FACT Dubai March 2018 by Fact ME

MARCH 2018 VOL 1. ISSUE 06 AED&ĂĐƚ ƵďĂŝ 10

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~ Where The Magic Happens ~ CREATIVE CALLING LOCAL TALENT AND ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT

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INSPIRING CONTENT CREATORS ON THE ‘GRAM

MAKING MOVEMENTS UAE STARTUPS TO LOOK OUT FOR IN 2018

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Get ready to raise the ‘steaks’ with our range of premium quality meats at The St. Regis Dubai’s award-winning steakhouse. Savor an unsurpassed selection of Tomahawk cuts expertly prepared by our creative chefs to suit your palate. AED 850 for two persons including a bottle of vintage, two appetizers, two sides and a dessert to share Every Tuesday, 6:30 pm to midnight

J&G Steakhouse, The St. Regis Dubai Al Habtoor City, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai +971 4 435 5577, jgsteakhouse.dubai@stregis.com jgsteakhousedubai.com

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CONTENTS

29 40 45 CREATIVE CALLING

CREATIVE STARTUPS

ART DUBAI

61 67 75

STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT

CITY RIDES

FASHION FOCUS

87 94 96 CULINARY SPOTLIGHT

FOODIE CORNER

SPA & WELLNESS

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• THE EDITOR

The Time is Now!

“

Life begins at the end of your comfort zone. - Neale Donald Walsch

hen I first moved to the Gulf, a friend gifted me with a phone case that had the exact quote above boldly written on the back. So, every time I picked up my phone, it was a reminder that leaving my comfort zone of small-town life in the northwest of England was a move that catapulted me towards more chances for learning, growing, and experiencing things I had only dreamed of. THIS, is the exact reason why I love the UAE. It’s the country of opportunity. With so many cool, creative initiatives to get both local and expat communities involved, the Emirates is a nurturing place for young startups, talented individuals and everything from artistic skills to traditional business models and even more out-of-the-box activities . This is where many people can leave their comfort zones and turn ideas into tangible projects and lifestyles. At FACT, we love nothing more than to celebrate this buzz of brilliant minds and boundary-breaking people who constantly prove that hard work and a supportive environment can lead to incredible things. Turn to p29 and let us take you on a Creative Calling; meet Kharsha, the first-ever Japanese-Emirati drumming band who despite not even having a place to practice, are shaking up the cultural music scene with their intense passion for playing the drums. Next, Emirati mumpreneur Aisha Alkhaja shares her journey into the e-commerce world and how personal experiences can turn into ideas and eventually an up-andrunning business. We also tell you about some of our favourite UAE content creators to follow on instagram (p38) and the latest startups and small businesses to hit the Emirates that are worth taking note of (p40). With Art Dubai setting the city ablaze with creativity, we shine a spotlight on some of the world’s most renowned artists whose work will be displayed for visitors to marvel this month. Hassan Hajjaj teams up with 81 Designs to show how art and humanity bring comfort to each other (p45); and over at Opera Gallery, the master of multiple mediums, Manolo Valdes, shares his striking work (p54); whilst DIFC plays host to one of the art world’s most legendary names - the one and only Salvador Dali (p50). 2018 could very well be your year of creative change! In the words of my favourite Mean Girls’ quote: “The limit does not exist.”☺

Shabana Adam Editor-in-Chief shabana@fact-magazine.com

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FACT Magazine Dubai Edition • MARCH 2018 VOLUME 01, ISSUE 06

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER GREG HUGHES PUBLISHER EDWARD SMITH EDITOR-IN-CHIEF SHABANA ADAM (shabana@fact-magazine.com) ASSISTANT EDITOR AANCHAL DUGGAL LOCAL EDITOR ANGELA BEITZ SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER JYOTI RAWAT CONTRIBUTOR DAVID TAPLEY PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID TAPLEY PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION NEIL MAHMOOD AJIT KUMAR ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES EDWARD SMITH (edward@ohlala-magazine.com) PRINTED BY UNITED PRINTING PRESS

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. FZ-LLC cannot accept legal responsibility for any erroneous content or omissions. FACT M.E. FZ-LLC, Office 907E, TwoFour54, Park Rotana Complex, P.O. Box 769328, Abu Dhabi, UAE License Number: D.L. 361/17/F

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MARCH 2018 VOL 1. ISSUE 06 AED&ĂĐƚ ƵďĂŝ 10

Combining all four editions of FACT in Dubai 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. 6084010480095

Your one-stop culture fix for life in Dubai | First for local talent, arts, fashion, dining and all the coolest events in the city | 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 Dubai in local supermarkets now!

~ Where The Magic Happens ~ CREATIVE CALLING LOCAL TALENT AND ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT

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INSPIRING CONTENT CREATORS ON THE ‘GRAM

MAKING MOVEMENTS UAE STARTUPS TO LOOK OUT FOR IN 2018

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Enas Sis-tani @ENAS_SISTANI My new pastime activity is going on the snapchat map and watching random snaps of my fav cities and attractions. Current addiction: La Rambla and the Louvre!

Mahamad @DROODKIN It finally happened; i auditioned for stand-up comedy and used my tweets as material.

Mahmood Zeyad @MAHMOODZEYAD A man just walked into this caribou and tried to order a grape mint sheesha. I really needed to see this today. Mohammed @M_EGGZ “Forgot to attach file reminder” appreciation tweet.

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Tamara Clarke @TAMARACLARKE So nursery just called and told me that my son had his breakfast snack but he’s also requesting to eat his lunch now. It’s 9:19am.

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VALENTINE’S DAY: DINNER DATES, GIFT IDEAS & WELLNESS TREATS. ARTS SPOTLIGHT: THE MAGIC OF LA PERLE BY DRAGONE. WEEKEND ESCAPES: MOUNTAIN ROMANCE IN OMAN.

issuu.com FACT Dubai 50,000+ followers reading every month 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 entertainment, in Dubai.

• CREATIVE CALLING- P29 •

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Superior Staycations Indulge in our popular Friday Brunch and stay exquisite in one of our Superior Sea View rooms. Located at the vibrant heart of Abu Dhabi with a 200 metre stretch of pristine beach, overlooking the turquoise waters of the Nation Riviera Beach Club at the finest address in the city. Inclusions: • Overnight Stay in a Superior Sea View room • Friday Brunch for Two at the Terrace on the Corniche • Thursday Night Dinner or Saturday New York Breakfast • 20% Off in hotel bar and lounges • Late Check-Out until 6 pm

Live Exquisite this Weekend from AED 1390* for Two. *All rates are subject to availability at time of request and are inclusive of a 10% service fee, a 6% tourism fee, a 4% municipality fee and VAT taxes

The St. Regis Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates t. +971 2 694 4444 stregisabudhabi.com

Stay exquisite at more than 40 St. Regis hotels and resorts worldwide. fact magazine @stregishotels

• CHECK IT OUT

FACT FINDS

Loungin’ at Levee INSPIRED BY GASTRONOMIC DISCOVERIES IN THE CONTEXT OF BEAUTIFUL SPACES, LEVEE CAFÉ AND LOUNGE PROVIDES DINERS WITH A SENSORY FOOD EXPERIENCE ANCHORED BY MEANINGFUL DESIGN.

SITUATED ON THE NORTH SIDE of La Mer with oceanic views, Levee serves French Mediterranean food set to an urban beat. The all-day dining menu takes cue from what’s in season meaning that dishes are ingredient-led and shaped by market finds. Levee’s kitchen is led by Chef Chandima Alawata, who values dishes that reflect heartfelt home cooking. His cuisine de coeur is evident in the flavour combinations, unveiling and pretty plating. Familiar and of-the-moment breakfast dishes include Eggs Florentine and Açai Bowls, while lunch and dinner promise a more seafaring influence with signature dishes such as Canadian Lobster Tail, Red Snapper Carpaccio and the Seafood Risotto. Chef Chandi relies on his knowledge and intuition to engineer a menu that evolves and seasonally updates, but it’s the imagination behind Chef Chandi’s philosophy that really underscores the whole enterprise. A Coffee & Juice Mixology Bar as well as Bakery & Pastry Studio form key aspects of the concept. All bread and cakes are freshly prepared by a team of in-house pastry makers who rise before 8

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dawn each day to begin their magic. It’s an experimental way of baking with 92 recipes in rotation. Guests can choose between beachside-chic on the thriving alfresco terrace or cozy-metropolitan nestled amongst marble kissed interiors with highlights of sunlit copper. It’s an environment that fits to the vibe and to the company; a place where Bang & Olufsen screens and Balearic inspired music are complemented by classic fresh florals. Levee, like its name implies acts as a resting place or dock offering the blueprint to successfully mix cosmopolitan living with warmth and seaside detail anchored by gastronomy and design the heart and soul of this experiential venue. ✤

GO: VISIT LEVEE AT NORTH 53, LA MER – JUMEIRAH 1. OPEN FROM 8AM TO 12MIDNIGHT. CALL (0)4 380 2000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

ONCE IN A LIFE TIME E X P E R I E N C E T H AT I S E X C L U S I V E LY Y O U R S .

ABU DHABI

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Take sanctuary from the bustle of the everyday at InterContinental Abu Dhabi where an exclusive escape awaits you. Wether you are simply taking in the spectacular view from any one of our exquisit guest rooms, relaxing with a tranquile dip in the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s swimming pools, or indlulging in a gastronomic adventure at any of the 9 award winning restaurants and bars with all inclusive dine around consept. Our facilities, people and wealth of knowledge will ensure you are fully rested and recharged.

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For more information please visit intercontinental.com/abudhabi

Li v e th e Int e r C o nti n e nt a l l ife .

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LATIN FOOD LOVIN’ Inspired by all things Latin, Vida Downtown’s delicious Urban Picnic Friday feast is taking guests on an epicurean expedition to Latin America, and it’s one memorable culinary journey… FEATURING THE LARGEST SALAD station in town with more than 40 ingredients and flavours from over six countries, you’re going to fall in love with greens, purples, yellows and all the yummy healthy exports straight out of Latin America. Once you’ve stocked up on the fresh salads, head over to the glorious pizza station! Named after iconic personalities such as Fidel Castro, the pizzas on offer include El Diablo – made of beef and chilli and La Fiesta – with pineapple and turkey – a tasty explosion of flavours. Enjoy Vida’s legendary sizzling live barbeque station while you lounge by the pool andtuck into a fiesta of dishes such as smoked beef brisket; bistec ahumado; slow cooked lamb neck and cuero de cordero. THIS is the part of the Friday afternoon treat that’s made for every meat eater with a craving for carnivorous goods! Guests can play Latin Lingo with an incredible array of dishes from the Chef’s kitchen including Platanos Fritos and Frijoles negros. The large selection of Nachos and Tacos at the nacho station is as good as it gets when it comes to reppin’ mouthwatering Pan-Latin ingredients and flvaours. Try the authentic Chilli Con Carne – it’s one of the best we’ve ever tasted in Dubai – with real traditional flair. The churro station – probably the quirkiest of all – takes you on a journey from when Brazil won the football World Cup and Juan Peron was President of Argentina. Enjoy sugary and chocolatey churro variations including Warm Churros, Churro Caliente, Churros Shot, and Tiro de Churros. If that isn’t a true churro fix, we don’t know what is! A nice added touch is that every guest will be handed a passport which entails the site map with all the stations. Your very own Latin passport taking you on a voyage through the ever-innovative picnic brunch! ✤

GO: THE LATIN URBAN PICNIC BRUNCH TAKES PLACE AT 3IN1, VIDA DOWNTOWN, EVERY FRIDAY FROM 1PM TO 5PM. AED310 PER PERSON INCLUDING SOFT BEVERAGES AND AED360 PER PERSON INCLUDING HOUSE BEVERAGES. CALL (0)4 888 3444 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. 10

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THE FISH HOUSE A fresh culinary concept new to Dubai’s dining scene has opened its doors at Dubai Festival City’s prestigious waterfront. Located in the 5-star InterContinental Hotel, The Fish House comprises local fish along with quality and personalisation. INSPIRED BY LOCAL HERITAGE and the simplicity of diligently sourcing the freshest produce, The Fish House delivers an authentic dining experience, accompanied by a social and warm atmosphere. The restaurant is built on a simple premise of promising the freshest range of fish combined with the appreciation of individual preference and palate. Unconstrained by tradition, fresh produce is prepared and cooked to suit the taste buds of each guest, offering a diverse and varied array of customisation options. Ben Nicholas, Restaurant General Manager, The Fish House, says: “The centrepiece of The Fish House experience is our signature raw bar which houses our charcoal and wood grill, allowing our team to prepare your meal right at the heart of the venue. “In addition, our hero Fish House Tower dishes are what sets us apart, showcasing an impressive assortment of premium fresh delicacies of the ocean. We cherish the food, the theatre and the atmosphere,” he adds. The cold bar houses the catch of the day on ice, enabling diners to interact with the chef whilst choosing how they would like to tailor through cooking style, side and sauce. Options include deep fried, pan fried, poached, oven baked, breaded and barbequed, offering something for everyone. James Koratzopoulos, Regional General Manager, Dubai and Area General Manager, InterContinental Hotels at Dubai Festival City, says: “Over the last century fishing and pearl diving have been at the heart of Emirati life, with The Gulf playing home to a wide variety of fish and sea treasures. The Fish House is the proud recipient of this daily bounty and we are extremely excited to be able to share this boat to table dining experience.” Seafood lovers, this place was MADE for you! ✤ 12

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GO: VISIT THE FISH HOUSE AT INTERCONTINENTAL DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY. CALL (0)4 701 1127 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

WELCOME TO THE CROSSROADS

Discover Abu Dhabiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest trendy urban hotspot. Meet, share and unwind as you enjoy great food and beverages. Al Nafoura Lounge, your new outdoor living room.

Only at Beach Rotana... For bookings log on to rotanatimes.com, call 02 6979011 or email fb.beach@rotana.com fact magazine

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SOUTHERN BRAZILIAN DINING Fogo de Chão, founded in Brazil nearly 40 years ago, has opened its flagship restaurant and newest location in DIFC’s Central Park Towers . FOUNDED IN PORTO ALEGRE, Brazil in 1979, Fogo de Chão, meaning ‘fire on the ground’, refers to the centuries-old grilling techniques of churrasco, where meats are slow cooked over an open fire that reaches temperatures beyond 800° degrees Fahrenheit, or over 420° degrees Celsius, exposing their natural flavours. Every cut of meat is carved tableside by Brazilian-trained gaucho chefs, led by Brazilian native, Head Gaucho Chef, Jonas Ribeiro dos Santos. The internationally-renowned Brazilian steakhouse has opened its newest location in Dubai’s DIFC at Central Park Towers. The opening marks Fogo’s second location in the Middle East with joint venture partner the Enany Group of Companies, and its 51st location globally. Fogo de Chão, which began in Brazil, has locations around the world including São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, New York City, Beverly Hills, Miami and Mexico City, to name a few. “Dubai is an exquisite global destination and we are delighted to share Fogo de Chão’s Brazilian hospitality, cuisine and churrasco dining experience with this city’s full-time residents and international visitors alike,” said Larry Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of Fogo de Chão. “We are proud to be part of Dubai’s dynamic culinary scene, and to continue our international growth with this exciting new location.” Located in Dubai’s sophisticated DIFC district, the new Fogo de Chão is ideally situated near City Walk, Emirates Towers, and Downtown Dubai. In addition to a main dining area, the location will also boast the Fogo Bar & Lounge, a shisha lounge, private dining areas, courtyard and an outdoor terrace with striking views of the Burj Khalifa. The new Dubai restaurant will be serving Fogo’s signature selection of premium cuts of meat, a gourmet Market Table of fresh seasonal salads, fruits and vegetables, and an extensive list of craft cocktails, elevated spirits, and an award-winning wine list assembled by Fogo’s Sommeliers. Guests will enjoy the restaurant’s elegant indoor setting, or choose to dine on the outdoor terrace. Meat eaters, this one’s got your name written all over it! ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.FOGOME.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. 14

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BLOSSOMING AFTERNOONS

Welcoming Japanese traditions and culture, Lobby Lounge celebrates the Cherry Blossom season with hand-crafted pastries and savouries. 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 29 March, 14.00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 18.00 AED 220 Koto performance on 26 March, 17.00

T. +971 2 811 5666 | E. JADrestaurants@jumeirah.com

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BEIRUT VIBES: +961 BRUNCH

KISHMISH: AFGHAN SOUL FOOD

THIS MONTH, WE’RE DIALING up the party feels at the all-new +961 Brunch at BHAR Modern Middle Eastern Brasserie. Chef Mohanad Alshamali has whipped up a sampling of regional culinary favourites that showcase his signature flair. With features including marinated poussin, Turkish beef tartare and sweet milk bastille, every bite will be the perfect pair to his restaurant’s boozy beverages. Find yourself sipping on a selection of heritage drinks while local DJ Karrouhat takes to the decks to heat up the vibes with his own eclectic sounds. Experience the newest brunch in town amongst vibrant Arabic surroundings and stunning starlit canal views, located at the 5-star Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai. Priced at AED250 with soft beverages and AED350 with house beverages. Brunch takes place every Friday from 7.30pm to 11pm. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.BHAR-DUBAI.COM OR CALL (0)4 512 5511 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. KISHMISH, DUBAI’S FIRST GOURMET Afghan street and soul food restaurant, has opened its doors at Dar Al Wasl mall. The authentic Afghan eatery tells the tale of three patriotic Afghan women with a shared love for food, nostalgia for home, and a mutual dream: to share the riches and comforts of Afghan food with the world. Diners will enjoy a relaxing dining experience in a friendly, family-oriented atmosphere. Iman, Fatima and Homaira have been family friends for generations, whilst they grew up outside of their native land, each of them holds an innate appreciation for their history, rich culture and, of course, their native tongues. Having grown up learning of their culture over traditional Afghan meals, the trio find a unique bond between the cuisine and the celebration of their native cultures. Kishmish is the actualisation of their dream, to bring the sights, sound and flavours of the bustling Kabul streets to the world, an education through gastronomical experiences. Aiming to revive the identity of Afghanistan, Kishmish provides the same tastes and experiences. Capturing the complexity of aromas and tastes to represent a unique fusion of South, West and Central Asian cuisines; bringing them all together in a gastronomic harmony that is a mirror reflection of Afghanistan’s geographical location. Serving great food by great people with a greater purpose! ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.KISHMISH.AE OR CALL (0)4 349 6665 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. 16

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THE STRIKE AT Q’S BAR & LOUNGE Q’s Bar and Lounge, Quincy Jones’ first-ever bar and lounge located at Palazzo Versace Dubai, will play host to The Strike, a five-member independent band who will grace the stage until May 12. UTAH-BASED BAND The Strike pride themselves in bringing true funk and rock back to pop music with captivating performances and infectious personalities. They travel to Dubai with a large, beloved following, and have become renowned for their incredibly high-energy performance style, songwriting, powerful tenor lead vocalist, and refined musicianship. Quincy Jones, says: “Man, The Strike is the REAL deal! These are the exact types of musicians we need at the forefront, and they know how to do it right. I can feel them expressing their heart and soul through their music, and I can’t wait for Dubai to feel it too!” Formed in 2012, the band is headed by front man Chris Crabb and supported by Brady Bills on guitar, Chase Baker on bass, Myles Lawrence playing the saxophone, Marcus Anderson on trombone and keyboards, and Matt Millington on the drums. ‘The Strike’ have achieved an impressive portfolio of performances on the same ticket as high profile artists such as Kelly Clarkson, Journey, and Macy Gray, as well as licensing music to popular programs - NBC’s “America’s Got Talent”, and ABC’s “Dancing With The Stars”. ‘The Strike’ continue to captivate audiences with popular songs including “Atom Bomb” and “Warriors” and promise thrilling, unique performances. Quincy Jones, the maestro behind Q’s Bar and Lounge, is a genius American record producer, musician and composer. As a master inventor of musical hybrids, he has shuffled pop, soul, hip-hop, jazz, classical, African, and Brazilian music into many dazzling fusions, traversing virtually every medium, including records, live performance, movies, and television. Guests will be drawn into the intimate living room space at Q’s, which is decked out with plush furniture and mahogany 18

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tables facing the vibrant stage. Q’s offers high-quality comfort food stirred by New York and New Orleans culinary culture, and a wide selection of rare beverages in the FROW to the world’s finest music acts complemented by unmatched acoustics. ✤

GO: VISIT Q’S BAR AND LOUNGE AT PALAZZO VERSACE DUBAI. CALL (0)4 556 8865 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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OLD SOUL, NEW TRADITIONS Those hungry for a laid-back alternative to the typical Friday lunch are in luck, thanks to an exciting new offering from The Artisan by Enoteca Pinchiorri. ACROSS ITALY, WEEKEND LUNCH is a weekly staple; a time when, no matter how busy during the week, friends come together to catch up and laugh over traditional hearty fare. With most shops and amusements closed, there’s no excuse for avoiding the weekly celebration of life and love. Whether dining in or out, there’s no time for modesty, as the food comes in hard and fast, and no glass is left unfilled. Every Friday, The Artisan celebrates Italian generosity with a set of offerings, reminiscent of a rustic Italian feast. After a relaxing welcome drink, diners are offered a choice of two antipasti – ranging from mouth-watering wagyu carpaccio with bagna cauda sauce, chives and tangy lemon to a creamy bruschetta burrata with basil pesto, anchovies and cherry tomato. With conversation and drinks in full flow, next comes a delightfully comforting helping of homemade agnolotti pasta, oozing with sweet pumpkin and a butter sage sauce. In true Italian style, this is followed by a choice of classic cuts and staple dishes, such as a juicy lamb rack with bold bronte pistachio and aubergine cream, or a sensational sea saltcrusted seabream with vierge sauce, shared with loved ones. If that wasn’t enough, there are also plenty of mashed potatoes with Parmesan, and peperoni al forno, marinated with cappers, mint and garlic, to go around. Of course, no Italian feast is complete without a delicious 20

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dessert and coffee to send diners home with bellies and hearts full, and The Artisan’s Executive Chef, Luca Tresoldi, has prepared a selection of his finest Italian treats. The Artisan’s La Dolce Vita Friday menu is available from 12pm to 4pm. Diners can enjoy the set menu and soft drinks for AED295, plus vino and spirits for AED395 and Prosecco for AED445. Prices include a welcome drink. ✤

GO: VISIT THE ARTISAN BY ENOTECA PINCHIORRI AT DAMAN TOWER, DIFC. CALL (0)4 338 8133 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

DIVERSE. AFFORDABLE. ORIGINAL.

18 - 21 APR 2018 Dubai World Trade Centre

Live it. Love it. Buy it. Bringing affordable art to the Middle East

World Art Dubai is a unique fusion of world-class art, entertainment and education for art lovers, corporate buyers and private collectors in Dubai and across the Middle East. Showcasing a diverse collection of contemporary paintings, photography, sculptures, mixed media and digital art, all priced between $100 - $20,000.

SUBSCRIBE NOW TO WORLD ART DUBAI NEWSLETTER WWW.WORLDARTDUBAI.COM/NEWSLETTER

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HANGIN’ AT THE YARD Meraas has unveiled The Yard, an eclectic new destination in Dubai’s rapidly developing Al Khawaneej area. The suburban hideaway encompasses Last Exit D89, rustic courtyard, lake, walking trails, picnic area, restaurants, and shops. THE MOST RECENT ADDITION to The Yard comprises a rustic courtyard, an organic farmer’s market, a bakery, airconditioned and open-air restaurants and dining spaces, a unique mix of shops, a lake with two bridges spanning it, shaded walking trails and landscaped picnic areas. The design of The Yard is inspired by the surrounding neighbourhoods, known as Dubai’s agricultural heartland. The architecture, interiors and landscaping create a laidback ambience for families from the local community and beyond to enjoy. Nouf AlMheiri, Architect at Meraas, said: “The Yard reflects Meraas’s strong commitment to creating imaginative and exciting family-friendly destinations that provide opportunities for Dubai’s residents and visitors to share unforgettable experiences. “In line with our vision of connecting communities through the many sectors that we operate in, the destination’s offerings seek to enhance people’s happiness and sense of belonging.” Blending rural farm environment with urban accents, The Yard has a distinctive visual identity with playful murals that provide an ideal backdrop for photographs. An 18-metre-tall windmill, a water mill, a wishing well, decorative vintage pickup trucks, farm animals and bird houses further augment the

photogenic appeal of the destination. Adding a hint of nostalgia, The Yard features a ‘Promise Bridge’, where people can make symbolic pledges to their loved ones by attaching padlocks. The city’s very own lovelock bridge is set to be a popular crowd-drawer! Steppingstones lead visitors from the main courtyard to the lake and picnic areas, where they can follow a wholesome breakfast, lunch or dinner with a casual stroll or brisk walk around the 550-metre walkway. The destination features ample parking, drop-off points, and convenient services and amenities, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It will also host community events that bring residents and visitors together to socialise, explore, learn, play, create and innovate. This 24/7 destination is set to be the next biggest hangout in Dubai! ✤ 22

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ISTANBUL NIGHTS Continuing to introduce innovative and lively dining concepts to Dubai, Rixos Premium Dubai is now offering a culinary voyage to Turkey and there’s a number of yummy reasons why you should get onboard! THIS MONTH, TURQUOISE RESTAURANT at the stunning Rixos Premium Dubai embraces the cultural crossroads of Turkey and launches the hotel’s Istanbul Nights, a new weekly celebration of music, drinks, and food packed with entertainment, pop-up bars and poolside refreshment. From Izmir to Istanbul, Çorum to Çorlu, and Ankara to Dubai, there’s nothing quite like some Anatolian exhilaration to begin a great weekend at Rixos Premium Dubai. After making it to the end of yet another work week, Thursdays are for getting together, letting your hair down, and raising a glass to say ‘şerefe’ to your friends. That’s why every second Thursday, Rixos Premium Dubai is filling up on great food, plenty of traditional and mixed drinks, and dancing to contemporary beats at the social Istanbul Nights. With a live band on stage followed by a DJ and belly dancers, there’s no shortage of evening entertainment. The exclusive live food stations serve the tastes of Turkey, and pop-up bars by the pool will serve a selection of Turkish-inspired cocktails and traditional favourites. Come and party at the crossroads of Europe and Turquoise Restaurant terrace, and don’t forget to clink the bottom of your glass before that Raki touches your lips! The stage is set at Turquoise Terrace. So grab your wrist band, take a trip to Turkey, and dine and dance all night long! ✤

GO: ENTRANCE TO ISTANBUL NIGHTS AT RIXOS PREMIUM DUBAI IS AED249 PER PERSON INCLUDING ALL FOOD ITEMS AND RAKI (TRADITIONAL TURKISH BEVERAGE), FROM 7PM ONWARDS. CALL (0)4 520 0000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. 24

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WELLNESS TREATS: MOTHER’S DAY There’s no better gift than that of pure relaxation for all the amazing mums out there! We’ve picked three of our favourite spas to celebrate the occasion and make sure that mum emerges rejuvenated at the end of the day! Heavenly Spa @ The Westin Dubai, Al Habtoor City A MONTH OF PAMPERING WITH #HEAVENLYSPAMUM Until March 31, Heavenly Spa offers all mothers a generous 50% off on selected treatments between 9am and 4pm, from Sunday to Thursday. Bring your mummy and indulge in a relaxing massage or purifying facial that will leave the skin looking healthy and radiant. MUMMY DAYCATION Everyone knows that being a mum is a full-time job; whether you’re looking for the perfect present for your mother or looking for some well-earned self-pampering, Heavenly Spa invites mummy-guests to indulge in a relaxing daycation. Start your day at the luxurious pool terrace, followed by a 30-minute facial and a soothing massage that will leave you feeling relaxed and revitalised. Complete with a warm cup of tea in the lounge, followed by a refreshing steam and sauna. Available until March 31 – AED595 per person or AED1,100 for two. GO: HEAVENLY SPA IS OPEN FROM 9AM TO 9PM. CALL (0)4 437 3300 OR EMAIL HEAVENLYSPAALHABTOORCITY@WESTIN. COM FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

Saray Spa @ JW Marriott Marquis Dubai With International Women’s Day on March 8 and Mother’s Day on March 21, make the whole month all about HER. Share this as a gift with the special lady in your life and give her a surprise she will always remember. Step into the luxurious Saray Spa for quality time and indulge in a 30-minute facial or back massage followed by a 15-minute foot reflexology session. Afterwards, join the ladies with a sweet and savoury Afternoon Tea, set within the chic La Farine Café & Bakery on the ground level. Be ready to devour hot scones and jam, freshly baked pastries and cakes, delectable mini sandwiches and more, served with endless hot cups of Tchaba teas for that perfect zen feeling. The offer is available daily at AED300 per person. Booking is valid for a group of maximum six people. GO: SARAY SPA IS OPEN DAILY FROM 9AM TO 11PM. CALL (0)4 414 6754 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

Mother’s Day Packages @ Luban Spa Nestled inside a beautiful villa in the heart of Jumeirah; get set to pamper mum the true Arabian way as Luban Spa introduces her to the precious Omani frankincense which is treasured over the world for its healing and beauty properties, and comforting essence. CHILL OUT – 180 MIN – AED 1100 Spoil your mom with Luban’s relaxing three-hour package which starts with a 60-minute Jehbel Akhdar rose body mask – an exhilarating mixture of pink clay infused with rose essential oil to promote healing, soothing tired and dull skin, giving you a renewed fresh feeling. This is followed by a 60-minute session of the Luban bespoke massage where she will be transported back in time to relive the wonders of the ‘king of oils’ - frankincense. Her me-time will end with an hour-long Elemis dynamic resurfacing facial, a new start for smoother, younger-looking skin. GO: LUBAN SPA IS OPEN DAILY FROM 10AM TO 10PM, AND 12PM TO 9PM ON FRIDAYS. CALL (0)4 346 0000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

• LISTEN UP

ON-ROAD THRILLS: DRAGON RACING Dragon Racing, the Dubai-based international racing team, has launched a dedicated professional racing school, the Emirates Motor Racing Academy (EMRA), for speed aficionados of all levels to enjoy. IF YOU’VE ALWAYS FANCIED yourself as being an adrenaline junkie, there’s a new experience in town to satisfy your inner thrill-seeker. A welcome addition to the region’s motor sporting industry, petrol heads can choose to have their lessons at one of the UAE’s world-class race circuits - Yas Marina Abu Dhabi, or the Dubai Autodrome where the Dragon Racing team has recently opened its new state-of-the-art headquarters. Fully certified by the Automobile and Touring Car Club of United Arab Emirates (ATCUAE), the sole Touring and Sporting representative of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) in the country, the coaching sessions take place within the safe environment of Dragon Racing’s adrenaline fuelled track days. EMRA has introduced different levels of accessible, introductory training sessions depending on the driver’s capabilities. Headed by pro racing driver Rob Barff and his multilingual team of international motor racing coaches, students will not only receive first-class specialised coaching but also obtain an ATCUAE Race Licence enabling them to compete in racing events. Once training is complete and students are ready to sit the Race Licence test, they will join a half day course consisting of a detailed technical lecture; followed by a practical 26

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assessment and a multiple choice written examination. Leon Price, Chairman and Founder of Dragon Racing said: “EMRA aims to bridge the divide between ‘track day’ drivers and licenced racing drivers, providing a bespoke, professional course delivered in safe, high-end surroundings. “At Dragon Racing, we are passionate about racing, and equally passionate about contributing to the growth of the sport in the UAE through our new academy,” he added. “Whether we’re racing for the chequered flag or delivering an exceptional track day experience, you can count on Dragon Racing to give the best there is.” Renowned for its attention to detail that goes well beyond the track, Dragon Racing prides itself on delivering a seamless, discreet and unparalleled service to meet every individual client’s needs. Since it was founded in 2011, Dragon Racing has made a name for itself as a well-established and winning international racing team that brings more than 60 years of motor racing and luxury automotive experience to the track. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.DRAGONRACING88.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

LISTEN UP •

ROOM GOALS These are exciting times for Crowne Plaza Bahrain, one of the business brands in Intercontinental Hotel Group’s portfolio, as the hotel reveals the new-look rooms following a recent renovation, the ideal choice for weekend escapes in Bahrain… IN MAY 2017, CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN initiated a project to renew 140 rooms of the hotel. These selected rooms have undergone a complete renovation and will be ready to receive its first guests in March. Ideally located in the heart of business district, only steps away from the newly opened Avenues mall, Crowne Plaza Bahrain offers spacious, well-appointed accommodations to business and leisure travelers These rooms feature newly renovated interiors that have been tastefully decorated to reflect the vibrant urban charm of Bahrain’s business district. Stripped down to drywall, the guest rooms have been completely transformed, leaving guests with everything they need for an enjoyable and relaxing getaway. The new guest rooms and suites boast a spacious layout. A sleek, new design complete with hansgrohe’s latest state-ofthe-art iBox universal thermostatic solutions in our bathrooms (first of its kind in Bahrain) and an interactive 43” smart televisions with brand new beds and airy window sheers, giving the rooms a whole new look and feel that compliments the hotel’s prime location. Guests will enjoy the modern furniture upgrades such as new workstations with media hub, built-in reading lamps and soft seating. The bathrooms have also undergone a complete makeover featuring bright, upgraded interiors and fixtures trimmed with new rain showers and lighting including a superior amenity package.

Brand New Club Lounge The Crowne Plaza Bahrain’s club Lounge will be opening in March, coinciding with the launch of the hotel’s newly renovated rooms. Exclusive to our Club room and suite guests, the all-new Club Lounge has been designed with the concept of a new modern look expressing professionalism, efficiency and performance, as well as comfort, warmth and restoration. The General Manager of Crowne Plaza Hotel Mr. Gilles Nicolas stressed that the aim of the comprehensive renovation of the hotel rooms is to keep pace with the market and the strong competition that is witnessed, especially with the entry of new hotels, adding that the management of the hotel is always seeking to maintain the IHG and the hotel’s status as one of the leading five-star hotels in Bahrain. He added, the world of work is changing and so too is our guest: today’s Modern Business Traveler craves a hotel experience that blends work and restoration; they want to boost their productivity and feel inspired in the process. He is looking forward to launching the new rooms in March 2018. ✤

GO: CALL +971 1753 1122 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

â&#x20AC;˘ SOCIETY

#C E L E B R I T Y #C H E F #D AV I D #MY E R S #H O S T S #EXCLUSIVE #PART Y Internationally-acclaimed celebrity chef and restaurateur David Myers celebrated the opening of his three signature concepts which recently launched in the Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai. The venues that were showcased include BASTA!, which fuses the food and feel of a Roman trattoria, Florentine steakhouse and Neapolitan pizzeria; Bleu Blanc, a southern French farmhouse-inspired restaurant of Davidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dreams; and Poppy, an intimate cocktail bar that fuses live vinyl DJ sets with a drinks menu curated by cocktail guru Sam Ross.

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CREATIVE CALLING There’s been a surge in local talent, small businesses, innovative start ups and UAE-based people going for gold when it comes to entertainment, e-commerce, entrepreneurial efforts and generally following their dreams! We cast a spotlight on some of the country’s biggest, newest and most creative standouts…

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• LOCAL TALENT

KHARSHA: EPIC DRUMMING Not so long ago, the FACT team stumbled upon some incredibly cool individuals, dressed in what can only be described as a cross between the Japanese hakama and the Emirati kandora, at a local event. With some good ol’ social media snooping, we found the band that has got everyone’s heart beating to sound of their drums – Kharsha. Here, Shabana Adam talks to the creative ensemble about what it’s like to bring their drumming skills to UAE audiences…

all them the emblem of creativity, the face of multiculturalism or even the musical ambassadors of the UAE, one thing is guaranteed; there’s no way you can walk past Kharsha Drums without being utterly mesmerised. When the group is performing, expect them to wow every member of the audience with their unbound energy and intricate instrument skills. It’s no surprise to us that the name Kharsha translates to “excitement” or “epic” – because THAT is the feeling you’ll get when this talented crop whip out their drumsticks and play like it’s the last thing they’ll do. Founded by young Yotaro Matsutani, a Japanese student in the capital, Kharsha Drums’ story is one of when the stars align and fate works its magic. At an event held in JODCO (Japan Oil Development Co.) Abu Dhabi’s guesthouse, a random meeting between Yotaro and Taryam Al Katheeri, the founder of the Japanese Club in the Petroleum Institute, sparked a friendship that would eventually lead to forming one of the UAE’s most-talkedabout and first-of-its-kind groups. A year later, Yotaro applied for Zayed University in Abu Dhabi as an international student to continue studying in the UAE and that’s when he decided to form a drumming team with Emirati people he had befriended. “We had our first performance offer from the Japanese School in Abu Dhabi,” Yotaro recalls. “We performed on their sports day in January 2017 with four members, and after that we decided to become Kharsha.” Fast forward one year and Kharsha is now made up of three male and three female members; Yotaro Matsutani (founder and leader of Kharsha), Taryam Al Katheeri (co-founder of Kharsha), Tayammum Al Katheeri, Misa Hayashi, Amna Al Darmaki (manager of the cultural section of Kharsha), and Hessa Al Shamsi. And as far as creative, niche hobbies go, drumming, especially the Kharsha way, is definitely an innovative craft in the UAE.

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“For us, we count ourselves as musical cultural ambassadors,” Yotaro says. “We believe in promoting positive cultural exchange between the UAE and Japan. We try to show people how two different cultures can unite together and produce something so beautiful and so positive,” he adds. “Additionally, we want everyone to get our positive vibes and energy and excitement that we are trying to convey during the performances. What we want the audience to feel is that these guys are KHARSHA ‘EPIC’.” Some of the team’s favourite and monumental performances include playing at the World Government Summit 2017, Inakaya Restaurant’s Sakura Festival 2017, National Day Celebrations at Manarat Al Saadiyat 2017, and Wokyo’s Hokkaido Ramen Festival 2017. It’s a testament to their unique talent and passion for playing the drums that Kharsha has accomplished so much, on great stages at huge events, in such a short space of time. So how do they keep motivated to continue alongside everyday life and studies? “Each member in Kharsha has her/his own way and source of motivation, but we are all connected with the enormous support we are getting from our fans here,” Yotaro says. “Nothing keeps us going and trying to improve every time other than our loyal fans who have been supporting us since the beginning. Our inspiration is to make a change in the country and the region by challenging ourselves and doing something out of the norm.” Talking of challenges, it’s hard to believe that the group doesn’t actually have a dedicated space in which to practice and perfect their techniques. “The hardest aspect in our team is that we mostly practice in the street in the morning, since we don’t have a studio to practice at, and parks are mostly empty in the morning so no one will be annoyed by our drumming,” Yotaro explains. “The members don’t mind the harsh practice conditions, since all of us love what we do, and prefer practicing outdoors in the harsh environment which is similar to our performance environment,” he

LOCAL TALENT â&#x20AC;¢

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â&#x20AC;¢ LOCAL TALENT

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LOCAL TALENT •

continues. “As for the hard and long practice hours, we as non-musicians understand the importance of that, and the only way we overcome the pain and sorrow from the practice is by remembering the continuous support of our fans and families, and how rewarding that would be after them seeing us improve in our performances.” Most of the members in Kharsha have no experience or musical background, but they all share a love for music and expressing strong messages through their drums. So, their advice to young people would be: “As long as you are passionate about what you are doing, purse what you love even if you are facing opposition from your parents or friends. There will be a day when they recognise you, for sure.” You’ll be seeing more of the group this year as March 2018 marks the beginning of a collaboration with Manarat Al Saadiyat to host drumming sessions for adults and kids. Aside from that, Kharsha Drums has simple goals: “We hope that we can survive our second year by maintaining our current quality of shows and increasing the number of drummers in the team,” Yotaro says. “We hope that by the end of this year we will be able to have our own studio or at least access to a studio where we can practice indoors every now and then.” For a newly-born group bringing such crazycool, fun and fascinating entertainment and expression to the UAE, these selfproclaimed musical ambassadors are the kind of role models that every young person can look up to. With every beat of the drum, Kharsha represents cultural diversity, appreciation and hope - all the things that we already love about the UAE. ✤

“OUR GOAL IS ALWAYS TO LET PEOPLE ENJOY OUR SHOWS AS MUCH AS WE DO AND TO SPREAD HAPPINESS AND POSITIVE ENERGY NOT ONLY IN ABU DHABI WHERE WE ARE BASED, BUT ALL OVER THE UAE.”

Q: Describe your Kharsha Drums experience and what drumming means to you? Amna: As an individual that is trying to spread the concept of cultural exchange between the UAE and Japan, I have always wanted to learn more about Japanese culture such as calligraphy or flower arrangement. I didn’t have the chance to learn Japanese calligraphy nor flower arrangement from a professional, but instead all of a sudden I found myself holding two sticks in front of the drum. The moment I had my first performance I got connected to the team, drums and the crowd and that was the beginning of my bittersweet journey with drums. Hessa: I am connected to music since I play the piano, and once I was invited to join Kharsha, I was so excited to try something new and unique in the region, especially for a lady to play on. As a public speaker, I feel alive while being on the stage and performing in front of a crowd. The feeling that I get when I try my best then hear clapping as a reward from the crowd, it makes me the happiest. Misa: I decided to study in UAEU in Al Ain for one year as an exchange student, and even though I am Japanese I didn’t have a chance to learn how to play the drums in Japan. Once I heard that I have a chance to learn Wadaiko in the UAE from Yotaro who belongs to a professional group in Japan, I decided to join the team immediately. For me I wanted to express my Japanese culture and art to the people in the UAE. When I perform and see that everyone is enjoying our show, I cannot stop smiling. Taryam: As a kid I was always interested in drums, especially the western drums, but my parents didn’t allow me to get one because it’s so noisy. Then all of the sudden I was asked to try drumming by Yotaro, but on the Japanese drum, I didn’t even think twice about saying yes. Even though my family wasn’t really supporting the idea since I am a mechanical engineering masters student and it wouldn’t be easy to balance my studies and my new interest. But then, once they saw my first performance and how serious and passionate I was about drumming they became my biggest support. For me, I feel that I can be myself when I am drumming since I have established a special connection with the drum. Once I feel connected with my teammates and the crowd I feel a sense of fulfillment that cannot be described. Tayammum: One summer during my university year I was free, and I decided to try something new and challenging for the summer only since I love both music and Japan. Once I performed in front of the crowd for the first time I decided to experience that feeling over and over again by continuing to drum with Kharsha. Yotaro: Drumming is an essential part of my life as an introverted person. I don’t have the ability to express my feelings properly, but during the performance is the only time where I can be out of character to express myself. The moment I step on the stage there is this feeling that I have reached inner peace when my mind, spirit and soul are connected (that is when I get into the zone). When I enter my zone, I feel like I am diving in the deep ocean and flying in the sky at the same time.

GO: FOLLOW @KHARSHA_DRUMS ON INSTAGRAM FOR ALL THE LATEST INFO ON PERFORMANCES AND MORE FROM THE BAND.

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• LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR

TINY

Humans, BIG Personalities! Who said that baby clothes shouldn’t be fun? So far from basic and edging on all things chic and cool, Little Wren is an e-commerce feat when it comes to modern day shopping for your little one. Shabana Adam caught up with Emirati mumpreneur Aisha Alkhaja who understands that even babies need to make a statement with their style…

ome of the best creative and entrepreneurial ventures start from someone’s very own experience with a product. Whether it’s a lack of service, difficulty in access to goods or family needs that aren’t met with 100 per cent quality. Sometimes, the idea for a business can stem from something as simple as wanting to make another person’s experience more convenient and fulfilling. This is exactly what sparked the creation of Little Wren. The brainchild of Emirati mumpreneur, Aisha Alkhaja who cofounded the site with her husband, John Campleman, Little Wren is a luxury e-commerce company that curates high quality brands for the modern family. What does that mean for consumers? Well, it’s easy; parents-to-be or anyone looking for quirky, unique baby items can log onto the site and browse at leisure – in just a few clicks, you can be the proud owner of cool, on-trend, not-on-thehigh-street products by edgy, independent brands. It’s fun, fast and super efficient. On top of that, you’ll receive your goods in just a few days of ordering, with free delivery in the UAE, and there’s also the guarantee that your little one will be the OG of baby and toddler fashion at the park or on the playground! The idea for Little Wren was ignited during Aisha’s pregnancy. “I wanted some cool items for my little one and so went in search for something a little different,” she recalls. “I came across a few unique brands, most of which were created by mamas. I ordered a few things and once Lawrence arrived I tested them out. Some of them didn’t last after the first wash. Either the colour faded or the material just didn’t look the same,” Aisha adds. “The ones that did last though made me think, I wondered how many more parents

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would be interested in these brands that are tried and tested? I then decided to create an online store to house these amazing brands so that parents didn’t have to go in search of them.” Aisha started the process when baby Lawrence was four-monthsold and launched on his first birthday. Little Wren is able to standout in the e-commerce world by providing a modern family shopping experience. “What sets us apart is that all the products are tried and tested, and we can honestly vouch for the brands that we stock,” Aisha says. “For us, it is important to know the brand and what experience our customers will have with the item they choose from that brand. “ On the website, you’ll find independent names such as; Max and the Star, Hippy Chick, Done by Deer, Milli Ecodesign, Tiny Turtle, We Might be Tiny and many more. You can build an entire funky wardrobe for your little munchkin in just a few clicks. Plus, all of the brands stocked on Little Wren each have their own unique story – so you’re not only buying into quality, but also the life and grind of many other individuals. Aisha explains: “Most of the brands on littlewren.com are small independent brands. Some are designed and made by their founders, usually a mama like myself,” she adds. “Others are designed by the

LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR •

mama and made elsewhere and there are brands like Blurberry Boo that is a mum and dad team just like John and I.” And is there a checklist that brands must meet before being considered? “The criteria to make the cut is to pass the test of childhood messiness,” Aisha tells us. “The brands we stock are all high quality items that will last for not only your child, but other children should you want to pass them down. After quality, the next criteria that is a must is style. We chose these items based on the fact that they are modern and cool,” she says. “We wanted to offer parents the option to dress their children in items that wouldn’t necessarily be found in the usual shops in malls. Additionally, we have tried to choose items that are unisex also. We didn’t want to box the two genders into pink or blue and wanted to give parents more options.” Now, let’s talk business. Aisha and John are that rare inspirational couple who are great role models for highlighting the way a good work-life balance means that you CAN have it all. But, Aisha admits that being a full-time mum and an entrepreneur does come with its challenges. “It is definitely possible, but it is hard,” she says. “I believe that you can be whatever you want to be. If you want a career as well as a family, go for it. You don’t have to be just one or the other.

“Being a parent is the hardest job from my experience so far, but it is being a parent that pushed me to start my own company,” Aisha explains. “I wanted to create something for Lawrence as well as for myself. Hopefully one day he will be proud of what I have achieved no matter how big or small.” The most challenging aspect for Aisha and John has been timing. They started Little Wren as first-time parents to a four-month-old baby, which Aisha says does come with a lot of guilt. However, they managed to split their time and get things done, making sure that Lawrence was never without one of them. “Working with your partner is challenging at times,” Aisha smiles. “We are very different as people and I guess that is essentially what makes it work. I am creative and a bit of a dreamer where as John is more realistic and methodical,” she says. “It is a good balance to have in a marriage as well as a business partnership. He reigns me in when I am floating away in dream land, both in business and life!” For this new kid on the block, having a dedicated duo with a clear vision, brand integrity and client convenience is definitely a USP that we can’t fault. What more can expecting parents and families ask for from a reliable online shopping experience? ✤ fact magazine

â&#x20AC;¢ LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR

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Q: What has been the most fun and rewarding aspects of creating Little Wren? A: The most fun and inspiring part of the job is finding the brands and trying out their products. I have never been so excited to take clothes out of the wash just to see if they survived! The brands we stock inspire us as parents and as business owners and that is what is so great about them. You can look at brands like Selfie Clothing and see endless possibilities from something so simple. Q: For all the mums out there who have great ideas and need some words of encouragement to take their first step into the entrepreneurial world – what three top tips would you give? A: YOU CAN DO IT! Believe in yourself. You are strong and capable of anything. Be realistic in managing your workload and your family. It is important to split things so that work doesn’t take over and your family life suffers. Balance is key. Some days you won’t be able to balance things and one will take over and that is ok too. DO NOT listen to negative people. If there is anyone trying to guilt you because you are a mum and they think you shouldn’t be working, ignore them. You know what is best for yourself and your family. We CAN have it all! Q: In 2018, what are you hoping to achieve with Little Wren? A: I hope the business continues to grow and that people like what we have to offer. I can’t wait to discover new brands in 2018 and hopefully create our own line of children’s clothing. Watch this space!

GO: VISIT WWW.LITTLEWREN.COM TO BROWSE AND BUY PRODUCTS FOR A FUNKY WARDROBE, TODAY.

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#FOLLOWME The UAE has no shortage of cool insta creatives; we’re talking comedy sketches, inspirational messages, travel adventures, food fiends, fitness fans and so much more. Here, FACT rounds up eight of our favourite influencers worth following on the ‘gram…

WHO: Khalid Al Ameri INSTA: @khalidalameri FOLLOWERS: 178,000

WHO: Abdullaziz Baz INSTA: @bin_baz FOLLOWERS: 4.6 million

WHO: Amal Salameh Dayak INSTA: @amalshine FOLLOWERS: 30.4k

WHO: Max Stanton INSTA: @maxofarabia FOLLOWERS: 574,000

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: You might have seen a few of his viral videos; for insight into the life of an every day Emirati family – Khalid is a husband and father-of-two with a great balance of humorous, inspirational content. He helps to break stereotypes, promote positive initiatives and in general shows the good morals and realities of living in his beloved home country with his loving wife and kids.

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: Want to see the results of GREAT comedy sketches? Then you need to follow this guy! Tackling all the cultural whims, city frustrations and everything in between about life in the UAE, Bin Baz shows a light-hearted side of living in the Gulf tinged with good vibes, whether he’s at home or travelling the world! Get ready for massive lol moments.

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: A style icon in her own right, don’t let Amal’s cool, calm and pretty demeanor - and love of unicorns - fool you. She can start and hold a conversation, engage others with her well-informed opinions and unapologetically stay true to herself in the superficial social media craze. You’ll get thought-provoking convo, or just a reminder to be grateful for the simple things in life!

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: Not only does he speak various Arabic dialects from the region, this American/British influencer has become well-known for his signature “Hello!” at the beginning of videos and he’s also a humanitarian at heart, often highlighting the charity campaigns he gets involved with, locally. Much loved in the community, Max is all about first experiences and fun, inspiring videos!

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INSTA CREATIVES •

WHO: Salama Mohamed INSTA: @salamamohamed FOLLOWERS: 90.7k

WHO: Omar Al Busaidy INSTA: @omaralbusaidy FOLLOWERS: 18,300

WHO: Mohanad Alwadiya INSTA: @mohanadalwadiya FOLLOWERS: 521,000

WHO: Amal INSTA: @leap.of.hope FOLLOWERS: 12.6k

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: The yin to the yang of Khalid Al Ameri, this is the boss woman/motherof-two/boundary breaker/ dream follower and founder of Pearl By S Jewellery, a beacon that every woman can aspire to be! Salama is not only hilarious, witty and down-to-earth but her work ethic, and fun, inspirational posts and vlogs, are a great depiction of the work hard, play hard life in the UAE.

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: You might have seen the who’s who of instagram posting about his book “Just Read It” – but this popular authorcum-entrepreneur has so much going on that we can hardly keep up. He’s a big presence in the Abu Dhabi tourism and culture scene and an excellent role model for showing that you CAN handle a corporate job AND entrepreneurial dreams.

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: He’s been dubbed the Godfather of Real Estate and it’s somewhat true! In his book “Lanlording – from renting to financial freedom” – Mohanad is helping the UAE community and beyond to make simple, innovative property investments with management tips, finance advice and all things inspirational to achieve your homeowner goals!

WHY YOU SHOULD HIT FOLLOW: Not your regular girl next door, and that’s why we love her! Meet the very cool, super athletic and super dedicated Emirati all-ladies parkour coach. Whether she’s training, talking about the pros and cons of being an athlete or just casually hanging out with other fitness buffs – Amal is the epitome of reaping the rewards of really hard work. ✤

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• CREATIVE STARTUPS

Making Movements The UAE has seen an influx of amazing small business ventures and innovative start ups that continue to impress. FACT’s Aanchal Duggal rounds up some of our favourites to check out in 2018…

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THE MODE

ALMA RETREAT

Get all the glam without the splurge with The Mode-Dubai’s answer to all your wardrobe woes! Offering designer dresses for rent at a fraction of the retail price, The Mode lets you get all dolled up without shelling out all that extra dough. With a vast portfolio of popular designer brands including Zimmerman, Self Portrait and Alice McCall, the company’s revolutionary concept is a total game changer. The perfect addition to the city’s vibrant fashion scene, The Mode is changing how women approach everyday attire, one wardrobe at a time! For more information visit www.themode.ae.

The perfect retreat for sheer wellness, Alma is the ideal getaway for those seeking detox, creativeness and a chance to switch off. Back with longer stays, a new healthy menu, extra facilities and an enhanced set of creative fitness and mindfulness programmes, the new season schedule is designed to nourish the mind, body and heart. Encouraging the ‘nature gym’ concept, the rejuvenating four-day retreat is created with individual needs in mind to inspire a healthier and happier you! For more information visit www.iamalma.com.

RENTSHER MIDDLE EAST

THE CUSTOM SHOP NEW YORK TAILOR TRUCK

Revolutionising your renting habits, RentSher Middle East is your one-stop-shop renting service for everything that you could ever need! Offering over 1000 products across multiple verticals, it provides a seamless renting approach for both short and long term purposes. The region’s first online rental place for furniture, inflatables, medical equipment, travel essentials, electronics and so much more, RentSher lets you enjoy flexible renting options at the most competitive prices. For more information visit www.rentsher.ae.

Elevate your style to a whole other level of sophistication. Bringing made-to-measure suits and shirts closer to fashion enthusiasts across the city, the on-the-go tailoring service gives a whole new meaning to looking your absolute best. Equipped with the brand’s avant-garde 3D body scan technology for the perfect fit, the truck offers a dedicated space for measurements and fittings, assistance of specialists and a wide range of highend suit fabrics and accessories to choose from. For more information visit www.customshopny. com/tailor-truck-main.

RentSher Middle East

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CREATIVE STARTUPS â&#x20AC;¢

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• CREATIVE STARTUPS

AQUA POD Taking your traditional drive-thru dining to a blissful and innovative new level, Aqua Pod is all set to provide visitors with a first-of-its-kind experience while at sea! Introducing the world’s first sustainable floating drive-thru, Aqua Pod lets sea-goers pull up to enjoy food and beverages as they would from a conventional food truck. Set to float in Dubai’s lagoons, the Aqua Pod boasts a revolutionary architectural design that is designed to exist without any environmental harm-win! For more information visit www.aa-ds.com.

Aqua Pod

Tailor Truck

We Shop That

Navigating the world of online shopping just got a whole lot easier thanks to the newest personal service in town! Allowing customers to shop for independent products directly from the US, it offers a single transaction solution to purchase anything including items unavailable through traditional shipping and delivery platforms. From technology and computing to fashion and beauty products, We Shop That brings unique items from stores and boutiques right on your doorstep. ✤ For more information www.weshopthat.com.

Alma Retreat

WE SHOP THAT

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COMING SOON! THE 1ST ANNUAL FACT DUBAI SPA & WELLNESS AWARDS.

APRIL 2018

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• SOCIETY

#VIP #OPENING #OF #FROM #BARCELONA #TO #ABU #DHABI Abu Dhabi Festival 2018 (ADF18) launched its diverse Visual Arts Programme with the inauguration of a landmark exhibition in the presence of H.E. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, UAE Minister of Tolerance, H.E. Huda AlkhamisKanoo, Founder, Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) and Founder and Artistic Director of Abu Dhabi Festival, and H.E. Antonio Alvarez Barthe, Ambassador of Spain to the United Arab Emirates alongside Ainhoa Grandes, President of MACBA Foundation. From Barcelona to Abu Dhabi – Works from the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA) in dialogue with the Emirates, features pioneering works and artforms by 70 artists, from the 20th and 21st centuries – presented in the Arab world for the very first time – exploring the universal themes of our common human existence.

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FINE ART Meets POP CULTURE UAE-based social enterprise 81 Designs will collaborate with internationally-renowned, contemporary artist Hassan Hajjaj, to transform Art Dubai’s Julius Baer Lounge into a creative space to showcase the artist’s signature style. Displayed will be his works, recreated by Palestinian women refugees in traditional tatreez (cross stitch). FACT explores…

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• ART DUBAI

assan Hajjaj has become one of the most prominent artists of our time. He merges the realms of fine art and popular culture, working with several mediums; photography, film, installations, and sculptures. Now, his works, recreated by Palestinian women refugees in traditional tatreez (cross stitch), will be presented at the 12th edition of Art Dubai, taking place at Madinat Jumeirah from March 21 to 24. Through his work, Hassan uses cultural elements and popular objects as his subject to tell stories about our fast-paced world. Inspired by hip-hop, underground club scenes, subcultures, pop art and his North African roots, his signature style is identified by the distinctive mix of colours in his portraits which are boxed with brightly sculptural frames. Hassan has selected 14 pieces from his collection titled Graffix from the Souk, where he playfully applied new technology to redefine the imagery that pervaded nostalgia from his childhood. The collection is a visual celebration of the street level graphic art of his native land, Morocco. Graffix from the Souk has been exhibited in various locations in Morocco, France and the UK. Based in London, Hassan visited the Palestinian refugee camps in Ain El Helweh, South Lebanon to meet the craftswomen employed by 81 Designs. He said: “It is such an honour to meet the ladies who are striving to survive and capture how they gracefully do it despite their condition. This should be an eyeopener to those who do not realise how lucky they are,” he added. “It makes me proud to collaborate with 81 Designs and have the opportunity to help support distressed women through my art.” Following this experience, Hassan has vowed to empower the women more and work with them through 81 Designs for various projects. A conscious organisation which was established to bring both art and humanity together by mother-daugther tandem Nesrine El-Tibi Maalouf and Nadine Y. Maalouf.

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Through his work, Hassan uses cultural elements and popular objects as his subject to tell stories about our fast-paced world.

ART DUBAI â&#x20AC;¢

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• ART DUBAI

81 Designs responds to a global environment and envisions employing as many skilled artisan women refugees as possible by giving them hope and a renewed sense of purpose in life. Co-founder Nadine said: “Following our successful launch last year, we had to find an artist who shares the same values. We have always been a supporter of pop art and recognise the good it does. Hassan has made a name in the world of art with his amazing talent and generous heart. For us, he is a perfect partner of choice.” The embroidered art by 81 Designs will be presented on 45 x 90cm canvases and will be presented during Art Dubai on March 21 at 6.30pm. The Julius Baer lounge will be transformed into an art space featuring Hassan’s signature style, and will be a venue for a talk hosted by Nadine and Hassan. During the presentation, a film created by Ted Beagles, British-born director working out of Dubai, London and Los Angeles in drama, commercials, documentary and music video, will also be shown. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.81DESIGNSME. COM OR THE 81 DESIGNS’ FOUNDATION BOOTH LOCATED IN FOYER 2, OPPOSITE GALLERY HALL 2 OF THE MADINAT ARENA, DURING ART DUBAI, FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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COMING SOON! APRIL 2018

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• ARTS EXHIBITION

Alpha Soul continues to enrich the artistic landscape of the region by curating a special showcase of Dalí’s works, for the first time in the Middle East.

SALVADOR DALI: The Memories

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ARTS EXHIBITION â&#x20AC;¢

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• ARTS EXHIBITION

orks by one of the most iconic figures in art history, Salvador Dali are currently being showcased at the Conference Hall in DIFC until April 22. The exhibition, sponsored by one of the leading banks in the UAE, Emirates NBD, displays original works by the great master, a first for the region and a milestone for the Middle Eastern art scene. Under the orchestration of Alpha Soul, an art and cultural development company based in the UAE, the one of a kind exhibition features lithographs, photographs and original paintings created by Dalí in his timeless style and fare all sourced from worldwide private collections from across the world. The exhibition reveals the spontaneity and creative consciousness of Dalí, from which he established his masterpieces. “My philosophy is that of a man who works and plays at the same time, a man who thinks and acts, whose whole life is only the elaboration of his thoughts and who’s main thought is constantly expressed by the game.” said Salvador Dalí about his masterpieces. One of many star pieces of the exhibition will be “Shower of Jasmine”, an exclusive oil on canvas painting that was first unveiled to the world in 1954 in New York City at Carstairs Gallery. After such, the piece has only been seen in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil at Museu Nacional de Belas Artes. Since, the painting has been kept in a private collection and in Dubai, it will be visible to the public for only its third time ever. Besides some of Dalí’s greatest paintings, photographs of the Spanish artist, taken by close friend and specialist of the master, Robert Descharnes (19262014), will also be revealed at the exhibition. The photographs, which were selected by Nicolas Descharnes, Robert’s son, also an expert on the life and works of Dalí and a guest curator of the exhibition, show the Spanish icon, painter and visionary intimately working with his tools in the process of making what is now some of the most acknowledged art in the world. The pictures were taken throughout various workshops in Europe and the U.S. and show the creative mood and environment in which Dalí used to work. Also seen in many of the pictures is Dalí’s long-term spouse, Gala Dalí. Also, being exhibited is Dali’s 50 years after surrealism and the famous Memories of Surrealism collection from 1971. The latter is the master’s interpretation of Spanish printmaker Francisco Goya’s “Los Caprichos”, which will be placed next to the ‘Memories of Surrealism’ collection for the audience to experience Dali’s surrealist makeover of the original artwork. For the print art aficionados, extremely rare lithographs will also be on display. Ms. Dilyara Kamenova, Director of Alpha Soul, said: “Salvador Dali. The Memories exhibition is yet another endeavor of Alpha Soul to enrich the spirit of Dubai by promoting art, classical music and world-class speakers and partnerships with leading academics, private collectors and art professionals from around the world.” ✤

GO: SALVADOR DALI. THE MEMORIES EXHIBITION WILL BE DISPL AYED AT THE CONFERENCE HALL, DIFC UNTIL APRIL 22. PUBLIC VIEWING HOURS ARE SUNDAY TO THURSDAY, 1PM TO 10PM AND FRIDAY AND SATURDAY, 10AM TO 10PM. 52

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ARTS EXHIBITION •

EXHIBITION CURATOR Dilyara Kamenova: Dilyara is a fine art dealer and curator of cultural events and art exhibitions in Dubai, UAE. Today, Dilyara is the Founder and Managing Director of Alpha Soul, a Dubai based art and cultural development company. Also, being exhibited over the two months is Dali’s ‘50 years after surrealism’ and the famous ‘Memories of Surrealism’ collection from 1971. The ‘Memories of Surrealism’ is the master’s interpretation of Spanish printmaker Francisco Goya’s “Los Caprichos”, which will be placed next to the ‘Memories of Surrealism’ collection for the audience to experience Dali’s surrealist makeover of the original artwork. For the print art aficionados, extremely rare lithographs will also be on display.

EXHIBITION GUEST CURATOR Nicolas Descharnes: Nicholas is an international expert on the life and works of artist Salvador Dalí. Nicolas has published and co-published a number of books on Salvador Dali, testified in court as an expert witness on fraudulent works of the artist, and lectured internationally on the life and work of the master.

EXHIBITION GUEST SPEAKER Frank Hunter: Frank is a world-renowned scholar of Salvador Dali artwork and is the Director of the Salvador Dalí Archives. Mr. Hunter’s 35 years of expertise has made him the preeminent specialist on Salvador Dalí’s artwork and has led to frequently working with the Dalí Theatre- Museum in Figueres, Spain, as well as with the Salvador Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg, Fl.

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MA N O LO VA LD E S AT OPERA G AL LER Y ART ENTHUSIASTS ARE IN FOR A REAL TREAT AS THE TRUE MASTER OF ARTISTIC DISCIPLINES, THE WORLD-RENOWNED SPANISH ARTIST MANOLO VALDES, WILL SHOWCASE HIS WORK IN AN UPCOMING SOLO EXHIBITION AT OPERA GALLERY DUBAI.

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ARTS SPOTLIGHT â&#x20AC;¢

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• ARTS SPOTLIGHT

anolo Valdes is a rare breed of artists who has mastered multiple artistic disciplines in his career. Born in Valencia, Spain, Valdes works in paint, sculpture and mixed media and describes his works as having a life beyond the themes and boundaries of an exhibition. Much like the old saying ‘beauty is in the eye of the beholder’, each of his works can be read differently, interacted with differently and each has something different to tell the observer. His exceptional vision and ability to create a visual and figurative language that is reminiscent of both the past and present have made him one of the most important Spanish artists today. So, it comes as no surprise that his work has been chosen to be exhibited at Opera Gallery Dubai. The upcoming exhibition is the perfect opportunity to both commemorate the progression of culture and art in Dubai as well as celebrating the 10th Anniversary of Opera Gallery Dubai. The gallery has been a driving force behind the evolution of art in the region and the calibre of this artist is only one example of that. The gallery is part of the well-established international network known for showcasing contemporary artists from around the world and will host Manolo Valdes’s first exhibition in the Middle East where more than 25 of his works will be on display. Sylvain Gaillard, Director of Opera Gallery Dubai, said: “It is an honour for us to host the very first exhibition in the Middle East for such an important artist of the contemporary art world. I could not dream of a better artist to help the gallery celebrate its tenth anniversary in Dubai,” she added. “Displaying monumental sculptures in the DIFC is also our way of thanking the region for its support, and giving back to our community by displaying first class artworks to be enjoyed by all.” The overall scope of this exhibition will be to put Dubai on the same level as Paris, New York and Singapore, where Manolo Valdés has exhibited his larger-than-life sculptures for over 50 years. 56

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During a period of great political turmoil in Spain spanning from the 1940s to the 1970s, Valdes’s collaboration with two other Spanish artists, Rafael Solbes and Juan Toledo, led to the creation of an important art collective called Equipo Cronica that emerged during the Franco years. The collective took inspiration from the popular and simplified aesthetics of ‘pop-art’ to create political works that were accessible to the masses. The provocative use of imagery from the mass media and from Spanish masters like Diego Velazquez and Pablo Picasso became the powerful aesthetics that would front their works. Their exodus was the catalyst for Valdes’s creative processes as he went on to weave the beautifully powerful visual narratives that are seen in his works today. From oils on sackcloth to larger-than-life bronze sculptures, Manolo Valdes’s versatility and mastery of artistic disciplines have cemented his place in Spanish art history as one of the

GO: MANOLO VALDES’S SOLO EXHIBITION WILL RUN FROM MARCH 15 TO APRIL 14 AT THE OPERA GALLERY DUBAI, LOCATED AT GATE VILLAGE, BUILDING 3, DIFC. FOLLOW @OPERAGALLERY ON INSTAGRAM FOR ALL THE LATEST INFORMATION.

most influential art figures of the 21st century. With the ability to evoke rather than provoke, refraining from directing conclusions and conversations instead reflecting and projecting the visual narratives of its surroundings; Valdes’ artworks embody the silhouettes of historical art figures and motifs. Valdes delightedly and obsessively uses the world around him as his source for inspiration which has lead him to immense success around the world. In addition to brand new sculptures and works on canvas, Opera Gallery Dubai will display 5 monumental sculptures throughout the DIFC for a period of one year, as part of the neighbourhood’s public art integration program. Additionally, for the very first time in his career, Valdes has produced four sculptures mixing brass and 24 carat gold, which have been created exclusively for Dubai and will be revealed at the exhibition. ✤

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Valdes delightedly and obsessively uses the world around him as his source for inspiration which has lead him to immense success...

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• ENTERTAINMENT

BIG SCREEN Red Sparrow

Highlights

WHAT’S IT ABOUT?

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After suffering an injury that threatens to end her promising career, Prima Ballerina Dominika Egorova faces a bleak and uncertain future. With her career as she knew it on the rocks, she turns to a Russian secret intelligence service that teaches exceptional young people like her to use their bodies and minds as weapons.

DIRECTOR: Francis Lawrence CAST: Jennifer Lawrence, Joel Edgerton

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING?

Chronicling a tale of passion, sacrifice and power, Francis Lawrence’s newest offering is everything you could ever want from a psychological thriller. After garnering incessant comparisons to Marvel’s Black Widow, Red Sparrow has finally proved to audiences why it deserves to hold its own. The plot revolves around notable Prima Ballerina Dominika Egorova (Jennifer Lawrence) and her journey to the dark side. Determined to protect her mother at all costs, Dominika is forced to turn to the Sparrow School to help her mother receive a life saving treatment. As she pushes her body and mind to their limits, she emerges as the most dangerous Sparrow the programme has ever produced. Offering a very unique and non-gadgety take on suspense thrillers, the film’s plot suggests a very different kind of spy film. Backed with Jennifer Lawrence’s killer acting and some super intense action sequences, the film will have you hooked till the very end.

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Offering a very unique and nongadgety take on suspense thrillers, the film’s plot suggests a very different kind of spy film.”

Tomb Raider WHAT’S IT ABOUT:

Intent on solving the mystery of her father’s disappearance, Lara Croft makes a dangerous journey to his last known destination. Armed with only her sharp mind, blind faith and stubborn spirit, she must push herself beyond her limits to unravel the truth once and for all.

– Red Sparrow

DIRECTOR: Roar Uthaug CAST: Alicia Vikander, Dominic West

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING?

A revamped rendition of the original Tomb Raider movie, Roar Uthaug’s bow and arrow-wielding protagonist is well and truly the woman we know from the 2013 video game. Succeeding Angelina Jolie in bringing the video game character to life, Alicia Vikander’s portrayal of the same is every bit as promising and intriguing. Following her father’s disappearance when she was barely a teen, Lara Croft staunchly rejects the idea that he is truly gone. Now a young woman of 21, the fiercely independent and resolute Croft is intent on locating her eccentric adventurer dad and embarks on a journey into the unknown. Go and watch it for some eyegasm worthy visuals and gripping storyline!

ENTERTAINMENT •

FULLY BOOKED

ON THE RECORD

NON-FICTION

Single State of Mind By Andi Dorfman

INDIE/ ELECTRONIC

GOSPEL/ HIP-HOP

Always Ascending

Bible of Love

By Franz Ferdinand

Reminding us of the dance-floor post-rock of their 2004 debut LP, Always Ascending retains their signature musical excellence while still sounding brand new. Their first album without guitarist Nick McCarthy marks the start of a whole new era for the band. With the addition of new member Julian Corrie, the Scottish indie rock band aim to inject a hint of electronics into the mix. A departure from their more guitardriven roots, the lead single is an ambitious and experimental turn for Franz. A sonic representation of the whole record, it is the bop you never knew you needed! Dubbing themselves as the “Futuristic naturalistic” genre, the band refuses to be put into a box. A synth and sax-heavy track, Feel The Love Go is as promising as their catchy lead single. Merging electronics with back-tobasics indie, the band is truly hitting some new territory with this punchy new record, sure to keep both devoted fans and critics very happy!

An enticing exploration of love and life, Andi Dorfman is here to give company to everybody flying solo! Dorfman talks about a single girl living life on her own terms in New York City. From finding her first apartment in the city to watching her ex-fiancé get engaged, the former Bachelorette chronicles all the adventures she has had and how they’ve helped her grow. Juicy and entertaining - a must read!

By Snoop Dogg Spoiler alert: this record is going to make you FEEL your feelings! Taking his fans to church with his exquisite vocals and moving lyrics, Snoop’s new album seems to be taking him in a whole new direction. Turning to a more religious dimension, Bible of Love is a radical shift from his classic Snoop Dogg sound. Featuring collaborations from various Gospel artists including Tye Tribbet, the Clark Sisters, Faith Evans and Rance Allen, the album is all about putting love out into the world. Words Are Few featuring B Slade is an inspirational track with transparent lyrics. Blessing Me Again featuring Rance Allen is a beautiful amalgamation of heartwarming lyrics and mesmerising music - gospel rap at its finest! After seeing his fair share of reinvention, Snoop’s love-laden record is exactly what the world needs right now.

FICTION

An American Marriage By Tayari Jones With the future stretching boundlessly before them, newlyweds Celestial and Roy are still very much in the rosyhued young lovers phase in their first year of marriage. As Roy is arrested and sentenced to 12 years in prison for a crime Celestial knows he didn’t commit, she is left to cope with life all alone. A heart-wrenching read!

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• SOCIETY

# M C M # C E L E B R A T E S # V I VA # L I F E ! # A T # C A T C H # D U B A I The new school luxury brand, MCM showcased its SS18 Collection, VIVA LIFE! – a celebration of energy and endless discovery through a range of new styles, both vibrant and forward thinking in design. Renowned celebrity favourite restaurant, Catch Dubai played host to the exciting event where guests were able to view the latest collection of travel goods and accessories. MCM is inspired by music and art, which was perfectly paired with Catch Dubai’s rustic design and modern artwork by famous artists, Hijack and his father, Mr. Brainwash. The venue’s resident DJ Crown Price played popular old-school hip-hop and R&B as the crowd enjoyed delicious canapés and cocktails until late in the evening.

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SKY HIGH HOSPITALITY IN A CITY AS DYNAMIC AS DUBAI, IT TAKES A SPECIAL KIND OF HOTEL TO REALLY STAND OUT AND MAKE ITS MARK WITH TRAVELLERS. FACT STAYED AT THE SHANGRI-LA HOTEL, DUBAI AND IN ALL ITS TOWERING GLORY, THIS IS ONE PROPERTY THAT COMES VERY CLOSE TO TICKING ALL THE BOXES ON OUR CHECKLIST FOR A STAYCATION IN THIS FAST-PACED EMIRATEâ&#x20AC;¦

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• STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT

eing on Sheikh Zayed Road is like playing cat and mouse with hundreds of people who all have one goal in mind: I need to reach my destination, FAST. For us, it’s the traffic on the service road on a Thursday evening that really makes things unpleasant. However, we advise to take the “back route” to Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai past City Walk – where traffic is more manageable. All of that will instantly melt away once you’re through the doors of the 5-star city hotel. Its sleek interiors, friendly staff and quick service will help to calm any work-week woes, and you’ll feel an immediate sense of serenity as the lift whisks you up to your room. We walk into the spacious and tastefully-designed Deluxe Burj Khalifa View room, and it’s the sight of the tallest building in the world that draws our attention at first gaze – we can’t wait to wake up to this view in the morning! ROOM ENVY Flanked with stylish wood-inspired interiors, the chic design of the Deluxe Burj Khalifa View room is the perfect blend of practical use of space and comfortable, luxury furnishings. The rooms feature an inviting earth-tone design that is based on warm sycamore veneers. In addition, these rooms are decorated with original local artwork which is a beautiful touch. The most standout feature (and our favourite) had to be the HUGE bathroom with a deep soaking tub, walk-in shower with rainforest showerhead, and a separate restroom. The Crispy Mint premium amenities are excellent to wake you up during a morning shower! To top that off, the rom is a great balance of work and play with a full-size executive writing desk for

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those who want to casually catch up on emails and a cosy king-sized bed where you can lay and watch in-house movies and more on the flat screen smartTV. All 302 luxurious rooms and suites at Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai  feature complimentary wireless internet access, telephone, mini bar, tea/coffee making facilities, and small added details like a choice of postcards and crayons for colouring. Guests staying in the Horizon Club rooms enjoy privileges and superb facilities, including exclusive, private check-in and check-out, access to the Horizon Club Lounge with complimentary refreshments throughout the day, the private health club and indoor infinity pool. Do you even need to leave the hotel? DINING GOALS Enticing global flavours spoil visitors for choice across eight restaurants and bars. Embark on a culinary journey with inspirational gastronomy from Vietnam, China and the Middle East. Experienced teams deliver an authentic experience through the food and culture of each restaurant. We take a seat at Hoi An and are instantly transported to the lush traditional home of a Vietnamese community. This award-winning, homely restaurant has the friendliest and most knowledgeable staff we’ve encountered in a very long time. Take a seat and enjoy authentic Vietnamese cuisine in an intimate ambience of vibrant tangerine walls and turquoise green shutters. Under the open rafters and ceiling fans, glorious fresh delicacies come to life every night. From the royal city of Huế to the bustling city of Hanoi, discover a unique culinary experience with the use of fresh ingredients from different regions of Vietnam. We highly recommend you to try the tantalising Blue crab crispy rolls with shrimp, shiitake mushrooms, rice noodles, mint, coriander and fish

STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT â&#x20AC;¢

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The most standout feature (and our favourite) had to be the HUGE bathroom with a deep soaking tub, walk-in shower with rainforest showerhead, and a separate restroom. The Crispy Mint premium amenities are excellent to wake you up during a morning shower! 64

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STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT •

offering – Shang Palace will surely impress with its extensive menu featuring unique Cantonese and regional delicacies accompanied by fragrant teas or other authentic beverages. Add to this a beautiful lobby café, lobby lounge, Indian restaurant, vintage bar, and rooftop lounge, and you’ve got yourself nothing but dining choice!

sauce, as well as the Boston lobster ravioli with shiitake mushrooms, dried scallop crumbs, wild baby rocket, mango gastrique and coconut reduction – both are signature staples and a flavourful introduction to Vietnamese food. Green papaya, shrimp salad with cherry tomatoes, herb and lime dressing is a refreshing choice for something with crunch and subtle flavour, whilst the Pan-seared diver scallops with mushroom duxelle, tomato concasse and sturgeon caviar, and the aromatic ovenroasted French duck breast with lemongrass, galangal, ginger and Vietnamese pickles are both an incredible choice for palate-pleasing mains. Meat eaters will not be able to resist the succulent Five-spice Australian lamb chops with French beans, nectarine and plum sauce and the extensive grill options too. On the other hand, vegetarian foodies need not worry as Hoi An has a massive variety of veg-friendly dishes such as the delicious clay pot of eggplant with tofu, wild mushrooms, mint and coriander. Seafood is abundant as is fried rice and noodles. The most interesting part of our meal has to be dessert – the banana pancake with fruit salsa and ice cream is an absolute must - a popular Vietnamese street dish. Hoi An’s version is adorned in lip-licking passion fruit sauce and we just couldn’t get enough. When you’re in the mood for another Asian feast, the hotel’s Chinese

BLISSFUL UNWINDING Achieve balance and peace of mind at Chi,The Spa, where  the principles of vitality, fitness and beauty combine in unique therapies. Discover the Sense of Place and Vegan treatments that provide pampering like nowhere else in the city. Let the skilled therapists customise a personal Spa Journey for you, for the utmost in indulgence. As far as city spas go, the Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai does an excellent job of concealing the fact that you’re in the middle of the busiest emirate – instead, you’ll feel just as relaxed as you would when visiting a resort spa. After a smooth consultation and welcome drink, we slip into robes and slippers that provide a much-needed warm, weekend hug! As people who travel often, we decide to go for the Travellers’ Retreat which is an escape from your hectic day through a combination of aromatherapy massage and a revival facial. The essential oils will give you a sense of calm and balance, making your skin look renewed. The 60-minute aromatherapy massage slides us into a deep slumber whilst the 30-minute revival facial has a welcomed head massage and revitalising products to make the skin look and feel brighter. Our therapist is super professional and even advises us through ways in which we can keep our wellness, mind and body at ease during frequent travelling. There’s a great health club that is kitted out with Technogym equipment, promising an excellent all-round work out that includes cardiovascular and weight training. A variety of exercise classes and personal training takes place in the movement studio. After exercising, soak up the sun from the tranquil waters of the resortstyle swimming pool and enjoy poolside lounger service. Treat your body to a relaxing spell in the sauna and steam rooms for a complete journey of relaxation (we sure did!). The Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai really does have it all when you’re talking about a city staycation with a meditative vibe. One thing’s for sure, after a weekend spent here, your wellbeing levels are sure to recharged and ready to tackle the bustle back on Sheikh Zayed Road!

GO: VISIT WWW.SHANGRI-LA.COM/DUBAI/ SHANGRILA/ OR CALL (0)4 343 8888 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

• SOCIETY

# E M I R AT E S # A I R L I N E # D U B A I # J A Z Z # F E S T I VA L The 16th edition of the Emirates Airline Dubai Jazz Festival ended with a resounding success as Ricky Martin strutted across the stage with his signature energetic moves. Music fans coming from various parts of the world went crazy as he performed hits like ‘Living La Vida Loca,’ ‘She Bangs,’ and ‘Maria.’ He also premiered his brand-new single ‘Fiebre’ featuring Wisin & Yandel giving the audience an exclusive rendition of his next big single while also broadcasting this live across the world. The festival is the most recognised music event in the UAE and the region receiving more than 20 awards and nominations since its launch in 2003. The 2018 edition was a great success, showcasing exceptional opening acts such as Renegade Brass Band, and China Moses, as well as global superstars Duran Duran and John Legend.

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CITY RIDES â&#x20AC;¢

THE AVANT-GARDE REVOLUTION:

RANGE ROVER VELAR

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• CITY RIDES

It’s not often that you can put the words powerful, technologically advanced and innovation all in the same sentence with elegant simplicity, sophistication and refinement. On top of all that, it’s rare that you’ll attach all of these adjectives to an SUV. Think again. FACT takes the unbelievably compelling Range Rover Velar out onto the UAE roads and little did we know that this legendary motoring brand may have just introduced the world to a whole new meaning of luxury driving…

n the rare occasion when we’re asked the question: “what would be your dream car?” we’re inclined to answer with the usual Ferrari this or Lamborghini that, because “dream” cars are sleek and powerful, and all the things that make head turns whether you’re pulling up at the office or cruising down Sheikh Zayed Road, right? Well, who’d have thought it that last month, we added one more to our list of desired on-road machines and it now sits firmly in the top three; say hello to the Range Rover Velar. Velar, the fourth member of the Range Rover family, is an instantly recognisable descendant of the original luxury SUV – a landmark industrial design that’s become all too popular on the UAE roads, and for good reason. However, Velar’s form, stance and proportions leave an overwhelming impression of the unfamiliar, of the new. The start of another revolution. The perfect blend of the original Range Rover character, conceived to play a powerful new role in the evolving Range Rover narrative, sitting between the Range Rover Evoque and the Range Rover Sport. Its stop-you-in-your-tracks looks are born from a process driven by ‘reductionism’, a discipline faithful to the original Range Rover but enabled by the very latest thinking in design, precision engineering and technology.

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And we can attest to this. For the five days that we called the Range Rover Velar our own, it was a true head-turner. You know that a car is the talking point when the hotel valet decides to give it prime parking spot or as we were constantly told “VIP” parking – and this vehicle was not only a crowd-pleaser with its super slick, glamorous, chrome exterior, but it also has all the modern technology and elegant features that you’d expect from a car with the emotionally charged DNA and unquestionable pedigree of the Range Rover tag. Velar is an SUV that exudes a sense of craft and quality. With fast and flush glass, delicate and beautifully slim illumination and features – inside and out – rendered invisible until required, Velar is the first vehicle to take luxury and technology into unexplored territory – literally. Velar, with its dramatically different approach to motoring, builds on that idea, expanding – once again – our understanding of the notion of a luxury SUV. There is a purity in the Velar’s design that we’ve failed to find in many other SUVs in its segment. Outside, we fell in love with the super-slim Matrix LaserLED headlights and flush deployable door handles. A light, stiff, aluminium-intensive body structure enhances performance, agility and efficiency. In a place like the UAE, this not only sets the car apart in the competitive SUV field, it also appeals to a variety of drivers; whether it’s mums doing a school run, a businessperson taking regular trips between the emirates, or even a young professional who wants to take their casual driving up a notch from leisurely to all-out luxury. Now, let’s talk about some of the standout features that really make the Velar a worthy contender on the UAE roads.

CITY RIDES â&#x20AC;¢

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â&#x20AC;¢ CITY RIDES

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CITY RIDES •

A sophisticated all-wheel drive system, four-corner air suspension, class-leading ground clearance of 251mm (213mm with coil springs), wading depth of 650mm (600mm with coil springs) and Land Rover’s unmatched suite of traction technologies including Terrain Response 2 and All Terrain Progress Control – brings Range Rover’s world-class all-terrain capability to the forefront. Think long drives in the dry heat or the pouring rain down south to the capital, or how about a road trip into RAK’s Jebel Jais for rockier landscape – the Velar is prepared and well-equipped for it ALL to ensure maximum driver engagement. Inside, it’s the debut of the state-of-the-art Touch Pro Duo infotainment system, featuring two highdefinition 10-inch touchscreens for unrivalled functionality and intuitive operation. The Velar had, possibly, the easiest in-car entertainment navigation and user-friendly display that we’ve come across in any SUV of the same calibre. Authentic materials of the finest quality and contemporary finishes underline Velar’s luxury status. The cockpit’s distinctive horizontal architecture is celebrated with a new embossed Cut Diamond signature design, which flows from the instrument panel through to the door casings to emphasise the width of the spacious cabin. The new design is subtly echoed throughout the interior: the Windsor Leather and Premium Textile seats feature a perforated interpretation, and the Cut Diamond motif forms an integral part of the stainless steel speaker frets’ structure on the Meridian 17- and 23-speaker audio systems. The Suedecloth fibres are created from recycled plastic bottles and crafted into a textured non-woven material that’s soft to the touch. An advanced coating system ensures the Premium Textile interior passes Land Rover’s most rigorous tests for durability, and be easily cleaned. There’s nothing basic about the calm sanctuary of the Velar once you’ve closed the door – and only your playlist will pierce the relaxed feeling once you’re sat comfortably inside the car. Aren’t we lucky enough these days that a car can actually warn you of things that could quickly lead to accidents? The Velar is no different. Combined with a comprehensive restraints system that includes six airbags, and a suite of advanced driver assistance systems including Autonomous Emergency Braking with pedestrian detection, Adaptive Cruise Control with Queue Assist and an Adaptive Speed Limiter, the Velar integrates the latest safety technology for the driver and their passengers but also for other road users and everyday walkers. In particular, we found these safety features helpful with detecting cars lingering in our blind spot and helping us to be aware of spontaneous lane-changers, speeders, and any unwanted surprises on the roads.

The 2,874mm wheelbase and intelligently-designed interior delivers an impressive 673-litre luggage compartment and exceptional space for all occupants – so you needn’t worry about getting all your friends’ suitcases comfortably packed in. In fact, space was something that there was an abundance of if the Velar – great for those drivers who like to carry everything but the kitchen sink on their drives! The Range Rover Velar is a story. Created from a clean sheet using Jaguar Land Rover’s Lightweight Aluminium Architecture, the Velar represents the next chapter of the Range Rover success story. Velar is defined by a visually reductive approach and meticulous attention in every detail, which evolves Range Rover DNA and previews the next generation of the motoring giant’s vehicles. But, more importantly, the Velar is also the success story of the individual behind the wheel. This beautifully-balanced, powerfully-proportioned car is an elegant nod to the loyal Range Rover fan, the career-driven professional who worked hard to land a promotion, the family that creates balance between work and play, and the CEO who wants to make a real statement. In fact, the Range Rover Velar is the kind of revolutionary SUV that can be anyone’s story. All you need to do now is to book a test drive and start the chapter into writing your own. ✤

GO: STARTING FROM: AED338,205. VISIT WWW. LANDROVER-ME.COM OR CALL (0)4 309 8901 FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

• PLUGGED-IN

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

Any.do

Slickdeals

If you’re looking to get more productive, listen up! Make your smartphone your personal productivity aid with the ohso efficient Any.do app. A planning and organising app, it keeps your schedule on track with to-do lists, reminders, notes and the ability to share lists with and assign tasks to others. The app also lets you sync between phone, desktop, web and tablet to make sure you never miss a thing. That’s not all! The voice-entry feature lets you add items to your task lists without even speaking. Here’s to a more productive you!

Are you all about that saving money life? The largest deal-sharing community on the web, it collects the best deals available from a wide variety of sources and brings them together in a single place. Covering everything from electronics and clothing to groceries and local deals, the app brings the best possible prices right at your fingertips. Slickdeals lets you search and view by product type or if you want a more hands-off approach you can custom deal alerts for specific products and categories. Happy shopping!

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PLUGGED-IN •

LAPTOP UNDERDOG With a market that’s ever expanding and improving, finding a laptop that’s best for you can truly be a task. So, if you’re someone who’s difficult to please but also simple in your asks, Dell’s XPS 13 may just be exactly what you’re looking for! FACT explores…

hen it comes to technology, our trusty laptops are a universally coveted gadget. Be it bingewatching on Netflix or trying to make that looming deadline, these prized possessions surely seem to get the job done. Enter the Dell

XPS 13. Light, powerful, aesthetically appealing and reasonably affordable, the XPS 13 is quite possibly the best laptop in the market right now. Refined further than ever before, the Dell XPS 13’s latest series of changes have made it a showstopper for the third year in a row. Boasting a design that feels premium yet not over the top, the laptop blends a metallic exterior with a carbon-fiber interior. Making it the ‘world’s smallest 13-inch laptop’, the next-generation InfinityEdge display is a total game changer. That being said, the stunning new 4k Ultra HD display and new colour option called Rose Gold on Alpine White have definitely impressed us the most. Featuring a 0.65% antireflective coating, the display aims to counteract the downfalls of all touchscreens and screen glare. While the carbon fiber and aluminum chassis ensures better endurability than most systems of its size. Apart from being a serious looker, the device is also equipped with one of the

best Windows touchpads. Impressive fluidity as well as smooth and accurate multi-touch gestures- it makes for a solid typing experience! As for processor performance, eclipsing most of its competitors featuring 7th-generation chips, the 8th-generation processor is a strong competitor and a worthy successor that truly makes its presence known. A major improvement to its predecessor, the XPS 13 9370’s Thunderbolt 3 ports support four-lane PCI connections so you can use the laptop with an eGPU for serious gaming. That said, despite being armed with gaming-ready integrated graphics, they aren’t nearly as good as others in the market. The newest XPS 13 model also marks the turning point on their webcam placement. The 720p webcam comes equipped with four microphones and produces visuals as sharp as the latest MacBook Pro, while the new IR lens work well for speedy logins using Windows Hello. If an efficient battery life is one of major requirements, look no further! Among the largest batteries in any 13-inch laptop, the XPS 13 claims an impressive 22hour run. Pleasant visuals, stunning design, solid battery and stronger heat dissipation, there’s plenty going on in Dell’s newest release. As for us, the XPS 13 remains one of the best laptops in the tech world. Let us know what you think! ✤ fact magazine

â&#x20AC;˘ SOCIETY

#JOELLE #PARIS #L AUNCHES #DETOX #RANGE Joelle Paris, the skin and hair care brand by Joelle Mardinian, launched its all new hair care line, Detox range, at the Jumeirah Zabeel Saray. A brand known for creating products with the kindest of ingredients, this time has taken on the goodness of the Eucalyptus to focus on a cooling and cleansing look and feel. The two-product range consists of a hair shampoo and hair mask for exfoliating the scalp, ensuring fresh and clean hair, all while providing nourishment. The product launch included well-known faces in the region celebrating yet another success with Beauty Guru Joelle Mardinian. The freshness of the Eucalyptus forest fun took over into creating a refreshing and fun-filled evening for one and all.

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TOMMY HILFIGER SS18 REINVENTING AMERICAN CLASSICS, THIS IS THE COLLECTION YOU NEED TO MAKE A STYLISH YET CASUAL FASHION STATEMENT FOR SPRING. fact magazine

â&#x20AC;¢ FASHION FOCUS

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FASHION FOCUS •

The Spring 2018 TOMMY HILFIGER Womens’s and Men’s wear collections celebrate speed and immediacy with a touch of vintage nostalgia. The collection gives a nod to Formula One racing pit crews with heritage work wear and a strong focus on denim. The look takes inspiration from the iconic shapes, bold colours and streamlined graphics of speed racers for a collection that reinvents the traditional all-American classics.

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• FASHION FOCUS

SHOP THE BRAND HERE’S OUR WISHLIST FROM TOMMY HILFIGER’S SS’18 COLLECTION FOR HER

FOR HIM

THIS COLLECTION IS AVAILABLE IN TOMMY HILFIGER STORES ACROSS THE GULF. 78

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â&#x20AC;˘ BEAUTY BOX

RITUALS Inspired by the ancient Japanese Samurai warriors, this ritual exudes confidence, strength and power through a range of 22 innovative grooming essentials. Prepared with tiger grass, ginseng, organic bamboo and a refreshing Japanese mint, the Ritual of Samurai enhances your grooming routine with three simple steps: Skin. Shave. Body. Get ready to take on the day with the shave gel and repair lotion for an ultra-smooth shave, followed by a cooling ice shower gel and exfoliating face wash to keep your skin in check through the day. 80

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GROOMING BOX •

AESOP

P E R S O N A L C A R E

ringing the best of personal care to the forefront, Aesop has everything from aromatic roll-on treatments formulated to stimulate the senses and allay motion sickness for frequent travellers; there’s the aluminium-free Herbal Deodorant, a botanically based product created for everyday use and suitable for men and women alike. Aesop’s new Mouthwash provides a solution to the sensitive problem of oral malodour without disturbing saliva production or the natural pH of the mouth. The mild flavour offers a unique alternative to a conventional peppermint base, combining the freshness of Spearmint with subtle notes of Anise, and adding pleasure to efficacy in the maintenance of impeccable personal hygiene. Aesop’s first toothpaste has been developed with the same attention to detail as the Skin Care formulations that effectively cleans teeth and gums, and assists with maintaining immaculate oral hygiene.

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• BEAUTY CHECKLIST

Beauty Buzz YOUR MONTHLY FIX OF THE LATEST PRODUCTS FOR WOMEN…

Guerlain LA PETITE ROBE NOIRE LIP COLOUR’INK Bid adieu to endless touchups with Guerlain’s first fearless liquid lipstick! Shaking things up on the liquid lipstick scene, you’ll get buildable intensity with an 8-hour long hold. Packed with a floral fruity fragrance, the ultra-fine, notransfer texture formula remains comfortable all day long. Take your pick from over fifteen different vibrant shades!

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La Prairie PLATINUM RARE CELLULAR NIGHT ELIXIR Making naturally beautiful skin a reality! The most powerful rejuvenating potion yet to emerge from the La Prairie laboratories, it provides nutrition, respiration, detoxification and immunity for flawlessly glowing skin. The delicate floral scent is the perfect accompaniment for a good night’s sleep!

Paco Rabanne OLYMPEA AQUA Experience freshness at its peak with Paco Rabanne’s brand new aqua-inspired fragrance! Olympea Aqua opens with the freshness of Calabrian bergamot, aquatic accords and petitgrain that lead to the heart of ginger flower along with a cashmere wood base. A divine union of exalted floral freshness and a skin-loving salty-vanilla accord, it is the only fragrance you need this spring!

Starskin 7 SECOND OVERNIGHT MASK Say hello to the newest sleep mask in town! Up your nighttime skincare routine with Starskin’s new luxurious non-water based all-in-one mask that only takes seconds to apply. Soaked in a lightweight and velvety non-water based serum of White Water Lily and Queen of The Night extracts, it is bound to be your new favourite skin care obsession!

Missha Cosmetics MY DESSERT LIP BALM Pucker up! Enriched with Argania Spisona Kernel Oil and fruit extracts, the tinted lip balm gives you the luscious lips of your dreams while still keeping them hydrated. The fruit shape in the middle provides colour to the lips while the outer part is a balm that hydrates, softens and provides a glossy finish to the lips. Available in Apple, Cherry and Green Grape!

Sephora OUTRAGEOUS MASCARA

Make falsies a thing of the past with Sephora’s new amazingly Outrageous Mascara! Featuring a formula enriched with keratin and hyaluronic acid, the mascara offers outrageous volume, superb length and a breakthrough brush featuring iconic bristles that are bound to change your life. The thick, ultra black formula delivers pumped-up, glamorous lashes while providing complete hydration.

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GROOMING CHECKLIST •

Grooming Game YOUR MONTHLY FIX OF THE TOP GROOMING PRODUCTS FOR MEN…

Bean Body MAN SCRUB

Enriched with skin-loving ingredients, the scrub not just works miracles on your complexion but is also oh so good for the environment. Packed with Coconut Oil, Almond Oil and Caffeine, it helps stimulate blood flow and reduce the appearance of cellulite, eczema and stretch marks as well as removing dead skin and acne.

Aesop DEODORANT ROLL-ON Feel fresh all day long! Enriched with high quality botanical ingredients and an invigorating aroma, it helps reduce and mask body odour while refreshing the body and senses. Made with a carefully considered blend of essential oils including Vetiver Root, Coriander Seed and Patchouli, the aluminum and alcohol-free alternative is ideal for sensitive skin.

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Zirh RESTORE UNDER EYE CREAM

Been burning the midnight oil lately? Zirh’s Restore Under Eye Cream has got you covered! Packed with Cucumber Fruit Extract and Caffeine, it helps work wonders to help strengthen the delicate skin around your eyes. Great for keeping the area moisturised and calm down puffiness, its antiinflammatory properties reduces redness as well dark circles and helps wake up dull and tired skin.

Paco Rabanne INVICTUS AQUA Inspired by the intoxicating freshness of aqua, dive into the abyss with an energetic combination of Grapefruit, Yuzu and Pink Pepper along with marine notes wrapped in the heart of herbal violet leaf accord. An iodised crashing wave and a surge of vibrant amber wood, the daring olfactory smash-up is definitely our new favourite!

Baxter of California PASTE POMADE Get hold that lasts all day long! Delivering long-lasting hold that is easily reworked, the lightweight formula is infused with nourishing ingredients including Carnauba Wax, botanical humectants, Kaolin Clay and Beeswax. It nourishes hair while adding thickness, texture and definition with desired hold or finish. Hair feels good and looks even better!

Triumph and Disaster GAMEFACE MOSITURISER A tool to protect your skin against the elements, Triumph and Disaster’s Gameface Moisturiser is the all-weather skincare you need. A unique formulation of Jojoba Extract, Horopito Oil, Ponga Fern and Vitamin E, it is specifically engineered to be light on the skin and easily absorbed. The nutrient rich formulation rejuvenates and protects while leaving skin feeling toned, supple and fresh.

6 fact magazine

POTTERY Barn Spring 2018 Pottery Barn has unveiled its Spring 2018 collection which features an assortment of shiny metals, colourful prints and patterns for the season. The collection draws inspiration from the colours of spring as seen with the Victoria Botanical Pillows with fern and butterfly prints. The Mariella Duvet with its floral bedding is even more inviting, made from silkysoft Tencel, a breathable and sustainable natural fiber. Customers can redecorate their bedrooms with the new coastal style Sausalito Bed. The bedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s headboard is woven of rattan for an airy, open feel, and the Seadrift finish on the wood adds a sun-drenched look. Adding brightness to your home, the Pottery Barn spring collection includes Audrey Lamps, the hand carved Caleb Lantern and the spring collection brings back the Classic Rim Dinnerware, crafted of highquality porcelain in a bright white finish. Gatherings couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get better with the Townsend Leather Collection of Sofas with plump cushions and cosy armrests. 84

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THE TROPICS

Zara Home

Debenhams

Cath Kidston M&Co

Marks and Spencer

Things are getting green, fresh, bright and colourful for spring as interiors inspire a tropical touch for the home. Think leaf-adorned accessories, plants and even breezy, cactus-style mugs, vases and more. Whatever you choose, make sure itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a statement piece!

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VALENTINE’S DAY: DINNER DATES, GIFT IDEAS & WELLNESS TREATS. ARTS SPOTLIGHT: THE MAGIC OF LA PERLE BY DRAGONE. WEEKEND ESCAPES: MOUNTAIN ROMANCE IN OMAN.

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

An Andean Adventure With Peruvian cuisine becoming quite the new food trend in the UAE, there’s one whimsical, uber cool venue that is standing up and representing for the homeland in true tradition and flair. FACT’s Helen Houghton visits Garden at JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai for a breathtaking experience… fact magazine

• CULINARY SPOTLIGHT

s my dining companions and I made our way towards the Garden Peruvian Restaurant within JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, we attempted to pool our limited knowledge of Peru, musing about what the evening might hold in store. Would we be serenaded by men in woven ponchos playing pan pipes whilst the hosts tended to our every whim decked out in Monteras (the traditional bowler style hats) and colourful Andean skirts? Surely there would not be a Llama? Upon arrival the first of many ‘wows’ was uttered after being handed a delicious Andean fruit punch by a host who manned a traditional street stall. She then directed us towards the lobby area which we all agreed was the way we would love to decorate our homes but simply wouldn’t have the vision or courage to do so. Vintage apothecary chests and rustic shelves housed traditional pottery, flickering candles and exotic greenery which drew our gaze in every direction. Throughout the restaurant contemporary accessories married seamlessly with traditional murals and colourful woven mats. Our delightful hosts Michael and Shane had picked up on our obvious naiveté and spoke with passion about the dishes on offer and their significance in terms of origin and cultural influence. We drank up every word and gratefully accepted the recommendations they passionately suggested. This ranged from delicious pisco-based concoctions which the word ‘zing’ was created for to a mouth-watering mezze of Peruvian goodies. Michael explained to us that the ‘must try’ ceviche were representative of the Spanish influence which flavours and seasons all Peruvian cuisine. The ‘classic’ version involved curing sea bass in lime juice and a little chilli before adorning with harmony and crunchy corn for texture. In addition we were presented with seared chicken and beef skewers which had been marinated to perfection, alongside octopus with creamy cauliflower puree and sizzling baked scallops. The food had created a stunned silence which allowed us all to take in the sound of the water feature which transported us from bustling

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Dubai to the tranquillity of the South American rainforest. We were spellbound! None of us have consumed so many dishes, asked so many questions of the host and still been ravenous for more – both food and anecdotes. It was such a relief when our main courses arrived so that our backpacking trek through the menu could continue. We celebrated with our 100th wow when the slow roast lamb shank arrived and to coin a phrase could quite literally be cut with a spoon. It seems insufficient to use the terms ‘tender’ or ‘delicious’ as it was so much more. The beef tenderloin and lamb chops served with the country’s staple, pureed sweet potato, silenced us once more as we reached for the yellow pepper sauce which is made painstakingly in-house by

the team of Peruvian chefs – bravo! The final life-changing moment arrived with the chef’s table. This dessert can’t be found on the menu but is available for special occasions and valued diners. Chef Edgar and his two sous chefs adorned a marble slab with every sweet treat imaginable, from freshly torch-toasted meringue to deconstructed fruit crumble. Whatever you do, when you visit The Garden, promise us that you won’t be too shy to request it. The layers of flavour were indicative of the high rises which both house and surround Garden and the quality of presentation and technique lift traditional ‘peasant’ dishes to that of gourmet cuisine. Don’t allow this to be a hidden gem any longer and let the epicurean adventure blow you away. ✤

CULINARY SPOTLIGHT â&#x20AC;¢

GO: GARDEN IS OPEN FOR DINNER FROM 6PM TO MIDNIGHT. CALL (0)4 414 3000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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MARCH 2018 VOL 1. ISSUE 06 AED&ĂĐƚ ƵďĂŝ 10

For the culture-savvy in Dubai

~ Where The Magic Happens ~ CREATIVE CALLING LOCAL TALENT AND ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT

#FOLLOWME

INSPIRING CONTENT CREATORS ON THE ‘GRAM

MAKING MOVEMENTS UAE STARTUPS TO LOOK OUT FOR IN 2018

MARCH EDITION AVAILABLE NOW on issuu.com/factmagazine 90

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VENUE REVIEW •

Underwater Dining

With Dubai renowned for unique experiences and world records, nothing shouts ‘Dubai’ more than dining underwater in an aquarium. Though it must be said, the reality is slightly different to the underwater restaurants you’ve likely seen in tropical destinations such as the Maldives. FACT’s David Tapley finds out what it’s like to be surrounded by aqua blue at Ossiano in Atlantis The Palm. fact magazine

• VENUE REVIEW

s we approach the Ambassadors Lagoon, one of the focal points of Atlantis The Palm, Ossiano gives nothing away. Greeted by a cheery hostess we’re ushered into a golden elevator, descending into the depths of the restaurant space, and as the doors slide open, an underwater paradise is revealed. One of the strengths at Ossiano is the consistency in service and the Ossiano team should be commended for giving some of the most proficient service in Dubai. Bar staff have already learned our names from the hostess (while we were in the elevator) and are quick to concoct bespoke cocktails on our behalf. It’s a remarkable start to the evening and marks an indicator as to why Ossiano is held in such high regard. Moving through into the dining room, we’re surprised at how small the restaurant space is, presumably in a bid to keep things intimate. Though most diners would be inclined to select one of the tables pushed up against the glass walls of the aquarium tank, we’d suggest sitting one row back to really appreciate the full spectacle on display. While we gawp at the floor to ceiling windows offering views into the underwater world of the Ambassador Lagoon, home to 65,000 marine animals including rays, sharks and a whole host

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of other aquatic species. It’s safe to say that we feel pretty guilty to be working our way through Chef Gregoire Berger’s seafood heavy ‘experience’ menu while large shoals of fish dissipate throughout the dining room. Ginger is used as a bookend to the meal and a means to open the palate in preparation for the sensual onslaught. Resembling a raindrop cake and mixing cranberry and white tea that has undergone spherification, this opening number is an instant showcase for Berger’s avant-garde approach to food and one that left us wanting more. As we make our way through seven distinct courses that include Burratina Pugliese (buratta presented with hibiscus, jalapeño and topped with dehydrated watermelon and tomato powder), Burnt Leek (razor clams, yuzu and seaweed butter) presented in a hollowed-out leek, and the alienlooking Beetroot Ravioli (goats cheese ricotta, betroot consommé, pine nuts and thyme), we soon realiSe that dining at Ossiano is as close to Michelin-star perfection as you’re likely to find in Dubai. The pinnacle of the meal comes at the mid-way point with Berger presenting his Foie Gras Berries, a highly experimental dish that again uses the culinary technique of spherification to startling effect. Spheres of foie gras sit on a plate as if resembling blackberries,

with each sphere injected with cassis to cut through the richness of the liver, and topped with a squid ink crisp. As expected, the seafood really delivers, with the Poached Blue Lobster presenting the crustacean in multiple formats including lobster tail tenderized in milk, a lobster macchiato and a beautifully light lobster soufflé which we’re likely to remember for years to come. More obscure (but no less impressive) is the Legine ‘Katsuobushi’, an Arctic Ocean tooth fish usually found at depths of up to 2000m, coated in nori and served with a fragrant risotto. For all the floral embellishments and meticulous plating it’s a real shame the lighting in Ossiano is so poor, with tables offered little in the way of illumination, it feels at times as though you’re dining in the dark. Instead the focus remains on the aquarium at all times, meaning it’s difficult to appreciate the exquisite plating that’s just as important as the surrounds, though management assures us the lighting situation will soon be rectified. Dining at Ossiano is certainly a Dubai ‘must-do’ and despite a somewhat hefty price tag it’s worth every dirham. As sharks prowl the waters and rays glide effortlessly overhead, Ossiano offers a unique and memorable experience anchored by strong service, exemplary food, and the feeling of dining on the ocean floor. ✤

VENUE REVIEW â&#x20AC;¢

GO: VISIT OSSIANA AT ATLANTIS THE PALM. CALL (0)4 426 2000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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• FOODIE CORNER

Butcher’s Cave Night If there’s one thing that the Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre is known for, it’s their food. With 18 diverse outlets, each popular with loyal clientele and the city’s foodies, we thought it only right to go and check out the hotel’s Wednesday evening offering of all things meat and mouth-watering!

very evening of the week, Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre’s outdoor area transforms into a feast for your senses. We’re talking aromas that linger in the air and cause “mmmh” inducing moments, to sights like live food stations and an extensive buffet spread to whet your appetites and, of course, the most delicious dishes ranging from a variety of cuisines to keep every diner satisfied. The Meridien Village Terrace comes to life each evening of the week to host different themed nights with a new dining twist. On Wednesday, it’s the turn of the carnivores to come out as Butcher’s Cave Night takes centre stage with all the meaty goodness (and a variety of veggie options) for you to indulge in. The choice is abundant with live carving stations being the main star of the show. Think beef, lamb, chicken, grills, skewers and everything in between. All the food that passed our lips was juicy, cooked to our preference and down right fulfilling. If what you’re craving is good ol’ BBQ ribs, get ready to be surprised. The ribs are 94

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saucy and meaty, flawlessly tender and utterly tasty. Tip: don’t be afraid to get stuck in with your fingers – there are just no rules for eating ribs – anything goes! We savoured ever.single.bite! The grilled meats saw everything from kebab-style offerings to lamb chops and even poultry taking prime position on guests’ plates. We saw people getting up for seconds and thirds – whilst others just lavished completely in the grills (and we don’t blame them – the food was SO good). The Rotisserie added to the liplicking treats on the night. Think succulent meat being cooked over direct heat – it’s smoky, a little charred and retains the most impeccable flavour from this traditional cooking method – we’re in love! You’ll be happy to know that all the meaty madness comes alongside a great selection of refreshing salads and

appetisers, served buffet style, whilst the desserts are in a game of their own. We mean colourful fruits, yummy cakes, some hot authentic sweets and even crepes, tarts and ice cream concoctions. Advice: pace yourself so that you’ve got room for dessert! Despite it being quite full on the evening that we visited, the service was efficient, reasonably fast and very friendly. Our mocktails were thirst-quenching and replenished with haste – bonus! The Meridien Village Terrace is where you can experience the ultimate in al fresco dining with a new theme every single night from 8pm to 11pm, offering the exciting diversity that Dubai is best known for! Live performances by the Flames Band add to the casual setting – which in this weather is just perfect. Go for the food, the hospitality and more importantly the memorable evening out. ✤

FOODIE CORNER •

GO: VISIT BUTCHER’S CAVE NIGHT EVERY WEDNESDAY FROM 8PM TO 11PM. CALL (0)4 217 0000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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• SPA & WELLNESS

Head, Shoulders, Tips & Toes! Specially created for skin concerns such as breakouts, and environmentally stressed and sensitive skin, Tipes & Toes’ scientific therapies are the perfect solution for your daily skin challenges. FACT’s Jayne Green went to try out the raved-about Anesi Facial at Tips & Toes Business Bay…

o the day had come to overhaul my dreary skin and as I turned into Business Bay I was already running through my to-do list for the week ahead, but, as I stepped inside the reception area of Tips & Toes, I was joyfully welcomed by their smiling receptionists and my worries seamlessly started to drift away. After taking my appointment details, I was escorted to the changing area where a therapist handed me my dressing gown and slippers. Well, you didn’t have to ask me twice, as I allowed the fresh fluffy cotton gown to snuggle my frame and sank my toes into their comfortable footwear. Absolute bliss. I completed a consultation prior to my treatment, since this was my first time visiting. This enlightened me to the knowledge that I do not actually drink enough water, nor do I have a skincare regime to properly clear my face of makeup which can cause breakouts and indeed I’m not helping myself with the ongoing battle of the effects of ageing. We further discussed exactly what I wanted to achieve from my facial and we decided that the Anesi Hydro Detox was the best option to aid a clear complexion. Overall, it is a purifying treatment for congested skin. I was pleased to hear that my facial is encompassed as a powerful face and eye treatment that helps regulate and balance the function of the skin without being evasive. This sounded perfect especially since I have sensitive skin. My face was lucky to host to a wide range of Anesi products starting with the cleanser that swiftly removed both my mascara and lipstick. Then came the balancing act that was the cleanser and toner. The fragrant scent filled the air as a compress was placed on to my face. After the steam had misted over my face I was now prepped for exfoliation and extraction. Now this is the part of the facial I was not looking forward to, but, I needn’t have worried as my therapist set-away meticulously removing my black/whiteheads (I know, ew, right? But, oh so, yes!). I found myself falling into a somewhat surprising light slumber. Then came the face mask that helps absorb excess sebum, regulate and balance the function of the skin, whilst helping to repair scarring. Purifying massage techniques combined with this unique treatment help to calm irritated skin and rebalance oil-rich pores, leaving beautiful matte skin to power on. As I continued to lie back and not think of work I received the most wonderful head massage. Although, the time had come for the final steps of toning and moisturising. Intertwined throughout this regime was a series of massage sequences which accelerated this experience to cloud nine. Afterwards, I was handed a mirror and I could not believe my eyes. I had that dewy glow that I hadn’t seen in a long, long while and my skin felt utterly amazing. Finally, somewhere that I can go and feel confident in the knowledge and expertise of their therapists, and would highly recommend to my own friends looking for some much-needed ME TIME! ✤

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Now with 32 branches located across four emirates, Tips & Toes is the UAEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest and most successful salon and spa chain. Stay up-to-date with all Tips & Toes news by following @TipsAndToesME on Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat and liking Tips & Toes Middle East on Facebook. Call (0)4 399 0550 or visit www.tipsandtoes.com for bookings and more information.

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• DON’T MISS IT!

Middle East Film and Comic Con 2018! The largest pop-culture festival in the Middle East is back - BIGGER, BOLDER and BETTER than ever! An exhilarating ride of regional, international and niche entertainment, Middle East Film and Comic Con (MEFCC) 2018 promises to be the best yet. SET TO RUN FROM APRIL 5 TO 7 At the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), the ultimate pop culture festival is packed with a star-studded guest lineup, great new features for fans as well as amazing contests. Starting off the festivities with a bang, fans get the chance to meet and interact with some of the biggest names in showbiz. From Doctor Who’s Karen Gillan and the original Green Ranger, Jason David Frank to Karl Urban from the Star Trek trilogy and true comic book royalty, Adam Kubert, the event is all set to be one for the ‘gram. Joining the show for the first time in the region, Netflix will be giving fans a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience. Taking over 200sqft of space, the powerhouse streaming service is planning exciting activations to promote their latest series at the event. Another global phenomenon heading to MEFCC this April is the exclusive collectables brand, Funko. Making every regional and international collector’s dream come true, the event will also feature MEFCC Limited Edition Exclusive products! For families and groups looking for a great day out, Hubzero Hangout by MEFCC’s family partner is the perfect spot to explore, play and get active with fun attractions and experiential zones. Fans also get to enjoy the region’s first boutique Comic Con cinema with Roxy Cineclub. Where the on-screen magic and offscreen allure are synced to give you a show to remember, the Roxy 98

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Cineclub is created with special touches designed to wow and bring the film experience to life. Relax and watch a film during the day or take part in Q&A sessions with your favourite international celebs. Apart from some really fun events and amazing attractions, MEFCC will also be hosting an array of contests to inspire artistic innovation. Taleem, one of the largest education providers in the UAE will be joining forces with MEFCC to launch a fan art competition for 13 to 18 year olds. Giving passionate vloggers the opportunity of a lifetime, MEFCC will be recruiting a new brand ambassador that will be awarded a Superfan Pass. Think access to all the stars, all areas of the show and TONS of geeky gifts! Sharjah based Comic Book publisher, Kalimat and Emirati Production Company Eating Stars Studios will also be in attendance at the Artist Alley. MEFCC will also be hosting international artists, who will be creating during the show and selling original artwork to visitors. With weeks to go until the event, you can count on MEFCC to announce lots more celebrities as well as fun activities to look forward to. ✤

GO: TICKETS FOR MEFCC 2018 ARE NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE (WWW.MEFCC.COM) AND AT VIRGIN MEGASTORE OUTLETS ACROSS THE GCC.

SH KI R TU

PPO

N HE C T KI

Level Seven sets the stage for all-time Turkish favourites. Grab a kebab or pides while sipping on a traditional drink (or two), all remixed with art, music and stories in a social creative space. From 22 February 2018 Monday - Saturday | 5PM – 12AM 7th Floor W Dubai – Al Habtoor City FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY. Book your table now Levelsevendubai.com/buyu 04 435 55 77

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