, Paris, Musée du Louvre, Department of Islamic Art, gift of Mohsen Foroughi, 1962, photo (C) Musée du Louvre, Dist. RMN-Grand Palais / Hughes Dubois
The impact of what this exhibition focuses on has remained relevant throughout history. Knightly culture and courtly tales have echoed across centuries and artistic production. From French Orientalist paintings, to Richard Wagner’s Tristan and Isolde to Monty Python’s Holy Grail, these cultural icons find their roots at the same source – chivalry and furusiyya. A talk led by the three curators of the exhibition delves into the history of chivalry from historical facts to myths and legends, and include fascinating
stories from medieval history’s most loved characters and the continued fascination with heroism in today’s contemporary culture. The talk will take place in the Auditorium on 18th February at 5pm. Access is free, with recommended reservation. The exhibition will also be accompanied by an extensive cultural programme, curated by Ruth MacKenzie, looking at contemporary culture through the lens of medieval traditions and vice versa. louvreabudhabi.ae
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04 Shirt of mail of Mamluk sultan Qaitbay, Egypt, 1468–96, steel, iron, copper alloy, gold, New York, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Arms and Armor Department, purchase, gift of Arthur Ochs Sulzberger, and Rogers, Acquisitions and Fletcher Funds 2016, photo (C) The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Dist. RMN-Grand Palais / image of the MMA
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MASTERPIECE
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March 2020
In True Form A student of the expressive realism discipline, Iraqi artist and Professor of Sculpture at University of Sharjah’s College of Fine Arts, Mutasim Al Kubaisi sculpts terror in disguise.
01 The Thinker, 2019, bronze 02 Overweight, 2018, bronze 03 Muatasim Alkubaisi 04 Occupation, 2016, bronze
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05 Democratic, 2019, bronze
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Military and terror themes play a big part in your art. What is the source of fascination with those topics?
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The past two decades have been some of the most difficult years that we lived in our Arab society. We witnessed sectarian battles and conflicts that claimed thousands of innocent lives and made a big rift among members of the same homeland due to the presence and mediation of the clerics, and the attempts to place him in the power seat by establishing racist sectarian parties led from outside the borders trying to cultivate discord and division for the people and the country. This is why you can see in my work that the focus is on the cleric, who often appears in military clothing, disguised with a large mask that covers his real navigation. That is why I have lavishly sought to export what we might call the elegance of intimidation, and arrogant and deliberate amplification of the features of heroes in caricature exaggeration and diligence by presenting them with this supreme cynical pattern in their behaviors and
practices, trying to disguise behind large masks, hats and coats.
Where do you draw inspiration for your next creation? Is it challenging to bring that imagery to life? I believe that beauty exists everywhere, so we have to search for and around it in this vast universe. I believe that the artist’s job is not to convey facts and images as they are, but rather to rearrange what the eye sees in an aesthetically, precisely calculated way. These accounts involve many cognitive and experimental factors to explore the elements of beauty by continuing to acquire skills that raise his artistic production to international levels.
What are the artistic mediums you love to work in? Is there one that you feel is your true calling? Personally, I believe that human thought is the highest value in human production, so I think that ideas that present contemporary humanitarian
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06 Drums of War, 2016, bronze 07 Mr. President, 2016, bronze 08 Personal Bodyguard, 2020, bronze
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issues must be documented with a strong substance that interacts with ideas to be an appropriate medium for delivery. In other words, bronze is this noble material and despite all that this alloy carries of aesthetic meanings, and the harshness of its plumbing and the ways of its adaptation in the formation of artworks, it remains the only alloy that is able to translate my thoughts towards the recipient and the viewer with what is appropriate and suitable.
When do you believe one deserves to call himself an artist? When one produces an authentic work. By detail, I mean that the work is not imitated, forged, or taken from, or inspired by, another artist.
Working around students, what do you find is the most common obstacle they face in becoming fullfledged artists? I think the main obstacle that art students face is vanity, and it may even be the only obstacle to their arrival. I always try to be positive in dealing with my students with their technical specialization, so I give my advice and I often try to stay away from the arrogant student until he discovers the same mistakes and comes to apologize. I think this is an eternal problem!
social media, the art world has been penetrated by many forgers and amateurs, especially those who have financial support to produce repetitive, and sometimes forged, works and ideas to promote them. This mixing created a lot of confusion. The picture is no longer clear to many art pioneers and lovers.
What is your experiment with equestrian art? When I entered the Academy of Arts in 1985, I was one of the students of the genius artist, Faeq Hassan, may God rest his soul. He was known for his love and fondness for drawing the Arabian horse and he has many academic works of this beautiful creature. Many of my colleagues and I inherited this love for this beautiful creature, and we discussed it in a detailed anatomical study that yielded good results. After my graduation from the Academy of Arts and my arrival to the United Arab Emirates, I was assigned to do many figures of the Arabian horse in various sizes and at different periods for institutions, municipalities and private horse farms.
Are there any exhibitions or countries you’d love to showcase your work at?
What are the challenges facing artists in this region these days?
I am currently preparing to participate in the next session of Dubai Art, to be held at the end of next March, with Calri Salih Barakat. I was also invited to set up a personal exhibition in Riyadh at the beginning of next October in Mono Gallery.
The most important challenges facing the artist are those artists by chance. In the presence of
www.muatasimalkubaisy.com
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“I believe that beauty exists
everywhere, so we have to search for and around it in this vast universe.�
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SPECIAL FEATURE
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Crafting Luxury
March 2020
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Specializing in designing and crafting bespoke gifts for royalties, head of states, and HNWIs, Singapore-based Royal Insignia’s impressive list of clients includes include the Royal Palace of Brunei, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, and Bhutan. Over the years, Royal Insignia has been commissioned to create gifts for many historical moments ranging from coronations to weddings. Their craftsmen are skilled in the art of gold and silversmithing. While they work with a variety of budget and material, their forte is in crafting gifts out of precious metal and precious stones. In 2009, Royal Insignia was commissioned by Singapore’s government to create a special gift for Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong to present to HM Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei. Upon discovering that the Sultan of Brunei is a collector of walking stick made from materials ranging from rattan to fish bones, Royal Insignia’s craftsmen crafted a sterling silver walking stick in the shape of a lion as PM Lee’s diplomatic gift to the Sultan. The walking stick was further decorated with an engraved ring
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of Vanda Miss Joaquim orchids (Singapore’s national flower). What made the walking stick truly unique though, was the walking stick’s shank. The shank was crafted out of sandalwood sourced from the jungles of Brunei, truly making this gift a symbol of enduring friendship between the two nations. One of the most challenging gifts Royal Insignia has ever been commissioned to craft was a wedding gift for the Crown Prince of Brunei, whose wedding would be one of the most extravagant celebrations of the decade. His request: an elaborate egg made of rock crystal that would encase a portrait of the happy couple. The block of rock crystal, or pure quartz, weighed at least 20 kilograms, but was enormously fragile in contrast as one wrong placement of the chisel could shatter the entire crystal. Through countless hours of
01 Rock crystal egg with sawpierced panels was presented to the Crown Prince of Brunei on his wedding. The panels open to reveal a bouquet of stonecarved flowers surrounding two picture frames with the portraits of the royal couple. Garnets and tourmalines border the frame. 02 Oryx Pearl Clock. An Arabic inspired clock with a gold gilded oryx. The two sides of the clock are decorated with pearls Red garnets and pearls decorate the bezel of the clock. 03 The jewellers and artisans at Royal Insignia putting the final touch on a bejewelled objet d’art.
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04 Allium, one of the house’s favourite variations of the original enamelled Allium objet. The tiny petals of Allium are carved out of rose quartz and amethyst. The stalks are presented on a small rock crystal vase mounted on a chalcedony base. 05 Frozen Dreams, a result of one man’s desire to find the perfect gift for his new wife – a lover of lillies. Each lily was crafted out of sterling silver to encapsulate the essence of winter. The petals were lightly enamelled and adorned with lustrous pearls while the stem and buds were 24 Karat gold plated. At the flick of a carefully concealed switch, each lily lit up from inside and were timed to glow with a different hue, ranging from winter’s icy blue, to amber red, representing the warmth of a fireplace.
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painstaking work, Royal Insignia’s hardstone carvers were eventually able to reduce the walls of the egg to a mere 10 millimetres. For high net-worth customers, weddings are more than a celebration of love. Weddings are also a display of the family’s rich heritage. For these very wealthy families, everything used during the wedding becomes part of the family’s heritage. The items are preserved and used to educate future generations on the family’s history. Recently, a long-time customer commissioned Royal Insignia to design a wedding gift for his daughter. His wife had tragically passed on while his daughter was still quite young, and so she did not have the privilege of having her mother present at her wedding to celebrate her entering a new chapter of her life, something many may take for
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“Over the years, Royal Insignia have
been commissioned to create gifts for many historical moments ranging from coronations to weddings.”
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granted. Through their efforts and research, the designers managed to salvage a very old piece of lace from her mother’s wedding veil from years ago and replicated the lace pattern with semi-precious cabochon stones across a rock crystal picture frame. On the happiest day of her life, the bride would have a reminder of her mother’s own happiest day and could take that small part of her mother with her as she started her new life. Moments like these are what make gifts so powerful. A carefully thought out gift can capture memories, express emotions and bring its recipient so much joy. As gift makers, these are the moments that Royal Insignia lives for. royalinsignia.com
06 Standing at 580mm tall, this pair of magnificent gold gilded vases were presented at the coronation of a Southeast Asian king. Designed in the neo-classical style, embossed garlands of flowers decorate the neck of the vase. The entire vase is mirror finished and presented on a midnight-blue pedestal. 07 Ruyi. In Chinese tradition, the Ruyi is a curved scepter believed to bring its beholder good luck. The flower branches in this objet d’art is cleverly curved to assume the shape of a Ruyi. Rose quartz flowers with amethyst stamens decorate both ends of the Ruyi. The entire piece is mounted onto a flat rock crystal base embellished with art deco motifs. 07
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SPECIAL FEATURE
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Telling Stories Through Perfume Dolce&Gabbana perfumer Jean-Christophe Herault discusses fragrance, memory, and his latest masterpiece, The One For Men Eau de Parfum Intense. What was your inspiration for The One For Men Eau de Parfum Intense? I was inspired by the latest Dolce&Gabbana fashion shows and the DNA of the brand. My first idea was that of a charismatic gentleman, enjoying a glass of whiskey in a private room. He is of course very elegant but modern, sure of himself and he has achieved his dreams. He breathes manhood, like the quintessence of masculinity.
How did you bring something new to The One For Men franchise, while staying true to its essence? The One For Men Eau de Parfum Intense is intended as a chic but casual fragrance with a surprising fusion of opposites. It is a scent of extremes that weaves together light and warmth with dark, smoky depths to create a fragrance that is the absolute essence of masculine charisma. With this new version of The One For Men, more opulent with the sweet facets of vanilla and the bolder inflections of leather, the franchise finds a new intensity.
What do you think is really special about The One For Men Eau de Parfum Intense? It’s really about the raw materials that I selected to express all the intensity of this fragrance. The essence of patchouli is of an extremely rare quality – it reveals its rich personality and goes well with the charismatic notes of leather. The opulence and richness of benzoin
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and vanilla contrast with the spicy and sparkling notes of cardamom, for more intensity. This is what’s unique about The One For Men Intense Eau de Parfum, the synergy of these exceptional ingredients.
How would you describe your personal approach to perfumery? I need to recreate a universe, a story, colors. Then, I’m inspired to compose each perfume. For me, creating perfume is like telling stories. My raw materials are the words. For this perfume, I tell the story of a refined and elegant man with charisma, intensity and virility.
How do you think your life experience has influenced this approach? Inspiration is everywhere – in nature, cooking and all other artistic forms. It also comes from beautiful encounters and good times, which nourish my creativity.
Is creating a fragrance visual for you, as well as something that involves your nose and brain? Do you create moodboards, for example, of colors or visual references when you are working on a scent? There are links between smells and colors. I often visualize a perfume with colors, and a color with scents. So, the visual is a great source of inspiration.
When I have to translate a brief into smells and create a universe, I am inspired by experiences in color.
What is your first scent memory? I grew up in the world of perfumes and I have always been sensitive to odors. I received my first fragrance from my dad when I was a teenager. People kept complimenting me - I was fascinated by the effect a scent could have on people.
When did you first decide you wanted to be a perfumer? Since I was little, I have been attracted by smells and perfumes. I consider perfumes as olfactory stories, which can move us more deeply and lastingly than other perceptions. So, I studied the ingredients and techniques of perfumery to be able to express myself on an olfactory level.
What are your favorite fragrance notes to work with, and why? I like complex raw materials in general. I love cypriol, an extraction of a plant from the family of papyrus, which fascinates me with its richness. This material has nuances that are reminiscent of vetiver and patchouli, but also remind me of oud and spices like saffron. It diffuses earthy tones and leather, without being animalic. The cypriol contains little but says a lot. I also have a weakness for violet notes, or the molecule called ambroxan, a synthetic raw material that evokes ambergris.
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What are your favorite smells in the world? Among the smells that stop me in my tracks is the scent of earth after the rain in summer. But also, the flowers that remind me of my childhood holidays in Normandy. Many people do not like this smell. But for me, it evokes an original emotion and plunges me back into a comforting past. Ozonic, rubbery, watery, airy, green and fresh, its scent is as spring-like as it is honeyed. It also has an orange blossom facet that I really like.
What is the most rewarding part of your job? When I realize that my passion and my work can give so much pleasure to people and project them into another world.
What are your tips for how to choose a fragrance? A perfume must be a personal pleasure and must really suit you. Don’t let anyone choose it for you. Wear it for you.
Do you have any tips on the best ways to apply and wear fragrance? Always on the skin! Each skin reacts differently on an olfactory level. It’s the beauty of everyone’s uniqueness. dolcegabbana.com
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FRAGRANCES - MEN
Fresh and bold
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An eclectic mix of stimulating fragrances and intoxicating aromas guaranteed to make a statement. For men.
Clive Christian 1872 Masculine Edition Earthy, woody notes and fresh green resins fuse to produce an invigorating, spicy citrus fragrance. Quite unlike anything else, it leaves a hint of mystery and an intangible richness. The perfume takes its name from the year the original company was founded, when Queen Victoria recognized its contribution to British excellence by granting the use of her crown as part of the design of its bottles. clivechristian.com
Versace Atelier Versace Santal BoisĂŠ The luxury fragrance embodies the Atelier Versace absolute dedication to excellence, encompassing a studious approach to exceptional quality components, innovative techniques and handcraftsmanship. Crafted from Sri Lankan sandalwood, the milky and balsamic fragrance is obtained from the roots and heart of the wood. Cypriol, a delicate flowering herb, adds a distinctive woody, smoky and slightly oud note to the perfume. The perfume boasts a hand-made black glass bottle enriched with the name of the fragrance written in a gold tone. The sculptural bottle is packed into a paper box embellished by a gold-tone Greek Key border painted by hand. versace.com
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Prada Olfactories Les Mirages Desert Serenade Part of the Prada Olfactories collection, Desert Serenade is a darkly elegant honeyed-leather aroma that shifts with notes of saffron, like memories from the afternoon preceding a crisp night. A true luxury in the world of perfumery, its dark-hued flacon is found nestled in a silk pouch, inside the box featuring the classic Prada saffiano leather texture. prada.com
Rasasi Hawas for Him Hawas for Him is an aquatic scent designed to embody masculine strength and vigour. The fresh elegant woody perfume carries a hint of driftwood, while amber grey and musk captures the adventurous, exploratory and evocative spirit of the modern man. The sophisticated bottle, resplendent in clear grey, has a python coiled around the stopper, while a textured python on the pack captures the sensuality of the species with a flamboyance redolent of haute couture. rasasi.com
Moschino Toy Boy Toy boy is the new exclusive fragrance by Moschino that reinterprets elegance with a touch of irony. It speaks to a unique, dynamic, enthusiastic and passionate man, one who is not afraid to reveal his more tender and playful side. With top notes of Italian bergamot, green pear, elemi gems, pink pepper, and Indonesian nutmeg; a heart of magnolia, rose neoabsolute, clove bud, flax flowers, and cashmere; and base notes of Haitian vetiver orpur, cashmeran, sandalwood, ambermax, and sylkolide (musk), the perfume’s delicious notes reflect the seductive and playful brown teddy bear, whose embrace leaves no room for escape. moschino.com
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FRAGRANCES - WOMEN
Alluring Fragrances An eclectic mix of stimulating fragrances and intoxicating aromas guaranteed to make a statement. For women.
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Roberto Cavalli Florence Blossom Capturing the sensuality of flowers in full bloom, Roberto Cavalli introduces Florence Blossom, a radiant Eau de Parfum that brings a new luminosity to the iconic Florence line. This contemporary floral-fruity fragrance, inspired by a blissful interlude in a Tuscan garden, is created for every free-spirited woman who revels in her natural femininity. The limited-edition fragrance continues the beguiling story of the Roberto Cavalli Florence woman, and begins an uplifting new chapter amid the sights, sounds and scents of a Tuscan garden. Perfectly combining feminine glamour with a natural allure, she embraces the verdant beauty around her as sunlight filters through the trees and delicate flower petals catch on the breeze. robertocavalli.com
Narciso Rodriguez OUD MUSC A fragrance both precious and potent, the new OUD MUSC eau de parfum is so intense, an addictive alchemy of East and West. Two iconic notes meet in the newest chapter of the Oriental Musc Editions story to produce one opulent fragrance. A synthesis of Narciso Rodriguez’s sublime musc and the Middle East’s signature oud, along with singular floral notes, produces a bold modern classic. OUD MUSC lends a rare intensity that’s intoxicating, a luxury that lingers and a mystery that’s magical. The Oriental Musc Editions, Narciso Rodriguez’s universal classics for men and women, are profoundly sensual. Each of the editions is created through an artful blend of the designer’s signature musc along with some of the most iconic notes from the world of fragrance. narcisorodriguez.com
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Henry Jacques Les Brumes In its constant quest to bring great perfumery to life, Henry Jacques has introduced a new way of wearing its signature scents, in the form of ‘Les Brumes’. Recognizing that we have moments that may call for a simpler approach, a more casual and modern way of enjoying great perfumery, Les Brumes are a lighter expression of Les Classiques, designed to be splashed or sprayed. Previously available only in the more traditional form of Essences, Les Classiques take on a fresh dynamic thanks to this new variation - feeling brighter and airier, while still possessing the strong heart that makes every Henry Jacques creation so distinctive. parfumshenryjacques.com
Prada Candy Night EDP 80 ml The new Prada Candy Night Eau de Parfum is sensual and addictive. It opens with vibrant, fresh notes of Neroli and Iris, countered with notes of Bitter Orange. The heart notes of Tonka bean and Vanilla evoke the first Candy fragrance. Finally, chocolate and patchouli add a sensuous touch to the base notes. Candy Night is a sensuous, addictive and vibrant fragrance: a more mysterious and seductive version of the first Candy EDP. prada.com
Rasasi Hawas for Her Offering a unique collection of popular perfumes housed in elegant bottles, the brand presents an unrivalled assortment across its stores helping find a luxurious fragrance for their special ones. Hawas for Her makes for an ideal gift for a lady who is seeking to make an edgy yet a chic fashion statement. Infused with exotic gourmand scents, the sensational floral woody fragrance incorporates pomegranate, jasmine sambac and vetiver for a refined, elegant yet sensual perfume. The sophisticated bottles, resplendent in golden hues for her has a python coiled around the stopper, while a textured python on the pack captures the sensuality of the species with a flamboyance redolent of haute couture. rasasi.com
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SPECIAL FEATURE
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01 75% of the collection is eco-friendly 02, 03 Photographic florals are personal memories from Stella, taken on her bike rides through the English countryside
Ode to Women Unveiled in Paris, Stella McCartney’s Spring/Summer 2020 Collection is her most sustainable yet.
This collection is inspired by all of the fierce women, past, present and future, who aren’t afraid to make the world their own. The free-spirits, the wild ones, the artists and the risk takers. True individuals with strength of character who shine their light bravely. As natural beauty meets modernity, fluid meets graphic and eccentricity meets simplicity, structure is built up and broken down, expressing strength of heart and the duality of the modern woman. Circular symbols are a guiding force throughout, unfolding from flowing silhouettes unexpectedly, representing life, vitality and femininity. A classical colour palette of graphic and precise black, white, natural and Oxford blue is splashed with washed shades of lemon, flame orange and ginger. With over 75% of the ready-to-wear being eco-friendly, this marks Stella McCartney’s most sustainable collection ever. The brand continues to push their use of recycled polyester, organic cotton, sustainable viscose and ECONYL® further, while introducing hemp and sustainable raffia. Reimaginations of the power suit cast us back to Stella’s early Savile Row tailoring, made to be mismatched and individualised. Japanese recycled polyester fabric adds new dimension, with a sharpness and subtle shine for a modern edge. Trouser skirts feature pleats, slashes and pockets that create the illusion of opened-up slacks.
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Embroidery ushers in a sense of artistry and eccentricity, evolving from petal-shaped edging that flares out from a fluid coat, to a beautifully intricate vintage dress in natural cotton lace. Bold stripes evolve from graphic to light, as contrasting lines cut through sustainable knitwear, or take a softer approach as organic cotton voile shirts and dresses are sliced with lace to show skin confidently. Photographic florals are personal memories from Stella—taken on her bike rides through the English countryside. They bring fluid silk crepe de chine dresses to life, articulated with shots of coloured binding, or are created anew through decorative botanical quilting. The half-circular logo bag in Eco Alter-Nappa is wrapped by hand around an oversized metal frame, with luxurious vintage shopper bags also hand-knotted. Raffia logo bags are crafted by female artisans in Madagascar, sourced locally from communities fighting deforestation. Gladiator sandals open up the collection with an effortless spirit, made in squared toe, kneehigh, ankle and mule silhouettes and weighted with a sustainable wood block heel. Oversized eyelets and mixed multi-laces add an eclectic touch. Bio-acetate sunglasses clash modern with vintage, pairing sleek, bright frames and lenses with oversized artful chains. Stella McCartney is exclusively available at Saks Fifth Avenue, City Center Bahrain. Saksme.com
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FASHION
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March 2020
Dreams and Horizons Emporio Armani’s Spring Summer 2020 Collection for Men and Women captures both hearts and minds. The menswear collection brings dreams into everyday life, paints the urban reality with new colors, and suggests new attitudes and emotions, and an unexpected lightness of spirit. Unconventional by definition, and always open to individual interpretation, Emporio Armani defines a repertoire of possibilities through which each and every one can tell their story in complete freedom. The collection vibrates; it is energetic. warm, dense tones, brightened by glossy and shiny surfaces like mirrors, pervade the whole collection, underlining its extreme lightness: bronze, intense tobacco, beige, brown mixed with green, green turning to blue, intense and muted blue, black and dark grey. The silhouette is spontaneous and dynamic: unstructured single- or double-breasted jackets are paired with wide palazzo or parachute pants, with organza surfaces that accentuate the absolute weightlessness. linen and jute fabrics, silks and cold-dyed viscose add a delicate, ethereal touch. Shapes are created through a dialogue between the world of sport and the more formal one. sportswear is interpreted in classic patterns; shirts have drawstrings running at the hem, like sweatshirts; the washed suede track suits are soft, and feel almost fluid against the skin. The story is dreamy and visionary, yet tangible. it is punctuated by accessories: multi-material sneakers with solid soles, large half-moon bags, spacious backpacks and small pouches, braces with functional snap-hooks.
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FASHION
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For the womenswear collection, the city is the horizon, and the attitude is effortlessly feminine. A collection in which the clean lines come from a play on subtractions which adds concrete and impactful qualities. The balance of soft colors and surfaces that are worn, wrinkled, lightened and worked on create the syntax of a floaty, immaterial style. A harmony of powder pink, aquamarine and sky blue mixed with greige, and then exotic notes of cornflower blue and acid green unfurl
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in an overlapping of shaded or pinstriped silk with a paper effect, silk and ultra-lightweight crushed velvet, embroidered tulle. an airy lightness dominates the shapes, which appear to sweep over the body, in fluid duster coats, small jackets, and wraparound and deconstructed blazers coordinated with straight-leg or gatheredat the-hem trousers, dresses in vaporous tulle which in the evening, lit up by small crystals, sequins and metal strands, turn silvery, almost
March 2020
lunar. understated embroidery creates delicate masculine patterns. The accessories dictate the urban tone of the whole, taking this discreet style into a real context, where subtlety is more than idealization. hightop sneakers in faded denim and flats with luxe appliquĂŠs like crystals laid over naked skin. even the tiny Plexiglas bags are worn like jewels. armani.com
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FASHION
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Young Vibes Amgad Al Adab’s Winter Collection 2020 is a must-have.
Treating crepe and raw silk, the collection featured a line of ruffled, overlapping, capes and dresses. These are bound to sell like hot cakes when the business-savvy brand shortly brings them to their stores. A leg peek-a-boo here and body fitted gowns there – the designer knew just where to stop and create an impact, with feathers and capes dominating the collection. Tassels were swirling around and slits were high just like the cohesive collection showcased.
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In his Shop Qatar collection, he evolved his approach, moving away from his comfort zone and trying his hand at a more structured look. Young customers appreciate the high-impact attitude that a shapely, sculptural dress can give. Sensuality, lightness and freshness – a spirit that can be felt in his choice of colors. Instagram: @amgadaladab
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FASHION
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March 2020
Luxurious Sensations Yosra El Barkouky’s Fall-Winter 2020 Collection sparkles and glistens.
Titled “The Glow”, the collection is inspired by the 90’s trends of metallics and high shine fabrics. Sequins and metallics adorn this collection, with the use of black, gold, blue, champagne and white, the collection takes a revolutionary turn with a different use of colors. No more traditional winter pantones, the designer opts for a new mix of colors to make one stand out from the crowd this season. Hues of sequins are sprinkled along the metallic fabrics to make one twinkle with extravagance. The collection features an array of seven unique pieces that merge evening wear and couture in the most unexpected of ways. From mini dresses to gowns, it includes a variety of styles to complement the different winter occasions. Whether it’s a mini one shoulder statement dress for a party, a shiny black ruffled playful dress for a morning engagement or an extravagant gown for all the winter weddings; the collection is fit for all upcoming occasions. It keeps it classy but adds a touch of sass with its show of skin, whether it’s with the perfectly designed slit or bare neckline. instagram.com/yosraelbarkoukydesigns
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FASHION
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Titled “The Masters of Art”, the Italian fashion house’s Fall-Winter 2020 men’s collection features the latest designs by Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, celebrating expert craftsmanship and the importance of labor skills, which make their way from one generation to the next. A lineup of models dressed as artists, tradespeople, florists, and more reflect the season’s theme. From the electrician to Dolce & Gabbana’s stylish take on the shepherd, the fashion brand easily inspires.
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March 2020
Chunky knitwear, sheepskin pants, leather coats, and oversized scarves contribute to an impressive range that offers a contemporary juxtaposition of rural attire, workwear, and tailored suits. An impressive 116 looks drew attention with tweed, corduroy, and leather details. On the accessories front, style statements ranged from sling bags to leather boots with a vintage effect treatment. dolcegabbana.com
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Artistic Craftsmanship The Dolce & Gabbana Fall 2020 Menswear Collection Returns to Roots for Inspiration.
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FASHION
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Evolving Tradition Berluti’s Autumn Winter 2020 Collection is inspirational and provoking.
For Autumn-Winter 2020, Berluti intensifies and abstracts its own heritage in a free-spirited proposal for our time. Imagining what the maison’s century-old archives – entrenched in expert shoemaking – would look like had they encompassed tailoring, artistic director Kris Van Assche stages an exaggerated exchange between past and present. The conclusion is eccentric: an electric reaction rooted in our moment in time when dress codes liquify and expressions amplify. As silhouettes become more casual, the established signatures of Berluti loosen up. The patina
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leather suit – a new trademark for the maison – is softened and refined. In its ongoing translation from shoes into garments and bags, the colours of patina are introduced to sportier manifestations in shearling, puffer and bomber jackets. Multi-coloured patterns informed by the stained surfaces of the tables on which craftsmen hand-dye the patina shoe feature in silk shirts and ponyskin outerwear. Expanding the territory, they are decolourised with a splash technique executed by hand. berluti.com
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FASHION
Urban and sporty designs blend harmoniously with brilliance and sparkle, giving life to fresh and light style ideas. Cool white summer tones, warm shades of beige and mid-hue greys are the signature shades of the summer palette. Innovative styling favors the combination of various tones to enhance the refined materials. For the girls’ collection, vertical and horizontal stripes evoke timeless designs. Delicate and sporty pinstripes evoke a sense of urban daywear whereas the marine-like variants evoke exotic journeys and curious minds. Styling favors tone-on-tone color effects, or delicate pastel blends such as cameo rose and sky blue or also more intense and vibrant colors such as blossom, fuchsia and majolica green. Soft and relaxed silhouettes include oversize volumes, ensuring
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comfortable style all day long. Outerwear proposes a fusion of contemporary style, combining oversize hooded sweatshirts with relaxed highwaisted trousers. For the boys’ collection, lightness is one of the principle qualities of the fabric collection. Be it slubbed, striped or plain linen, or soft cotton jersey, they are always ideal for everyday comfort. Textures are authentic and uniform, enhancing the value of the natural fibers employed. Cool hopsack and seersucker fabrics enrich trousers and coats, to ensure a refined summer look. Neutral and olive green hues are brightened up with more intense and vibrant colors such as orange, watermelon and denim, classic and navy blue. brunellocucinelli.com
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Contemporary Elegance Brunello Cucinelli’s Spring Summer 2020 Kids Collection is characterized by distinctive craftsmanship and authenticity.
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BAGS - WOMEN
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Exquisite Style Gorgeous designer hand bags to add a touch of class to your look.
Yves Saint Laurent Cassandra Top Handle Medium Bag In Grain De Poudre Embossed Leather This bag comes with a flap and pivoting YSL metal fastening, an adjustable shoulder strap and a leather handle. It’s made from 100% calfskin leather and features bronze metal hardware, leather lining, and two zippered compartments with one slot pocket. ysl.com
Dior Cherry Red Cannage My Abcdior Patent Calfskin Bag The Lady Dior handbag epitomizes Mr. Dior’s vision of elegance and beauty. It’s a sleek, feminine bag that is both timeless and modern. Crafted with cherry red patent calfskin and covered with the iconic Cannage stitching, its supreme quilting instantly stands out. Pale gold-tone signature ‘D. I. O. R.’ charms embellish its A-line silhouette. dior.com
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Dolce & Gabbana Sint Glass Devotion Minaudiere The Devotion line is renewed with a new romantic and iconic version. The minaudiere is made of plexiglass with galvanized antique gold ABS corners. Defined by the exclusive bejeweled heart closure and cross-body strap inspired by the manufacture of fine jewelry. www.dolcegabbana.com
Fendi Mon Tresor Brown Leather Mini-Bag This small Mon Tresor bucket bag comes with drawstring fastening and metal decorations in the Fendi logo shape. It features two detachable shoulder straps, one long and one short, to wear the bag over the shoulder or cross-body. Made of natural-color leather, it’s finished with embossed FF motif. fendi.com
Gucci Sylvie 1969 Small Top Handle Bag Designed with its original archetype in mind, the Sylvie 1969 unifies the details of its archival inspiration with a contemporary spirit. The structured top handle in textured butter leather is defined by a narrow goldtoned metal chain fitted to the flap and body of the bag—a modern interpretation of the distinctive hardware. The silhouette is completed with a detachable and adjustable shoulder strap. gucci.com
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SHOES
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Stepping in Style
March 2020
Add iconic style to your luxury collection with the latest and most sought-after designer women’s shoes.
Prada Suede Sandals These sandals feature metallic and suede leather on the upper part, an adjustable ankle strap, varnished ABS heel, and leather sole with metal lettering logo. prada.com
Gucci Leather Platform Sandal Designed in a combination of red and white leathers, this heeled sandal has a subtle platform and slightly chunky heel. The two-toned front strap is decorated with a small bow detail and a petite Double G. gucci.com
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Christian Louboutin Planetava 100 Studded Suede and Leather Sandals Christian Louboutin’s ‘Planetava’ sandals will look so chic worn with an LBD to your next event. Expertly made in Italy from smooth black suede, they’re embellished at the gold leather ankle strap with an array of gleaming studs. The house’s iconic red sole is revealed with each step. christianlouboutin.com
Yves Saint Laurent Amber Sandals in Tortoiseshell Patent Leather Made in Italy, these Yves Saint Laurent sandals are made from 100% calfskin leather. They feature an adjustable ankle strap, covered heel, square toe, and leather sole. ysl.com
Jimmy Choo SAVI 85 Black Suede Ankle Boots with Nappa Leather Whipstitching These black suede SAVI 85 ankle boots are intricately crafted with Nappa leather whipstitching for an artisanal touch. Suited to a myriad of occasions, they are shaped with a point toe and slender heel that elegantly lifts hemlines. jimmychoo.com
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SPECIAL FEATURE
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Timeless Prestige 01
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Featuring an extensive collection of over 800 watches, the prestigious Modern Art Studio and Rolex boutique is designed to create a unique experience for customers.
Every aspect of the boutique, located in City Centre Bahrain, was delicately designed using the highest quality material to reflect Arabian culture. The extensive Rolex collection is on display in gorgeous walnut showcases. From the moment customers step inside, they are met with the outstanding interior, developed in cooperation with Rolex Interior Design Specialists to reflect a perfectionist approach. The wall panels were manufactured in Switzerland, and the Murano chandelier in Italy, creating an atmosphere that illustrates the level of privacy Rolex offers, especially in the exclusive VIP suite dedicated for private viewings.
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Professional staff, many of whom have been with Modern Art Studio for over 30 years, are ready to deliver valuable advice. The boutique is the largest Rolex Boutique in the Middle East and one of the largest in the world. Founded in 1936 by Naji Murad, Modern Art Studio’s original shop was located in Government Avenue, Manama, Bahrain. In 1940 Hans Wilsdorf, founder of Rolex Geneva, officially appointed Modern Art Studio as the first and only Rolex agent in the Gulf.
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Naji Murad promoted and sold watches from his store in Bahrain and also to his sub agents in the Gulf. He later recommended them to Rolex to become official agents, many of whom are still distributors of Rolex today. Modern Art Studio’s new Rolex showroom was opened in 1978. The shop featured exclusive showcases which not only displayed the watches, but were also cleverly designed into individual letters spelling the name ROLEX. Richard and David Murad, the sons of Naji
Murad, have taken the reins of Modern Art Studio, which continues to trade as a well-established family business. Hans Wilsdorf founded Tudor watches in 1946 and the first Tudor Boutique in the Gulf was opened by Modern Art Studio in Manama Bahrain in December 2014. Today, Modern Art Studio remains at the forefront of promoting Rolex and Tudor watches in the Gulf. masbahrain.com
01 The interior was developed in collaboration with Rolex Interior Design Specialists
04 The atmosphere offers privacy and professionalism synonymous with the Rolex brand
02 The largest Rolex Boutique in the Middle East
05 The Murano chandelier was made in Italy and the wall panels in Switzerland
03 Modern Art Studio wa appointed in 1940 as the first and only Rolex agent in the Gulf
06 The shop features an extensive Rolex collection of over 800 watches
“The boutique is the largest Rolex
Boutique in the Middle East and one of the largest in the world..”
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ARCHITECTURE
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Boutique Experience
The most luxurious shopping destinations from around the world.
Richard Mille Kuwait Richard Mille announced the official opening of a new boutique at the Salhia Complex, one of Kuwait’s most iconic premium shopping malls that first opened its doors in 1978. The new 74 square meter boutique, operated in partnership with Ali Bin Ali, is the latest addition to Richard Mille’s network of retail locations as part of a regional expansion strategy and growth of the brand since its inception in 2001. Peter Harrison, CEO of Richard Mille Europe, Middle East and Africa comments “We are delighted to open a new boutique in Kuwait as we continue to strengthen our presence in the Middle East region. This is in line with our ongoing program of developing standalone Richard Mille boutiques to cater to our local clients and offer them a truly exceptional brand experience.” Located on the Ground Floor, the new Salhia Complex space includes several of Richard Mille’s emblematic boutique features such as Wenge wood parquet floor, black leather walls and engraved glass panels that provide
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the perfect backdrop to showcase the brand’s finest horological creations. Guests can relax and browse through the extensive timepiece collections in two dedicated VIP sections for a fully exclusive and privatized experience. A combination of precision engineering and technical excellence has made Richard Mille one of the world leaders in fine Swiss watchmaking innovation. The boutique showcases a diverse selection of timepieces, including models from the whole collection: sports, lifestyle watches, high-performance tourbillons as well as limited editions. As the brand continues to expand, this is the third new location for Richard Mille in the Middle East amongst other scheduled boutique openings in UAE and KSA in the last six months. The new Richard Mille boutique is located in the Salhia Complex, Ground Floor, Mohammad Thunayan AIGhanim Street and is open from Saturday to Thursday 10 am to 10 pm and Friday 5 pm to 10 pm. richardmille.com
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Hublot Dubai Mall Hublot started the year 2020 with a new milestone for the Brand in the UAE. The Swiss luxury watchmaker officially reopened its flagship Boutique in The Dubai Mall, one of the world’s largest and most visited shopping destinations. Ricardo Guadalupe (CEO of Hublot), David Tedeschi (Regional Director for Latin America & Caribbean and Middle East & Africa), Mohammed Abdulmagied Seddiqi (Chief Commercial Officer, Seddiqi Holding) and members of the Seddiqi family welcomed friends, Hublotistas, clients, collectors and media at the 105m2 boutique ribbon cutting ceremony under the “HublotLovesDubai” theme. On January 13, the official reopening celebration took place, starting with activities and speeches at the pop-up stand where partners, guests and press gathered, then moving to face the Boutique. After the ribbon cutting ceremony, Ricardo Guadalupe, David Tedeschi, Mohammed Abdulmagied Seddiqi and senior members of Seddiqi Holding cut the ribbon and welcomed everyone in the lavish Boutique, which blends materials and styles in a modern and innovative spirit. Contemporary furnishing, brightly-lit surroundings and PopArt paintings inspired by the iconic Big Bang collection complemented the Big Bang, Classic Fusion, Spirit of Big Bang, MP and limited edition timepieces showcased in the Boutique. The celebrations started on January 5 with a pop-up exhibition in the mall’s Grand Atrium, highlighting several Hublot themes including its core DNA the “Art of Fusion”; “HublotLovesFootball”; “HublotLovesArt”; golf; and showcasing many Dubai special edition pieces previously launched in partnership with Hublot’s UAE partners Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons. hublot.com
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Chopard, Courchevel 1850 The Maison Chopard is announcing the opening of a new boutique in Courchevel 1850, entirely fitted out in a typically Alpine style, combining contemporary décor and the use of superior traditional materials. Located in the heart of the winter sports resort, at the entrance to the Espace Diamant arcade, Chopard’s Courchevel boutique has new premises. With a total surface area of 70m2, it is joining Maison Chopard’s 160 boutiques in presenting watch and jewellery creations crafted by gifted artisans in the company workshops. Imbued with Chopard’s distinctive style, the boutique will be the ideal showcase for its casual chic Alpine Eagle and Happy Sport collections
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epitomising the art of leading a sporty and elegant lifestyle. In keeping with the tradition of the Scheufele family presiding over Chopard’s destiny, each boutique is designed to reflect the image of a true family residence where visitors should feel at home. As they travel the world, they are invited to visit each of these boutiques as a new place of discovery. The Chopard boutique in Courchevel thus takes on the look and feel of a mountain chalet thanks to its antique oak parquet floors and comfortable sofas placed around a pleasant fireplace made of local slate. A style that is both personal and intimate, and a sense of comfort that sums up the Chopard spirit of offering customers an unforgettable experience.
And all this because, far more than just a watch and jewellery manufacturer, Chopard is above all a family. The new boutique also hosts a sales lounge entirely dedicated to Art in Time. Developed on the initiative of Chopard’s Co-President, Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, Art in Time is a network of watch galleries bringing together timepieces by independent watchmakers united for the artisanal and original nature of their approach. Following the very first concept store opened in Monaco in the spring of 2019, this latest gallery, located in the Chopard boutique, becomes the second in this series of establishments dedicated to independent fine watchmaking. chopard.com
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“The new boutique also
hosts a sales lounge entirely dedicated to Art in Time�
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Exceptional Luxury Sunseeker has unveiled its latest flybridge model, the stunning, all-new Manhattan 68 at boot Düsseldorf, making its mark as one of the most innovative and class-leading yachts at the show.
Building on the exceptional family of awardwinning Manhattan models, this new addition to the range has been designed to offer exceptional levels of comfort and luxury with incredible detailing. With the feel of a much larger yacht, it delivers a unique contemporary space that maximises on entertainment options. She enjoys an expansive cockpit, main saloon area with sumptuous lounge seating and a fullyequipped aft galley. The innovative and meticulous design that has gone into the layout of the main deck makes this the perfect boat for welcoming guests; with a strong focus on ambient lighting and interior detailing. From the generous saloon and upper aft galley, through to elevated companion seating at the helm, this exceptional layout allows the owner and guests to move effortlessly between spaces. Interestingly, where a lower galley is
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specified, the space can be utilised as an additional saloon ‘snug’ or feature bar, seamlessly integrating with the main living space. The interiors boast exquisite attention to detail with a new palate of upholstery that provides a cool, crisp and contemporary look, unmistakably a Manhattan. New stainless steel detailing contrasts perfectly with light fabrics, helping to create a floating, and seemingly unsupported backrest to the seating throughout this space. The saloon is drenched by light thanks to the panoramic glazing whilst the lighting design has been exceptionally well considered throughout and includes concealed lighting within ceiling panels and furniture. Owners can select from four lighting and entertainment scenes such as Movie, Party or Night modes; with a one-touch activation from a central ‘Videoworks’ 01 control app. The different scenes create a distinct
01 The Manhattan 68 offers exceptional comfort and luxury 02 Sunseeker’s ‘Beach Club’ in the bathing platform brings guests closer to the water 03 The main deck features innovative and meticulous design 04 Gorgeous interior of the master cabin 05 The guest bathroom, one of the many features aboard the Manhattan 68
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ambience depending on the time of day and mood. The combination of all these elements give the yacht a truly restful setting suitable for family relaxation yet easily transformable for impressive entertaining. To port in the saloon, the Manhattan 68 benefits from private access to the full-beam master stateroom, a real standout feature with full height headroom and optional chaise, sofa, storage or breakfast table. There is also beautiful use of wood in this area utilising a sublime blend of finishes such as Wenge Satin, Silver Oak, Smoked Eucalyptus and Walnut. In the standard configuration with galley positioned on the main deck, there is ample space four very luxurious cabins below including two large twin cabins and a forward VIP suite.
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The flybridge has been designed with an integrated hard-top option in mind and features large forward sunbathing areas and a second helm. It also offers extensive seating with open space for freestanding furniture customised to the owner’s choice. The wet bar has been designed for multiple uses and now includes built-in storage, BBQ and refrigeration options to create the focus for yet another social and entertaining space. This sociable layout continues through to the wide bathing platform which features Sunseeker’s innovative ‘Beach Club’ to bring guests closer to the water. The Beach Club’s hydraulic door opens to reveal an overhead rain-shower, lights and speakers, and provides storage for fenders, toys, scuba and sports equipment. The area is equipped with an optional fold-away bench seat, and Seabob storage lockers adjacent to the water, complete with built-in charging points. The substantial bathing platform is suitable for launching a Williams 385 Turbojet. The twin berth crew cabin, with private access through the transom, enjoys a dedicated en-suite and ample stowage. Available with a range of engines including the Twin Volvo Penta IPS 1350 and Twin MAN V8 1000 or 1200, the Manhattan 68 is perfect for extended cruising with a 300-mile nautical range. Utilising space, innovation and design, the Manhattan 68 is the ideal long-range cruiser with unparalleled comfort. Ilyas & Mustafa Galdari is the Exclusive distributor for Sunseeker Middle East for more info call Tel.: +971 4 5570301
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Life Without Limits
What happens when a superyacht builder is brave enough to approach a high-stakes project by asking the fundamental questions that can truly shift the paradigm for how we approach luxury motoryacht design? The answer is the Oceanco Bravo Eugenia, a radical 109m (357ft) superyacht that boasts best-in-class hydrodynamic efficiency and an optimized hybrid propulsion system that uses the latest energy-saving technologies, resulting in truly eco-conscious credentials. Even better for her owners, the superyacht’s efficiency from ecological advancements not only delivers technical and economic benefits, but multiple lifestyle advantages, too – through the gaining of flexible lifestyle space for luxury accommodation and leisure areas. Oceanco Bravo Eugenia’s triumph is thanks to a revolutionary design methodology adopted by her masterminds, Dutch pedigree yacht builder Oceanco and renowned naval architects Lateral: LIFE, standing for Lengthened, Innovative layout, Fuel efficient and Eco conscious.
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Oceanco’s 109m (357ft) superyacht turns conventional thinking on its head to open a world of eco-conscious possibility.
In fact, Bravo Eugenia was not the first time that Oceanco and Lateral had worked together; they had collaborated on her forerunner from the same Dutch shipyard several years previously, the 106.7m sailing yacht Black Pearl. She is celebrated as a visionary project in terms of her innovative green technology and optimized design, including a propulsion system that harvests kinetic energy under sail to be stored on board and put to use as electrical power, meaning she can cross entire oceans without burning a liter of fossil fuel. The seeds of Bravo Eugenia’s success were sewn during Black Pearl’s conception and realization; in the creation of an environment which encourages pioneering thinking to challenge the familiar methodologies of naval architecture and yacht design. This gave birth to the LIFE design concept, which sought to transmute the groundbreaking accomplishments of Black Pearl into a motoryacht framework.
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“She is celebrated as a visionary
project in terms of her innovative green technology and optimized design.�
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Where most large motoryachts require an expansive engine room sprawling across two levels, Oceanco’s LIFE approach puts Bravo Eugenia’s engine room on a single tier, conferring over 100 square meters of prime real estate to luxury lifestyle areas, such as cabins, on the highly-sought-after lower deck by the waterline. She features and impressive six guest suites on the same level as the yacht’s beach lounge, spa and gym. The optimized Bravo Eugenia requires 30 per cent less fuel compared to a conventional motoryacht of the same size, which is significantly better for the environment as well as a huge saving on operational costs to the owner. The
01 Oceanco Bravo Eugenia boasts best-in-class hydrodynamic efficiency 02 The Bravo Eugenia requires 30% less fuel compared to a conventional motoryacht of the same size
fast superyacht is still able to achieve impressive speeds of up to 19 knots, and is more relaxing for passengers, thanks to reduced noise and vibration from the smaller propulsion-related equipment. When entering ports the LIFE-enhanced yacht goes into ‘whisper mode’ for ultimate guest comfort. She also boasts a waste heat recovery system and an integrated battery system to allow for optimal operation at all times. All factors that have contributed to Bravo Eugenia’s widespread acclaim and taking home the Technology and Innovation Award at the 2019 La Belle Classe Explorer Awards from the Monaco Yacht Club.
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03 Impressive speeds of up to 19 knots 04 inner of the Technology and Innovation Award at the 2019 La Belle Classe Explorer Awards
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05 Flexible lifestyle space for luxury accommodation and leisure areas 06 Winner of the Technology and Innovation Award at the 2019 La Belle Classe Explorer Awards
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MASTERPIECE
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01 Vision, Mixed Media on Canvas, 2019, 100 cm x 100cm 02 Dana Jumaan
The Many Faces of Us
Who are we, really? How many faces do we have, and who do we show them to? Do all our past and future selves exist within us at once? Self-taught artist Dana Jumaan’s thought-provoking work leaves the viewer with deep questions about the nature of self and identity. Let’s talk about your work. At the surface, it seems to be several portraits superimposed over each other. What does this signify? I have always been fascinated with how people choose to present themselves differently to different people or in different situations. Sometimes, we choose to hide parts of ourselves. But that does not make the other parts go away, and that is where the inspiration for my work comes from. I asked myself, what if we could take all the parts that make up a person—all their moods, all their past experiences, all the roles they play in life, such as mother, wife, daughter, friend—and somehow visualize them all existing within the person simultaneously, in a single portrait? What does that look like? My work is the result of that thought process.
What meaning does this carry for the viewer?
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When a viewer encounters my paintings, I hope it encourages them to live authentically, and not conceal the imperfect parts of themselves from the
world. Every single emotion, memory, or mistake we make is significant. Every detour brought us to where we are today. Every experience has to be embraced as part of what makes us who we are. Within me, at this moment, is the person I used to be when I was five years old, and 16, and 20; and also within me are the seeds of the woman I will become. My anger and sadness live alongside my happiness and my hopes for the future. I must own all of it.
What was your artistic journey like? Art, to me, was the most natural thing in the world. My parents are both art enthusiasts, and our home is decorated with beautiful pieces they have curated from all over the world. When I was very young, weekly art sessions were a cherished bonding ritual with my father and sister. We would color with crayons or paint on eggshells while cartoons played on the TV in the background. It was these sessions that gave me the confidence to express myself through art. As a young adult, I started a foundation course in Art and Design at the University of the Arts in London, but then decided
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to switch to a degree in International Relations and Development Studies. However, my love of art never left me, and I found myself coming back to it when I needed to unwind, destress, or simply connect with myself.
as a society and community. Art should go beyond the walls of a gallery and into public spaces. It should be thought provoking and act as a means of dialogue and conversation, and I believe that’s what makes a piece of art successful.
Your work has been exhibited at The Nest 2017 and the Annual Bahrain Fine Arts Exhibition 2020, and you have created murals in local restaurants and galleries. How do these experiences compare to one another?
Which artists most influence your work?
It is an incredible honor to be invited to exhibit at the Annual Bahrain Fine Arts Exhibition alongside such talented local artists, including some that I have grown up admiring. Exhibitions like these are very important in encouraging emerging artists to grow their confidence and share their work with people. However, when I created my murals for The Nest, and just recently at local coffee shop in Jasra, it was a totally different experience. I saw my art interacting with people of different cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds, people who might never have stepped into an art gallery otherwise, and it was deeply rewarding, in a different way. Ultimately, I believe the point of art is to be seen and interacted with. It is a medium of expression that I believe should transcend socially constructed boundaries and divisions; it can bring us together
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I find my inspiration close to home! I look up to other Bahraini artists such as Omar Al Rashid and Ebrahim Bu Saad, whose paintings adorned my home. Although I have been exposed to Western artists, I find that their work does not speak to me in the same way that Bahraini art does. I feel a cultural connection with it. It represents who I am. It tells my story. It’s relatable. This is why it’s so important for local artists to tell their truth through their art, because representation truly does matter.
Is that why you create art? To tell your truth? Certainly, it helps me process my emotions and creates a snapshot of where I am at any given point in life. But more than that, I can’t imagine not creating art. It is like an active meditation for me, I find it deeply relaxing and grounding. Regardless of the chaotic nature of how I work, painting gives me a sense of stillness.
03 Blue, Mixed Media on Canvas, 2018, 180 cm x 120 cm
05 Mood, Mixed Media on Canvas, 2017, 100 cm x 80 cm
04 Overlap, Mixed Media on Canvas, 2016, 100 cm x 100 cm
instagram.com/danajpaints
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Durrah Magazine - Nice.pdf
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TRAVEL
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01 Waikiki is a haven for surfers 02 Vibrant lifestyle
Paradise on Earth Located on the south shore of Honolulu, the worldfamous neighborhood of Waikiki was once a playground for Hawaiian royalty. Meaning “spouting waters” in Hawaiian, Waikiki was known for springs and streams that fed wetlands which once separated Waikiki from the interior.
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Waikiki was introduced to the world when its first hotel, the Moana Surfrider, was built on its shores in 1901. Today, Waikiki is Oahu’s main hotel and resort area and a vibrant gathering place for visitors from around the world. Along the main strip of Kalakaua Avenue you’ll find worldclass shopping, dining, entertainment, activities and resorts. The Waikiki skyline is filled with high-rises and resort hotels. Half of the beach is marked off for surfers. For some distance into the ocean the water is quite shallow, with numerous rocks on the bottom. The surf is known for its long rolling break, making it ideal for long boarding, tandem surfing and beginners.
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Waikiki is famous for its beaches and every hotel room is just two or three blocks away from the ocean – if it’s not directly on the beach. With Mount Leahi (Diamond Head) as your backdrop, the calm waters of Waikiki are perfect for a surfing lesson. In fact, legendary Hawaiian waterman Duke Kahanamoku grew up surfing the waves of Waikiki. With other renowned Waikiki Beach Boys, this Olympic gold medalist in swimming taught visitors how to surf at the turn of the century. “Duke” was instrumental in sharing the values and sport of surfing to the world and came to be known and respected globally as “the father of modern surfing.” Today, surf instructors in Waikiki perpetuate Duke’s legacy by teaching visitors how to surf and canoe. The Duke Kahanamoku Statue, located on Waikiki Beach, has become an iconic symbol of Waikiki and the surf culture of Oahu.
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But there’s more to Waikiki than just the beach. Attractions of Waikiki like the Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Aquarium offer fun for the whole family. You can learn about the history of Waikiki by reading the surfboard markers along the Waikiki Historical Trail. Among the various things to do, high-end boutiques, shops, and restaurants can be found all along Kalakaua and Kuhio Avenues and at gathering places like the Royal Hawaiian Center, the Waikiki Beach Walk and the newly transformed International Market Place. After the Waikiki sunset, the fun continues with amazing nightlife and live music. Best of all, Waikiki is within a half hour of a variety of Oahu attractions, including Pearl Harbor, Iolani Palace, the Nuuanu Pali Lookout and Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, a marine
03 Statue of Duke Kaoa Kahanmoku on Waikiki Beach 04 The historic Moana Surfrider hotel 05 The Waikiki skyline is filled with high-rises and resort hotels
life conservation district. Other notable points of interest nearby include Ala Moana Center, which is a massive outdoor shopping center, the local neighborhood of Kapahulu and the arts district of Chinatown. From Hawaiian royalty to Hawaii Regional Cuisine, Waikiki continues to be an evolving expression of the ancient spirit of aloha. On these famous shores, the past and the future are uniting in fresh and surprising ways. You can expect a range of fun activities once you’re in Waikiki, including catamaran rides, parasailing, scuba diving, hiking tours, surfing lessons and much more, giving you the opportunity to experience every inch of this beloved tourist destination.
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01 01 Stylish and relaxed interior 02 The lobby lounge is ideal for casual business meetings 03 The Lobby bar
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Avani Central Busan Hotel Korea Avani Hotels & Resorts announces the opening of the brand new 289-room Avani Central Busan Hotel, in the Republic of Korea. Renowned for its status as the country’s main commercial port, home to the Korea Exchange, and a renowned leisure destination, Busan was selected as the perfect host for Avani. The stylish and relaxed Avani Central Busan Hotel offers convenient access to business travellers and holiday makers to enjoy the city’s hotspots from the heart of Busan’s financial centre. Guests to Avani Central Busan Hotel can choose from seven room types, ranging from studio-style accommodations to one-bedroom suites with separate living areas. Each guest room and suites boasts amazing city or mountain views, and in some cases both, no matter the room category, each is designed for optimal comfort and convenience, from flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi to rainfall showers and tea and coffee making stations – delivering every amenity for the perfect stay. Business travellers and holidaymakers alike will find all they need at Avani Central Busan Hotel. The Lobby Lounge welcomes visitors with
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refreshing beverages and light snacks, ideal for a casual business meeting at the open workspace or a respite between exploring the city on one of the comfy sofas. The CUBE all-day dining offers delicious local Korean flavours and international favourites, featuring Avani’s honest approach to food by sourcing ingredients locally. The AvaniFit gym is open 24/7 so a workout can fit into any schedule, while the fully equipped meeting room can be arranged to host up to 150 guests for business or leisure events. Avani Central Busan Hotel is conveniently located within the Munhyeon Finance Complex, at the centre of Busan’s commercial district, where business travellers can head directly to the Busan International Financial Centre, Bank of Korea’s Busan headquarters, and the regional headquarters for several government financial bodies as well as one of the largest musical theatre in Korea – Dream Theatre. The complex also has a direct connection to the Busan subway system and is a 15-minute drive to Korea’s bullet train KTX stop and international cruise terminal. For leisure guests, the Avani Central Busan
Hotel is only a 30-minute drive to the most popular beach in Korea, Haeundae Beach, while shopping at Seomyon is just a 10-minute walk away. To savour local culture, Jagalchi Fish Market and Gamcheon Village are a short drive, as are the spectacular views from Hwangnyeongsan Mountain. No matter the experience, Avani Central Busan Hotel can assist in curating experiences to enhance any traveller’s journey through the seaside town. Launched in response to a growing global group of discerning world travellers whose priorities are style and value, Avani Hotels & Resorts (www. avanihotels.com) is a contemporary, upbeat brand that delivers the perfect balance of sleep, space, sustenance and service. Avani Hotels & Resorts currently operates over 30 properties in Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe, most recently debuting in Cambodia. The brand has a strong pipeline of new properties under development, including in new destinations such as the Maldives, Vietnam and Thailand. avanihotels.com/central-busan
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04 The new Avani Central Busan Hotel offers 289 rooms 05 Rooms designed for optimal comfort and convenience
Redefining Hospitality 04
Discover the true meaning of hospitality and experience the ultimate in luxury at these global destinations. 05
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07 06 Elegant lobby of Hyatt Regency Dusseldorf 07 The bathroom at the Presidential Suite 08 The rooms feature timeless designs 09 The stylish Presidential Suite’s living room
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Hyatt Regency Dusseldorf Germany In the trendy Media Harbor district, the modern business hotel Hyatt Regency Dusseldorf stands out with its unique views of the Rhine river and the skyline of the city. It is close to cultural attractions and shopping opportunities, the perfect backdrop to a relaxed business or city trip. Soak in the timeless design of the rooms, soothing spa treatments and indulgent culinary delight. Experience spectacular performances in the spacious conference area and have productive meetings in the relaxing surroundings. Hyatt Regency Dusseldorf features 303 elegant guestrooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows, stylishly decorated with earthy tones and natural fabrics with colourful accents. Bathrooms include a walk-in rain shower, separate bathtub, and granite surfaces. View or Deluxe View rooms enjoy a unique view of the Media Harbour or the skyline of the city. Regency Club rooms and suites offer access to the Regency Club Lounge on the 18th floor, which provides complimentary continental breakfast, soft drinks and hot beverages available all day long,
coffee and cake, as well as selection of wines, sparkling wines, and canapés in the evening. On the 18th floor is the exclusive Regency Club Lounge, which offers stunning views of the Media Harbor. For guests with club access, a complimentary continental breakfast is served in the morning and snacks are served in the evening, as well as personalized service. Hyatt Regency Dusseldorf has several dining opportunities featuring international cuisine and sushi. DOX Restaurant offers fine regional dishes and traditionally prepared sushi, featuring views of the city skyline. Self-service restaurant Café D is the ideal outlet for a business lunch in the Media Harbour, a quick snack to go or cosy fondue dinners. At DOX Bar and Lounge a wide range of beverages, snacks and local dishes is served. During the summer months, Pebble’s Terrace invites for casual drinks or classic afterwork events in stunning surroundings. Rive Spa at Media Harbor is a source of relaxation and recreation spanning 485 sqm. Recharge your batteries with a soothing massage, wellness package
or cosmetic treatment, all of which feature products from The Organic Pharmacy™, SkinCeuticals™ and SpaRitual™ brands. In addition to its spacious fitness area with modern equipment by TechnoGym™, Rive Spa features a wellness area with a large whirlpool and wet and dry saunas. The exclusive location of the Rive Spa allows for workouts and relaxation completed by unique views over the Rhine river. Hyatt Regency Dusseldorf offers spacious meeting and event facilities covering an area of 850 sq m, and equipped with the latest technological facilities to enable large-scale performances and product presentations. Also, for out-of-the-ordinary or catwalk presentations, shows or displays, a very special set-up can be created by opening the hydraulic staircase. Whether a business meeting, a conference, product presentations, weddings, birthdays or caterings, our experienced Event Sales team will be happy to organise a successful and smooth-running event for you.\ hyatt.com
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Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park London Sitting between glorious Royal Parkland and the buzz of central Knightsbridge, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London is re-imagined and re-invented, offering the essence of timeless heritage coupled with contemporary flair and impeccable service. As part of the most-extensive multimillion-pound restoration in the hotel’s history, internationally-renowned designer Joyce Wang, oversaw the new design of all the rooms, suites and public areas, inspired by the natural beauty of neighboring Hyde Park and the glamour of the 20th century Golden Age of travel. The stunning re-imagining of The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, London along with the hotel’s destination restaurants and Mandarin Bar, were directed by esteemed New York designer Adam D Tihany. With three outstanding restaurants, two Michelin stars, and one magnificent bar, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London is undeniably one of
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the city’s finest culinary destinations. The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, London has reopened after an incredible restoration programme designed to significantly enhance its facilities. With 13 single treatment rooms and a new spacious Oriental Suite featuring two massage beds and a Rasul water temple, The Spa also now offers traditional ASANTE Traditional Chinese Medicine consultations and treatments, Bastien Gonzalez Pedi:Mani:Cure Studio as well as two additional beauty rooms where guests short of time can enjoy a series of results-driven express treatments such as Philip Kingsley hair therapy or Linda Meredith Express Facials. The extensive spa menu represents a tailormade combination of Mandarin Oriental’s own signature therapies, together with treatments and journeys for the face and body using Mandarin Oriental’s bespoke signature oils, Nescens,
Aromatherapy Associates, Sodashi and Linda Meredith products. The hotel’s prestigious address overlooking Hyde Park, combined with excellent service and first-class catering, have made it one of London’s premier business venues. It offers ultimate flexibility when it comes to technology. They have an exclusive arrangement with an audio-visual company who can provide the most advanced equipment for your meeting or event. Through them, they can arrange every conceivable type of technology to accommodate your needs. They assign every client a dedicated event manager who will work with you before and during your event. In addition, they can also provide a number of extra services to help your day run as smoothly as possible. mandarinoriental.com/london/hyde-park
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10 One of London’s premier business venues 11 Stylish and elegant rooms 12 Guest bathroom at the Suite Penthouse 13 The breathtaking Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London
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01 Double Suite at Mandarin Oriental, London
03 The spa offers several signature therapies and treatments
02 Relaxation of mind and body begins the moment you enter the spa
04 The indoor swimming pool
Serene Treatments Take your body and mind on a journey of relaxation with these worldwide destinations of tranquility.
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Mandarin Oriental London An oasis of calm, the extensively restored and enlarged Spa at Mandarin Oriental, London is a place to relax and restore your mind, body, and soul. Situated in the heart of Knightsbridge, the Spa offers a diverse range of treatments from traditional Chinese medicine, renowned Bastien Gonzalez manicures and pedicures, and anti-ageing facials. The extensive spa menu represents a tailormade combination of Mandarin Oriental’s own signature therapies, together with treatments and journeys for the face and body using Mandarin Oriental’s bespoke signature oils, Nescens, Aromatherapy Associates, Sodashi and Linda Meredith products.
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Alongside 13 luxurious treatment rooms, you’ll find the Couples Oriental Suite, featuring two massage beds and a Rasul water temple, the ultimate in conditioning treatments. There are two additional beauty rooms where guests short of time can enjoy a series of results-driven express treatments such as Philip Kingsley hair therapy or Linda Meredith express facials. The Spa offers an array of facilities, including an amethyst crystal steam room, a sanarium, vitality pool, Zen colour therapy relaxation area, and a fully-equipped fitness centre, which has been tailored to the cosmopolitan, luxury traveler. It boasts state-of-the-art Technogym equipment and a 17-metre indoor swimming pool. The changing area offers a sauna in the male area and steam room in the female area, revitalising experience showers, and a relaxation area. Meanwhile, the custom-designed PilatesPT studio offers results-led training programmes devised by award-winning trainer, Hollie Grant. Alongside reformer Pilates and traditional personal training, the Spa is home to the renowned Model Method, a science-based workout programme that is regarded as one of the best high-intensity workouts in the world. mandarinoriental.com
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“At the Majestic Hotel & Spa
Barcelona, wellbeing and luxury come together to create an unforgettable experience.” Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona The Majestic Spa at Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona is a sanctuary of comfort and indulgence, offering an array of healing treatments designed to offset the harming effects of urban life and promote rejuvenation from the inside out. Located on the top floor of the building, Majestic Spa offers a private and exclusive atmosphere. Prior to any treatment, guests can benefit from the Hydrotherapy Zone, a circuit that combines heat and water facilities. It begins with the dry sauna, ice fountain, and steam bath, and ends with a sensory shower with essential oils. This circuit improves blood flow, promotes muscle relaxation, and provides an overall sense of relief and comfort. The Majestic Spa menu offers a wide range of treatments, each promoting the regeneration of the skin and restoring the body’s natural balance.
Majestic Spa also offers a special package for kids - The Princess Moment package. This 30-minute treatment, designed for children under the age of 12, introduces the little ones to the art of wellbeing and self-care while they enjoy a relaxing pampering session with natural products. For early risers, Majestic Spa offers yoga sessions each morning from 8 am until 9 am, performed on the terrace at La Dolce Vitae on the 10th floor of the hotel. Guests also have the option of hiring a personal trainer and undertaking a three-day diet plan. At the Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona, wellbeing and luxury come together to create an unforgettable experience. majestichotelgroup.com/en/barcelona/hotelmajestic 06 05 The Majestic Spa’s treatments regenerate the skin and restore the body’s balance 06, 07 Tranquil interiors 08 An unforgettable wellbeing experience
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09 Warm and fragrant rooms await the guests 10 The gorgeously decorated reception area 11 Jacuzzi at The Westin Heavenly Spa
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Westin Heavenly Spa Dubai Offering a comprehensive range of treatments that promote wellness and relaxation, The Heavenly Spa is a must-visit location. Whether you’re looking for some well-deserved solo pampering or visiting with a friend, the spa offers packages to suit your needs. The spa houses 10 fragrant, warm, and therapeutic rooms and there are separate changing and relaxation rooms for men and women, each with their own sauna, steam room, and Jacuzzi. Products by award-winning British skin-care brand, ELEMIS, are used during the treatments.
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The spa also offers a fantastic selection of massages, body treatments, facials, and packages, including the popular Heavenly Touch Back Massage, Pro-Definition Lift & Contour Facial, and Shellac Nail Treatments. The packages also include pool and beach access. With so many options to choose from, deciding on the right treatment can be challenging. Simply ask the team to help you pick one that’s best for you, then sit back and relax. The spa is open daily from 8am to 10pm. heavenlyspadubai.com
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SPAS
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Mandarin Oriental Bangkok
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Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok re-opened its River Wing, concluding the most extensive restoration in the hotel’s 143-year history. In keeping with the successful restoration of the Authors’ and Garden Wings in 2016, the River Wing renovation has been designed to confirm this historic hotel’s position as one of the best in the world. Newly designed guestrooms and suites and a variety of updated facilities will enhance the hotel’s unique resort style while maintaining its classic, Thai-influenced elegance. The restored River Wing’s accommodation 11 comprises an increased number of suites along with
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enlarged guestrooms with enhanced views of the Chao Phraya River. Lord Jim’s, The Verandah and Riverside Terrace restaurants along with the hotel’s Lobby have been stylishly renewed, with many original features restored and re-instated. In addition, the hotel has a new Japanese Kaiseki-style restaurant, Kinu by Takagi, the first restaurant in Thailand by Michelin-celebrated Chef Takagi Kazuo of Kyoto Cuisine Takagi in Japan. The property’s two iconic swimming pools have also been re-landscaped to provide additional relaxation areas and cabanas. mandarinoriental.com
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12 Stylishly re-landscaped swimming pool 13 Traditional Thai massage 14 Guests can expect to experience relaxation upon arrival
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Bon Appétit
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Culinary Art One of the most celebrated chefs in Italy, Antonio Guida has always been fascinated by the world of culinary alchemy. A Michelinstarred chef, he now delights patrons at the Mandarin Oriental, Milan with his delectable creations.
When did you realize you wanted to become a chef? I realized it when I was a child, thanks to my mom. I used to spend a lot of time with my mom in the kitchen and it was so much fun for me. We used to prepare fresh pasta and Sunday’s lunch for the family. When I was about 14 or 15 years old, I started to buy a lot of cooking books and my ambition was to work in a French Michelin-starred restaurant.
What would you recommend to a first-time customer at Seta? I would recommend our tasting menu “La Via del Seta” (Seta’s way) which includes some of our signature dishes such as the roasted blue lobster with loazzolo zabaglione, white miso and matcha tea, and the rice cagnone style with vegetables, maccagno cheese and raspberry powder.
region has its own cuisine. Also, the number of highquality products such as olive oil, pasta, vegetables and cheeses.
What was the best experience you have had at another restaurant? I had several very good experiences. In certain restaurants, it was a specific dish. In others, a simple gesture would make a difference.
What was your proudest moment? I do not have one specific moment, however I’m very proud every time a guest is happy and satisfied after spending time at Seta and tasting our dishes.
What’s the most important thing to have as a chef? Being a good listener and humility.
What ingredients are always available in your kitchen?
What advice would you give to a novice chef?
The citrus fruits like grapefruit, lemon, lime, mainly for their acidity.
I would advise to study, study and study! In addition, I’d advise visiting the Italian regions to know their specific cuisines and gaining experience abroad.
What makes Italian cuisine unique? For sure, it’s the diversity and variety, as each
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Blue Lobster with mushroom zabaglione Ingredients 4 blue lobsters For
the mousse • 100g cream • 100g milk • 100g egg yolk • 20g trompet mushroom purée
For
the garniture • 20g trompet mushrooms • 50g boiled thistles • 15g blended dried porcini mushrooms • savoy cabbage leaves
Method Boil the lobster in salted hot water, the body for 2 minutes and the claws for 2.5 minutes. Cool down in water and ice removing the carapace. Stir the milk with the cream, the egg yolk and mushroom purée; salt and bake it in the hoven. Seal up the oven pot with the film, put it in the steam oven at 85°C for 15 minutes. Then, whip and use the chinois. Lay it in the siphon and recharge it with two gas spray cans. Heat up the lobster with oil in the pan at low temperature. Put the mushroom siphon, previously warmed up, at bain-marie in the middle of the dish. Lay the lobster cut in half. Add the savoy cabbage leaves and the boiled thistles in the pan. Stir-fry the mushrooms and lay them down as garniture. Complete the dish with a sprinkling of blended dried porcini mushrooms.
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Rice “cagnone” style with vegetables, “Maccagno” cheese and raspberry powder Ingredients For
the risotto • 300g Carnaroli rice • 20g Maccagno cheese, grated • Dried raspberry powder • Shallot, confit • 4 sage leaves cut in julienne • 25g Parmesan cheese (24 months old), grated • 2l chicken stock • 100ml white wine • 40g sour butter • 60g Normandy butter • Salt
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the cream of rice with herbs • 50g Carnaroli rice • 40g herb cream • 1/2 l chicken stock • 5g Parmesan cheese, grated • 5g Normandy butter • Extra-virgin olive oil • Salt
For
the sautéed vegetables • Carrots • Courgettes • Flat snap beans • Green beans • Green peas • Chicken stock • Chicken juices • Butter • Salt
Method In a warm shallow saucepan (rondò) heat a little oil and then add the rice; cover with the white wine and simmer until it has evaporated and add a little shallot confit. Continue cooking with the chicken stock. Stir in the Normandy butter, sour butter, Parmesan cheese, Maccagno cheese, sage and a bit of salt. Follow the same procedure as for the risotto. Cook the rice with the chicken stock and add water to avoid the cream having too strong a flavor. Continue cooking over low heat until the rice is overcooked and then add the herb cream. Finally, stir in the butter and the Parmesan cheese. Blend and adjust the density and taste if necessary. Cut the vegetables into small diamond-shaped pieces and glaze them in a skillet with a little stock, butter and chicken juices. Add more salt if necessary. Spread the cream of rice on the bottom of the plates and put the risotto on top. Garnish with the raspberry powder and the sautéed vegetables.
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Cauliflower with almond milk sauce, yuzu juice and seafood Ingredients Almond milk • 300g water • 100g sliced almonds Cauliflower cream: • 250g cauliflower • 100g milk Sea food • • • • • • • • • • • •
mussels clams shrimps periwinkle cauliflowers yuzu juice mussel and clam water Normandy butter Shredded almonds Nori seaweed 1l milk single cream
Method Mix the almonds with water in the hotmix at 95° for 10 minutes, filter and season to taste. Cauliflower cream: Cook cauliflowers in milk until soft and mash until smooth. Mix 100g with 200g of the almond milk you just prepared. Whip butter with water and yuzu juice. Put in a pan, add seafood and warm. Clean the cauliflowers, divide them into florets and cook them for 7 minutes in 1l milk and 100g of cream. Let them cool and then fry in seed oil at 180° until golden. Dampen with mussel and clam water and with yuzu butter. Put the cauliflower cream in the middle of the plate, top with the cauliflower, garnish with seafood, shredded almonds, a few drops of yuzu juice and finally a toasted nori seaweed julienne.
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Refined TASTE Experience a culinary journey with award-winning and critically acclaimed restaurants from around the world.
Amazonico Dubai Originally opened in 2010 by husband and wife team and renowned restauranteurs, Sandro Silva and Marta Seco, Amazónico quickly became one of Madrid’s most-popular and well-loved restaurants. Amazónico Dubai, situated in the heart of DIFC is the couple’s second restaurant to open outside of Spain and will similarly take inspiration from the cultural diversity and gastronomic heritage of the Amazon region. Open from lunch until late, discover an immersive environment of rainforestinspired lush greenery and natural materials designed by internationally renowned artist Lázaro Rosa-Violan. Combining a blend of tropical and Latin American cuisines our menus are not only inspired by the countries of the Amazon but the unique
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Asian and Mediterranean communities which inhabit them. From Peruvian sushi and the freshest raw seafood to carefully sourced grilled meats and fish; our chefs use both traditional and cuttingedge techniques along with seasonal and vibrant ingredients to transport you to South America. With a range of exciting spaces to discover including the vibrant and energetic Bar & Lounge, an intimate Sushi Counter, a buzzy restaurant dining room and a breath-taking roof terrace Amazónico has something to suit anyone and anytime of day. Our resident and guest DJs spin ‘electro-pical’ music live each evening which keeps energy high late into the night. amazonicorestaurant.com
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02 01, 02 The interior is inspired by the Amazon region 03 Juicy Brazilian steak
04 Marinated lamb kofta 05 Sea bass in espeto
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06, 10 lively and colourful 07 Pizza fritta con melanzane e parmigiano
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08 Pizza fritta con melanzane e parmigiano 09 Coca maiorchina-ricotta fondente di cipolla
Spica Milan Internationality, research and conviviality: these are the ingredients that characterize Spica, the new restaurant in the heart of the Milanese district of Porta Venezia. The two celebrity chefs, Indian Ritu Dalmia and Italian Viviana Varese, share a common passion for world cuisines: hence a restaurant that embraces diversity, offering a gastronomic journey through four geographical areas (Southeast Asia, the Indian subcontinent, Europe and America). A journey that is reflected from the kitchen to the interior design thanks to the project by Vudafieri-Saverino Partners. The architecture studio based in Milan and Shanghai boasts exceptional experience in in developing new restaurant concepts. The architects Tiziano Vudafieri and Claudio Saverino have designed a space capable of surprising with its unusual mix of Asian suggestions and homage to the masters of 20th century Milanese design. The result is a lively and colourful restaurant that reflects the vibrant atmosphere of Porta Venezia and its dynamic and young public. Spica offers modern, cosmopolitan and youthful cuisine. The menu is divided into four geographical macro-areas: South-East Asia, the Indian Sub-continent, Europe and the Americas. From each Ritu Dalmia and Viviana Varese have picked their favorite dishes, selected following years of travel, proposing them in two different ways, dishes for sharing and main dishes. The gastronomic proposals range from dim sum in crystal pasta and bao from China to Thai salads, Burmese soups and Japanese style ramen; from the samosa of Rajasthan to the Spanish cocas mallorquinas; from tortillas, nachos and ceviche, which make us take a leap of thousands of kilometers to Mexico and Peru, to BBQ ribs, one of the tastiest dishes in the United States. spicarestaurant.com
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11, 12, 13 All of Mana Cafe’s menu items are gluten and preservative free, plant-based and made in-house
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Mana Café Bahrain Mana Café a place of community, great food and healing elements opens its doors in Moda Mall. Mana Café opened its doors to the people of Bahrain with a massive goal in mind - to introduce plant-based food that excites the pallet, while drawing on childhood nostalgia and offering unprocessed, healthy food to everyone. Mana Café drew on experience and skill by bringing in international chef consultant, Claire Sharryn Roberto. In Chef Claire’s words: “I turn plants into 5-star healing cuisine”. Claire is not only a classically trained chef, but a certified Integrative Health and Wellness Coach (IIN) specializing in Ayurveda, this can be seen through the high nutrient density in all her dishes. Everything in the Mana Café kitchen is gluten-
free, refined sugar-free, plant-based, preservativefree, free from artificial ingredients and made in-house. They never cook with ultra-processed vegetable oil. They are proud to source locally and organic where possible, and make all their activated nut, seed milks daily, in-house, with raw nuts, seeds and alkaline water, resulting in bold flavors. Mana Café prides itself as a meet up spot for locals, foreigners, dreamers, doers, changemakers that are looking for food that allows them to thrive and flourish in a world that has forgotten about mom’s home cooked meals. Give them a visit and allow your taste buds to experience a plant-based adventure like no other. instagram.com/manacafe.bh
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Badge of Luxury Rolls-Royce has always had a special place for us here at Durrah. It’s a brand that embodies the same values of luxury and refinement that we believe in – values that have shown through in each of our reviews of the Rolls-Royce Black Badge models. It’s only fitting that we test drive the Cullinan, the final chapter of the Black Badge saga and its darkest and most urban statement yet.
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The story of the Black Badge family began at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2016, when Rolls-Royce Motor Cars presented Black Badge; a permanent Bespoke family of motor cars that defined the taste patterns of an emerging generation of super-luxury consumer. These unapologetic and highly dynamic products responded to those who refused to be defined by traditional codes of luxury and did much to attract new customers to the marque, reassured by Rolls-Royce’s fluency in their bold aesthetic and uncompromising lifestyle requirements. This highly successful alter ego is codified by the mathematical symbol that represents a potential infinity, which is placed discreetly within the motor car’s interior. This marking, known also as the lemniscate, was applied to Sir Malcolm Campbell’s record-breaking Rolls-Royce-powered Blue Bird K3 hydroplane, denoting that it belonged to an insurance class reserved for boats with unlimited and therefore infinite engine power. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars selected this hallmark for Black Badge to reflect its own unrelenting pursuit of power. Rolls-Royce debuted Black Badge with Wraith and Ghost in 2016, followed by Dawn in 2017. Today, the family is completed with the introduction of Black Badge Cullinan: the darkest and most urban statement of Black Badge yet.
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01 The Black Badge Family lineup set against the iconic backdrop of Bahrain’s World Trade Center 02 A great deal of focus has been given to the rear and the vast seating area. 03 Meticulously created dynamic personality 04 A nakedweave carbon-fibre finish produces a powerful three-dimensional effect
Created to satisfy overwhelming demand from younger, more adventurous clients, Cullinan in its silver badge guise, was launched to global acclaim in 2018, immediately becoming the world’s pinnacle super-luxury SUV. Combining luxury in its purest form with genuine practicality and off-road capability, Cullinan unequivocally delivered on the promise of an experience that is Effortless, Everywhere. The Rolls-Royce of SUVs did much to reach a new group of clients looking for unfettered access to the world’s wildest places and most enriching experiences. Yet, within this group exists a subset of individuals who seek to subvert the motor car’s domineering presence by permanently cloaking it in the night. Cullinan has conquered the world’s wildest reaches. Now it is time for Black Badge Cullinan to conquer new urban frontiers. While clients can draw on the marque’s 44,000 ‘ready to wear’ paint options or commission an entirely individual Bespoke hue, it is anticipated that many will opt for Black Badge’s signature Black. Multiple layers of paint and lacquer aremeticulously applied and hand-polished 10 times at the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, West Sussex, representing the most comprehensive surface finish process ever applied to a solid paint colour. The depth and intensity of Black Badge Cullinan’s coachwork serves as the perfect canvas upon which to throw a contrasting hand-paintedCoachline into stark relief. On the prow of the motor car lies the defining expression of Black Badge. The Spirit of Ecstasy mascot, which has taken many forms throughout the marque’s history, is presented in high gloss black chrome. For the first time this finish extends onto its mounting plate, creating the darkest Black Badge yet. This transformation pervades the other symbols of Black Badge. The ‘Double R’ badge on the front, flanks and aft invert to become silver-on-black, while chrome surfaces such as the front grille surround, side
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frame finishers, boot handle, boot trim, lower air inlet finisher and exhaust pipes are darkened. While they appear black, the vertical grille bars remain polished, reflecting the blackened surfaces that surround them to add a frisson of movement that hints at the motor car’s dynamic intent. The overall effect artfully simplifies and enlarges the motor car’s exterior design graphics, emphasising its imposing proportions and confident stance. This is further dramatised by all-new 22inch forged alloy wheels, reserved exclusively for Black Badge Cullinan. Designed in the Black Badge house style, the gear-like graphic emphasises the model’s vast reserves of power while also recalling an infinitely occurring lemniscate. The gloss black and polished design also creates the perfect stage for the marque’s first ever coloured brake caliper.The high gloss Red paint has been specifically developed to withstand the rigours of elevated temperatures generated by the motor car’s uprated braking system while still offering a perfectly smooth finish befitting of Rolls-Royce. Ordinarily, great efforts are expelled to distance occupants from a Rolls-Royce’s mechanical function. However, the marque’s Colour and Trim experts gently sensationalised the engineering substance of Black Badge, seamlessly blending superlative comfort, bold aesthetics, advanced materials and precise, meticulous craftsmanship. This ethos is perfectly embodied byBlack Badge Cullinan’s Technical Carbon veneer. In the spirit of
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Sir Henry Royce’s founding philosophy, “When it does not exist, design it”, a collaboration between the marque’s designers, engineers and craftspeople saw the creation of a new luxury material. Inspired by masterpieces of urban architecture, a nakedweave carbon-fibre finish has been developed to create highly accurate repeating geometrical shapes that produce a powerful three-dimensional effect. Each leaf of Technical Carbon is finished with six coats of lacquer before being left to cure for 72 hours then hand-polished to Rolls-Royce’s hallmark mirror finish. This process takes 21 days and is only deemed complete once every piece is inspected by a craftsperson to ensure complete reflective uniformity across each of the 23 pieces within the car. Starlight Headliner has joined historical RollsRoyce iconography such as the Spirit of Ecstasy, Pantheon Grille and ‘Double R’ monogram. Its presence in Black Badge Cullinan intensifies the cabin’s ambience by casting a low light over the lavish leather seats. Presented in fine Black leather, handwoven with 1344 fibre optic lights, it is a true reflection of the sky at night and incorporates eight brilliant white shooting stars that dart at random predominantly over the front occupants, subtly acknowledging the motor car’s owner-driver appeal. Reflecting the marque’s Bespoke philosophy, Black Badge Cullinan benefits from a near-infinitely configurable interior colourpalette. Black Badge clients often use interior space as a stage to create
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dramatic high contrast colourways, so for Cullinan Rolls-Royce’s Colour and Trim designers created a bold new leather colour, Forge Yellow, to offer as part of the brand’s curated collection. As with all leather colours, this can be commissioned for the motor car’s Viewing Suite or incorporated into the design of a highly Bespoke Recreation Module tailored to the client’s exacting specification. A final touch completes the interior seating: the Infinity lemniscate motif is embroidered into the fold-down rear arm-rest as an elegant reminder of the power contained within. This simple but potent symbol is also incorporated in the illuminated treadplates and engraved on the brushed and darkened steel clock case.Red-tipped clock hands and instrument display needles also serve as a discreet reminder of the motor car’s dynamic prowess. Black Badge is far more than an aesthetic treatment. In creating this class of motor car, it was of vital importance for Rolls-Royce to conceive a meticulously considered dynamic personality that perfectly harmonised with the motor car’s remarkable visual identity. Indeed, the exceptionally high expectations of the marque’s clients defined a rigorous testing protocol lasting more than three years to ensure that Black Badge Cullinan was relevant to their needs.
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Key to the visceral thrill of Black BadgeCullinan is the Architecture of Luxury, Rolls-Royce’s proprietary all-aluminium architecture that debuted with Phantom. The sub-structure not only delivers extraordinary body stiffness but its flexibility and scalability allowed Cullinan to be fitted with allwheel drive and four-wheel steering in its silver badged guise. These dynamic features have been comprehensively exploited and re-engineered for Black Badge while retaining the peerless quality of ride that has driven Rolls-Royce’s success. The Architecture of Luxury has been engineered to meet size and weight requirements of different propulsion systems. When the driver presses the ‘Low’ button situated on the gear selection stalk, they unlock Black Badge Cullinan’s full suite of technologies. This is asserted by the proud amplification of the motor car’s 6.75-litre twin-turbocharged V12through an entirely new exhaust system, announcing its arrival with a deep, authoritativebasso profundo. It was deemed unnecessary to make changes to the engine’s ample internal capacity, however the flexibility of the twin-turbo V12 has been exploited to generate an extra 29PS creating a total output of 600PS. The sense of a single, infinite gear has also been sensationalised with the addition of a further 50NM of torque, bringing the total to a 900NM.
Black Badge Cullinan benefits from a Bespoke transmission and throttle treatment that creates a sense of urgency without ever undermining its Rolls-Royce peerage. The drive-train, ZF 8-speed gear box and both front and rear steered axles work collaboratively to adjust the levels of engagement depending on throttle and steering inputs. Changes to suspension components and settings add to the suite of dynamic technologies that ensure an appropriate balance between dynamism and refinement. The result is an extremely well-mannered tourer at low speeds and a vivid driver’s device when pressed. To bolster confidence when exploiting Cullinan’s alter ego, the braking bite point has been raised and pedal travel decreased. Redesigned brake disc ventilation also allows consistency in these changes while braking at elevated temperatures. In conclusion, the Cullinan is a fitting end to the Black Badge story, giving us a Rolls-Royce model that embraces change, yet still retains the same qualities that have come to define the inimitable brand during its 115-year history. rolls-roycemotorcars.com
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05 A twin-turbo V12 engine generates a total output of 600PS 06 Black Badge Cullinan benefits from a nearinfinitely configurable interior colourpalette 07 The Dawn, part of the Black Badge Family
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AUTOMOTIVE
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Driving in Style The latest from the world’s top luxury automotive manufacturers.
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01 The F8 Tributo sets a new benchmark for Ferrari 02 Ferrari’s award-winning V8 engine guarantees the epitome of driving pleasure 03 Pure emotion 04 A number of high-performance features have been added to the F8 Tributo engine 05 Masterpiece in design and engineering
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Ferrari F8 Tributo
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The experience of driving the world’s fastest supercars and the incredible thrill it generates has for long felt to many an exclusive privilege to experienced petrol heads, capable of exploring the limits of the world’s finest automobiles. Having long led the way in automotive excellence, Ferrari is setting a new market benchmark with the F8 Tributo, making the exhilarating performance levels of the best 8-cylinder in the world accessible to all drivers, with unprecedented handling and superior ride comfort. In the automotive world, Ferrari’s V8 engine is seen as the very epitome of sportiness and driving pleasure. This is particularly the case when it is mid-rear-mounted in a two-seater. Ferrari has been honing the scope of abilities of this architecture, which creates an optimal weight balance, and thus delivers unparalleled thrillingly sporty driving, to perfection for over four decades. To achieve their goal of making the car’s impressive performance easy to access and use, Ferrari’s engineers worked on integrating engine and aerodynamics performance with the latest iteration of the vehicle dynamics control systems. The Side Slip Control system, which improves drivers’ control on the limit for even more engaging involvement, has been further evolved. The transition from version 6.0 to 6.1 reflects the fact that the Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer system now also activates in the manettino RACE (FDE+) position. The new car offers drivers pure emotions. Instantaneously accessible power is matched by exceptional handling thanks to advanced vehicle
dynamics solutions. That performance is also now accessible to a larger number of drivers thanks to vehicle dynamics systems that make driving on the limit an easier and more confidence-inspiring experience. These include a steering wheel with a rim that is smaller in diameter with a thinner rim. The F8 Tributo sports the multi-award-winning Ferrari V8 turbo which is best in class in its segment as well as being voted the best engine of the last 20 years by industry experts. In 2018, it was nominated for the Engine of the Year title for the third consecutive year, a title it went on to win with more than double the points of its closest contender. The F8 Tributo’s engine makes both the car’s handling more intuitive and its performance more accessible. A slew of high performance features have been introduced to allow drivers exploit to the very fullest the potential afforded by the best engine of the last 20 years. These include a new boost reserve control strategy which optimises response time and performance in sporty driving on the limit, making all the power the driver asks from the throttle available virtually instantaneously. Today, Ferrari V8s sport solutions that are masterpieces of engineering and this engine in particular further enhances the typical traits of all Maranello engines with smoothly progressive, limitless acceleration and zero turbo lag combined with a unique soundtrack courtesy, in part, of a new exhaust system. ferrari.com
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W Motors Fenyr SuperSport The Fenyr SuperSport is a true performance beast. W Motors took inspiration from ancient Norse mythology and the tale of Fenrir, a fierce wolf of formidable size and strength, who was bound to the earth by chains. W Motors broke the bonds of conventional hypercar design with the Fenyr SuperSport to unleash a powerful, highperformance supercar in a league of its own. The Fenyr SuperSport is the second hypercar in the W Motors sought-after portfolio. The Fenyr SuperSport’s body is handcrafted in carbon fiber and graphene composite, ultralightweight for the ultimate in performance. Its design is exceptional with dynamic and aggressive lines, featuring an advanced aerodynamic system. The Fenyr SuperSport has a custom-made, mid-rear mounted 3.8L flat six twin-turbo RUF engine that delivers 800HP and 980Nm of torque, propelling it from 0-100km/h in 2.8 seconds with the capacity to reach a maximum speed of 400km/h. Collector desirability is taken to another level with this limited production run of just 100 vehicles and 10 Launch Editions, coupled with a bespoke program offering endless customization opportunities and a one-of-a-kind purchase experience. Founded in 2012, W Motors is the first manufacturer of high-performance luxury sports cars in the Middle East. Based in Dubai, the company is fully integrated with activities ranging from Automotive Design, Research & Development to Engineering and Manufacturing,
as well as Automotive Consultancy within its Special Projects Division. Led by Founder and CEO Ralph R. Debbas, W Motors creates some of the most exclusive and technologically advanced vehicles on the market today in partnership with leading automotive engineering and manufacturing companies around the world. In 2019, W Motors became the first private company to deposit its shares in Nasdaq Dubai’s CSD (Central Securities Depository) and established a holding company, W Motors Automotive Group Holding Limited, in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). The first hypercar created by W Motors was the iconic Lykan HyperSport, which catapulted the company to international stardom when it took centre stage as hero car in Universal Studios’ Furious 7. Its latest hypercar to be launched is the Fenyr SuperSport, a limited edition with a production run of 110 models including 10 “Launch Editions”. The company also created the world’s most advanced security vehicle, the Ghiath Beast Patrol for Dubai Police. W Motors will soon launch its state-of-theart automotive facility in Dubai, UAE, which will accommodate the production of all current and future models including electric and autonomous vehicles, in line with Dubai’s vision of becoming the “world’s smartest city”. wmotors.ae
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06 Custom W Motors seats with Carbon Fiber Shell 07 The Fenyr SuperSport conquered the US Valley of Fire with its 800hp and 980Nm 08 Its design is exceptional with dynamic and aggressive lines, featuring an advanced aerodynamic system 09 The Fenyr SuperSport boasts an innovative Triptych Active Spoiler that is one of a kind
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Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC (combined fuel consumption: 12.0-11.7 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 273 266 g/km) represents a new form of luxury in the SUV segment. The Mercedes-Maybach GLS combines the body form and superior, robust technical basis provided by the GLS, the S-Class among SUVs, with all the technical and material luxury of a top-class sedan. Its spacious interior with the highest-grade materials and extremely effective noise insulation creates a stylish, cocoon-like feel-good atmosphere. From their pleasantly elevated seating position, thanks to electrically operated roller sun blinds on the two rear side windows, the passengers can decide for themselves how much of their surroundings they want to see. The AIRMATIC suspension included as standard or the optional, fully-active suspension with E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL effectively keep the road bumps at bay. For the first time there is a dedicated Maybach drive program that ensures even more comfort in the rear. This is the only system on the market that can individually control spring and damping forces at each wheel, suppressing rolling, pitching and lifting movements. Together with ROAD SURFACE
SCAN and the curve inclination function CURVE, E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL makes an exceptional level of comfort possible, and supports the claim of Mercedes-Benz to build the world’s most intelligent SUV suspension. The V8 engine with a displacement of four litres, which can develop 410 kW (558 hp) and 730 Nm of torque, is an engine variant developed exclusively for Maybach and moves the car discreetly and powerfully. The engine is combined with the 48-volt system EQ Boost. An additional 250 Nm of torque and 16 kW/22 hp output are available temporarily via EQ Boost. Power is transmitted by the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission. The wide spread of ratios for gears one to nine ensures a significant reduction in the engine speed and is a decisive factor behind the high levels of drive and ride comfort. Likewise, standard is the transfer case with variable transfer of the drive torque from 0-100 percent (Torque on Demand) between the axles. Two-tone paint finishes are optionally available, and these underline the balanced proportions of the body. A total of eight combinations are planned, the colour named first being that of the lower section:
cavansite blue/iridium silver; designo diamond white bright/obsidian black; iridium silver/designo diamond white bright; iridium silver/selenite grey; obsidian black/ kalahari gold; obsidian black/patagonia red; obsidian black/rubellite red; emerald green/mojave silver. These paint finishes are rendered particularly elegant by the fluid course of the separating lines, where a fine pinstripe in the one colour merges into the body of the other colour along the vehicle’s beltline. This fine line once again echoes the pinstripe motif. The Mercedes-Benz star surmounts the bonnet in the classic way, while the fine, vertical chrome struts of the Maybach radiator grille create a pinstripe effect. Effective chrome highlights around the side windows, and the chrome inserts in the side sill panels, lend dignity and elegance to the profile. The same applies to the brand emblem, which is positioned at various points such as on the D-pillar. As a special, Maybach-specific feature, two-tone paintwork is available in seven different, elegant colour combinations. mercedes-benz.com
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10 The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC, a new form of SUV luxury 11 The V8 engine with a displacement of four litres can develop 410 kW (558 hp) and 730 Nm of torque 12 The spacious interior features highest-grade materials and noise insulation
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13 Refined exterior aesthetics 14 The interior features elegant, wide surface lines and simple interfaces
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15 The XT6 offers a comprehensive suite of driver assistance and safety technologies 16 Ample cargo capacity
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Cadillac XT6 Created to make the most of passengers’ time on the road, this all-new three-row crossover centers on a luxurious, adaptable and connected cabin, complemented with responsive handling and a comprehensive suite of standard and available safety technologies. Every inch of the XT6 has been carefully considered and developed to offer a refined, comfortable place to connect and enjoy the ride. The XT6 offers a comprehensive suite of standard and available driver assistance and safety technologies1, along with generous cargo capacity. It features the latest Cadillac user experience, with intuitive controls including a rotary controller with new jog functionality. Premium Luxury and Sport models offer customers more customized looks with unique exterior and interior distinction. The nimble, responsive driving experience, powered by a 3.6L V-6 engine and nine-speed automatic transmission, offers up to four selectable driving modes. The XT6 advances Cadillac’s contemporary interior aesthetic, with elegant, wide surface lines and simple interfaces. It’s an expression that focuses attention on the quality and authenticity of materials and impeccable craftsmanship.
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Distinctive trim and interior colors delineate the Premium Luxury and Sport models. Premium Luxury models are trimmed with exotic wood decor, while the Sport features performanceinspired carbon fiber trim. Available comfort features help ensure all passengers have a luxurious experience in every seating row, including Cadillac’s first Bose® Performance Series sound system with 14 customtuned speakers delivering immersive, powerful audio throughout XT6’s cabin. Additional available features include semi-aniline premium leatherappointed seating; Cadillac’s in-vehicle air ionizer; automatic heated/ventilated front seats and heated second-row rear outboard seats, and a standard automatic heated steering wheel. Additionally, XT6’s available convenience features help keep drivers and passengers connected, confident and in control, including Adaptive Cruise Control – Advanced, Night Vision, HD Surround Vision Camera, Illuminated Cadillac Crest hands-free liftgate, and Keyless Open and Adaptive Remote Start. A standard power-folding third-row seat and remote fold-down feature for the second-row seat enhance versatility, while a
tip/pitch-and-slide feature on the second-row seat allows easy access to the third row. XT6 offers a comprehensive suite of driver assistance and safety technologies1 that can help drivers be more aware of their environment. They include sophisticated radar-, camera- and other sensor-based technologies. The vehicle structure is designed to help keep occupants safe, with premium body materials and features such as boxed, splayed front rails and a state-of-the-art restraint system, including seven standard airbags. Thoughtful technology integration is central to the XT6’s mission of offering a seamless and intuitive in-vehicle experience. It elevates connectivity to a new threshold for Cadillac, with some of the brand’s most advanced features. The latest Cadillac user experience5 provides more ways to interface with the system, including one-touch phone pairing via Near Field Communication and a new rotary controller with intuitive jog functionality. And when it comes to plugging in, all models come with six USB ports2 (two for each row of seats). cadillacarabia.com
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17, 18 The Bentley Bentayga V8 19, 20 Bentley’s luxurious Bentayga V8 interior can be completely personalized with Mulliner by Bentley
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Bentley Bentayga V8 Since its introduction, the Bentley Bentayga has defined a new sector and set the luxury SUV benchmark, offering customers the ultimate Grand Touring experience unrestricted by landscape or conditions. The award-winning Bentley model is now available in its most sporting guise to date, the Bentayga V8. At the heart of the latest Bentayga model is a new-generation 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine which combines immense power with impressive fuel efficiency. The addition of a characteristic V8 burble, stylish twin-quad exhaust pipes and optional carbon-ceramic brakes, reveals more of the luxury SUV’s sporting character. Sitting at the core of the Bentayga range, the new V8 model fuses exquisite luxury with power, usability, and extensive sporting ability. Its responsive performance is fully customisable on demand by the driver through Bentley’s Drive Dynamics system, from limousine-like refinement to sporting precision. Inside, customers will recognise Bentley’s unique approach to modern luxury tailoring,
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with the familiar blend of exquisite handcrafted materials and advanced technologies. New styling features include a wood and hide steering wheel and the introduction of a high-gloss carbon-fibre interior panel finish. The exterior design of the Bentayga V8 reflects the model’s sporting position within the Bentayga family. The shape is defined by the Bentayga’s unique muscular, sculptural lines, balancing athleticism with an unmistakable presence on the road. From the four round LED headlamps to the large matrix grille, the Bentayga V8 exudes the Bentley design DNA, while the overt powerline, large rear haunches and raised ride height reflect the rugged off-road ability of the luxury SUV. For the first time, optional carbon-ceramic brakes are offered on the Bentayga. The braking system is the largest and most powerful ever fitted to a Bentley, and the largest front brake system available on any production car. Also introduced on the Bentayga V8 are sporting red brake calipers for the front and rear standard iron brakes. The calipers are painted in special,
high-temperature resistant Tornado red paint, and signal strongly the dynamic intent of this performance-oriented Bentayga V8. The Bentayga V8 is available with Bentley Dynamic Ride, the world’s first electric active roll control technology that utilises a 48V system. This system instantly counteracts lateral rolling forces when cornering and ensures maximum tyre contact to deliver class-leading cabin stability, ride comfort and exceptional handling. Bentley’s adaptive and reactive system provides variable torsional resistance, allowing the Bentayga to be both dynamically capable and comfortable for all occupants at all times. The pioneering use of a 48V system results in silent, instantaneous responses to deal with all road surfaces. A suite of state-of-the-art driver assistance systems and infotainment features designed to enhance safety, comfort and convenience make the Bentayga V8 an innovative, advanced, and connected luxury SUV. www.bentleymotors.com
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Alfa Romeo Stelvio The first Alfa Romeo SUV is born, delivering a thrilling driving experience, outstanding performance and sporty style. For the first time in more than a century of history, these distinctive features of the genuine “Alfa spirit” have now come together in a sport utility vehicle. Its name is the Alfa Romeo Stelvio and it aims to rewrite the rules in the medium-sized premium SUV segment. The name itself tells us that this model will provide a thrilling driving experience and still excel in the comfort and versatility typical of its category. The Stelvio is Italy’s highest mountain pass and Highway 38, which crosses it, over 20 kilometres in length and with more than 75 hairpin bends, has iconic status. To enjoy it as it is meant to be enjoyed, alone or in the company of friends and family, there is now a SUV capable of offering an unrivalled combination of driving pleasure, Italian styling and versatility: the Alfa Romeo Stelvio. In true Alfa Romeo tradition, the new SUV delivers impeccable handling, worthy of a real sports car, proven by balanced weight distribution, the most direct steering ratio in the segment and state-of-the-art suspension with the exclusive AlfalinkTM technology. Not to mention the lavish use of ultra-lightweight, hi-tech materials including carbon fibre for the drive shaft and aluminium for
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the engines, suspension systems, hood, wings, doors and the tailgate. What’s more, for the ultimate in road-holding, the Stelvio SUV offers the Alfa Romeo Q4 allwheel drive system, and can be equipped with mechanical self-locking rear differential on request. More than just performance and handling, the car has plenty of room available for passengers to enjoy and share the pleasure of travelling regardless of the destination. The elegantly sporty interior is simple, stylish and tailored like a bespoke suit, with painstaking craftsmanship and premium materials: the leather, including full grain, real woods and fabrics have all been chosen for their visual and tactile appeal and assembled to give a palpable sense of human artistry. Apart from its distinctive style and excellent handling, Alfa Romeo Stelvio reveals all its character with the 280 HP 2.0 Turbocharged petrol-fuel which expresses all the SUV’s sporty personality, guaranteed to give even the most skilled driver unique thrills, especially on mixed terrains. Combined with the automatic 8-speed transmission and Q4 all-wheel drive, these engines belong to a new-generation of all-aluminium four-cylinder units with carbon fibre drive shaft. Innovative and reliable, the Stelvio engines are the peak of the Group’s technology and are built in
Italy at the Termoli (petrol) plants, in areas assigned only to Alfa Romeo engines, with state-of-theart processes and methods that put them at the top of their class in terms of performance and fuel economy. One fact will speak for all: the Stelvio 2.0 280 HP turbocharged Petrol engine is best in class in terms of acceleration, powering from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds. The model gives the driver a feeling of complete control and mastery of the road, thanks to the new Alfa DNA selector but above all to the high driving position, which does not detract in the slightest from the driving pleasure expected of a genuine Alfa Romeo sports car. It also ensures a high level of on-board comfort with the dual zone climate control system, the sophisticated Alfa Connect infotainment system and a fine audio system, with 8, 10 or 14 speakers (in this case by Harman Kardon) depending on version. Last but not least, the 525 litre boot is in line with the best competitors and has a convenient electric tailgate that can be set with eight different opening levels, directly from the Alfa Rotary selector. The Stelvio SUV is tailored in all respects to embody Italian good companionship, comfort and taste. alfaromeo-me.com
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21 Alfa Romeo Stelvio, the first SUV from Alfa Romeo 22 Elegant sporty interior 23 The Stelvio 2.0 280 HP turbocharged Petrol engine is best in class in terms of acceleration 24 The Alfa DNA selector and high driving position give the driver a feeling of complete control
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Luxury Showcase 01
March 2020
The UAE and its key players love their supercars, so SUPERFUTUREDESIGN* decided to create the Supercar Capsule, a unique concept that gives your expensive toys a center stage to captivate the audience.
The Supercar Capsule was developed by a team of architects and designer for a taste of bespoke luxury, which includes supercars. Their passion for spectacular supercars has led them to create a distinct spatial design that enhances the car’s features. The SUPERCAR CAPSULE a new concept by SUPERFUTUREDESIGN*, adding to their portfolio of award-winning architecture and design work. The SUPERCAR CAPSULE is a palette of unique ports that keep the automobile in a closed space, allowing owners’ supercars to emerge as if from a dedicated showroom. It’s an exclusive design service to transform your garage into your private showroom, so now you can feel like a millionaire from a superhero movie. This unique space will encourage visitors, guests, and the owner to appreciate its qualities. As a result, your supercar contributes to a distinct aesthetic experience at home, even when it’s not on the roads. SUPERCARCAPSULE is the brainchild of Italian consultancy firm ASZarchitetti Group, comprising ASZarchitetti and SUPERFUTUREDESIGN*. Combined, the design collective has completed well over 400 projects across the residential, commercial, and luxury retail sectors throughout Europe, Asia, Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.
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01-06 Photos by Andrea Rettori, SUPERFUTUREDESIGN*
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“This unique space will
encourage visitors, guests, and the owner to appreciate its qualities.” 03
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During its 20 years of operation, the ASZ Group has excelled at proposing novel design solutions for demanding clients. Spectators and audiences can understand more about their impressive ‘winning streak’ of successful projects through press publications and awards. Each SUPERCAR CAPSULE can go beyond the limit in terms of individuality & customization. This is because they’re custom made in every new setting, so you see the construction develop from the ground up. You can choose from a plethora of custom options to make sure your SUPERCAR CAPSULE aligns with your needs, style, property, villa type, and car park size. To maintain steady efficacy in each project, the design is based on a range of predefined configurations. These are used as a pinboard for every customized project. You can select a captivating SUPERCAR CAPSULE based on your space requirements and how you would like to display your car. One of the models involves creating a new capsule to merge with the home’s interior. This will incorporate the garage with existing rooms, in which a simple wall will transform into a bespoke exhibition for your statement piece. It allows guests
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and visitors to appreciate and admire your supercar without having to take them to the garage – your car becomes a part of the interior décor. If your home has a garage, you can opt for completely remodeling the interior to give it a refreshing appeal via new finishes, lighting effects, and color schemes to highlight your supercar’s aesthetic. If you have a taste for displaying your supercar as a separate entity from your home, you can opt for constructing a new parking area that’s independent of your home. It will be installed in the garden or any other free space as per your villa’s spatial elements, to showcase your supercar within its own dedicated showroom. This displays your prized possession and asset in a sculptural way by accentuating all its best features.
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March 2020
Inspiring Art Pieces Founded in Istanbul in 2017, Kiswah Jewellery offers a unique range of luxury collections for men and women that are inspired by the philosophy of “timeless unity”. Taking its inspiration from the beginning of a 4000-year old history to present day, Kiswah reveals priceless moments for modern people.
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The story of the Kaaba cover is the story of the transformation of ordinary silk fabric into the most sacred cloth of the Muslim world by being equipped with verses. Although the writings on the cover and the color of the cover have changed over the centuries, the labor and value attributed to it have remained the same. Kiswah Jewellery, known for its jewellery designs that aim to keep our cultural values alive, transferred the writings and motifs of the Kaaba cover to the jewel in Kiswah Infinite Collection. One of the most important verses and plaques on the belt of the outer cover of the Kaaba is the Samediyye plaque that includes the Surah Al-Ikhlas. This very important piece has been interpreted with gold and diamonds and turned into jewels. The original Kaaba cover in the middle of the jewellery was obtained by the founder of the brand Bekir Kantarcı due to collecting the original Kaaba covers more than 25 years.
Among the writings on the Kaaba cover, another piece that meets the art of jewellery is the Hannaniye sign on the belt of the Kaaba cover. Colored with glass enamel workmanship, the jewellery design, which is available in three different colors - red, black and green, reveals the delicacy of calligraphy. Kiswah Infinite is a versatile collection that also focuses on the Sacred Relics, which are the memories of the Prophet Muhammad and the ashabs. The miniature jewels of the Prophet Muhammad’s swords located in the Topkapi Palace demonstrate KISWAH’s craftsmanship in gold and silver works. Craftsmen, who work flawlessly with gold even for the finest lines, revealed the exact replicas of the swords. The replica of Kevkeb-i Durri Diamond, one of the most famous diamonds in the world, is also among the pieces in the collection. The original of the piece of the jewellery that has designed as a necklace was sent to the tomb of the Prophet Muhammad as a gift
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“Kiswah Infinite is a versatile collection
that also focuses on the Sacred Relics, which are the memories of the Prophet Muhammad and the ashabs.” 01 KISWAH Kaaba “Ya Rahman Ya Raheem” Qindeel Pendant 02 KISWAH Hannanieyh Green Pendant 03 KISWAH “Ya Hannan Ya Mannan” Ring with Qindeel 04 KISWAH Kaaba Samediyyeh Pendant with Black Diamonds
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by Sultan Ahmed I back in the day and was taken back to Istanbul for protection during World War I, and is now preserved in the Topkapi Palace. Bekir Kantarcı exhibited the original Kaaba covers certified by the Dinar Islamic Museum in Makkah, as well as the jewels inspired by the Sacred Relics that have been preserved at the Topkapi Palace and the Kaaba covers in many exhibitions around Turkey, following the intense interest for more people to see the pieces presenting the sacred values. With two stores in Istanbul Grand Bazaar and one store in Istanbul Airport, Kiswah is getting prepared to open new stores in the Middle East to exhibit their art pieces to the world. Kiswah Jewellery is preparing a new collection to be presented in Jewellery Arabia 2020 Show in Bahrain. Kiswah aims to bring a new generation approach to jewellery with designs that are shaped by the modern jewellery concept. kiswahjewellery.com
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MUST HAVE - MEN
My Wish List
184
March 2020
Super73-RX The RX debuts Super73’s most powerful and technologically advanced drive system with multi-class ride modes. This performance vehicle is a street-legal electric motorbike that does not require a license or registration. It also features Super73’s new connected electronics suite and is compatible with iOS and Android mobile devices through the new Super73 App. super73.com
The latest and most exclusive luxury items for men
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Versace Baroque Ashtray Make a bold statement with this intricately designed ashtray. Colours are melted into the glaze at 1,000 degrees Celcious to ensure the décor sinks in, making the luminosity indestructible. Although the ashtray is scratch- and wear-resistant, gold decors are not totally scratch-resistant due to their natural material properties. The Rosenthal Institute for Material Technology (IWT) tested the décor to ensure its quality. versace.com
Berluti x Globe-Trotter Capsule Luggage Collection Italian footwear and leather goods brand Berluti has partnered with Globe-Trotter to launch a capsule luggage collection, featuring Berluti’s signature canvas for the first time. The new capsule collection includes eight hard cases in different formats. Each case is the result of combined expertise, starting with the solid yet lightweight base of Globe-Trotter’s luggage. The cases are completed with Berluti’s iconic details, including hand patinated Venezia leather handles and corners, leather straps and nickel hardware engraved with the Maison’s logo. berluti.com
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186
March 2020
Ciclotte Teckell Ciclotte Teckell is the first stationary exercise bike made with transparent crystal. Developed by following an accurate ergonomic study and featuring a transmission with a turn multiplier system, the bike can replicate the sensation of pedaling on the road and ensure high training workouts. For an even more immersive workout, a 4.0 functionality has been added to connect the bike to any Bluetooth device.. ciclotte.com
Hermes Palio Backgammon Game Backgammon is one of the oldest known board games and can now be enjoyed in luxurious style. This board comes in natural maple wood and includes pawns inlaid with smooth taurillon leather and a Clou de Selle detail base. It also features drawers with smooth taurillon sheets and saddlestitched leather handles, four dice in maple wood marquetry, and a cube in engraved maple wood. hermes.com
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Inventum XXL Star Eye Candle The XXL candle is presented in blue Richard Ginori porcelain featuring the Star Eye print—a motif that pays homage to the House’s connection with space and the eye. The scent, Inventum, infuses the space with delicate notes of Taif’s ancient Damask rose, which set a relaxed and intimate mood. The candle has an approximate burn time of 130 hours and the porcelain jar can be reused as a decorative accent or container. gucci.com
Jonathan Adler Macho Macho Biker Canister Make a statement with this stoneware homage to disco’s daring sextuplet. The Utopia Macho Macho Canisters each feature an icon from the bygone era of downtown discotheques and the faces that made them famous. The Utopia Collection is a playfully chic universe of vases, vessels, and objects. Jonathan Andler and his team hand-sculpt the original model in clay before the prototype is then sent to a workshop in Peru where skilled artisans produce each piece in highfired stoneware. jonathanadler.com
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MUST HAVE - MEN
188
March 2020
Dolce&Gabbana Airpods Cover Featuring quality craftmanship and sophisticated details, Dolce&Gabbana’s leather accessories are ideal for every occasion. Now you can keep your Airpods safe and remain stylish with this Gange calkskin cover bearing the brand’s iconic logo. dolcegabbana.com
Black Dior And Rimowa Personal Clutch This sleek personal clutch is a compact accessory designed for easy, everyday use. It is made from lightweight aluminum and features Christian Dior logo embossed leather straps that fasten around the bag with snap buttons. The rectangular wallet clutch is small enough to be carried by hand and can also be worn over the shoulder with the optional leather strap. dior.com
Pro Hunter Gyrowinder Watch Winder Made exclusively by Döttling, a German safe manufacturer, this watch winder is a beautiful way to keep your timepieces in sync when they aren’t on your wrist. While conventional winders turn watches on one axis, the Gyrowinder can rotate a watch in any direction, including a full 360-degree rollover. The Gyrowinder is protected by a hand-blown crystal glass cover and the base is made of solid aluminium with a black matte finish. discoverprohunter.com
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Inspiration in every form, style, size and budget. World Art Dubai presents the widest collection of affordable art originals in the region, from paintings to photography to digital art and more, starting at just US$100. Plus there’s art to experience for everyone, from workshops to live performances to competitions. 4 days, a vivid new world. B U Y YO U R T I C K E T S O N L I N E W O R L D A R T D U B A I .C O M
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#WORLDARTDUBAI
WHATEVER YOUR TASTE IN ART, YOU’LL FIND IT HERE!
# WA D 2 0 2 0
AFFORDABLE ART FOR EVERYONE
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MUST HAVE - WOMEN
My Wish List
190
March 2020
Jonathan Adler Pompidou Vase These bold Pompidou vases pair ‘70s-inspired patterns with bold colors while a high-gloss finish adds to their power-pop glory. Group these vibrant vessels for a strong statement, or pop one wherever your room needs a boost. jonathanadler.com
The latest and most exclusive luxury items for women
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Hermes H Deco Watch Winder Box This stylish Hermes rotating box comes in sycamore, is printed in Swift calfskin, and features a velvet goatskin interior. It can accommodate three watches and is a beautiful way to keep your timepieces in sync when they aren’t being worn. hermes.com
Gucci Rose Mug Part of a collection embellished with motifs inspired by the House aesthetic, the rose print mug is made in white Richard Ginori porcelain and comes with a coordinating green lid. The handle is designed to resemble a snake motif. Available as a single piece, the mug can be matched with the same style, or coordinating styles from the collection. gucci.com
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MUST HAVE - WOMEN
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March 2020
Fendi Studded LeatherTrimmed Striped Jacquard Jewellery Box Fendi’s trunk-style jewelry box is made from monogrammed striped jacquard and has studded leather trims. Inside, you’ll find four compartments for bracelets, watches, earrings, and rings, so you can keep them neatly organized. It has a gold flip-lock fastening and matching metal corners to protect from bumps and scratches. fendi.com
Mini Sculptures in Solid Glass These mini sculptures in solid glass would look cool in your space. They are available in different colors, including pink, yellow and blue, smoke and green, green and pink, and smoke. The design features a globe resting on a solid glass cube. thecoolhunter.net
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Amouage Love Memosa Delight your olfactory senses with a tray of 234 Love Mimosa miniature fragrances, meticulously prepared in Amouage Perfume Factory in Muscat. These miniatures will be available in a special mini set with three other Secret Garden Collection fragrances: Lilac Love, Blossom Love, and Love Tuberose. amouage.com
Fornasetti Cocktail Scented Candle Fornasetti’s Cocktail candle is ideal for entertaining. The ceramic vessel is decorated with bottles and tumblers inspired by founder Piero Fornasetti’s ‘50s illustrations. Light the trio of wicks and the smoky ‘Otto’ scent will fill the room with notes of cedarwood, lavender, and thyme. The 900g candle has a burn time of approximately 180 hours. fornasetti.com
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March 2020
Dolce&Gabbana Rubber Airpod Case Functional and practical, this Airpod case is made of rubber with a micro-injection logo. It features a snap closure and logoed plate. dolcegabbana.com
Pomellato Orsetto in Full Diamonds Pomellato’s teddy bear, Orsetto, becomes even more precious to the Maison as a new full-diamond rose-gold pendant. Orsetto was first designed in full diamonds as a special piece for Chiara Ferragni, an Italian fashion entrepreneur and Pomellato’s ambassador. Sculpted in rose gold, Orsetto hangs akimbo by one ear, with its belly, paws, and ears set with a sparkling diamond pave. pomellato.com
Versace Medusa Rhapsody Crafted from exceptional quality porcelain, the Medusa Rhapsody line of fine tableware and decor features striking gold-tone Barocco flower motifs. The line includes a variety of items, including plates, coffee and tea sets, and home accents. versace.com
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+973 77033333
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lavazzabahrain
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BOOK REVIEW
196
March 2020
Kingdom of Coexistence
‘Unity in Diversity: Religions in Bahrain’
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The Kingdom of Bahrain has long been considered a successful model for tolerance, co-existence and love between different cultural identities and belief systems. Tolerance as practiced here is an everyday matter. It does not mean the need to subjugate ones’ beliefs or integrate it into one single component but respecting the privacy and identity of each person. It means appreciating all the unique and diverse sects that make up the country. ‘Unity in Diversity: Religions in Bahrain’ celebrates the importance of peaceful coexistence,
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a key and crucial element for the security of any community and the sustainability of its society. It describes in painstaking detail through personal testimony, interviews and imagery, the different religions that are practiced and co-exist in harmony. The book shows how Bahrain, despite its small size, has been able to embrace mosques, mata’ams, churches, shrines and various temples, which created a vibrant society rich in its cultural, ethnic and religious diversity, coexisting in a civilised atmosphere of tolerance, acceptance and mutual respect.
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FINAL PEARL
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March 2020
Gulf Gulf Construction Interiors Expo Expo 2020 2020 Gulf Construction Expo 2020 is the definitive showcase for the Construction and Building Materials sector in the Northern Gulf. This international Expo provides the construction sector in the GCC with a professional platform for the promotion of construction machinery, equipment and building materials; as well as the opportunity for networking and direct business. Gulf Construction Expo (formerly called gulfBID expo) will be ‘Building for the Future’ through the definitive showcase for the Construction and Building Materials sector. This international Expo for construction machinery, building material and construction vehicles — provides the construction sector in the GCC with a professional platform for networking, investment and the exchange of ideas and information. Gulf Construction Expo delivers the Northern Gulf’s specialist event to access the region’s most influential architectural, engineering and design communities of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Kuwait. This expo is a cost-effective event and is an important tool to boost your annual sales, build your brand in the region and meet more of the Northern Gulf’s construction professionals and project specifiers. This year’s expo will take place from 14th to 16th April 2020 at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre (BIECC).
The Gulf Interiors Expo 2020 is the dedicated event for luxury, creative and designer products for the home or commercial spaces providing exhibitors with a unique opportunity for their products. Visitors from across the GCC can enjoy a range of networking opportunities to meet with specialist interiors professionals and experience the creativity of Interiors. Interiors provides exhibitors with a unique opportunity to promote their products to visitors from across the GCC; a unique environment with networking opportunities for designers, professionals and the customers. Exhibitors can participate for a range of benefits including access to billions of dollars-worth of project spend in the Northern Gulf, specialist trade media promotion, regional showcase for their companies, cost-effective way to develop business potential, and meetings with important decision-makers and influencers. 2020 will see an increase in the curated specialist art gallery on the wall, which is supported by the Bahrain Arts Society. This year’s expo takes place alongside the Gulf Construction Expo from 14th to 16th April 2020 at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre (BIECC).
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