FACT BAHRAIN SEPTEMBER 2018

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25 41 61 LISTEN UP

MODEST CULTURE

ARTS SPOTLIGHT

CONTENTS

79 85 89 FASHION FOCUS

CULINARY SPOTLIGHT

ON THE MENU

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• THE EDITOR

Change is Good

“

T

Endless effort, endless humility, endless modesty.”

- Rain

his issue has been a long time coming. The conversation surrounding the rise of modest living has been at the forefront of society, in the Gulf and beyond, for the past few years. Modesty comes in many different forms and it’s certainly having its moment. From frugal-folk tribes living the #nospend life to fashion houses hiring hijab-wearing models, more than ever, there’s a basic desire to be modest in the way we live, shop and dress.

Now, in 2018, we can firmly say that aspects like modest fashion and modern representations of Muslim women in the mainstream media are slowly starting to change for the better – and proving to be more than just a “trend” thanks to social media and other content-sharing tools. In a September special, we take a look at the rise of the modest lifestyle and how everything from the birth of bloggers and influencers to the images of hijab-wearing cover girls has contributed to the growth of all things modest. Turn to p41 and let our thought-provoking feature take you on the journey of modest to mainstream.

When you’ve finished reading about how modest living has taken over the world, turn over and check out some of the most incredible women who have helped to propel it forward in our 16 Style Setters to follow on the gram (p49).

Right here in Bahrain, we met up with Tulin Meric who is championing the modest fashion movement. Meet the lady behind @trestouline for an insight into her embrace of faith and style (p54). Of course, a special issue deserves a beautiful cover – and we found just the right creative to give us one. Bahraini Digital Artist Hala AlAbbasi talks to us on p61 and shares her work, her colourful skills and her modest lifestyle choices.

Those looking for some excitement to fill their calendars, you'll be pleased to learn that FACT is sponsoring the second annual Bahrain International Jazz Festival, taking place on October 26. We have the lowdown on all the acts and what you can expect from this great day out and celebration of music (p25).

It’s all about quality in our dining pages this month as we take on the Latin feast and visit Via Brasil in our Culinary Spotlight (p85); we also check out the brand new revamped menu at Links in the Royal Golf Club which makes our On the Menu feature (p89); and a spotlight is cast on the liquid concoctions at Hazel (p92) - all of this and plenty more news on eating out with all the best deals to keep your bellies full.

Welcome back to the sandpit – and the humidity – for those of you who have had a lovely summer away! Whatever you say, there’s no place like the Gulf – and we’re going to spend September enjoying (trying to, at least) all that Bahrain life has to offer. ☺

Shabana Adam Editor-in-Chief shabana@fact-magazine.com Insta: @shabs_a 4

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FACT Magazine Bahrain Edition • SEPTEMBER 2018 VOLUME 12, ISSUE 01

DIRECTOR OMAR SHAHEEN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER GREG HUGHES EDITOR-IN-CHIEF SHABANA ADAM (shabana@fact-magazine.com) ASSISTANT EDITOR AANCHAL DUGGAL SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN JYOTI RAWAT PHOTOGRAPHY SHOBIN JOSEPH COVER IMAGE HALA ALABBASI CONTRIBUTORS GEORGINA JENNSEN YVONNE COLE JAYNE GREEN REGIONAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR RAMI KHALIL PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION AJIT KUMAR NEIL MAHMOOD ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Tel: +973 3632 0131 E-mail: rami@nansgroup.com PRINTED BY DAR AKHBAR AL KHALEEJ All Rights Reserved. Opinion expressed within does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publisher. All efforts have been made to ensure accuracy of the information within this publication.

However, FACT M.E. Bahrain cannot accept legal responsibility for any erroneous content or omissions. FACT M.E. Bahrain Publishing W.L.L. Office 53, Building 872, Road 3618, Block 436, Seef. Ministry of Information. Subject Registration Number: CFB779

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Combining all four editions of FACT in Bahrain and the region, keep up with us on instagram for the best behind-the-scenes photos from food shoots, local events and all things awesome in the Gulf, plus loads more from the FACT team.

Your one-stop culture fix for life in Bahrain | First for local talent, arts, fashion, dining and all the coolest events | We’ve got tech, travel, motoring and exclusive interviews with all the industry and celebrity-world movers and shakers too | Get your copy of FACT Bahrain in local supermarkets now!

FACEBOOK FACT Bahrain 15k likes Keep up with all things Bahrain as the FACT team posts the latest competitions, happenings and everything we’re getting up to for the monthly magazine, all for our readers!

“

Modesty: the gentle art of enhancing your charm by pretending not to be aware of it.” — Oliver Herford

ISSUU.COM FACT Bahrain 64,226 reads of the August issue If you need your FACT fix pronto, flick through our monthly online edition on issuu. com for all the best features, including local culture, arts, fashion, food, motoring, tech, travel and more, in Bahrain.

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• CHECK IT OUT

FACT FINDS

Ladies Who Brunch!

MAKING BRUNCH AN EVEN MORE EXCLUSIVE SOIREE, FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY HAS SOMETHING SPECIAL FOR ALL THE SENORITAS OUT THERE…

Ladies, may we have your attention please?

Join in with your besties for a cutting-edge brunch experience in celebrity chef and restaurateur Wolfgang Puck’s American steakhouse CUT, and avail a fabulous experience that includes the finest cuisine and your unlimited beverage package will be on the hotel! That’s right, spend Friday afternoon in the heart of Manama around a long table filled with delicious homemade comfort food prepared by Executive Chef Brian Becher. The a la carte Friday Brunch offers an array of signature dishes for sharing, keeping you satisfied for the rest of the day. And, of course, the drinks deal is an added bonus!

Ladies: BD26++ unlimited beverage package; Gentlemen: BD26++ soft beverage package; BD36++ extended beverage package. Served from 12.30pm to 3.30pm – that’s three hours of complete culinary bliss! ✤

GO: CALL 1711 5044 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. 8

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Discover the taste of Italy.

Bringing to life the Trattoria Moderna experience, Primavera launches an unassuming, yet irresistible new menu with a mix of what is familiar and what excites. In many ways, Primavera adheres to the very essence of its name - a sense of renewal and beginning, with food that is fresh and bright.

Discover the new Primavera. Call +973 1758 6499 or email rc.bahrz.restaurant.reservations@ritzcarlton.com.

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SEPTEMBER DINING If you’re looking for something 5-star and friendly, check out our pick of yummy foodie deals for the month ahead...

ART ROTANA AMWAJ ISLANDS Indulge in a wonderful variety of sumptuous cuisines at ART Rotana featuring eight spectacular outlets ranging from authentic Italian to Asian specialties. Guests are guaranteed a memorable dining experience on each visit to this esteemed hotel.

GO: CALL 1600 0111 FOR MORE INFO. DOWNTOWN ROTANA Enjoy Friday Brunch at Downtown Rotana! Flavours on 2 offers you an array of International and local dishes. Exciting live cooking stations dedicated to making your food the way you like and live performances to keep you entertained. The fun doesn’t stop there as you can also enjoy free pool access.

GO: CALL 1311 9999 FOR MORE INFO. CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN La Mosaique at The Crowne Plaza Bahrain is an international inspired restaurant, hosting a large selection of theme nights, mostly every evening of the week. Situated in the heart of Manama it is ideally located where you can enjoy lunch and breakfast daily. Serving the great flavours and cuisines of the world. Indulge in a wide selection of dishes ranging from different delectable dishes appealing to all tastes.

GO: CALL 1753 1122 FOR MORE INFO. SHERATON BAHRAIN HOTEL Get yourselves down to Soie Restaurant and enjoy their Asian Street Food Buffet. They’ve recently launched their Chinese and Malaysian dishes at their dinner buffet at Soie which is truly a gastronomic experience. Pricing includes welcome refreshment and soft beverages. You can also try out their new a la carte

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menu that will have you impressing all of your friends in beautiful surroundings.

GO: CALL 1753 3533 FOR MORE INFO. THE GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA Have you popped into Sherlocks yet and seen its amazing new look? It is easy to see why it is presented as Bahrain’s best pub, especially with its fabulous recent upgrade! Retaining the honoured Old-English feel, Sherlock Holmes presents a revitalised and cozy booth seating with new floorings and lightings. It’d be rude not to go!

GO: CALL 1771 3000 FOR MORE INFO. INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN At Legendz, their award winning steakhouse, they share our passion for prime meat cuts, fine grape and the art of cooking.

Family-friendly and professional service complements the stylish, contemporary setting. It is one of the best venues in Manama for family gatherings or romantic evenings with your loved ones. Indulge in an impressive array of premium cuts, grills and signature dishes cooked to perfection!

GO: CALL 1722 7777 FOR MORE INFO. REEF RESORT BAHRAIN Chocolaterie in the Reef Resort Lobby, serves an array of signature teas, coffees, pastries, and delectable hand-made chocolates.

The stylish white and chocolate interior and panoramic harbour views make Chocolaterie the perfect place for your morning coffee or afternoon tea. Enjoy a coffee and cake special daily from 4pm to 6pm. ✤ GO: CALL 1311 0110 FOR MORE INFO.

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SPECIAL OCCASIONS AT SOFITEL Situated on Zallaq beach, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa is an exclusive resort that caters to both leisure and business travellers looking to unwind amidst views of crystal clear turquoise waters and French décor blended with traditional Arab flair and exceptional hospitality.

The resort is surrounded by a number of magnificent landmarks such as the Bahrain International Formula One Circuit, Gravity indoor skydiving, Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park and Al Areen Wild Life nature reserve. It boasts 262 luxury rooms and suites separated into four classes with the latest technology and a private balcony, to satisfy any guest. The six Opera Suites with private infinity swimming pools, in particular, add to the feeling of being swept away as each is decorated in a different theme. Guests can choose to sleep in a Turkish palace or an Indian haveli. Being the only hotel in the entire Middle East to offer thalassotherapy treatments, Sofitel Bahrain has created a space where both men and women can reap the healthy benefits of seawater treatments.

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa is a renowned wedding hotspot and has hosted some of the biggest royal weddings as well as some of Bahrain’s most graceful weddings. The property offers inspired-wedding packages catering to varying visions and styles. The wedding venue can host big or small occasions, with great flexibility in contemporary or traditional staging design. Whether you opt for the grand Al Nakheel ballroom or choose a more intimate ceremony at the private, Sofi Island, Sofitel Bahrain’s team ensures an unforgettable and memorable 12

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day. Tailor made menu allows for an impeccable experience, one guaranteed you will cherish forever.

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa is renowned for its spectacular VIP weddings as well and offers personalised packages that cater to everything from exotic sehra bandi to elegant ring ceremony. The dedicated wedding planners and concierge service will impart a magical touch to all aspects of your wedding arrangements. Highlights of your perfect wedding are scrumptious gastronomic offerings, courtesy of our Executive Chef Indrajit Saha, complimentary Prestige Suite with sea view and breakfast in bed, our dedicated expert wedding team and of course, a dreamland destination by the sea of royal caliber, unlike any other.

Whether you choose to dine, take advantage of the spa, or lounge on the beach, Sofitel Bahrain offers the tranquility of a grand seaside resort, yet is only minutes from the city. ✤

GO: CALL SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA ON 1763 6363 FOR THEIR PERSONALISED MAGNIFIQUE SUMMER WEDDING PACKAGES AND MORE INFORMATION.

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EATING OUT AT MÖVENPICK Good food, great ambience, that’s what you’ll find at the Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain’s delish September dining deals…

CONSTRUCTION THEMED FRIDAY BRUNCH The construction-themed Friday Brunch is not only unique and extended, but also offers excellent chef’s special delicacies, a lively atmosphere and a delightful selection of drinks. What’s more, the live band and DJs will have the latest hits going on, along with loads of surprises! Join in every Friday from 12.30pm to 5pm at Al Murjan ballroom, for the longest brunch in Bahrain.

Priced at BD36 net per person, including unlimited beverages.

Children aged between six to 12-years-old receive 50% off and children aged under six dine for free.

MONDAY SEAFOOD NIGHT – THE FRESHEST CATCH OF THE DAY Experience a unique medley of super succulent seafood delicacies and taste the freshest catch every Monday on Seafood Night at Al Murjan Ballroom. What makes it an ideal night out for seafood lovers? The best selection of popular and traditional seafood dishes, of course! On the buffet table is a vast range of aquatic delicacies, from sushi, sashimi, seafood dim sum, tempura, oysters, slipper lobster and tiger prawns to popular fish such as grouper and red snapper. The talented team of chefs will prepare your favourite catch, just the way you like it. Seafood Night is priced at BD24 net and BD29 net per person including unlimited selected vino, hops and soft drinks. Every Monday from 7pm to 11pm.

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THURSDAY NIGHT OUT Relish prime US beef, unlimited exotic cocktails, hops, vino and gourmet food cooked to perfection every Thursday at Al Murjan Ballroom from 7pm to 11pm. To set the perfect mood for an eventful night, the resident DJ will be playing tunes as guests dine for only BD32 net per person, including unlimited beverages.

OKTOBERFEST This year, Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain will be celebrating the occasion of Oktoberfest on Thursday Night Out, September 27, so if you’re looking for a touch of Munich, head over to celebrate with all the Oktoberfest classics and entertainment , priced at BD32 net including the finest meat, buffet, live cooking station and unlimited drinks. Also, don‘t miss the Oktoberfest themed Friday Brunch on September 28 and enjoy German specialities prepared by the talented chefs for this special occasion. Priced at BD36 net including unlimited drinks and German hops from 12.30pm to 5pm. ✤

GO: CALL 1746 0017 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

LET BRAZIL COME TO YOU Take a journey through our festive fare with live music & city skyline views from our roof top restaurant Opens from 7:00 pm to 2:00 am Book your table now, call +973 6631 6666

Via Brasil Bahrain Building 65, Road 4003, Block 340, Juffair P.O. Box 13220 | Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain info@wyndhamgardenmanama.com wyndhamgardenmanama.com

viabrasilbah

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5-STAR FOOD FIX When hunger strikes, choose Le Meridien or The Westin City Centre Bahrain for the most delectable cuisine…

LE MERIDIEN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN Bahrain’s Sweetest Brunch: Discover it for yourself at Baharat and be prepared to indulge in a sensorial and savoury experience for BD26 net including soft drinks and water, or BD38 net including selected free flow beverages. Live music from the vibrant duo, Deux Sons. Book for 10+ people and receive ab20% discount. Every Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm.

Business Lunch: Enjoy a selection of Middle Eastern and Indian fusion cuisine inspired by the restaurant name Baharat (Spices), food prepared in an open kitchen. Buffet concept featuring a tandoor oven and indoor grill. Lunch buffet at BD14.50 net. Soup and salad buffet for BD6.6 net. Kids aged six to 12 dine at half price. Sunday to Thursday from 12.30pm to 3pm.

BBQ Night: A stylish yet rustic BBQ experience on the terrace of Baharat Restaurant, showcasing BBQ ribs and Wagyu prime rib steak. Live music from the vibrant duo, Deux Sons. BBQ buffet BD18 net including soft drinks and water, BD24 net including selected free flow beverages. Every Wednesday from 7pm to 11pm.

Seafood Night: Indulge in a wide selection of fresh oysters, prawns, Lobster Thermidor, Sushi, Clams, Fresh fish filleted & Mussels cooked to your liking. Seafood buffet BD24 net 16

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including soft drinks and water, BD29 net including selected free flow beverages. Every Thursday from 7pm to 11pm.

GO: CALL 1717 1000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

THE WESTIN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN All Day Happy Hour at Nasmat Pool & Lounge: Enjoy a pint at a discounted price all day whilst you take a dip in the pool and enjoy the outdoor setting from 11am to 11pm.

Burger and Beer Combo at Nasmat Pool & Lounge: Hungry and thirsty? Try the mouth-watering homemade Cheese Burger plus an ice-cold pint of your choice. Daily from 11am to 11pm.

Furn Bakery: Enjoy a selection of delicious cakes crafted by skilled culinary hands all day at Furn Bakery. There’s magical milkshakes to enjoy in the unique ambience of the Rotunda as well as the specials on the Furn Bakery display.

Furn Bistro: Arabic afternoon tea is served daily from 3pm to 6pm. We’re talking savoury and sweet delights galore with your choice of beverage. Shop ‘til you drop on a cosy seat at the Furn Rotunda for a delicious treat. ✤ GO: CALL 1717 1000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

BOOK A LUXURY ROOM WITH SEA VIEW INCLUSIVE OF LAVISH BUFFET BREAKFAST & DINNER FOR TWO Complimentary breakfast and dinner for children below 12 years old, up to 2 per room.

For reservations, please call us at +973 17 63 63 63 Terms & conditions apply.

105 Zallaq Highway, Building 2015, Block 1055, Zallaq area, P.O. Box 5554 Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain fact magazine Tel.: +973 17 63 63 63 - Fax.: +973 17 63 63 64 - Email: h6722@sofitel.com - Website: www. sofitel.com/6722

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FOR THE LOVE OF FOOD! The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain has something to tease and please every palate this month…

SATURDAY BRUNCH FIESTA AT CANTINA KAHLO Spice up your weekend with a lovely brunch and a culinary journey through Mexico. Enjoy authentic dishes, a taco station, irresistible sweets and festive décor. September 15 also celebrates Mexican Independence Day with a lively atmosphere and expanded brunch options. BD35 per person with select beverages and BD20 per person with soft beverages. Saturdays, September 15, 22, and 29, from 12pm to 4pm.

SEPTEMBER SUPER BRUNCH Book a table at this 5-star venue as they take the famous Friday Brunch to new heights with a delicious gastronomic journey highlighted by the specialised Ritz-Carlton chefs. A lavish yet more personalised experience awaits at this culinary extravaganza featuring international dishes at La Med, Italian classics at Primavera, exotic Indian fares at Nirvana and prime steaks and seafood at Plums.

BD35++ per person with soft drinks and BD39++ per person with select beverages. September 7, from 12.30pm to 3.30pm.

Foie Gras Terrine, Organic Chicken with Espelette Chili, Pistachio and Spiced Pineapple Cake and Chocolate Mille Feuille. Also enjoy weekly piano entertainment, Fridays and Saturdays from 3pm to 5pm. Served at the Lobby Lounge and The Ritz Gourmet Lounge.

ROMANTIC DINNER BY THE SEA Celebrate love and treat your special someone to an intimate dinner under the stars with breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf. BD350 per couple at the sea breeze area or BD500 per couple on the private island. Daily, sunset to 10pm.

FRIDAY LUNCH AT LA MED From the influence of the East to the West and to whatever comes in between, a luxury food line up is served every Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm, paired with special beverages to uplift your weekend blues. BD30++ with soft drinks; BD35++ with special beverages. ✤

AFTERNOON TEA EXPERIENCE Spend an elegant time with friends and family for a revamped afternoon tea experience. Savour new items on the menu like 18

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GO: CALL 1758 6499 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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Enjoy the Mediterranean fusion at our new indoor & outdoor lounge Weekdays: 5:00 pm – 2:00 am Weekends: 12:00 noon – 2:00 am

+973 1600 0099 yahalaamwajbah | RAMADA HOTEL AND SUITES AMWAJ ISLANDS P.O. Box 13220, Building 1741, Road 5715, Block Amwaj 257 Amwaj Islands, Kingdom of Bahrain ramada-manama-amwaj.com | dining@ramada-manama-amwaj.com

yahalaamwajbah

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INITIATIVE SUCCESS In collaboration with Ministry of Labour and Social Development, through the initiative of the Saar Mall Team and in special partnership with the Bokhowa Group, selection for the Internship Programme attracting over 200 student candidates was successfully held this summer.

From the participants; 37 qualified hopefuls were selected based on their University Major, skills and confidence in handling the interview.

The Tteam began with established goals and objectives for the students before they began the internship programme.

The unpaid Internship Programme is designed to provide students with an opportunity to share their insights, and explore links between their academic studies and practical fieldwork.

Though they cannot displace regular employees and are not guaranteed a job at the end of the internship, Saar Mall or Bokhowa Group may decide to hire three of the best among the 37 candidates at the conclusion of the programme. Interns may be unpaid but there is a food allowance for one month and a certificate of recognition from either Saar Mall or Bokhowa Group. They will be working in different departments for four hours a day, three times a week.

In addition, they can get hands-on experience with equipment and processes used in industry. Students have the opportunity to gain valuable practical experience and make connections in the professional fields they may be considering for their career paths; and give Saar Mall or Bokhowa Group the opportunity to guide and evaluate their talent. Interns are assigned a supervisor throughout the entire programme. The supervisor helps the students familiarise themselves with the organisation, 20

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assign projects and responsibilities, and be able to answer the student’s questions related to their position and career field. An evaluation from the allocated supervisor will help the intern to understand their work strengths and areas for improvement.

This Internship is individualised and tailored to the needs and interests of each student in the program. As part of the internship programme, students are expected to take an active role in a professional setting. These experiences are directly linked to positive short and long-term outcomes for the students such as better future employment prospects and increased earnings later in life.

Such a great initiative by the whole team is the first of its kind here in the Kingdom of Bahrain. ✤

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CULTURAL EVENTS The Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities has two great events to check out this month…

The Stamp Seal: Hallmark of Dilmun and its Hidden Art Date: Ongoing - September 20 Time: 8am - 8pm Venue: Bahrain National Museum Genre: Exhibition Seals were a main administrative tool used to regulate trade and organise society. Hardly bigger than few centimetres, they were used on official documents, tags attached to goods and on buildings gates to certify authenticity and ownership. In addition to their main administrative function, the seals might have had some metaphysical connotations. With a shape and iconography unusual to the Near East, the Dilmun seals illustrate more than any other category of artefacts, the most original material representation of the Dilmun culture and its only surviving art.

'The Stamp Seals: Hallmark of Dilmun and its Hidden Art’ draws on the permanent collection of the Bahrain National Museum and some highlights from the National Museum of Kuwait. The display illustrates an exceptional selection of seals spanning the 3rd and 2nd millennia BCE and examines the use, techniques, diversity and splendour of the Dilmun seals.

Book Launch Title: Assilah – 40 years Date: Sunday 9 September 2018 Time: 7pm Place: Bahrain National Museum In celebration of forty years since the beginning of The International Cultural Moussem of Assilah, the Bahrain Authority 22

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for Culture and Antiquities is pleased to present a book documenting Bahraini artists’ participation in the festival through testimonials and photographs shared by the artists.

Assilah, a small fortified coastal fishing village in Northern Morocco is renowned for becoming an important cultural hub for the region and the Arab world at large. The International Cultural Moussem of Assilah is a summer festival held since 1978 when two local friends, Mohammed Melehi, an artist and curator, and H.E. Mohamed Benaïssa, a photographer and politician (formerly Minister of Foreign Affairs & Minister of Culture) had invited artists to paint murals on the medina’s white-washed walls.

Since then the festival attracts 100,000 visitors each season with a full program of cultural activities such as concerts, lectures, poetry readings, exhibitions and visiting artists from all over the world. Artists come to cover the whitewashed city with murals as well as participate in the many art workshops offered where artists can exchange and work in a creative environment.

Bahrain and Bahraini artists established strong ties with Assilah from the festival’s inception where the artists’ experiences have touched, influenced or shaped their artistic careers. The book titled “Assilah – 40 years” produced by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities is a tribute to Assilah, the vibrant openair museum through the words and works of those Bahraini artists who have participated in the festival throughout its 40 years. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.CULTURE.GOV.BH FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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#MEDIA #DINNER #AT #BRASIL #RESTAURANT 24

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#CITY ™CENTRE #BAHRAIN #HANDS #FREE #EVENT

BAHRAIN JAZZ FEST IS BACK! TAKING PLACE AT THE ROYAL GOLF CLUB DRIVING RANGE, BAHRAIN JAZZ FEST 2018 IS BRINGING FOOD GALORE, FAMILY-FRIENDLY VIBES AND WORLD-CLASS ENTERTAINMENT FOR MUSIC FANS TO ENJOY!

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BAHRAIN JAZZ FEST 2018 The second edition of Bahrain’s International Jazz Fest is supported by EDB and set to be bigger and better than the last!

Following the success of the debut festival in 2017, this year’s musical soiree will see a variety of food trucks and beverage areas as well as interactive children’s areas, art zones and markets. More than 5000+ festivalgoers are expected to turn out and witness the musical extravaganza, covering artists from the jazz, swing, fusion, blues, and ska electro genres. There will be nine different jazz styles from nine jazz bands, playing interactive artists playing amongst the crowd. The festival will adopt more digital innovations including a mobile app and cashless payments as well as a collaborative area for amateur musicians to network. An enhanced area for merchandise and artist meet and greet will be available, alongside more park and ride services to the jazz fest venue. We take a closer look at the acts ready to steal the show.

ANA POPOVIC Ana Popovic, the blues and rock guitarist and singer who is one of the world's most respected players, has been moving West all her life. She fell in love with American blues as a kid, starting back home in Belgrade, Serbia during the fall of Communism, then moved to the Netherlands to study at the conservatory of jazz and world-music. She lived in Amsterdam for over ten years, and then in a single-minded pursuit of her art and career, she relocated to Memphis, TN to record and work with Southern musicians. Finally, two years ago, she moved her family to Los Angeles, California where she now lives.

Ana has recorded nine studio albums and been nominated for six 26

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Blues Music Awards, and has appeared on the covers of Vintage Guitar and Guitar Player magazines. Her albums 'Can You Stand The Heat' and 'Unconditional' were USA Today Picks-Of-TheWeek and featured on NPR Weekend Edition, who praised her "Fiery technique on the Stratocaster". Nearly all of Ana's albums reached the top of the Billboard Blues Charts. She and her sixpiece band have toured tirelessly, sharing stages with B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Jeff Beck, Joe Bonamassa and many others.

Ana will release 'Like It On Top,' a concept album in which she explores ten different aspects of women's empowerment on ten new songs. Recorded in Nashville, TN., and produced by four-time Grammy winner Keb' Mo', the blues influenced album features guest appearances from Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Robben Ford and Keb' Mo,' and will be released worldwide September 14.

Its ten songs cover topics that are partly autobiographical and partly broader statements aimed at every women - desire and fantasy, feeling empowered about your craft, confronting dominant macho male attitudes, escaping an abusive marriage, and how to have a strong man as your partner. But it also credits the men who are motivated and enlightened enough to support women in their quest to be their best versions of themselves.

The first single, "Like It On Top," emphasises that behind every strong, successful woman stands the man that understands the importance of having women be leaders in society. And the final track, the gentle "Honey I'm Home," gives a shout-out to an evergrowing number of families in which men give up their careers to support a woman's career. ✤ WEBSITE: WWW.ANAPOPOVIC.COM

VILLA D AY U S E INCLUDING

BARBECUE

BD 109++

TERMS & CONDITIONS APPLY: - 9 Hours between 10:00AM - 10:00PM. - Every Saturday to Wednesday only.

- For 2 Adults & 2 Kids.

- Extra fees for additional guest.

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ALA GHAWAS Bahrain’s very own Ala Ghawas is an independent singersongwriter, musician and record producer considered by many as one of Bahrain’s most important artists of his generation.

Drawing inspirations from poets and song-writing masters ‘Jackson Browne’ and ‘Bob Dylan’ along with his idols ‘Jeff Buckley’ and ‘Damien Rice’, Ghawas produced a compelling body of work that illustrates the influences of his life in the form of songs which helped him release 7 albums during the span of 10 years. Ghawas recorded and released his debut EP, “Hums”, in 2007 during his time in Boston as a Fulbright Scholar.

Followed by another two critically acclaimed EPs, “Whispers” in 2008 and “Screams” in 2009, which made Ghawas a local indie hero. Starting 2011, Ghawas spent almost three years writing songs for his debut LP, “Armor”, and partnered with the Bahraini alternative band, ‘Likwid’, for the record. The album was released in November 2013 and featured his most successful single to date, “Elsewhere”. After the release of Armor, the partnership between Ghawas and Likwid took more adventurous grounds with a successful series of live performances to promote the album in Bahrain, Dubai and Cairo. In 2017, Ghawas produced and released his 7th long-awaited record "Tryst". The album featured a constellation of artists from the Bahraini independent music scene. "Tryst" is highly regarded as Ghawas' career-defining and most self-assured record to date. Ghawas is expected to tour the Middle East and Europe in 2018 and 2019 to support the 28

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release of "Tryst", covering Manama, Dubai, Kuwait, Amman, Beirut, Berlin & Manchester. ~ By Victor Alfredo.

WEBSITE: WWW.ALAGHAWAS.COM

HAVANEROS BAND A group of seven Bahraini local musicians and one habanera performing live Latin jazz music, salsa, bachata and more. The band started it’s career in 2004 on behalf of a Latin Jazz band called Havana, consisting of seven members all of Bahraini origin. The forte of this band has been Latin music. In 2009, the name was changed to Havaneros with a new vision / innovation to bring forth a new blend of Latin music to the world. ✤ WEBSITE: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/PG/BAHRAINHAVANEROS-BAND

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LIKWID Likwid is one of Bahrain's most unique and popular alternative bands. The band had earned a reputation of supreme musicianship on stage and selling-out venues like no other band. The members have been playing together under various formations for more than 15 years. Likwid is known to perform numerous styles of music including, but not limited to, Rock, Smooth Jazz, Blues, Reggae, Funk, and Latin. It is very rare to see the influences of Bob Marley, The Police, Santana, Pink Floyd, Fourplay, and Steely Dan sparking out of one band. That's what Likwid is all about: a captivating and entertaining band that doesn't believe in genres, just good music. In 2016, the band has released their official critically acclaimed debut self-titled EP.

THE MEMBERS OF LIKWID: Ahmed Alqasim (AQ) | Bass Guitars, Lead Vocal One of the most active and popular musicians in Bahrain. In addition to being known as a terrific bass guitar player, he is also a talented songwriter and a powerful vocalist in his own right. AQ also has his own successful jazz show, "AQ's Jazz Experience".

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Khalid Alshamlan | Piano, Keyboards, Backing Vocals One of Bahrain’s best pianists and composers with a long spectrum of styles and influences, from the modern heavy metal rock to classical and jazz. Also a member of internationallyrecognized Bahraini progressive rock band, Osiris.

Ahmed Abdulaziz | Electric Guitars, Backing Vocals A shredding player who inspired a generation of Bahraini guitarists. With a colorful range of techniques rooted from rock, blues, jazz & latin, he helped introduce western guitar to the Arab music scene through collaborations with Arab superstars including Ali Bahar, Abdulmajeed Abdulla and others.

Abdulrahman Malallah | Drums, Percussions One of the best known full-time musicians in Bahrain and the region who was selected by "Vater Percussions" as an official Vater artist. Also a favorite collaborator for a number of Arab superstars including Rashid Al Majed, Rabeh Saqer and many others. ✤

WEBSITE: WWW.LIKWIDBAND.COM

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SWING NINJAS The Swing Ninjas love to play music. They tour all year round at all types of parties and events with their blend of original music and classic swing tunes.

Always professional, they are open to any request to make the perfect experience - whether that's playing intimately for a small private event, or playing a large festival or club / dance night.

The classic Swing Ninjas Trio – big sound, able to travel worldwide at a minute’s notice. Happy to play to thousands on a main stage, or walk around serenading table to table at an intimate dinner party.

The Swing Ninjas Quartet (or Quintet) – this is the main performing ensemble of the Swing Ninjas. The depth of the 32

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double bass, the 2 horns getting your feet tapping and guitar keeping the rhythm going. Adding drums for the 5th member, transforms this go-anywhere ensemble into the ultimate dance band. The 4-part vocal harmonies are nothing short of liquid velvet.

The Swing Ninjas Sextet is a swing orchestra with baritone sax, drums and backing singers added to the normal Quartet.

A big sound with a big swing!

The Swing Ninjas Sextet with the Speakeasy Three (9 piece band) – a massive 9-piece band with the beautiful Speakeasy Three girls joining the the Swing Ninjas Sextet, backing up the Ninjas and making everyone swoon. A swing orchestra that is unrivalled in energy and show. A big luscious sound. ✤ WEBSITE: WWW.THESWINGNINJAS.CO.UK

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THE KIFFNESS The Kiffness is a live electronic act from Cape Town, South Africa. The project was founded by David Scott in 2011. The Kiffness makes jazzy, groovy and uplifting house music and is fast becoming one of South Africa’s favourite live electronic acts. From the beginning of 2013, founder and brainchild David Scott has had great success in the South African music industry, racking up a total of three SAMA nominations and 10 singles playlisted across national radio stations – all of which have reached top 10 status in the top 40 charts.

Dave Scott founded the project in early 2011 when he arrived in Cape Town to pursue a career in music. During his studies at Rhodes University Dave played a handful of instruments in multiple bands while also DJing at a couple nightclubs. Upon arriving in Cape Town he was ready to use his experience in both live & electronic forms of music and fuse them to form a live electronic act.

From it’s relatively humble beginnings, Dave’s made his way from bedroom producer to building his own studio & becoming one of South Africa’s most reputable producers.

He has collaborated with some of South Africa’s leading 34

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artists including Tresor, Shortstraw, Moonchild, Samuel Miller & Mathew Gold. With The Kiffness’ success on radio the project has gained major momentum and the group has had the opportunity of playing headlining slots at some of South Africa’s most reputable festivals such as Rocking the Daisies, Splashy Fen & Park Acoustics to name a few. They’ve also played international shows in the Seychelles, Lesotho, Swaziland (Bushfire), Zimbabwe (Vic Falls Carnival) & Vietnam.

Saxophone & synth extraordinaire Raiven Hansmann joined Dave for live shows in early 2017. Before joining forces with Dave on stage, Raiven had played a major role behind the scenes in co-writing a couple of The Kiffness’ tracks. Friend & collaborator Mathew Gold has also joins the band in the live format for a couple of shows, adding a 3rd dynamic to the live shows.

What sets The Kiffness apart from most electronic acts is their tangible instrumental talent. What’s more is that they are great performers, so crowds can expect nothing short of a huge vibe. ✤

WEBSITE: WWW.THEKIFFNESS.COM

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INDIAN OCEAN Indian Ocean, the album, was recorded in Calcutta and, despite the crummy mikes and sozzled sound recordist, the band was on a high. They had recorded an original album, almost entirely instrumental, rare outside the world of Indian classical music.

The future looked boundless; anything was possible.

But, much to the band’s frustration, the album took a year to get released. But when it did come out, it sold over 40,000 copies within a year of its release – at that time, the highest selling record by any Indian band ever. However, this had no immediate results – in concerts, contracts or money or anything.

In 1994, drummer Shaleen left the band. Amit Kilam, barely out of his teens and, in fact, still taking his college exams, took his place. This has been the line-up since then: Susmit, Asheem, Rahul and Amit.

Money was tight and there weren’t many opportunities to play. But somehow the band believed in themselves and in their music. They kept at it – composing, practicing, playing for themselves, getting better, tighter, more together. Vocals began to be used more and more, and they brought a new dimension to the sound.

Susmit and Asheem left their jobs to be in the band full-time, and kept at it even after they had kids to support. Rahul and Amit did not have salaried jobs either. All four kept afloat by taking on various musical assignments – odd jobs composing music for serials, ads and documentaries.

New Year’s Day 1997. The SAHMAT concert at Mandi House, Delhi. After waiting seven hours to get on stage, Indian Ocean played an inspired concert that had the crowd rising to its feet, 36

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roaring for more. Quite fortuitously, the band noticed a DAT recorder, bought a tape and recorded the concert. True to their unfailing lack of vision, no music company wanted to release a live album of an Indian band, so a label called Independent Music was formed to release this. Desert Rain was a landmark album for its time and today, almost a decade later, still continues to sell (much to the band’s surprise and pleasure, in 2006, it was no. 2 on the iTunes UK world music charts!).

First, the gigs began to fall into place – Delhi, of course, but also Ahmedabad, Calcutta and Mumbai. Money began to trickle in. More importantly, new material became more honed, and the playing tightened with every show.

Times Music signed on Indian Ocean in 1998 and, the next year, the band went to Mumbai to record a new album. Recorded in the hi-tech studio Western Outdoor, and released in March 2000, Kandisa went on to acquire cult status, becoming one of the most important, best-loved albums of contemporary Indian music.

Indian Ocean’s fourth album, Jhini, was released in 2003, along with the band’s first music video for the title track, as they went international and started touring the world. Tragically though, Indian Ocean lost one of their founder members in December 2009 after Asheem suffered a massive heart attack.

The band continues to perform and compose, and have taken the help of several friends and musicians to fill in for Asheem. It seems quite probable that the sound of the band shall change with the departure of Asheem, but it is impossible to predict what direction the band will go in. So the band goes on, hoping to continue making good music! ✤ WEBSITE: WWW.INDIANOCEANMUSIC.COM

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TATIANA EVA-MARIE AND THE AVALON JAZZ BAND Avalon Jazz Band is the ambassador of vocal French swing in the United States and the world. Created in New York in 2012, the band has performed at the most renowned venues in the city (Summerstage, Midsummer Night Swing Lincoln Center, Winter JazzFest, New York Hot Jazz Festival, JALC, The Iridium, The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, Joe’s Pub, The Carlyle, The Rainbow Roo), sharing the stage with the likes of Norah Jones, Vince Giordano & the Nighthawks, Catherine Russell, Harry Connick Jr., Aurora Nealand, Stéphane Wrembel, and touring internationally (UK, Spain, Italy, Germany, France, Switzerland, India, Puerto Rico, Fiji).

The musical style presented by Avalon Jazz Band is inspired by the kind of jazz played in Paris in the 1930s and 40s, especially by the Hot Club de France, founded by Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli, whose repertoire consisted of original music and jazz standards. This style of hot jazz then became what we now know as « Gypsy jazz » or « Jazz Manouche », with its technical bravadoes and virtuoso skills 38

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The delicate voice and swing phrasing of Tatiana Eva-Marie brings the Zazou element to the mix: an ingenuous and mischievous joie-de-vivre, which she incarnates to perfection.

The Zazous were young Parisians obsessed with American swing: their way of rebelling against the war was through dance and jazz (a forbidden music during the German occupation), displaying a very insolent kind of joy, which caused them to be marginalized and persecuted.

The influence of the Russian aristocracy’s diaspora to France after the Russian Revolution and of the Jews fleeing Eastern Europe right before WWII, can be felt in the French compositions of time. This element is also present in the music of Avalon Jazz Band, with a sound palette of Gypsy, Klezmer and Balkan inspiration.

The vocal repertoire of Avalon Jazz Band comprises jazz standards and French songs made popular by Yves Montand, Jean Sablon, Juliette Gréco and Charles Trenet, among others.

The instrumental repertoire comprises original compositions and music by Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli. ✤ WEBSITE: WWW.AVALONJAZZBAND.COM

CUT CAPERS Cut Capers is an eight-piece band that formed in Bristol in late 2011, with a style based in hip-hop, swing, ska and roots reggae.

They have burst onto the UK circuit, playing gigs and festivals up and down the country with their high energy shows. Combining tight grooves and a big sound featuring UK and Spanish MCs, soulful female vocals and a dynamic 3-piece brass section, Cut Capers bring the party to crowds all over, looking to jump up and down in a frenzy to a fresh new sound, which channels elements of all the great ska, swing and hip-hop. Having shared stages with Jimmy Cliff, Jerry Dammers, Neville Staple, Rodney P, Lee “Scratch” Perry, The Skints, and since their debut release “The Pinstripe EP” was released in 2012, these Bristolians have released a string of singles leading up to the release of their debut album in Spring 2016. After an incredible 2015 performing at UK festivals including Glastonbury, Secret Garden Party, Boomtown Fair, and shows in Belgium, France, Holland and Ireland, Bristol’s finest are back in 2016 to promote the release of their debut full length LP Say What! With their high energy 8 piece blend of Swing, Hiphop, Ska and everything in between, Cut Capers will have you bouncing and head nodding the night away! “Inspirational” – Jimmy Cliff ”. ✤

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WEBSITE: WWW.CUTCAPERS.COM fact magazine

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• SOCIETY

#YA #HALA #RESTAURANT #LAUNCH 40

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M IS FOR MODESTY Like any other device, modesty has become a tool for many women all over the world. It shows character and confidence where the heart and mind rule the body. In a time where traditional and modern meet in the middle, more and more women are accomplishing extraordinary things without compromising their style or their faith.

FACT’s Shabana Adam explores the rise of the modest lifestyle in the Gulf and beyond, and why it has taken so long for a generations-aged concept to finally break into the mainstream‌

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hat do Nura Afia, Amena Khan, and Ibtihaj Muhammad have in common? Clue: it’s not just their very evident Muslim names. These three women did what some would have believed unimaginable even a decade ago. They broke into the mainstream to become the first hijab-wearing representatives in industries that are traditionally targeted towards western aesthetics and features.

Nura wowed makeup experts and became an official ambassador for CoverGirl in 2017, while Amena was cast in a major haircare campaign for L’Oréal Paris Elvive – though short-lived – earlier this year, and Ibtihaj is not only a bad-ass sabre fencer, she’s the first Muslim American woman to wear a hijab while competing for the United States in the 2016 Olympics.

All women, all Muslim, all wearing the hijab. And all of these achievements were made just over the past couple of years. My question is, what took so long for the world to stand up and notice these strong, capable, beautiful women and the thousands more who embrace their passions and talents without compromising their creative wardrobes and their faith? The answer could very well lie in the rapid rise of the modest lifestyle.

In order to appreciate the impact and growth of modesty into the mainstream, we need to understand who it effects, benefits, and whether we’re witnessing an evolution or a revolution. So, what is modest fashion? Interpretations can differ depending on who you ask, but a widely accepted definition would be: a sense of personal style while remaining relatively covered. That means, high collars, long sleeves and hemlines, or looser clothing, for example – formerly “uncool” wardrobe attire that has gone from drab to fab. Generally speaking, modest fashion is a personal choice which simply means wearing more conventional clothing inspired by everything from your cultural norms to the latest runway collections.

“When I hear the words modest fashion, I think of my hijab and to me it means dressing while adhering to my faith,” says Yasmine, a British-Lebanese modest lifestyle blogger who goes by the instagram name @undercoverstyling. “I think it has taken time for modest fashion to break into the mainstream because there are examples that are set from fashion hubs like New York, Paris and London where modesty was not considered when designing,” Yasmine explains.

“Now with the rise of social media as well as the rise of modest bloggers and celebrities, modest fashion is making headlines.”

She’s right. A number of western brands including online retailers like Net-A-Porter and big-name

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“THE USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA HAS GIVEN MUSLIM WOMEN A VOICE AND EXPOSURE THAT THEY NEVER HAD BEFORE. WE ARE ABLE TO COMMUNICATE AROUND THE WORLD AND SHOW PEOPLE WHAT THE LIFE OF A MODERN, MUSLIM WOMAN IS REALLY LIKE.”

MODEST CULTURE • fashion houses such as Dolce & Gabbana, DKNY and Oscar de la Renta, have caught on to the booming market with exclusive collections, shining a spotlight on modest-wear.

In fact, it is estimated that the international Muslim clothing market is forecast to be worth $373 billion by 2022, according to the latest Global Islamic Economy report, produced by Reuters. We’re also seeing the likes of London and Dubai; two of the most stylish cities in the world, now host an annual Modest Fashion Week.

Nike has launched the Pro Hijab for modest sportswear, whilst Japanese fashion chain Uniqlo introduced its Uniqlo x Hana Tajima Collection with a line of hijabs, and H&M has featured a Muslim model, Mariah Idrissi, wearing a headdress in one of their major campaigns.

Plus, we all remember the time a 15-year-old Saudi teenager demanded a hijab-clad emoji – of course, WhatsApp made it happen. It is rare for a multi-billion dollar industry to fly under the radar for so long, as the modest fashion sector has. But, it sleeps no more.

“I HAVE TRAVELLED THE WORLD AND MY HIJAB HAS BEEN A WAY FOR ME TO SPEAK AND DEAL WITH PEOPLE AND TO TEAR DOWN ANY MISCONCEPTIONS.”

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hanks to Muslim millennials, specifically women, this once unnoticed market is being driven forward by consumers, designers and trendsetters. Blending local, cultural styles from countries spanning Indonesia to the Middle East, Paris to New York, momentum for all things modest can be seen in e-commerce, on social media and other unorthodox channels.

One of the major influencers on the rise of the modest lifestyle is, undoubtedly, instagram. Bloggers have developed substantial followings as champions of modesty which crosses everything from fashion to the increase in halal travel and tourism as well as halal food, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. now, alongside your Buzzfeed entertainment listicles, you’re likely to find articles like “50 Modest Fashion Influencers to Follow” – helping to broaden the presence and conversation.

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For Yasmine, who loves combining fabrics, colours, prints and textures to make a bold statement, sharing the beauty of dressing modestly was one of the many reasons she decided to start @undercoverstyling on the gram. “I wanted to encourage other young women who don’t feel represented and they can be inspired by the colours, designs, and fabrics,” she says. “The use of social media has given Muslim women a voice and exposure that they never had before. We are able to communicate around the world and show people what the life of a modern, Muslim woman is really like,” Yasmine tells us. “It is the same for many communities around the world but especially for Muslim women because of the stereotypes that have been so prevalent previously. It means we can take back some control and show people a glimpse into our world.”

As the western hemisphere takes note of how modest choices are, simply, a normal part of life for millions of Muslim women, it still remains a misconception in many parts of the world, that women who wear the hijab or more traditional clothing, are oppressed. “Many people in the west still lack knowledge and understanding of the history and the privilege of wearing a hijab,” says UAE-based British-Pakistani teacher Suneela Aslam.

“Despite immigrants being an integral part of western life, some communities in places like America or the UK simply don’t invest enough time in learning about our differences.”

Leading us to question whether the modest lifestyle is just another passing trend – one that blings cha-ching for profitmaking more so than a movement to break cultural boundaries.

“I am all about breaking the stereotypes,” Yasmine says. “I wanted to create a platform that was positive and encouraging for modest women. The hijab for me is an honor and I wanted to show Muslim women that it is not limiting,” she continues.

“I have travelled the world and my hijab has been a way for me to speak and deal with people and to tear down any misconceptions.”

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“HIJABI MODELS HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY RIGHT NOW TO CHANGE THE CONVERSATION AND SHOW PEOPLE HOW TO EMBRACE TWO WORLDS.”

who can highlight and express whatever message they have to offer with the support of various western companies. They are the reflection of modern-day society – one that is made up of a multitude of races and ethnicities, where certain folk adopt a survival strategy of embracing their duality to flow in between two cultures. Halima, for example, is Somali and American, a Muslim in a principally Christian country who inspires modesty whilst successfully walking the world’s biggest fashion weeks. “Hijabi models have an opportunity right now to change the conversation and show people how to embrace two worlds,” Suneela says.

“Similarly, the fashion industry must help to educate the masses by normalising diversity instead of segregating it as a novelty or a trend.”

It is important to note that whilst acceptance of modest icons has helped to

Let’s take a look at how western institutions have picked certain personalities to advocate for modesty.

Take Halima Aden, the SomaliAmerican Miss Minnesota USA contestant, who competed wearing a hijab and a “burkini” – another first in the states. She was quickly signed to IMG Models, the agency that represents the Hadid sisters and went on to walk on the runway – wearing a hijab – for Yeezy, Max Mara and Alberta Ferretti. Is her success a fairy tale waiting to fade out or is her mainstream modest lifestyle an agent for change?

It’s no secret that models like Halima Aden, Mariah Idrissi and supermodel Zara Mohamed Abdulmajid, widelyknown as Iman, were chosen for their gifted genes, but also as individuals 46

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MODEST CULTURE •

dispel some negative attitudes towards Muslim women, or any woman, who chooses to dress traditionally, there are still some damaging perspectives towards religion in some countries that have also deterred the growth of the modest lifestyle in selected markets.

Restrictions like the burka ban in some parts of Europe or banned veils in some Chinese provinces means that even the most successful and far-reaching modest influencers, struggle to connect and relay their positive vibes and messages. Hold on, shouldn’t we leave it up to women to decide for themselves what they want to wear and how that crisp white Zara shirt or the patterned abaya and matching head scarf makes them feel?

Tülin Meric, a Bahrain-based BritishTurkish modest fashion blogger running the platform @trestouline, says: “I would say that I’m freer than most women.

Wearing modest clothing allows me to choose what I display or don’t display of my body. It allows me to express myself

through colour and design.

“Dressing modestly also naturally gives off an indication on my religious stance,” Tülin explans. “I have a sense of liberation because there is an invisible barrier set between you and others – men – and that makes me feel safe and in control. I would say this is the ultimate freedom for any woman.”

Choosing to live modestly in all or certain aspects of life is not a new concept. Generations of women, of many different faiths, have been covered whilst accomplishing great things and breaking that glass ceiling.

Here’s hoping that this contemporary uprising and progression will not burn out anytime soon. For the moment, let us celebrate the Nura’s and Ibtihaj’s of the world, as they continue to remind people everywhere that you don’t need permission to be who you are and to go after what you want. ✤

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MODEST TO MAINSTREAM:

16 STYLE SETTERS Love it or loathe it, Instagram has helped to catapult modest fashion and lifestyle from an idea into everyday visuals – fabulous ones at that. FACT’s Aanchal Duggal dug deep into the world of hashtags to find the gram’s most influential ladies to follow, for all things modest…

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• FOLLOW ME

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WHO: Haifa Beseisso INSTA: @flywithhaifa FOLLOWERS: 300K

WHO: Hulya Aslan INSTA: @hulyaslan FOLLOWERS: 526k

WHO: Nour Kaiss Soliman INSTA: @nourka92 FOLLOWERS: 313k

WHO: Eileen Lahi INSTA: @eslimah FOLLOWERS: 234k

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: Breaking cultural stereotypes and boundaries, Haifa Beseisso invites her followers and subscribers to a fun yet insightful look into her journeys around

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: With an Instagram account spanning everything from fashion to food and travel, Hulya Aslan is definitely one to be admired for her breadth and variety

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: Jumping from one amazing adventure to the next, Nour Kaiss Soliman is one of Canada’s top hijabi bloggers in the digital realm.

An influencer, entrepreneur

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: She’s cute and funny, and absolutely adores the modest lifestyle. Eileen is an Estonian fashion blogger who reverted to Islam a few years ago and has

the world. Asking people in each and every country the same uniting question, “What is your dream?”, Haifa reminds everyone of the oneness of humanity through kind acts and her vibrant personality.

Follow her for some great adventures, mouthwatering local delicacies and unique travel advice.

of style advice and general modest living. Armed with a bubbly personality and super creative attire (she’s a fashion consultant by day), the Turkish trendsetter is the epitome of all the good vibes and inspiring content. Follow her for a glimpse into her daily life or subscribe to her on YouTube for some useful fashion tips.

and a super cool mum, Nour treats her followers to snippets of her everyday life with family and friends, and stunning pictures from around the world of all her travels and escapes to countries near and far. You’ll also learn more about her very own hijab collection as well as everything fashion, food and parenting related.

never looked back. Eileen fell in love with modest dressing at first sight and her insta page is an affinity of relaxed silhouettes and soft colour palettes along with a few thoughtfully chosen accessories. Not only does her style exude serenity and simplicity, Eileen is one of the most honest and humble influencers on this list.

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FOLLOW ME •

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WHO: Yasmine INSTA: @undercoverstyling FOLLOWERS: 24.6k

WHO: Saufeeya Goodson INSTA: @feeeeya FOLLOWERS: 379k

WHO: Ascia Akf INSTA: @ascia FOLLOWERS: 2.4 million

WHO: Amena Khan INSTA: @amenaofficial FOLLOWERS: 598k

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: Adding her unique sense of style and a splash of colour to your insta feed, Yasmine wows her followers with her effortless yet elegant charm. Fusing

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: Redefining chic in the Middle East, Saufeeya Goodson is all about the evolving world of modest fashion. A stunning instagram aesthetic reveals

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: Shaking things up with her unique take on streetwear-injected modest style, Ascia Akf is the perfect balance between elegance and edge. From

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: A British influencer, wife, mum and the founder of fashion company “Pearl Daisy”, Amena Khan is all about championing diversity and

western fashion staples with traditional apparel, Yasmine makes modest dressing easier and trendier than ever. When she’s not posting beautiful shots on the streets of London, you’ll find Yasmine being a real girl boss in all her modest glory.

Follow her for some easy hijab tutorials and helpful makeup and fashion tips.

her bold and daring ensembles with statement pieces and original, fresh styling that makes her stand out from the crowd. Rarely seen without her trademark sunglasses, the partAmerican, part-Moroccan blogger will give you MAJOR fashion and lifestyle inspo, blending contemporary, cool and modest all in one.

bringing K-beauty to the Middle East to working with fashion bigwigs like Kenzo and TAG Heuer, the Kuwaiti influencer is redefining traditionally Muslim fashion on a mainstream scale. With a feed full of art-directed styling, lifestyle shots and quirky videos, Ascia brings the casual and out-of-thebox to life.

looking stunning at the same time. Best known for becoming the first hijab wearing model to front a L’Oreal hair care campaign, the fashion maven treats her followers and subscribers to gorgeous modest fashion envy, makeup tutorials and a glimpse into her busy everyday life. Keep it real and give her a follow!

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WHO: Leena Al Ghouti INSTA: @leenaalghouti FOLLOWERS: 235K

WHO: Dina Torkia INSTA: @dinatokio FOLLOWERS: 1.4 million

WHO: Hind Al Madani INSTA: @hindalmadani FOLLOWERS: 89.3k

WHO: Sagal Ibrahim Shire INSTA: @sagaleeya FOLLOWERS: 197k

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: If you’re all about classy fashion with an edge, you really NEED to follow Leena Al Ghouti! Boasting an on-point wardrobe of premium streetwear and a DKNY Ramadan collection campaign, the Dubai-based style-setter gives modest fashion her own unique twist. From funky baggy sweatshirts and denim jackets to breathtaking dresses and shoes - Leena will have you swooning over her modish attire. She also rocks some of the trendiest glasses so her eyewear game is also strong!

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: Smashing stereotypes and using her online platform to educate and inspire the world with her take on modest fashion, Dina Torkia is here to celebrate diversity. Raising awareness about the need for representation in fashion, the British Muslim social media phenomenon is the author of “Modestly” as well as being a successful entrepreneur and your ultimate fashion guru on the ‘gram. The mum-of-two’s values and down-to-earth life advice has won her millions of fans worldwide.

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: Who said you can’t be an influencer without showing your face? Hind Al Madani takes style and elegance to a whole new level. Boasting one of the most aesthetically pleasing instagram feeds we have ever seen, the traveller, designer and style influencer is bound to give you some major FOMO. Slaying the insta game one post at a time, Hind is your daily dose of fashion, lifestyle and travel adventures that sum up the epitome of being an “influencer” – check her out.

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: Taking us on an amazing journey of all things lifestyle, Sagal Ibrahim Shire is a London-based influencer who indulges in everything from selfies to fashion and motherhood.

The Somali blogger loves styling, the latest fashion trends and anything cultural and artistic. She’s a clear example of how being a mum doesn’t have to stop you from keep things stylish and classy. Follow her for her unique style, handy tips and super cute motherdaughter pictures!

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FOLLOW ME •

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15.

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WHO: Sarah Dimani INSTA: @saraahdii FOLLOWERS: 105k

WHO: Rani Hatta INSTA: @ranihatta FOLLOWERS: 272k

WHO: Zizi INSTA: @ziziosashion FOLLOWERS: 161k

WHO: Saris HH INSTA: @saris_hh FOLLOWERS: 354k

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: The queen of modest fashion in her own right, Sarah Dimani might be young but she is a veteran in the blogosphere. All your fashion goals come to life as Sarah gives her own whimsical and wonderful twist to modest fashion while also keeping it super chic. Bringing to you some seriously beautiful outfits, pretty travel posts and mouthwatering food shots; she is definitely not your average influencer and is sure to stay ahead in the game.

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: Armed with a rebellious fashion streak, rooted beliefs and a whole lot of confidence, Rani Hatta has made a huge contribution to the world of modest fashion.

Based in Jakarta, Indonesia, Rani’s basic, minimal and effortless approach to sports luxe has made her a fashion industry favourite. One of the most recognisable faces in the Indonesian designer landscape, Rani is a force to be reckoned with in the instagram world and continues to grow her following at lightening pace.

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: The perfect blend of elegance, grace and beauty, Zizi shows her followers that modest fashion CAN be modern, stylish and super classy. Helping women feel beautiful, comfortable and confident in modest attire, the Copenhagenbased fashion blogger is all about letting your individuality shine through your personal sense of style – a message that we can really appreciate and support! From food to travel and her outift of the day, you’ll get a real insight in this beauty’s life.

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: Placing all emphasis on her gorgeous outfits, Saris dares to wear a variety of trends and manages to look good in everything! Making a statement with bold colours and prints, the Spain and Morocco-based insta fave likes to keep traditionally modest yet tasteful with her beautiful abayas and longline blouses. Apart from slaying the fashion game, she is also a doctor, wife and mum, often sharing lovely family photos – proof that you really can have it all! ✤

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• Q&A

MEET TULIN MERIC IF YOU’RE AN AVID INSTA JUNKIE IN BAHRAIN, THERE’S NO WAY THAT YOU HAVEN’T HEARD ABOUT THIS BEAUTIFUL AND TRUE-TO-HERSELF LADY RIGHT HERE. CELEBRATING ALL THINGS MODEST AND STYLISH ON THE GRAM AS @TRESTOULINE, SAY HELLO TO MUM-OF-TWO, BRITISH-TURKISH INFLUENCER TULIN MERIC WHO LIVES, BREATHES AND ADVOCATES FOR EVERY ELEMENT OF MODEST LIVING…

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Q&A •

Hi Tulin! When you hear the words “Modest Fashion” what do you think of? What does this term mean to you?

To me, when I hear the words ‘Modest Fashion” it means knowing your body and knowing what you choose to cover or not cover up. It means longer lengths and full sleeves with minimal transparency and loser fitting silhouettes.

Modest Fashion has been the lifestyle for hundreds of thousands of women across the world for many years. Why do you think it’s taken so long for it to break into the mainstream?

It’s actually been around for a while with brands such as Monsoon, Laura Ashley, East and Tory Birch. But without a doubt, the up rise of social media and smart phone technology has allowed for this freedom of expression to boom immensely. Paired with that, a young techno savvy generation of women who are not shy to express their own sense of style and opinion are using these social media platforms. Brands are realizing that this huge market needs to be addressed. Henceforth many of the recent fashion shows, campaigns and collaborations with huge global brands such as H&M, Yeezy, Max Mara, Fenty, D&G and Uniqlo incorporating modestly dressed women.

What do you think about the current state of modest fashion in relation to traditionally edgy or urban brands. For example, D&G and Uniqlo have had modest fashion specific campaigns and collections – is this a positive sign or just another drive for profit?

Some brands get it truly right with the styles and overall themes.

You can tell there has been a thought process that’s gone into the collection and that it’s going to appeal to many women.

Others, on the other hand unfortunately bring out a line supposedly geared towards modest fashion but really it’s just a mediocre copy of say Asian style dressing or extremely boring basics with zero uniqueness. When I see pieces like that, that’s when I feel its been done for the profit.

Brands need to realise the spectrum of modest wear is very broad. They need to understand what is acceptable and what isn’t. Possibly having a dedicated team of designers brought in to guide and ensures that it meets those specific criteria would be something to strongly consider.

Tell us about your background and when you first decided that you wanted to become a source of support and celebration for women and especially for modish living?

I grew up surrounded by fashion. My father is a tailor by trade and my mother finished a specialist school in Istanbul as a seamstress.

During my childhood and up until the 90s, my father had a factory in London’s East End manufacturing womenswear for brands such as Topshop, Debenhams, River Island and specialist brands like Long Tall Sally.

Fabric choices and stitching quality was very important to me as both my parents instilled that in me from a young age. This allowed me to appreciate the design and price of garments even more. I decided to wear the hijab the day after my last GCSE exam in 1991, (this was my own decision) during a time where there were no role models to look up to. I chose to be my own role model, I wore colours and mixed and matched pieces from

the high street and London’s market stalls. This has continued up until now, although living in Bahrain means I don’t get to visit vintage stores or markets as much as I would like to.

How would you describe the connection between fashion, modesty, religion and art? Is there room for them all to exist side by side?

I believe fashion is a person’s own perception of style and selfexpression, whereas modesty is not only a form of fashion but it’s also intertwined with how that person acts. I guess this is the religion aspect to this question. How a person conducts him/ herself in public and at home is a reflection of their modesty. Our religion encourages us to be humble in many ways including how we walk, talk, dress and even how we eat.

Art has always been prevalent in our culture. From Ottoman structures to Persian paintings, to the geometric designs of North Africa and Southern Spain; all this has reflected to not only wearable clothing items but items such as jewellery and other accessories. And let’s not forget makeup and beauty such as the fact magazine

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• Q&A kohl eyeliner of Arabia to the unique beauty rituals of India. So there’s definitely plenty of room for them to co-exist side by side.

The term “influencer” has become somewhat distorted as critics often say that social media personalities haven’t done anything prominent enough to be classed as influencers. What’s your response to this as someone who creates content for followers of modest fashion?

Not all ‘influencers’ work or share content the same way. Some are fiercely into showing all aspects of their life from grocery shopping trips to their family to makeup and fashion styling – which is great because it appeals to so many people, but not everyone can be so open. Including myself.

I feel that ultimately consistency in posting with a specific intention is what’s important. By demonstrating what can be achieved with beauty and fashion, whilst maintaining a strong foundation of modesty shows all my followers the possibilities. I would like to think I am an ambassador for the young and trendy women of the 21st century influencing them to maintain the control and power they have over the fashion choices they make.

There’s been a clear rise in modest fashion content in every aspect of life. Fashion, travel, and women’s empowerment - are Muslim women finally finding platforms for expression or is it more a response to what’s happening in the world right now?

Muslim women have always had empowerment since the very beginning but up until fairly recently they have not had the exposure and access to global influences from all of the platforms available. At a very early age we were encouraged to learn, find and

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I BELIEVE THAT MODESTY OR MODEST FASHION APPEALS TO WOMEN OF ALL FAITHS THEREFORE COVERS A SENSE OF STYLE FROM MANY CULTURES AND COUNTRIES.

form informed opinions from the information available to us (at least that’s how I was raised). I was never limited with what I could do (within the boundaries of Islamic tradition, which would also apply to men). We now have a much greater breadth of information to formulate our own standards and opinions. I wanted to do my part in ensuring women are aware of all the possibilities. Obviously, my influence will be along my own preferences and views of modern, informed decision making for all women.

In addition to that, throughout history women have played a huge part in food; crafts, farming, trade and this has allowed them to lead on to entrepreneurship and the business world.

Muslim women have always had the right to work and own businesses, land and properties so this has allowed them to have full financial control of their earnings. Women who have set up fashion, makeup or food brands have now used these social media platforms to elevate and promote their accomplishments.

The world has changed, where everything is instantly at your fingertips, and women are taking advantage of this.

Share with us some quick style advice for girls who are keeping modest but want to show some flair?

The most important thing that I would say is, know your body shape. Once you know and understand your body, the easier it will be to pick out clothes. Seasons’ trends are fantastic but it may not necessarily suit you. For example if you’re top heavy try to look at slightly slimming silhouettes to wear on top and fuller silhouettes to wear at the bottom. This is more balancing to the eye. The same goes for a woman who may be quite petite and wears her hijab long (or large). It will make her look even shorter as it will block her out too much. A bit like the hairstyle principle with long hair, you don’t want to look drowned in that one piece of cloth. Another point I would make is to try not to layer too much, especially if you’re trying to lengthen an already shortsleeved top by wearing an undergarment. It just adds more fuss and the top loses its originality. If you have access to a good tailor you can always get it re-made to the right proportions.

When linked, it makes sense that modesty and the hijab go hand in hand. But do you feel that women who wear the hijab are quickly boxed as “modest” rather than being seen for their whole style or thoughts and opinions?

I believe that modesty or modest fashion appeals to women of all faiths therefore covers a sense of style from many cultures and countries. Many women wear a form of hijab from Jewish fact magazine

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• Q&A and Christian faiths too, and in my opinion it’s fine for them to be seen as modest because that’s essentially what it is. It’s up to them to show their individuality through that sense of style.

Some women have been marginalised for generations for wearing a headdress. Does sharing your modest lifestyle on social media help to break the prejudice and perception that the hijab is “oppressive”?

It certainly does. I’ve shared helicopter rides over Dubai, Mixed Martial Arts training, and Scuba Diving trips as well as all my other social media activities. Wearing a hijab does not restrict me in enjoying fun activities and hobbies or being part of the work field. I certainly don’t find it oppressive at all.

Finally, is there anything missing from the modest fashion movement that you would like to see being addressed – what are your predictions for the future of modest fashion?

I’d like to see more modest fashion brands with long-term visions to stay in the market. Where brand loyalty is built with customers and their needs are met. I believe incorporating more innovative designers that are taken on board to not only share new ideas but also in a way help these new up-and-coming artists to showcase their talents would be hugely beneficial to consumers, offering them an array of style choices. ✤

GO: KEEP UP WITH TULIN ON INSTAGRAM @TRESTOULINE. 58

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DARING, DREAMY AND DEFIANTLY DIGITAL Another strong young lady in all her vibrancy and talent – there;s a good reason why Hala AlAbbasi is our arts spotlight this month. FACT’s Shabana Adam talks to Bahraini Digital Artist and Calligraphist about creative spark, representations of modest life and the connection between fashion, religion and art… fact magazine

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• ARTS SPOTLIGHT

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ala AlAbbasi’s instagram profile is a gallery of bold colours and strong images; portraits of women, depictions of summer in the Gulf, and plenty of iconic imagery that exudes an overwhelming sense of fun and positivity.

“Beauty and nature inspires me,” she says. “When I start to draw, I allow myself to be guided by the work which is in the process of being born. I have confidence in it. I do not think about it. The hours on each artwork differs and depends on the style of the design, and the details which I dig into to create the final result. It took me years to get to where I am now by practicing art everyday,” Hala explains.

It’s important to highlight that Hala’s creative side is a result of a type of art that has been around since the 1970s, and various names have been used to describe it. For the sake of modern day, we’ll go with Digital Art. This is where an image is predominantly computer generated, scanned or drawn using a tablet. Hala mostly uses her iPad Pro and Apple pencil as well as the Procreate App to produce her illustrations and portraits. She also utilises vector-drawing software with Adobe Illustrator by using the pin tool and shapes, which are outlined and can be filled with various colours and patterns. This tends to produce a harder edge or graphic look for her professional work.

The process might be a cool and contemporary one, but the philosophy is still one of a traditional artist. “When it comes to the tools and techniques, I would say that art is not about the tools used to create it, but the vision, message, or emotion of the artist who can express their idea through lines, form, colour, pigmentation, composition and rhythm,” Hala says. “The artist can combine different features, effects, techniques and media to create their own unique vision.”

If you’re new to the world of Digital Art, don’t let it intimidate you. The images are just as beautiful and daring, in some cases even more so, than a traditional pencil drawing or painting.

Colour is more vivid, expression is deeper and there’s a whole new dimension added to something as simple as a portrait.

“Digital art is like any other art,” Hala tells us. “It’s just created by using different tools than the more traditional arts. It took me years to draw everyday and experiment with different styles until I found what I love the most.

“So I decided to focus on the digital side of my artworks, because that is what reflects me the most, and I also enjoy it so much,” she continues. “When it comes to the digital world, I feel like it is much less restricted than conventional mediums for artistic integration and manipulation.

“Moreover, moving in between reality and the digital world gives me a push to do more and be more, it gives me hope and joy and all I want is to reflect this to others. It’s my gateway, and it’s my freedom,” she adds.

Hala is not only challenging critics in the industry who believe that digital work has a lack of connection to an audience, she is also championing a form of art that is often overlooked by putting her own stamp on it, whilst living a free lifestyle driven by choice. She often draws portraits of women, random faces, (she even produced our incredible cover) as symbols of beauty 62

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and strength. “Women in general, they inspire me the most,” Hala shares. “They reflect the real beauty and real power and strength in this world. I look for the depth in each woman, which can be found in all of us. Thriving women give meaning to life, and add hope to this world which reflects my purpose of creating artworks centered around them.”

A refreshing perspective and one of the reasons why we chose Hala as our arts spotlight this month is, of course, to learn more about her opinions and experience of modest living as a young, Arab artist. It’s interesting to find that Hala, like hundreds of thousands of Muslim women everywhere, views modest fashion as a form of expression that boosts confidence. “Modest fashion gives me more options of clothing and to be creative in how I put together my outfits,” she says. “I now think outside the box and have developed an individual sense of style. It gives me the ability to dress in what I love but to add my own artistic twist to keep my outift elegant and simple, which in turn allows me freedom to express myself publicly.”

When asked: how would you describe the connection between fashion, modesty, religion and art? Is there room for them all to exist side by side? Hala says: “If there is one thing that connects all four, in my opinion, it would be freedom. The freedom of choosing and matching colours, patterns, materials and styles and to be who you are as a woman.

“Fashion and modesty reflect the world around it, and it could be for anyone which can be perceived and interpreted in a myriad of ways. Although, Muslim women who dress modestly are highly visible both on the streets of modern cities and in the media,” she adds. “When it comes to all four, it is important to reflect the beauty of modesty by being inspired by art, religion, and fashion.”

ARTS SPOTLIGHT •

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• ARTS SPOTLIGHT

Back to Hala’s creative flair, her love of digital art began at an early stage in life, and even back then, it was something about the vivacity of the images that stirred her. “I remember as a kid, I would always pay attention to graphics,” Hala recalls. “They were a reflection of what I loved and my thoughts. The look, materials, quality, colours and feel were so desirable to me. I would observe and study the colours, patterns, design and illustrations and soon enough I wanted to discover the digital world to create what I love the most,” she says.

Hala’s energy is becoming of her work. She is unapologetically a digital artist, a thinker, a celebrator of life and a staunch supporter of women in all their forms – fierce, vulnerable, outspoken or shy – and you get to see this through her dreamy and sometimes mysterious images. Alongside the modest lifestyle movement there’s a growing artistic revolution taking place – one that is challenging conventional art forms and garnering the attention of people in the Gulf and beyond. Hala is a part of this cool, unbound, selfdetermined 21st century crusade, and it’s time for the critics to sit up and take note! ✤

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ARTS SPOTLIGHT •

Q: Do you remember the very first piece of art or illustration that you created – what was it and how did it make you feel?

A: During my childhood years at school, I remember when I first started to use the mouse on the computer to draw with Paint. I drew three girls and I loved how it made me feel, as it was a real hard challenge to put all of my focus and control on it. When I did the first one, I wanted to do more. Deep down I believed in my skills and abilities. I was always interested and I explored with different drawing applications and used adobe photoshop for the first time back then. I was obsessed to learn more and grow. I simply enjoyed every little process with every little detail I made. I knew then that I never wanted to stop. I wanted to embrace myself and let my passion and love for digital art drive me wherever it was going to take me.

Q: What would you say to people who think that women who choose to dress modestly are not “free”?

A: Modest fashion isn’t limited to Muslim women; it’s also popular internationally. Modest fashion shows love to women and speaks awareness and wisdom to others when it comes to covering up to feel comfortable and accepted within most communities. It feels great to be able to dress in a modern yet stylish and beautiful way that brings confidence to be more fashion-forward. The biggest brands and fashion companies

have started to launch hijab and abaya collections within their clothing lines in the last two years. Muslim women can now express themselves freely. Dressing modest for women shows self-respect and love of each one to others, and lets them get creative freely without being judged by others.

Q: What advice would you give to up-and-coming, young, budding illustrators or Digital Artists?

A: I believe that every artist has their own creative ‘truth’ which I think matters the most. It’s about taking many tiny baby steps to achieve and maintain quality and continuity.

It’s about commitment and dedication. It has to do with inhaling and exhaling. Getting in depth, letting it be with no expectations. What I love about art as a form is that it has no limitations or restrictions; art is a total freedom. Any beginner illustrator or digital artist has to start from somewhere, experiment with drawing apps, electronic brushes and tools that help you to translate hand motions, cutting and pasting to create a new look and pose real challenge to those who explore these new digital avenues until they grow internally to be extraordinary.

GO: FOLLOW HAL A ON INSTAGRAM @HALUULIE FOR ALL THE L ATEST INFO.

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• ENTERTAINMENT

BIG SCREEN Robin Hood WHAT’S IT ABOUT?

When war-hardened crusader, Robin of Loxley and his Moorish commander embark on a bold mission against the corrupt English crown, things take an unexpected turn. Their audacious revolt leads to gritty battlefield exploits, mind-blowing fights, a timeless romance and lots of thrilling action-packed adventure.

DIRECTOR: Otto Bathurst CAST: Taron Egerton, Jamie Foxx, Ben Mendelsohn

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING?

A brand-new take on an age-old tale, Otto Bathurst’s modernised version of Robin Hood has us on the edge of our seats! Offering a dark, modern and intense version of the classic hero, the film aims to stand out from its previous interpretations by significantly stepping away from tradition. Bereft of any of the conventional merriment, fancy costumes or jovial witticism, Robin Hood claims to tell a story that the viewers are unfamiliar with.

Featuring the perpetually told story of the English archer who robbed from the rich to give to the poor, the film gets more intense and realistic like never before. Revolving around Robin Hood and his commander’s attempt to take down the corrupt English crown, the plot entails exciting action, amazing fight sequences as well as a breathtaking tale of romance. The everlasting war against the rich and powerful, a super good looking cast and revamped plotline definitely make this adaptation a winner in our eyes.

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Highlights

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Bereft of any of the conventional merriment, fancy costumes or jovial witticism, Robin Hood claims to tell a story that the viewers are unfamiliar with.

– Robin Hood

Johnny English Strikes Again WHAT’S IT ABOUT:

A whole new adventure awaits when a cyber attack reveals the identities of all active undercover agents in Britain.

With Johnny English as the Secret Service’s last hope, he must overcome the challenges of modern technology as he tries to find the mastermind hacker.

DIRECTOR: David Kerr CAST: Rowan Atkinson, Ben Miller, Olga Kurylenko

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING?

After leaving us in fits of laughter with his amusing antics as Mr. Bean and in the Johnny English series, Rowan Atkinson is back with another laugh riot. Bringing back the UK’s least great spy, the slapstick-heavy comedy is the three-quel in the Johnny English line up. Following English’s retirement from spying to serve as an etiquette instructor at a prep school, the identities of all MI7’s agents are revealed in a massive data breach. With the confident yet hapless English as the only operative available, it is up to him to maneuver the technologically advanced world of espionage in order to catch the mastermind hacker and save the day. Featuring everybody’s favourite funnyman along with hilarious dialogue – it’s the total package.

ENTERTAINMENT •

FULLY BOOKED

ON THE RECORD

NON-FICTION

Bella Figura: How to Live, Love, and Eat the Italian Way

ROCK

Raise Vibration

By Lenny Kravitz

Combining good old-fashioned rock with glam and soul has always been Lenny Kravitz’s magic formula. After ushering in the gritty rock music era of the 1980’s, the American singer-songwriter is back with another hit record. Promising to be one of Kravitz’s most eclectic; Raise Vibration features the singer playing most of the instruments himself with longtime guitarist Craig Ross as the only collaborator. A ruminative commentary on the current global state of affairs, Kravitz’s eleventh studio album is all about moving forward through higher understanding.

Displaying his discontent with the sociopolitical climate, It’s Enough is a lengthy single featuring a distinct soulful groove.

A socially-conscious gem, the track sums up the sentiment of the times while delivering an absolute banger. Known for always sticking to his own beat, Kravitz holds nothing back on his latest release.

An atmospheric funk single, Low deals with the issue of preconceptions in the beginning of a relationship. Its multilayered vocals and guest appearance by Michael Jackson give it a musical edge. Staying true to his unique brand of rock, Kravitz transcends all musical boundaries while giving the world a lot to think about.

ALTERNATIVE/ INDIE

Parallel Universe

By Plain White T’s A fixture on our playlists since 2005’s Hey There Delilah, punk-pop outfit Plain White T’s knows how to keep their fans on their toes.

Marking the band’s return to their indie roots, the album gets more intimate and raw than ever before.

Exploring a different nostalgic sound that long-term fans will really appreciate, Your Body will have you instantly hooked. The captivating vocals and the sweet harmonies make this ballad a surefire hit.

Moving away from their previous work and confronting more pressing concerns in their own personal life, Parallel Universe is the perfect reintroduction to the band. Showing a grittier side of the beloved band, Bonnie I Want You is an upbeat reggae-rock track.

Featuring an electronic influence, the track will have you grooving to its unusual beat. Exploring a lot of emotions and new sounds, this album is everything that we have been waiting for.

By Kamin Mohammadi Stuck in an endless rut, Kamin Mohammadi decides to move away from her boring and unhappy life in London and explore everything that Italy has to offer. With heartbreak, loneliness and the stress of living the perfect life ruining her physical and mental health, Mohammadi decides to find herself - the Italian way! Noticing how differently her new Italian neighbours approached life, she finally learns to enjoy life at a deliberately slower pace.

FICTION

The Mars Room

By Rachel Kushner After being incarcerated for manslaughter, Romy Hall’s life will never be the same. Starting two consecutive life sentences at Stanville Women’s Correctional Facility, deep in California’s Central Valley, she is severed from the life she once knew and loved. Faced with a new reality, Hall witnesses thousands of women hustling for the bare essentials needed to survive, the casual acts of violence by guards and prisoners alike as well as the absurdities of institutional living.

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• SOCIETY

#KIA #OPTIMA #AND #CERATO #2019 #LAUNCH 68

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#IKEA #FAMILY #DAY #OUT #AT #IKEA #BAHRAIN

ISLAND RIDES •

THE KIA FACTOR: NEW OPTIMA GT

KIA CONTINUES ITS MARCH TOWARDS GLOBAL CONQUEST WITH THE 2019 OPTIMA GT.

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• ISLAND RIDES

W

ith over three million KIA vehicles produced a year to be sold in around 180 countries, the increasing global interest in this emerging force of the motor world is obvious. We at Fact Magazine were kindly welcomed by The Bin Hindi Group to test drive the new Optima GT. Having enjoyed our previous encounters with KIA, we were more than happy to experience the latest this evolving brand has to offer.

The progress KIA has made in the mid-sized sedan segment is visually obvious. The new Optima GT is very easy on the eyes and one has to keep reminding oneself that this is in fact a KIA. This vehicle boasts a bold design and commanding presence. It is aerodynamically shaped with clean, sculptured lines, which are highlighted by several external features including the new hot-stamped grille and Bi-Xenon HID high-tech headlamps.

These, along with the rear lamps, air dam, side stills, and dual exhaust tips, all showcase the GT’s sport-orientated design; whilst the stylish 18-inch, 5-spoke alloy wheels, complete with chrome accents, hint at this car’s intentions for the road.

Sliding into the contoured seats, and placing hands on the sports steering wheel, one could immediately feel that this car means business. The striking look of the exterior is matched by the style and convenience of the interior. An array of quality materials and rich colours has been used throughout the vehicle. complete with aluminium finishes on the consoles. The heated and ventilated seats are 8-way power adjustable at the front and give one a great position from which to operate the vehicle. A great feature of this car is the Integrated Memory System that allows for the storing of seat, steering wheel and side mirror positions for two drivers, eliminating the annoyance of continuously adjusting the settings of your significant other.

The Optima’s interior is equipped with the latest technology including an 8-inch LCD touchscreen infotainment system with proprietary satellite-navigation. Also present is a premium sound system including 10 speakers, an 8-inch subwoofer with external amplifier as well as a 5-inch TFT-LCD touchscreen audio system. Imagine how great your favourite driving anthems will sound! A Dual-zone Full Auto Temperature Control, an Auto De-fog System and an electrically controlled three-piece panoramic sunroof add to an already comfortable driving experience.

There is plenty of head, leg and shoulder room throughout the GT and USB points are located at both the front and rear. A retractable, rear-door window sunshade helps passengers and cargo stay cool on sunny days. The rear seatbacks split 60:40 and fold flat for maximum capacity. The Smart Trunk System allows for the trunk to be opened with the key fob, which is a great help when loading the vehicle.

To start her up, all we needed was the presence of the smart key and a gentle push on the start/stop button. The new 2019 Optima Grand Turismo is powered by the Theta 2.4 DGi Engine capable of 6,000rpm and has a maximum power of 180HP. What this translates to is that this car is surprisingly fast. As we put the new KIA through her paces, we were pleasantly surprised 70

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by the amount of grip on offer, as well as the smoothness of the ride that the seamless shifting of the 6-speed automatic transmission provided. Being able to select from three drive modes namely Normal, Eco or Sport, allows for either economy or performance to take preference during the drive. All in all, we always felt in complete control and thoroughly enjoyed the feel of the GT as it effortlessly ate up the tarmac.

Complete with safety features including Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist, Auto Cruise Control, Parking Assist System, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and no less than seven airbags throughout the vehicle, one can hit the roads confident of the fact that KIA have put the safety of both yourself and your passengers at the forefront of this car’s design. Furthermore, KIA’s commitment to environmental preservation through their use of environmentally friendly materials and their constant efforts to lower emissions and fuel consumption is commendable.

The verdict, KIA has produced a sure winner in the new Optima GT, one that can rival any of its competitors in the mid-sized sedan segment. ✤

ISLAND RIDES •

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• ISLAND RIDES

“

KIA HAS PRODUCED A SURE WINNER IN THE NEW OPTIMA GT, ONE THAT CAN RIVAL ANY OF ITS COMPETITORS IN THE MID-SIZED SEDAN SEGMENT.”

GO: VISIT WWW.KIA.BINHINDI.COM 0R CALL 1740 8800 FOR MORE INFORMATION. 72

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ALL YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD SHOPPING NEEDS IN ONE LOCATION

saarmallbahrain

SAAR MALL is a stylish contemporary mall that offers something for everyone. Located at the heart of Saar district, it provides a broad variety of neighbourhood shops, food outlets and entertainment, with innovative events and promotions throughout the year. +973 17 790 203

info@Saarmallbahrain.com

www.saarmallbahrain.com fact magazine

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• MOTORING NEWS

PORSCHE PRESENTS THE NEW MACAN

Porsche has unveiled the new version of its compact SUV. The Macan has been a great success since its launch in 2014, and has now been enhanced in terms of design, comfort, connectivity and driving dynamics, resulting in the model remaining as the sporty flagship in its segment. Staying true to the Porsche design DNA, the new Macan features a three-dimensional LED tail light strip and LED headlights as standard. The most striking innovations inside the vehicle include the 11-inch touchscreen of the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM), re-designed and re-positioned air vents and the GT sports steering wheel familiar from the 911. The PCM also enables access to new digital functions, such as intelligent voice control. The vehicle’s range of comfort equipment has also been expanded to include an ioniser and windscreen heating.

The new Macan now has an even sportier and modern appearance, thanks to a number of changes to the exterior. Numerous details reflect the DNA of the iconic 911 and the 918 Spyder sports cars, including headlights featuring LED technology as standard.

The new Macan’s link to the 911 is further emphasised in the interior of the model with the optional GT sports steering wheel.

The mode switch plus Sport Response Button integrated into the steering wheel is also showcased in the compact SUV as part of the optional Sports Chrono Package. Porsche has extended the list of comfort options to include a heated windscreen and an ioniser to improve the air quality in the interior.

Through the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM), the Macan offers total connectivity and numerous digital functions.

Thanks to its optimised chassis, the new Macan is able to consolidate its exceptional status as a sports car in the compact SUV segment.

This car is one genuine success story! ✤ GO: FOR MORE INFORMATION VIST WWW.PORSCHE.COM/MIDDLE-EAST/BAHRAIN OR CALL 1745 9911.

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MOTORING NEWS •

MCLAREN 600LT GLOBAL DEBUT

The show-stopping ‘McLaren 600LT in Stealth Grey by MSO’, produced by bespoke division McLaren Special Operations, had its global reveal on the Concept Lawn at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on August 26.

Finished in a Stealth Grey MSO Bespoke paint, this unique car features a wide selection of upgrades from both the MSO Defined catalogue of options and MSO Bespoke customer choices, giving a preview of how much personalisation can be incorporated into McLaren’s lightest, most powerful road-legal Sports Series car.

Introduced in July at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, the McLaren 600LT epitomises the McLaren philosophy of producing lightweight sports cars and supercars that deliver extreme performance and exceptional driver engagement.

Featuring the unique LT top-exit exhaust, the car delivers 600PS and can sprint to 60mph in just 2.8 seconds on its way to a maximum speed of 204mph. Impressive to say the least! ✤ GO: WWW.BAHRAIN.MCLAREN.COM

TOYOTA MIDDLE EAST CUSTOMER SERVICE CONFERENCE At Goodwood Festival of Speed 2018, luxury British sportscar and supercar maker McLaren Automotive announced its ambitious, wide-ranging business plan that will take the company to its 15th anniversary. Track25 is an evolution of the Track22 plan that was first launched at the Geneva Motor Show in 2016 and the updated plan now includes significant new milestones.

Track25 sets out a clear roadmap for future vehicles, production and technology that will allow the brand to continue to position itself as a major global player in the sportscar and supercar market. McLaren is committed to ensuring that its sportscar and supercar range will be hybrid within seven years. True to the spirit of pushing the boundaries of technology to benefit drivers, McLaren will also evaluate new augmented driving features and help develop a lighter, superfast-charging, high-power battery system for performance applications that is expected to have over 30 minutes of electric range around a race track.

The company will also continue its drive to win the new

supercar ‘weight race’ by ensuring, as it does today, that each of its products is the lightest in their segment. This complements a £50m investment in developing and manufacturing the future of light weighting technology with the soon to-open McLaren Composites Technology Centre (MCTC). Once fully operational, the MCTC will mean around 57 per cent of vehicle content by value will be UK sourced. ✤ fact magazine

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• PLUGGED IN

APP-LICIOUS LET’S SEE WHAT’S ON THE SMARTPHONE AGENDA FOR SEPTEMBER…

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SkyView

AlarmMon

Take time out for yourself and relax and unwind with the SkyView app! An allin-one stargazing and sky guide app, it uses your phone’s screen and sensors to give you an augmented reality view of what’s up in the sky. Turn your devices into AR viewfinders and indentify stars, planets, constellations as well as information on select objects, planets and satellites. The app’s “time travel” feature also lets you view the sky as it would have been in the past or will appear in the future!

In today’s fast-paced life, getting a good night’s sleep has become harder than ever. Sleep better and wake up with a daily dose of cute with the AlarmMon app! Featuring a number of adorable stickers and cartoon characters to help wake you up, the app lets you set a variety of alarms while also displaying the weather and the news. From noisy or quite alarms to more involved alarms that incorporate characters and games to make sure you’re awake, AlarmMon will make your mornings so much better!

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PLUGGED IN •

FASHION, FUTURE, FREESTYLE… From having a sleek and stylish design to boasting amazing sound quality, a good speaker should be able to do it all. With so many options hitting the market, we decided to take the new Ultimate Ears Wonderboom Freestyle Collection for a spin.

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new collection inspired by global music and latest fashion trends; the Wonderboom Freestyle packs big sound and bold style into a super-portable speaker. While different speakers are better suited to different situations, the Wonderboom Freestyle Collection is your one-stop destination for a premium listening experience. Apart from some serious brag-worthy elements like great sound quality and good portability, the collection also features an array of fun and quirky designs.

A design to match your every vibe, the collection of pint-sized, Bluetooth speakers is decked out in five gorgeous colours. Take your pick from fashion forward hues and patterns including the neutral yet stylish Concrete, the subtle Avocado, the vibrant Patches, bold Raspberry or the delightful colour melt of pastels, Unicorn. All about expressing yourself, the new collection lets you reflect your personal style while totally elevating your listening experience.

The latest lineup to join the Ultimate Ears family, the speakers are incredibly compact and offer a surprisingly immense sound.

If you appreciate good, clear audio, you definitely need to check

them out! Complimenting the existing line of award-winning Wonderboom speakers, the new collection offers the same crisp 360-degree sound with balanced bass. Waterproof and worryproof, the Wonderboom is IPX7 rated and can be immersed in water up to one meter for up to 30 minutes, drop-proof from up to five feet, floats on its own and sports a hanging loop so it can be easily attached to any bag - perfect for vacations!

With up to a 10-hour battery life and 100-foot wireless Bluetooth range, the go-anywhere speakers are the ideal companion for the shower, beach days, your next music festival or pool party and even a trip into the desert. What’s more? The Ultimate Ears button on the top of the speaker lets you play, skip, pause, and double up two Wonderboom speakers for twice the fun. The perfect combination of quality, uniqueness and convenience, these speakers are definitely worth the faloos. ✤

GO: ULTIMATE EARS WONDERBOOM FREESTYLE COLLECTION IS AVAILABLE AT PARTICIPATING RETAILERS FROM AED419. fact magazine

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CHECK OUT OUR NEW WEBSITE www.fact-magazine.com 78

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FASHION FOCUS •

H&M STUDIO A/W 2018 Why choose just one look when you can play with an entire spectrum? This is the collection you need right now to spice up your wardrobe.

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WOMEN Taking the dream logic aesthetic of the cult series Twin Peaks as inspiration, the women’s collection is a mix of ladylike statement pieces and borrowed-from-the-boys wardrobe classics. Fifties movie icons, with their era-defining looks, provide further nostalgic stimulus. Opt for the chic precision of a sculpting wool dress and a cropped wool cardigan, worn under a nipped-in coated cotton trench coat. Or embrace your inner lumberjack, with the must-have indigo precision denim jacket and sturdy turn-up jeans, a jersey turtleneck lingering underneath. Then there’s the enlivening neon pop of a fuchsia-red feminine pleated skirt, set against the subversive wood grain print on a grungy viscose-silk suit. From square-toed boots to college kid cardigans; rough-and-ready selvedge denim to super-slick suiting; hard-edged biker jackets to bow-tied blouses, the H&M Studio collection has a neo-noir impulse this autumn, but there are multiple modern ways to wear it now. ✤

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HIM Heading on campus, the men’s collection embraces classic, Ivy League collegiate style, but subjects it to a series of clever contemporary and rebellious punk revisions. Set the new curriculum in an authentic retro duffel coat or a corduroy-collared, coffeehued, recycled-wool western jacket paired with a varsity letter sweater. Go mad-for-plaid with fresh-yet-fierce punk trousers and the cropped puffer jacket, its traditional saturated tartan given a modish update thanks to an athletic silhouette. Take on the preppy appeal of chunky cord slacks in a crisp navy cut. Will you welcome the season’s key piece, the traditional toggle-fastened navy duffel coat in a sporty, scuba-style wool? Or play the class ace via the navy varsity sweatshirt, with its authentic Harvard University emblem?

More expert layering statements include the tartan puffer jacket, a casual take on dapper plaid, and the wool collegiate letter sweater, in a cosy melange of steel grey and cream. ✤

GO: SHOP H&M’S STUDIO A/W 2018 COLLECTION IN STORES NOW. fact magazine

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• FASHION FOCUS

SHOP THE BRAND HERE’S OUR WISHLIST FROM H&M’S A/W 2018 COLLECTION FOR HER

FOR HIM

THIS COLLECTION IS AVAILABLE IN H&M STORES ACROSS THE GULF. 82

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AWARD WINNING WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY

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khalifashaheen

www.khalifashaheen.com

+973 17 593993

CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

A BRAZILIAN VICTORY

Bringing the land of carnivals and white sand beaches to the shores of Bahrain, Via Brasil at the Wyndham Garden Hotel Juffair is the newest spot in town that turns up the heat for all the Latin vibes to be enjoyed! FACT’s Layal Al Mahmoud indulges her carnivorous cravings at a restaurant that is easily every meat lover’s dream… fact magazine

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C

oming from a small village sprouted in the valley among tall green mountains, it is hard to live without beautiful scenery around me. Living in a house in Adliya did not help much if not for the humble garden that I try my best to plant with colours every time spring comes visiting.

So, when I go out, I make an effort to find a restaurant that not only brings good food to the table but one with a good view and spirit. At Via Brasil, located on the 28th floor of the Wyndham Garden Hotel in Juffair, you will find both. In addition to brilliant Brazilian grills too.

With an amazing view from above, the restaurant brings the soul of South American cuisine to the heart of Manama; the best of Brazilian meat in addition to other choices such as chicken and duck.

Stepping in, you get tingled by the vibes of the Caipirinhas’country. Modern set up, simple wooden chairs, copper pipes cruising the ceiling with lights and artworks reminiscent of street style, and the presence of football makes the bar extra exciting.

The Brazilian flag takes pride of place in the open kitchen, and a Jesus statue, resembling the famous Christ the Redeemer, guards the colorful houses.

And if you go in a group and wish for some privacy, there is a private table for eight at your service.

The focus in any Brazilian restaurant is the MEAT; tender, juicy, succulent meat barbecued with love and seasoned with passion to the point where, even me, someone who loves her veggies, would want to have nothing else but a bite of the flavorful good stuff. Of course, once you announce you are ready, by flipping your own little wooden piece to the green side, the specialised waiter will start bringing the various cuts lined skillfully on giant skewers – it’s a GO! And, one after the other, equipped with knowledge and a very big knife, they’ll slide off as many little pieces of savoury heaven as you wish – like small rewards of appreciation. Sirloin, tenderloin, rump... you name it, they’ve got it. This is the famous Brazilian way of eating, churrascaria style – and we LOVE it.

When you’ve warmed up to this fierce battle between man and skewer, a salad bar comes to the rescue with a variety of Brazil's favourites such as the cabbage and pineapple slaw, potato mayo salad, or the amazing shrimp ceviche. There is also an assortment of cheese along with crackers and jam that you may conclude your heroic meal with, if and when you decide there is no room for dessert.

And instead of the typical bread basket, you receive a plate of Brazilian cheese bread, cassava fingers, and sweet fried banana – can we just eat here every day please?

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

Chef Emanuel has come straight from Brazil to indulge diners in Bahrain with his authentic creations. He was kind enough to share with us a couple of the best Brazilian desserts: the rich Brazilian flan, a firm and more condensed version of the well known crème brulée, and passion fruit mousse; a citrusy white cloud of sweet dreams, perfectly ending our meaty dinner adventure.

After 8pm and all the way to midnight, Latino music played by "First Class" Cuban band, will unleash your appetite even more and through a celebratory feel in the air.

I cannot wait for the weather to cool down so I can book

a table on the terrace and watch the sunset whilst enjoying my favourite flavored shisha. This dinner experience is priced at a cool BD21++ with soft drinks and BD31++ with enhanced beverages. Travel with Chef Emanuel and his amazing crew to taste the best of what Brazil has to offer. ✤

ABOUT CHEF EMANUEL Chef Emanuel was born in 1983 in Porto Alegre city, the Capital of Rio Grande do Sul state, famous for its “Gaucho” culture. Also, the state where authentic Brazilian Barbecue was born.

He started to learn about Brazilian barbecue from childhood, when every Sunday his family gathered for a garden barbecue. His father taught him all the secrets of this family tradition from generations ago.

Gastronomy became his passion and 10 years ago he decided to travel the world. Chef Emanuel has worked in several countries in Europe, North America and South America, learning about the culture, food, language and lifestyle.

He also worked in the most famous barbecue steak house in Asuncion, Paraguay, were they serve more than 800 customers for Sunday lunch alone.

GO: CALL VIA BRASIL ON 6631 6666 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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ON THE MENU •

PRIME LINKS Fusing a creative, culinary-forward attitude with the best of International Cuisine, LINKS situated on the mezzanine floor of the Club House at Royal Golf Club, Bahrain has evolved to recently launch a new, modern menu of food with flair. FACT’s Jayne Green indulges…

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• ON THE MENU

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oodies, get ready to be spoiled with tantalising cuisine trends and fierce new flavours from LINKS with the launch of its new menu. Showcasing over 20 new additions, LINKS promises to delight you with mouth-watering bowls, succulent grills, and delicious dishes that all come premixed with LINKS’ unforgettable vibe.

With the cosmopolitan and urban visual direction that is already present, it only makes sense that LINKS gave its menu a beautiful face lift too.

The food innovation that has been developed is like no other, showcasing classics with a twist of style that only LINKS can accomplish. The menu also embraces the South African palate with exciting new additions of a sometimes surprising nature, such as South African Malva Pudding and... wait for it... Cheesy Garlic Snails from their Lounge Menu - I’ll let that one sink in for a minute - but, honestly, these little fellas are incredibly moreish and an absolute musttry! The culinary journey doesn’t end there and lovers of sumptuous cuts of meat are not forgotten as the menu maintains its renowned carnivorous stance with the most delectable of marinades that are succulently rubbed such as, Sirloin, Tenderloin and a selection of ribs, not forgetting the all too popular certified Angus Beef T-Bone that has already taken international markets by storm.

Inspired by Executive Chef Paul Gindra’s travels across Shanghai and Beijing, comes the Ramen section of the menu, complete with an unparallelled infusion of ingredients are the tender Hoisin Glazed Tofu and Crispy Roast Duck selection - which luckily all come with a handy bib! Flavourful ‘Power Bowls’ have also been introduced which are all the rage in major foodie capitals across the world - yay! With a number of interpretations that have become a staple, continuing trend and remain as the perfect social food for the dedicated foodie, it is no surprise that LINKS have given the public what they want. Bahraini elements are apparent across the menu such as Lamb Shank Ouzi and Grilled Hammour which are inspired by Middle Eastern aromas and spices. Speaking of seafood, the Rose Harissa Grilled Octopus with celeriac and bean puree, peppered wild spinach and 90

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ON THE MENU •

polenta fries was a personal favourite of mine and cooked to absolute perfection, as expected.

Overall, the new menu is host to an array of dishes that you can share (if you’re feeling generous), dedicated to good times, and delectable cuisine incorporating only the finest and freshest ingredients. Among its infamous features: new entrées; enticing plates, refreshed ingredients outside the usual standard and a chic menu design, all showcasing a new take on spirited dining.

While the menu continues to feature many of LINKS’ time-honoured favourites, its ample new additions bring an imaginative twist to classics, focusing on fresh, chef-inspired ingredients. Low-calorie and vegetarian items are abundant (you don’t HAVE to choose that salad or vegetable lasagne after all), and guests can sit comfortably knowing that that their cuisine of choice is widely available - even if you’re partaking in the likes of ‘Keto’ or ‘Paleo’ there is something tasty and suitable for everyone. LINKS’ innovative drinks menu presents a superb offering of whites, reds and bubblies; inspired fused drinks and also refreshing spirit-free drinks too!

While enjoying the delights of the new menu, you can continue to enjoy the electric vibe, no matter the occasion, whether business lunches, after-work sundowners with friends, the new menu has something for everyone. ✤

GO: VISIT LINKS AT THE ROYAL GOLF CLUB. CALL 1775 0777 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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• VENUE SPOTLIGHT

LIQUID INTELLIGENCE “Gorgeous views, friendly warm hospitality, great food and drinks” is everything that Hazel Rooftop Lounge promise every time that you enter their premises, therefore FACT’s Jayne Green had to test said statement and thankfully her report came back glittering with positive vibes.

H

azel Rooftop Lounge is the epitome of class, creating a fantastic hospitality experience reflecting Bahrain’s diverse restaurant and bar culture. Located within the iconic Block 338 area, you deserve to sit down and have a curated beverage just to drink in the atmosphere and bask in the stunning city views! Once you’ve arrived at Hazel and perhaps used their complimentary valet service you are greeted by one of their lovely hostesses who will guide you to the elevator where you will cascade upstairs where you’ll find breathtaking decor where its namesake becomes all the more clear with copper-rodded light bulbs and wood panels framing this urban jungle and you’d be right in thinking that Hazel wouldn’t look out of place amidst some of the renowned watering holes in New York. What makes the interior all the more interesting is that all of their materials have been sourced directly from the Kingdom of Bahrain and everything as far as the eye can see has been designed

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VENUE SPOTLIGHT •

in-house - everything. Their gastro inspired menu is at the very heart of our social home, after all food is the way to everyone’s heart and you cannot help but lap up each morsel from every perfectly executed dish that they serve, be that their mouthwatering Sesame Chicken Teriyaki Skewers or their Seared Salmon fillet with mashed potatoes, wild rocket, cherry tomatoes and white bean ragout drenched in red pepper coulis - now, if your mouth isn’t watering after reading that, well, you best go and see a doctor!

One can not visit Hazel and not be in awe of the artistic flair that goes into every drink consumed on the premises.

Their bartenders source local ingredients and apply modern techniques to indigenous ingredients to provide the perfect synergy during any social outing. Take their recent launch at the end of August of their ‘My Way’ experience with the iconic Johnnie Walker Black Label brand. My friend and I attended and we were completely flawed by the versatility that was presented in various drinking capacities with Johnnie Walker’s Black Label as it is not something either of us would usually drink, but, honestly, we will certainly be back - we had such a giggle being our very own makeshift bartenders and we definitely were taught a thing or two by the knowledgeable staff.

The night was further enhanced by the on-stage live entertainment of renowned Kuwaiti band ‘Timmy & The Catdawgs’ whom Hazel had flown in as part of their ongoing Hazel’s Monday Blues night. You’ll be excited to learn that they rotate their live entertainment on a weekly basis, all of which allows for a truly immersive night out especially since they are promoting the local Bahraini and Gulf musical scene, from individual sax, violin, trumpet and guitar jams with their in house DJ Eric through to full 5-6 piece bands of blues, indie and alternative music scenes.

Lukasz their Head Mixologist has affectionally been quoted as saying “ When your happiness is someone else's happiness, that is love.". Well, these trends exist because people, like the lovely folks here, are appreciating more details, focusing on quality and perfection, but, rest assured, Hazel are not just talk as they do ‘anarf deliver!

Oh, and did I mention that they have daily happy hours between 5-7pm? As if you really needed an excuse to visit... ✤

GO: FOLLOW @HAZELBAHRAIN ON INSTAGRAM OR CALL 1723 1231 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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• DINING DELIGHTS

EXPERIENCE JUMEIRAH As far as dining goes, there’s one place to check out this month for stunning, 5-star quality and delicious deals – enter Jumeirah Royal Saray Bahrain…

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nspired by Bahrain’s buzzing art, Jumeirah Royal Saray proposes upscale and trendy restaurants with contemporary menus, mixed drinks, a world-class coffee made by Colombian baristas and a unique experience by the private beach and Al Hadiqa’s pool cabanas.

THE PALM LOUNGE Experience a space that spills over with comfort, luxury and entertainment, with breath-taking views overlooking the turquoise blue waters of the Arabian Gulf – The Palm Lounge boasts an impressive space where big-city elegance meets luxury vacation resort.

Specifically designed as a dynamic, social space for work, play and entertainment, The Palm Lounge is an experience you can share together with friends or on your own, whether you’re looking to have breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, Brunch, drinks or a work meeting that takes things to a whole new level.

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globe, as well as those that originated and were cultivated on our very doorstep through a contemporary menu with a variety of dishes to suit any occasion.

In addition to our core menu, our classically trained pastry chef will be hand-crafting delicate and delectable chocolates and pastries for you.

You can enjoy as well, a variety of Shisha flavors available daily in our Outdoor areas.

OPENING HOURS: - Breakfast: 7am to 11am - Lunch: 11am to 3pm - Afternoon Tea: 3pm to 6pm - Dinner: 7pm to 11.30pm

FRIDAY JAZZ BRUNCH Every Friday at the Palm Lounge, we offer vibrant flavors in the lavish Jazz Brunch buffet where our talented chefs showcase a variety of world food, a number of live stations and a large

DINING DELIGHTS •

selection of cocktails.This delicate experience is accompanied by a five-piece Jazz band which creates a dazzling ambiance for you to enjoy the Friday Jazz Brunch.

Date: Every Friday Location: at The Palm Lounge Time: 1pm to 5pm Price: BD25++ per person for the full brunch buffet spread, inclusive of non-alcoholic beverages.

BD35++ per person for the full brunch buffet spread, inclusive of non-alcoholic beverages as well as selected alcoholic beverages. Children aged below 12 get 50% off.

BUSINESS LUNCH: EAST MEETS WEST Take your business lunch to the next level of excellence at The Palm Lounge.

Mix and match from your choice of Western & Oriental cuisines and enjoy a delicious seasonal and locally sourced produce.

Date: Every week from Sunday to Thursday Location: at The Palm Lounge Time: 12pm to 2.30pm Price: Two courses (40 minutes, BD11++) or three courses (60 minutes, BD14++).

LIVE BBQ Unwind with friends and family and indulge in a unique culinary experience by the pool with a wide selection of authentic dishes featuring Live DJ. Date: Every Saturday Location: at Al Hadiqa Pool and Beach Time: 1pm to 6pm Price: Hotel guests have complimentary access with A la carte menu for the BBQ. For walk-in guests BD30++ per person. This will include a complimentary welcome beverage and full access to the pool and beach.

Children aged below 12 are priced at 50% for entrance. Kids a la carte menu is also available.

allowing guests to relax, socialize, and celebrate in an electric environment that stimulates the senses. Every Wednesday, PLAY organizes a Late Brunch with live music, Ladies’ Night on Monday and “PLAY BY DAY” every Saturday from 2pm till dark.

OPENING HOURS: Lunch: From 12pm to 3pm Dinner: Saturday to Tuesday 7pm to 1am.

Wednesday to Friday 7pm to 2am. ✤

PLAY RESTAURANT PLAY Restaurant has created an atmosphere of effortless indulgence; a sanctuary for everyone who approaches life in a more playful way. The PLAY concept has been carefully curated to unlock new possibilities in culinary pleasure,

GO: CALL 7770 7070 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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• PEP TALK

The Comeback Yvonne Cole is a Personal Trainer and believes that when you eat clean, train hard and trust the process, your consistency and patience pays off.

Returning to working out after an injury or having a baby can be a daunting process, but once you decide you want to start again just go for it, and by that, I mean start to plan it.

If you’ve just had a baby, I know your first thought is weight loss, but your focus should be on good technique and consistency, just get your body used to moving again.

Make sure you have child care in place if you need it and don’t try and jump back into where you left off. Take your time and work up to it.

Follow a plan and set yourself goals as without goals it’s hard to track your progress.

Make sure as the weeks go on that you push yourself as you don’t want to be in week 8 where you were in week 1.

If you’re coming back from injury and, like me, have had months off, remember you can’t jump straight back to lifting the weights you were lifting before. You need to remember muscle atrophy in the injured body part that needs to be built up again, this might take months or years depending on how bad the injury was; this means your come back will be more rehabilitation based.

If you don’t know how to structure a rehab programme, it’s very important that you find a personal trainer or strength and conditioning coach who can help you along the right path and aid your recovery. ✤

GO: Email ymcfitness@gmail.com or call 3466 0453 for more information.

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Modest Moments Georgina Jennsen is the lady behind the popular lifestyle blog, blonde in bahrain. a social media influencer who loves all things luxurious.

Modesty, in many different forms, is having a moment. Turn on the TV to catch “Tiny House”, type #nospend into Insta to find thousands of frugal-folk tribes, grab a high-fashion glossy to see an uber-haute covergirl, who may happen be wearing a hijab. At first glance, all of the above may seem somewhat unrelated. However they all stem from a basic desire to be modest - in the way we live, shop, and dress.

The tiny house trend is an architectural and social movement that sees home-owners downsizing dramatically, into living spaces that are the same size as a shoebox. They claim it gives them freedom, not only financially, but also in terms of liberating them from their unnecessary stuff. And I love that, because none of us should be beholden to our stuff, no matter how lovely it is.

The no-spend movement is similarly centered upon a rejection of the consumer cycle. It may last a month i.e. #nospendseptember or a whole year, and it usually asks of advocates to save more than they spend. I’m trying to nospend as we speak, as my wardrobe is full-to-bursting with unworn impulse buys.

But of course we can’t mention modesty and not talk fashion.

It seems that finally the world has started to see that faith and fashion can co-exist, and look absolutely fabulous in the process. ✤

GO: Keep up with Georgina at www.blondeinbahrain.com and on instagram @blondeinbahrain.

SOCIETY •

Modest Expression Aanchal Duggal is an avid bibliophile and fashion enthusiast trying to make a living out of doing what she loves.

Aanchal is new to Bahrain & exploring!

An expression of self and a display of individuality, fashion has always been an integral part of our society. While fashion holds a different meaning for everyone globally, the Middle East gives it a whole new shape and form. Fusing local traditions with Western dress, the rise of the modest fashion movement has not gone unnoticed. From some really gorgeous and inspiring bloggers to the evolving fashion in the region’s entertainment industry, the Middle East is truly slaying the game. Constantly keeping up with the latest styles and trends, the region’s fashion scene is truly one of its kind. Incorporating latest fashion without completely giving up traditional attire, a whole new generation of designers is revolutionising the world of Arab fashion.

While men’s fashion is also growing and progressing, it is the women in fashion who have truly made their mark in the industry. In recent years, the Middle East has witnessed the advent of traditional clothing into the modern era.

Embracing and advancing the beautiful heritage and culture of the region, fashion has taken a whole new meaning here in the Middle East. Achieving global status, modest fashion is being recognised around the world with many designers releasing contemporary yet all-inclusive lines. Breaking barriers, stereotypes and preconceived notions, fashion in the Middle East is truly in a league of its own and it is just getting started! ✤

#SAAR #MALL #EVENT GO: Email aanchalduggal1@gmail.com for more information. fact magazine

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ISLAND INSIDER

Justin Kim General Manager, The Merchant House

Hi Justin! Welcome to Bahrain - share with us three elements that make The Merchant House stand out in the hospitality sector?

The Merchant House, A Campbell Gray Hotels, will seamlessly emerge as an exceptional hotel in Bahrain. Part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the world, located at the heart of the old Manama souq in Bab Al Bahrain, The Merchant House is the place to stay for regional and international travellers looking to explore Bahrain’s history and culture.

The Merchant House is an art inspired hotel reflecting local authenticity in design and service. Artwork will be a prominent feature of the interior design and Gordon Campbell Gray has, over the past year, been putting together an exciting art collection comprising well established Bahraini artists.

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of the hotel is the rooftop, where the venue offers both indoor and outdoor dinging options. The design here is akin to a garden - rather unexpected and truly vibrant in colour - the feel is of a little magic kingdom on the roof; easy and relaxed, as will be the food.

What are your first impressions of Bahrain? Have you found some cultural spots that you're particularly fond of?

I have been absolutely pleased with Bahrain, such an ancient and unique history, that is reflected in various historical sites around the country as well as at the National Museum.

I also find the Adliya neighborhood particularly fascinating, with a great combination of new and old architecture, a current/evolving scene in food and beverage, it is definitely one of my favourite spots in Bahrain.

Professionally, what are some of your goals with The Merchant House over the next 12 months?

At The Merchant House, a great emphasis will be placed on service and a sense of recognition yet privacy. Our aim is to make it the hotel of choice for leisure and business travellers alike, created for interesting and individuallyminded cosmopolitan guests.

We believe by unveiling this luxury boutique hotel, we will be expanding the hospitality offerings in Bahrain.

Also, we would like to focus our marketing strategy not only on promoting The Merchant House, but also Bahrain, thus joining the outstanding campaigns lead by the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibition Authority to develop unique tourism products and experiences that sets Bahrain apart from its competitors.

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