JUNE 2016 - 15 L.E., VOLUME 11, ISSUE 9 WWW.IDENTITY-MAG.COM
must watch
your
RAMADAN GUIDE
TOP 10 TV SERIES
from RECIPES to FASHION A THINNER YOU see page 18
6 CATERERS YOU NEED on speed dial
NUBIA
with Mema ElShafey Jewellery
D
HAFER
an exclusive sneak peak into his personal space
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Identity May 2016 Cassia.indd 1
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letter from the editors
NUBIA shoot see page 32
I
couldn’t help but be struck this month with a sense of appreciation for this magazine. Our world has become so digital, and at this point in 2016, it almost seems redundant to share this observation because it has been that way for so long now. The force with which online news, magazines, and entertainment crashed into the market caused experts to start ringing the death bells for print a decade ago, but perhaps they did so too soon. There’s no denying that online content is convenient. But at the same time, it requires no commitment. Outside of the quick click on your phone screen, a quick browse of the material, and a forgotten trail on your browsing history, online content is come and go, as easily forgotten as it was to come by. This is a stark contrast with a physical article that you hold in your hands, part of a publication that you took the time to select and deemed worthy enough to carry around with you. You can browse it at your own convenience, mulling thoughtfully over each piece inside, without
breaking your train of thought every seventeen seconds with a Facebook notification or a WhatsApp message. That opportunity for concentration alone is rare and valuable in our go-go-go world. As it requires no commitment, online content is also at a loss to provide the same satisfaction that comes with completing a printed piece. There is less of a connection between creators and readers, because it takes less effort to reach from one to the other. First of all, we would like to thank our readers for their commitment to us. It is because of you and other like-minded individuals who prefer the connection with the printed word that keeps the heart and soul of Identity alive. Print publications will be around as long as there are those who value its worth over online alternatives. Secondly, as we come into the month of Ramadan, we would like to encourage our readers to take a step back and appreciate all aspects of a deeper and more thoughtful lifestyle.
Identity Magazine was founded in 2005 by Rola Kamel to enhance every aspect of a woman’s life style, helping our female readers to discover and improve their own identities. The subscription rate to Identity is 180 L.E. for one year (12 issues) by Al Ahram, Tel: 02-27703190 Contact us at: 26A Montazah St., Zamalek, Cairo-Egypt. Tel: 02-27361187 Mobile: 0122-9401071 email: sendus@identity-mag.com www.identity-mag.com
IDENTITYMAGEG 8 Identity June 2016
M AK E YOUR SPI R ITS SOA R THI S R A M A DAN
SHARE L AUGHTER, MEMORIES AND WONDERFUL CUISINE... SHARE THE JOYFUL SPIRIT WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS AS RAMADAN LEAPS INTO COLOURFUL LIFE AT THE PAL ACE. Our Som3a Basha tent is a Ramadan legend... with ‘street style’ live cooking stations for the sizzling and succulent delights of Sohour. Cairo’s ‘talk of the town’ Omar’s Café Iftar buffet awaits you. Egyptian Nights heightens the atmosphere with a Khan el Khalili flair. Cheer your favourites in soccer’s European Championships on the big screens. Stay as long as you like for an unforgettable Ramadan experience.
16 SARAY EL GEZIRA ST., PO BOX 33 ZAMALEK, CAIRO 11211, EGYPT. T: 00. 202.27.28.3000 CAIROMARRIOTTHOTEL.COM ARABIC.MARRIOTT.COM
masthead
JUNE VOLUME 11
ISSUE 9
IDENTITY-MAG.COM
Founder & Managing Editor ROLA KAMEL Editor-in-Chief NAWAL ISMAIL Senior Editor LIZA DUNHAM Senior Arabic Editor ADEL SALIB Copy-Editor AMINA EL FAYOUMY Junior Editors AMINA MOUSTAPHA, ALIA EL SAADY Online Freelance Writer MIRANA TERA Relationship Expert MARWA RAKHA Psychology Expert KATE KERPEZ Fashion Expert NAHED KAZZIHA Senior Graphic Designer ALIA EL-ABD Marketing & Advertising Manager RIHAM YEHIA Digital Marketing Manager STEVE NABEEL Social Media Executive HABIBA HICHAM Online Advertising Consultant MARWA KAMEL Identity Magazine Distributors ASHRAF FOUAD & ESSAM IBRAHIM Website Company QPIX SOLUTIONS Distribution Company AL AHRAM Printing House INTERNATIONAL PRINTING HOUSE (IPH)
10 Identity June 2016
contents
DHAFER L’ABIDINE
Family is what keeps you grounded, motivated and balanced in your life.
RAMADAN SPECIALS PURE RAMADAN 10 FESTIVE MUST-HAVES 12 SIX CATERERS YOU NEED 16 TOP 10 TV SERIES THIS RAMADAN 14 ACCOUNTS FOR RECEIPES 18 GUIDE FOR A THINNER YOU 20 HOW TO DEAL WITH PEOPLE 24 RELIGION LINKS & GOOD HEALTH 56 QUICK RECIPES FOR LATE COOKERS
22
HEAVY DOSE OF DETOX
12 Identity June 2016
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30
38 “
in depth:
FASHION & BEAUTY
26 THE SHIRT ON YOUR BACK 28 RAMADAN NIGHTS 30 SUMMER FOOT FRENZY
32 NUBIA 38 DHAFER L’ABIDINE 46 PERSONALISED RAMADAN READINGS 50 BACK TO BASICS 52 WHY RAMADAN GETS THE BEST OF US 54 HOW IDENTITY SEES RAMADAN
BITS & PIECES
58 RAMADAN OUTINGS 60 SNAPS & PRESS RELEASES 64 HOROSCOPES
festive must-haves IKEA - CANDLE LAMP “Rekindle Ramadan joy with this lamp that will take you back to the old story book days with a design that can only be described as reminiscent of Arabian Nights.”
HOUZZ.COM - CITRONIQUE DESIGN SOUP BOWL “Serve your signature dishes in a bowl hand painted to express the essence of the Mediterranean.”
IDENTITY LOVES ZARA HOME - ENGRAVED METAL BALL LAMP “Incorporate oriental in your home with this arabesque engraved lamp.”
HOMEESSENTIALS.CO ANDROMEDA GEOMETRIC MIRROR “Here is another valuable addition to your home with cleverly constructed brass accents that blend Arabian with modern.”
ZARA HOME - ROUND BRAIDED POUFFE “Take a seat on this neutral cream coloured pouffe that doubles for comfort and decoration.”
FROG FROM JUMIA – TOUCH WOOD TRAY “This colourful tray with a ‘touch wood’ message is sure to add vibrancy when serving.”
IKEA – COLOURED GLASSES “Ikea’s coloured glasses are always a nice addition to your table during Iftar and Sohour.”
14 Identity June 2016
cuisine cues
6 CATERERS YOU NEED ON SPEED DIAL One of the best (and tastiest) parts of Ramadan is being invited to Iftar after Iftar and Sohour after Sohour. One of the more complicated parts is that you’re obliged to reciprocate these Iftar and Sohour invitations with some of your own. That’s why we’re saving you the time and effort of cooking a feast, and giving you a list of your new best friends, otherwise known as the best caterers in Cairo! GHADA NAWARA CATERING Sheikh Zayed, 0122 210 1369 Ghada Nawara catering offers all varieties of catering services, from event and ceremony, to cocktail parties and more. So if you’re looking for catering with a twist in style, or more specifically a combination of your mother’s cooking and a fantasy restaurant, then Ghada Nawara catering is for you. YUMAMIA, 0120 002 3600 If you’re trying to go all out with your Iftar, complete with mini shawermas, vegetable skewers, stuffed vine leaves, steak, and all the finger foods you could possibly think of, then Yumamia will be the magic trick you need. The aroma will leave your guests eager to sample the tantalising spread. THE CATERING CO. Heliopolis, 0100 000 2391 What the Catering Co. essentially has to offer for you is that they will bring you a five-star restaurant buffet
16 Identity June 2016
to your kitchen door. This includes signature salads, thinly sliced steak with melted Philadelphia cheese, stuffed vegetables, quiches, and we can’t forget the cherry on top of the cake: their chocolate croquant fondue. Our question is, can they cater our meals to us for the rest of our lives? AKLBEETY Maadi, 01093002002 If you’re trying to hide from your guests the fact that you ordered their Iftar from a catering company, then Aklbeety will suit your pretty white lie perfectly! Aklbeety will bring the hominess of your grandmother’s kitchen combined with the oriental plates of Khan El Khalili’s restaurants. TANDOORI FLAME Mohandeseen, 02-33444502 If you’re putting your heart and soul into this Iftar or Sohour and are looking for some creative food styling ideas, then Tandoori Flame has exactly what you’re looking for! It is known for their endless sea of creative ideas and its extensive library of Indian recipes. KOZBARA New Cairo’s Fifth Settlement, 0109 976 2388 If fasting all day has left you craving that homemade, warm plate of food to fill your ravenous stomach, then you should contact Kozbara’s team. Their buffet style spreads are known to bring much welcomed warmth to your belly and a smile to your face.
cuisine cues
ACCOUNTS TO FOLLOW FOR QUICK RECIPES by Amina Moustapha Even though Ramadan is a fasting month, it’s also all about eating and cooking! Food has an extra special taste during this holy month that is hard to beat. If you need some extra inspiration for each meal, you’re in luck. We rounded up some of the best accounts where you can find quick recipes for making easy and appetising dishes.
to using a slow cooker, Fatafeat is your perfect guide to cook like a boss. They have a fair amount of tips to help you rustle up professional plates. Follow them and their secret recipes will make everyone on your table bouncing in their seats with excitement. Facebook: Fatafeat; Instagram: fatafeatchannel
Men Matbakh Ossama
The phrase “Eating is a necessity, but cooking is an art” will come to mind while cooking Chef Ossama’s This one should be the first on your list. With their recipes. Plan your daily Iftar and Sohour easily with large team of incredible cooks, they take easy recipes his exhaustive range of mouth-watering yet healthy to a whole new level. They don’t only provide you recipes for main courses, appetizers, and desserts. with the ingredients, but they instruct you step-by- These delicious dishes will definitely add variety, step, warn you of the common mistakes, and suggest colour, and nutrition to every meal during the month the fastest, easiest,and also creative ways to cook. of Ramadan. And that’s how you become your own master chef. Facebook: Men Matbakh Ossama Facebook: CBC Sofra; Instagram: cbcsofra
CBC Sofra
Easy Pan
Are you afraid to get mixed up, or fail to find the right ingredients? Don’t fret! Easy Pan will save you from all the trouble. They won’t settle for simply providing you with recipes, they will go as far as delivering fresh and pre-measured ingredients to your doorstep with the precise portions required to cook for the number of portions you’ve selected. Isn’t that heaven? Facebook: Easy Pan; Instagram: easypaneg
Tasty
The “Tasty” team has covered everyone’s favourite dishes, and each recipe is ready to party. You can browse through many recipes based on specific ingredients, cuisine, course, chef, or degree of difficulty. Clear stage-by-stage simple directions and additional chef tips will guide you from start to finish without the frustration of guessing. Eureka. Facebook: Tasty; Instagram: buzzfeedtasty
The problem with these accounts is that they are all incredibly good, you won’t be able to decide which Want to improve your cookery skills or expand your one to follow, so take our advice and follow them all. kitchen know-how? From filleting fish to creating the Bon appétit! perfect puffed up soufflé, storing and freezing foods
Fatafeat
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ramadan recommendations
TOP 10 TV SERIES THIS RAMADAN The long-awaited list of TV Ramadan series is at the tip of your hands now. We know you can’t wait to curl up on a couch and watch with family and friends your favourite stars, so pick and choose which ones you are eager to follow and let the time before Iftar fly by smoothly.
6- EL MEEZAN
As usual, the fabulous Ghada Adel will entertain us with an incredible performance in her new TV series starring Bassel Khayat, Shereen Reda, Mohamad Farag, Ahmed Fahmy, and Nahed El Sebaie.
7- EL MAGHNA
Here comes the moment we have been all waiting for. After last year’s major success with “Taht El Saytara,” The king, Mohamed Mounir, has finally done it and once again Nelly Karim and the inspiring writer shot his first TV series. Starring Rania Farid Shawky, Mariam Naoom are reunited in “Soquot Hor.” It’s this series is directed by Sherif Sabry and written by directed by Shawky El Magry, written by Wael both Mohamed Mohamedy and Ahmed Mohy. Hamdy, and starring Ahmed Wafiq, Safaa El Toukhy 8- RAS EL GHOUL and Naglaa Badr. Mahmoud Abd El Aziz and Farouq El Fishawy are in the very same TV series folks! As if this wasn’t 2- KHEYT HAREER Since there is no Ramadan without Yousra, this year enough, they are also accompanied by the stunning she is back in “Keyt Hareer” joined by an amazing Mervat Amin, with Leqa’a El Khamis, Mohamed cast, from Naglaa Badr, Shereen Reda, to Sayed Shahin, Ramy Wahid, Bayoumy Fouad, and the singer Ragab. This one is directed by Hania Khalifa, and Poussy. written by Abdallha Hassan and Ameen Gamal, with 9- EL KHOROUG screenwriter Naglaa El Hadeyny. Now that Dhafer L’Abidine is one of the big players in the Ramadan battle, his series are some of the most 3- MA’AMOUN W SHORAKA’OH This sure-to-please series is starring the one and only awaited ones, and we feel it’s a must-see. This one is Adel Emam, along with Khaled Selim, Mostafa Fahmy, also starring Dora, Sherif Salama and Ahmed Rateb, Lebleba, Kamal Abu Reya, Tamer Hagras, and Reem it’s written by Mohamed El Safety, and directed by Mostafa. It is written by Youssef Mo’atty and directed Mohamed Gamal El Adl. by Ramy Imam.
1- SOQOOT HOR
10-AFRAH EL OBA
Any loyal fan of mosalsalat won’t find the heart to Here comes this year’s ensemble cast series, starring miss this show because of its incredible cast. It has Khaled El Nabawy, Eyad Nasar, Rania Youssef, the talented Mona Zaki, the astonishing Mahmoud Waleed Fawaz, Nabeel Eissa, Hamza El Aily. Written Hemida, along with Eyad Nassar, Sawsan Badr, and by Mohamed Sayed Besheer and directed by Tareq Sabry Fawaz. The series is based on a novel of the same name by Naguib Mahfouz. Refaat, it’s a promising one.
4- SABA’A ARWAH
5- LAYALY EL HELMEYA
One of the most beloved series is back once again to the small screen, so get yourself ready because “Layaly El Helmia” with it darling cast is after your heart, so let’s see if you will survive the nostalgia. Starring Elham Shahin, Safeya El Emary, Hesham Selim and many more, and directed by Magdy Abou Emera. 20 Identity June 2016
11. WANOUS
We’ve saved the best for last, because as a general rule the super star Yehia El Fakharany’s series can’t be missed. Starring Hala Sedki , Nabil El Halafawi, Hanan Metawaa and Mohamed Shahin, the series is written by Abd El Rehim Kamel and directed by Shady Fakharany.
health gurus
YOUR GUIDE TO A THINNER RAMADAN If you are looking to lose weight this Ramadan instead of gain, then this guide is the kick-start you need. Modest food intake paired with a disciplined exercise regiment can help you become a new you inside and out by the end of the month! We recommend the thirty minute ZR30 Total Body Workout available on productivemuslim.com.
Day 1
IFTAR: 3 dates with 2 glasses of water, 1 grilled chicken breast fillet, 3 cups of your favourite salad, a handful of nuts, a cup of tea/coffee AFTER WORKOUT: A protein shake or smoothie SNACK: 2 cups of green tea, followed by 1 whole papaya SOHOUR: 2 glasses of water, 1 cup of oatmeal cooked in 2 cups fat free milk, topped with 1 sliced banana, and 1 chopped date (optional)
Day 2
IFTAR: 3 dates with 2 glasses of water, 2 grilled tilapia fillets, 2 cups steamed mixed vegetables, a cup of tea/coffee AFTER WORKOUT: A smoothie SNACK: Watermelon SOHOUR: 2 glasses of water, 1 date, 2 boiled eggs with sautéed baby spinach
Day 3
IFTAR: 3 dates with 2 glasses of water, chicken with lemon roasted vegetables, a cup of tea/coffee AFTER WORKOUT: A protein shake SNACK: 2 cups of green tea, yogurt with granola/ muesli chunks SOHOUR: 2 glasses of water, 1 cup of oatmeal cooked in 2 cups fat free milk, topped with 1 sliced banana, 1 chopped date (optional)
Day 4
IFTAR: 3 dates with 2 glasses of water, grilled chicken salad,a cup of mint tea AFTER WORKOUT: A glass of carrot juice SNACK: 2 cups of green tea, 1 banana, with walnuts, cinnamon, and honey, baked for 15 minutes SOHOUR: 1 large date and a large smoothie 22 Identity June 2016
Day 5
IFTAR: 3 dates with 2 glasses of water, grilled tuna steak with salsa, a cup of apple cinnamon tea AFTER WORKOUT: A smoothie SNACK: 2 cups of green tea, a bowl of fat free Greek yogurt, topped with crushed walnuts SOHOUR: 2 glasses of water, 1 cup of oatmeal cooked in 2 cups fat free milk, topped with blueberries
Day 6
IFTAR: 3 dates with 2 glasses of water, basil and bulgur salad, a cup of tea/coffee AFTER WORKOUT: A protein shake SNACK: 2 cups of green tea, 1 apple, 1 pear SOHOUR: 2 glasses of water, 3 cups of fat free Greek yogurt topped with walnuts, raisins, and crushed granola/muesli
Day 7
IFTAR: 3 dates with 2 glasses of water, cracked wheat grilled zucchini salad, a cup of tea/coffee AFTER WORKOUT: 2 cups of carrot juice with a handful of almonds SNACK: 2 cups of green tea, carrots with fresh guacamole SOHOUR: 2 glasses of water, 1 large date, a smoothie
ramadan recommendations
GIVE YOURSELF AN ELECTRONIC DETOX Just because you’re cutting out food, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t cut out other things as well. Your phone is probably the source of most of your stress anyway, and if you want to avoid anyone difficult, limiting your means of communicating with them is one way to do it. You can turn off WhatsApp and accept only calls, so that you don’t have to withdraw from your phone completely. Much like the post-Iftar delay, you can also delay responding to Whatsapp and texts until after Iftar.
HOW TO DEAL WITH PEOPLE DURING
RAMADAN by Alia El Saady
SLEEPING CAN SAVE YOU If you don’t know how to deal with people this month, the best way to do it, is to avoid situations with people altogether. Because you’ll be asleep you won’t have the option to argue with anyone; they won’t want to bother you since you’re asleep and you won’t be bothered by them! It works in your favour, plus, you actually get to rest in the process! It has been scientifically proven that sleep can relieve headaches that occur while fasting. RECRUIT A HELPING HAND If even the people closest to you are sometimes the culprit, a way to keep them at arms length is to give them tasks. If you keep them busy with something to do, such as helping you prepare Iftar, they won’t have time to argue with you. As an added plus, you’ll get all the chores done and get your revenge for being difficult to deal with! They will be willing to help because it is that time of the month where we all want to help out, so they’ll feel good and you’ll feel a lot better! It’s a win-win.
Ramadan is the month of coming together, a unity between family and friends, a time of harmony and oneness… Or so it seems. Somehow dealing with people this holy month is a lot more difficult; it almost seems as if they want to push you to the limit of breaking your fast! What makes matters worse is that you have to keep your cool, or else! So here’s a little guide to help you keep it together JUST BREATHE! and not lose it dealing with people this Ramadan. If you’re in an unavoidable situation with a difficult CREATE A POST-IFTAR DELAY If you have the option, make sure you’re meeting people after Iftar when your mood is a lot better and you’ve gotten your fill of food and TV. This way you’ll at least be relieved from all the stress of fasting and can deal with whatever comes your way without having to break your fast before Maghreb! 24 Identity June 2016
person, instead of exploding in anger or holding that anger in, take three deep breaths. This will give your brain a quick hit of oxygen, calm you down, and help you think clearly.
And remember! Ramadan is all about compassion, so a little patience with these difficult people can go a long way!
advice gurus toxic love prescription:
HEAVY DOSE OF DETOX by Marwa Rakha
Dear Marwa, I can’t call it a six-year relationship nor six-year love story because we doubted our love to each other numerous times. So maybe I will call it a six-year attachment. I have done unforgivable mistakes, but I tried to fix them and replace what has been lost by being a new person. But the new page I was hoping for doesn’t exist in the real world. My past managed to haunt me and take away everything I wanted in life, which is him. The tragic ending was due to him not being able to forget or forgive what I have done even though we have been together for quite a while with the “new me” resolution. All I am thinking about right now is whether I have ended this cycle? Will I ever manage to live with him feeling secured? Will he even be back or is it the beginning of the journey of getting over him? But I am already sick of this journey because it was never complete. We always managed to find our way back to each other, but we were never ever able to manage a lasting relationship; we never found commitment. Distance was always the solution for our psychological damages to heal and our dramatic fights to be forgotten. Pleasant Toxic Love
You are enjoying the epic Iliad of your own creation to the extent of not wanting to put an end to it. If you insist on prolonging your drama further, you will end up with a farcical soap opera that will be a laughingstock instead of a heartbreaking tragedy or a deep controversial sequel. Unfortunately, this toxic love has become a part of how you define yourself and your life. You will need a severe detox program to rid you of this relationship. It will be hard, painful, and extreme, but it is your only option if you decide to walk away from this relationship. You can also choose to stay in this relationship until the toxins wear you out; when you no longer find it pleasant, it will end.
The worst thing about your story is that even if this relationship ends, you will seek the same pattern in your new relationship. A peaceful, relaxed, and happy Dear Pleasant Toxic Love, relationship will not satisfy your desire for drama and The choice of your signature name is the answer plot twists. to your dilemma! Your love is toxic yet you find it pleasant. You enjoy the suffering and the aches It will take a lot of strength and determination to get that come with this relationship. You find in pain you out of this loop. It is important to know how this retribution for your past sins. pattern started to be able to change it. Whatever started this pattern has led it to become your comfort If your question is whether this relationship will end zone and what usually repels women in relationships in love and peace, the answer is: No! It will not! is now your bittersweet journey. Love and peace are the promised outcomes of new beginnings; a new you, a new life, and a new man The decision is yours: detox and therapy or let it wear who deserves the new you! you out.
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psychological insights Holding a long term meditation practice was found to reduce blood pressure and lower levels of cortisol, a hormone that causes stress (Basu-Zharku, 2011). Religious services may produce feelings similar to those in meditation when they are focused on messages of positivity, such as love and gratitude (Besser, 2013). Meditative prayer can additionally activate parts of the brain related to emotion and emotional control (Rettner, 2015). Religious practice and prayer have also been related to multiple physical benefits. These benefits include better immune function, better cardiovascular health, higher white blood cell count, lower mortality rates, and lower occurrence of strokes (Basu-Zharku, 2011). In fact, the relationship between religion and health specifically during Ramadan has been studied. Lipid peroxidation, a potentially damaging bodily process (Vasilaki & McMillan, n.d.), was studied in men before and after Ramadan. Researchers found that products of lipid peroxidation had decreased during the month of Ramadan (Basu-Zharku, 2011).
HOW RELIGION LINKS TO GOOD HEALTH by Kate Kerpez
Research has also found higher rates of healthy lifestyle behaviours among people who report that they are more religious. These healthy lifestyle behaviours, in turn, are related to lower mortality rates due to circulatory, respiratory, digestive, or cancerous causes (Basu-Zharku, 2011). There is an alternative side to the many positive mental and physical outcomes of religious beliefs and practices. Higher rates of depression and lower quality of life have been measured among those who hold negative religious beliefs. Negative beliefs, such as believing that a higher power is punishing, threatening or withdrawing from us, could cause negative health outcomes like higher stress (Rettner, 2015).
Studies have linked religiosity to better mental health. Measures of faith such as self-rated religiousness and spirituality on surveys, or number of religious services attended per week Overall, the impact of religion on health is strongly have been assessed and related to positive health positive. However, other findings show that negative outcomes beliefs can flip this relationship. Whatever our beliefs Studies have found that piety was related to lower levels of depression in people with poor health and reduces stress and anxiety (Rettner, 2015). In the same line, attending religious services has been related to greater life satisfaction. Psychologists have suggested that religion can provide a sense of meaning and purpose in life and a supportive social network, both of which strengthen mental health (Moeller, 2012). 28 Identity June 2016
may be, these findings indicate that positivity is a good first step towards good health.
References: Basu-Zharku, I. (2011). The influence of religion on health. Besser, R. (2013). Is religion good for your health? Rettner, R. (2015). God help us? How religion is good (and bad) for mental health. Vasilaki, A. T., & McMillan, D. C. (n.d.). Lipid peroxidation.
fashion fever Joseph
THE SHIRT ON YOUR BACK by Nahed Kazziha
Zimmermann
All in Knots
JW Anderson
The evolution of the all-time favourite shirt from classico to avant garde is undoubtedly one of the hottest trends of SS16. The beloved closet staple has transcended its everyday purpose and is now deconstructed and hotter than ever. From off the shoulder to shirt skirts, welcome to a world abound with variety that is sure to keep you anything but buttoned down.
Get all tied up in multiple shirt sleeves, repurposed, reused and knotted into intricately fitted delicate silhouettes that are anything but masculine. H&M
Prairie Girl
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A nod to the age of innocence and farmlands, give the Prairie Blouse a sophisticated upgrade from the barn to the concrete.
Monse Monse
Altuzarra
Put your best foot (and leg) forward with a button down shirt-inspired skirt. Is it a top? Is it a bottom? Who cares!
Zac Posen
JW Anderson
Shirt Skirt
Cold Shoulder Oscar de la Renta
Always perfect, the femininity of a bare shoulder never fails to evoke goddess status, in particular when it is exquisitely paired with a power shirt.
Shirt Dress Graduate from the oversized shirt dress to its more feminine cousin. Still a shirt, but oh my, that full skirt though.
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fashion fever
RAMADAN NIGHTS by Nahed Kazziha
Ramadan is finally upon us. Our summer is taken over by family and friends, all insistent upon feeding us. Our usual haunts turn into colourful tents with lanterns alit. Amid all the festivities, food, sleep deprivation and unbearable heat, is it really necessary to show up to gatherings in anything other than our PJs? And because the last thing you need to worry about this month is your clothes, take a page out of our magazine, and try these outfits on for size.
J Crew EGP1,269 Zara EGP499
Chloe EGP19,073
Fendi EGP22,307
Current Elliott EGP2,580
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Vetements EGP17,198
Sam Edelmann EGP2,643
Chloe EGP7,879
Topshop EGP943
Oscar De La Renta EGP6,885
Topshop EGP753
H&M EGP379
Gucci EGP11,598 Golden Goose EGP3,965
Mansur Gavriel EGP6,733
H&M EGP299
Zara EGP399 H&M EGP149
Chan Luu EGP2,411
Charlotte Olympia EGP6,995 Fendi EGP15,265 Okhtein EGP1,900
GöL HöRGEL EGP5,550
Mango EGP699
fashion fever
1 Woodstock
keeping it natural in festival favourites. Zara EGP499
Jimmy Choo EGP6,721
Glamorous EGP288
Isabel Marant EGP3,467
summer
FOOT
Mango EGP999
2 Architectural
stepping out in bold confidence Nicholas Kirkwood EGP8,364
Mango EGP499
United Nude EGP2,831
Marni EGP8,738
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Kat Maconie EGP1,878
3 Mariachi
bringing the fiesta to your feet.
Sam Edelmann EGP1,788
Glamorous EGP363 Sam Edelmann EGP1,789
Elina Linardaki EGP1,678
FRENZY by Nahed Kazziha
Whether you are in the city or have already made your successful escape seaside, your footwear needs a seasonal update. Enter standing pedi appointments and foot scrubs mode! Get ready for this summer’s all-star footwear reward, from slip ons to tie ups, be ready to hit the ground running.
Mabu by Maria BK EGP2,163
4 Sliders
gliding right into summer.
Mansur Gavriel EGP6,438
H&M EGP799
Shellys London EGP525
Mango EGP599
Zara EGP599
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NUBIA the land of serenity
with Mema ElShafey Jewellery
Art Director & Stylist: MEMA ELSHAFEY Photographer: MP STUDIOS Jewellery: www.MEMAJEWELLERY.com Hair Stylist: KRISS BEAUTY SALON Location: ANAKATO NUBIAN HOTEL, ASWAN, EGYPT 36 Identity June 2016
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nubia
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nubia
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in depth
D HAFER L’ABIDINE an exclusive sneak peak into his personal space
Photographer: ABDALLAH SABRY, BLACK STUDIO Interview by: AMINA MOUSTAPHA, ALIA EL SAADY 42 Identity June 2016
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in depth
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Family is what keeps you grounded, motivated and balanced in your life
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in depth
A
family man, an ex professional football player, an international actor and an innovator of not just the Egyptian screen but the Arab screen as well. Dhafer L’Abidine an actor of Tunisian descent has been in the spotlight for a considerable amount of time, having acted in Sex and The City 2 and Law & Order UK the L’Abidine has established himself on the international sphere and received international acclaim, making him a cornerstone in the world of acting and particularly after his success in the past Ramadan T.V. series Taht El Saytara, Identity sat with L’Abidine to learn more about him and his upcoming projects. How does it feel to be a family man? Family is great; my wife and my daughter are everything to me. Family is more important than work; in fact, it is the most important aspect in life. Family is what keeps you grounded, motivated and balanced in your life. Work is good, but it’s your family that should take the most focus, because they are the people you come home to after work.
from, how they will react in certain situations, and how they think. For example, an Egyptian character and a Western one won’t react the same way to the same circumstances. There is no real difference between the two acting styles; it all boils down to the character. Why did you move to the Egyptian screen, despite being established in an international sphere? I’ve got good experiences in the international screen, but at the same time I am Arab and I’m interested in projects I can relate to and others can relate to as well. Arabic Drama is very important to me. Egyptian series have a wide audience, when you work in the Egyptian sphere you have a great opportunity to penetrate the industry. You feel at home in a way; living in Egypt you’re exposed to the same traditions and customs. I try to balance my career between my international work and my work in Egypt. Tell us more about “El Khoroug”.
“El Khoroug” is the title of my new TV series this upcoming Ramadan. It’s a crime series, but at the same time the plot has a social aspect. It’s a combination between suspense, mystery and drama; that’s what tempted me to read the script in the If you had to pick one thing you hate about acting, first place. I like that it addresses a wide range of what would it be? audience. Learning lines. It is the most tedious part of the process but it’s something you have to do. If you compare it to the other aspects of the process like researching or preparing for a part or even learning about your character, learning lines has to be the least enjoyable. If you don’t have your lines down, you can’t act; it’s necessary. Would you say there’s a difference in your acting style between Arabic roles and international ones?
What are your future projects/roles? Next year, I will be working with an American director, Jane Spencer, on a short film titled South of Hope Street. While attending the Cannes Film Festival they made a big announcement about it. It was during the festival that I learnt that I would be working with an amazing director and cast. I will be acting alongside Michael Madsen who previously played the role of Victor Vega in ‘Resevoir Dogs’.
There is no difference in the acting process itself; the With his eye on both the Arab and the International dissimilarities show in the characters. Number one sphere, L’Abidine is sure to have many successes both rule in acting is to be normal, and in order to do so in Egypt and globally. Which truly makes him an icon. you must understand where you character comes
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heartfelt discussions
PERSONALISED
RAMADAN READINGS guiding your way to spiritual serenity
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Ramadan is the perfect opportunity to allocate the time needed to reflect on the Quran and read it from cover to cover, not wanting to miss any of the treasures inside. But if this has been your routine for as long as you can remember, you may now feel as if you’re in a rut and you’re just doing it out of habit. The holy book is never meant to be read robotically just for the sake of completing it; there are too many deep thoughts within to just be read lightly. This year, before you start your routine, think honestly about what your spiritual life needs this year, and add a focus on that for all of Ramadan. You can resume your normal reading routine, but single out some extra thoughtful passages when you need them, even if they are out of order.
YOU NEED ENCOURAGEMENT
Al-Mu’minun 80
Life is difficult, and we all need encouragement to live It is He Who gives life and causes you to die, and in it in a spiritual and uplifting way. Keeping your eyes His control is the alternation of the night and the day: focused on what’s important will help you live the life then why don’t you understand? you aim for.
At-Tawbah 51
Al-Hadid 03
He is the First and the Last, the Evident and the Immanent, and He has the knowledge of all things.
“Never can anything befall us save what God has decreed! He is our Lord Supreme; and in God let the Hud 61 believers place their trust!” To the Thamud People (We sent) Salih one of their own brethren. He said: “O my people! Worship Al-Insan 25 And remember thou the name of thy Lord in the Allah: ye have no other God but Him. It is He Who hath produced you from the earth and settled you morning and in the evening. therein: then ask forgiveness of Him and turn to Him (in repentance): for my Lord in (always) near ready to Al-Mujadila 11 O ye who believe! When ye are told to make room in answer.” the assemblies (spread out and) make room: (Ample) room will Allah provide for you. And when ye are Al-An’am 59 told to rise up rise up: Allah will raise up to (suitable) He Alone has the keys of the unseen treasures, of ranks (and degrees) those of you who believe and which no one knows except Him. He knows whatever who have been granted Knowledge: and Allah is well- is in the land and in the sea; there is not a single leaf that falls without His knowledge, there is neither a acquainted with all ye do. grain in the darkness of the earth nor anything fresh or dry which has not been recorded in a Clear Book.
YOU’RE FEELING WEAK
Real strength comes from above. And these verses YOU RECENTLY LOST SOMEONE CLOSE TO are a great start to remembering that.
An-Nahl 53
For, whatever good thing comes to you, comes from God; and whenever harm befalls you, it is unto Him that you cry for help.
Al-Ahzab 1-3
O Prophet! Fear Allah and do not obey the unbelievers and the hypocrites: certainly Allah is aware and wise. But follow that which comes to thee by inspiration from thy Lord: for Allah is well acquainted with (all) that ye do. Put your trust in Allah: for Allah is your allsufficient protector.
LIFE IS OVERWHELMING
YOU
It is never easy to understand why we have to lose those we love, but the Quran provides comfort for your aching heart.
Al-Baqarah 156
Who say when afflicted with calamity: “To Allah we belong and to Him is our return.”
Ar-Ra’d, 28
“Verily, in the remembrance of God do hearts find rest.”
YOU WANT TO STRENGTHEN YOUR FAITH AND GOOD VALUES
We like to always be in control of everything, even As humans, we always seem to want to be in control, though we know deep down we can’t. Fortunately, when we really need to put our faith in the Provider. Allah is in control, so we need to remember to leave it in His hands.
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heartfelt discussions
You who have attained to faith! Be ever steadfast in upholding equity, bearing witness to the truth for the sake of God, even though it’s against your own selves or your parents and kinsfolk. Whether the person concerned be rich or poor, God’s claim takes precedence over [the claims of] either of them. Do not, then, follow your own desires, lest you swerve from justice: for if you distort [the truth], behold God is indeed aware of all that you do!
Al-Ma’idah 08
O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah , witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is acquainted with what you do.
Ash-Shu’ara 80
“
The holy book was never meant to be read like a robot just for the sake of completing it. There are too many deep thoughts within to just be read lightly.
“
An-Nisa 135
And when you are ill, it is He who cures me
Ar-Rahman 1-9
The Most Merciful; Taught the Qur’an, Created man, Taught him eloquence; The sun and the moon [move] by precise calculation; And the stars and trees prostrate (kneel down face to the floor); And the heaven He raised and put the balance; That you not transgress within the balance; And establish weight in justice and do not make deficient the balance.
Ad-Duhaa (All)
By the forenoon (after sun-rise); And by the night when it is still (or darkens); Your Lord (O Muhammad) has neither forsaken you nor hated you; And indeed the Hereafter is better for you than the present (life of this world); And verily, your Lord will give you (all i.e. good) so that you shall be well-pleased; Did He not find you (O Muhammad) an orphan and gave you a refuge; And He found you unaware (of the Qur’an, YOU’RE SEEKING PEACE its legal laws, and Prophethood, etc.) and guided This world is a chaotic place, so we need to keep the you; And He found you poor, and made you rich (selfsource of peace at the top of our minds. sufficient with self-contentment, etc.); Therefore, treat not the orphan with oppression, And repulse not the beggar; And proclaim the Grace of your Lord Al-sharh 1-8 (i.e. the Prophethood and all other Graces) Have We not opened up thy heart; And relieved you from the burden; that had weighed so heavily on thy Al-Baqarah 286 back; And have We not raised thee high in dignity; On no soul doth Allah Place a burden greater than it And, behold, with every hardship comes ease; verily, can bear. It gets every good that it earns, and it suffers with every hardship comes ease; So when you are every ill that it earns. (Pray:) “Our Lord! Condemn us relieved, still toil; And strive to please thy Lord. not if we forget or fall into error; our Lord! Lay not on us a burden Like that which Thou didst lay on those YOU WANT TO FEEL LOVED before us; Our Lord! Lay not on us a burden greater We can never really grasp the immensity of Allah’s than we have strength to bear. Blot out our sins, and love for us. These verses will help remind you of that, grant us forgiveness. Have mercy on us. Thou art our and also remind you that it is important to spread Protector; Help us against those who stand against that love to others. faith.”
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YOU WANT TO APPRECIATE ALLAH’S WONDER determined for him: that is the decree of (Him), the Exalted in Might, the All-Knowing. And the Moon- We have measured for her mansions (to traverse) till she returns like the old (and withered) lower part of a date-stalk; It is not permitted to the Sun to catch up the Moon, nor can the Night outstrip the Day: Each (just) swims along in (its own) orbit Al-Ikhlas 01-04 Say: He is Allah, the One and Only; Allah, the Eternal, (according to Law). Absolute; He begetteth not, nor is He begotten; Nor is An-Nahl 78,79 there to Him any equivalent.” And Allah has extracted you from the wombs of your mothers not knowing a thing, and He made for Maryam 67 Does man not remember that We created him before, you hearing and vision and intellect that perhaps you would be grateful; Do they not see the birds while he was nothing? controlled in the atmosphere of the sky; None holds them up except Allah. Indeed in that are signs for a Ya-Sin 36-40 Glory to Allah, Who created in pairs all things that the people who believe. earth produces, as well as their own (human) kind and (other) things of which they have no knowledge. And a Sign for them is the Night: We withdraw therefrom the Day, and behold they are plunged in darkness; And the sun runs his course for a period Sometimes, we need to put things in perspective and just be in awe of how great Allah and His works are. In addition to these passages, it can also be inspiring to read about the beauty of nature and Allah’s creation.
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heartfelt discussions
BACK TO BASICS this Ramadan by Alia El Saady
When did Ramadan become so commercialised and complicated? This month, we’re determined to go back to the good old days and experience the nostalgia of our favourite month of the year. Which is why it’s time to put an end to the era of red-velvet Konafa and Konafa with Nutella stuffing. It’s time to go back to the days of the past, to the days of traditional treats, and old school TV shows. A time when things were simpler, when nothing was mixed with red velvet decadence, but had its own oriental flair. It’s time to return to the basics of Ramadan, to remind ourselves of the warmth of this month and to have the ultimate throwback!
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T.V. THROWBACK Instead of just watching T.V. series that have nonsensical complicated plots, make a point to watch a series from one of the golden oldies! We recommend: El Watad, El Mahrousa, and Alf Leyla w Leyla. And if you really want to get that feel of old Ramadan, make a point to watch Bakar during Iftar time. SIMPLE SOHOUR This is something to try at home that’ll really liven up Sohour and give it that old oriental feel. Instead of waking up and having Sohour in the kitchen under bland kitchen lights you can use Ramadan lamps to light up the dining table and eat by the light of the lamps. You can even do it without a table altogether! Layout all the food prepared on a rug with a few ottomans, pillows, and lamps throughout and create an oriental setting right inside your home. It’s bound to keep your Sohour interesting and will actually make you excited to get up for it! TAKE A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE Well, not exactly! But you should definitely pay a visit to bustling places like El Muizz Street or Khan El Khalili during the month of Ramadan! The vibrancy of the atmosphere and the warmth of the space is an embodiment of all those feelings of nostalgia you have about this month.
RECONNECT IN THE KITCHEN What better way to reconnect than to cook all the delicious food with your family and friends? Back in the day, Ramadan was always a time when the kitchen was packed; everyone was doing something to help out and get a meal on the table. Now, we either cook the whole thing ourselves or reheat leftovers, neither of which is fun. This year, we should all be in the kitchen, every last one of us! That way we get to enjoy the process of cooking and the food will get prepared quicker too! GOOD OLD GOODIES! Instead of indulging in a red velvet or Nutella hybrid of Konafa and Basboosa, go back to the basics with just a plain Basboosa or Konafa. They may not have all the bells and whistles of desserts nowadays, but they’re just plain delicious! ORIENTAL ORNAMENTS Make a point to decorate your house this Ramadan. If you really want to give things that festive feel of the old days, decorate your home with traditional lamps and other decorations! Spend a day putting them up with your family and friends so that it’s not just a chore but a time for all of you to bond and reminisce!
VOLUMIZE VISITATION! Lately visiting people during Ramadan happens at one of two points in the month, either at the beginning or QUALITY TIME TRAVEL the latter part of it. While we do meet up with people Spend some quality time with family and friends and share Ramadan with our family and friends in the instead of spending it in front of the T.V. all day. If beginning we’re not willing to continue with these you really can’t resist the urge, watch T.V. with them; visits and extend them to the rest of the month. Since you’ll get some quality time while keeping up with Ramadan is a month of coming together we should your favourite show! Another thing you could do is sit be less selective of who we want to be with in this down with all your family and friends and reminisce month and when we want to see them, and more about past Ramadans you’ve had together. attentive to how often we visit the people in our lives we love dearly. SLEEP LESS, DO MORE! These days, before Iftar, we spend a lot of our time This month is one to remember, so whether you’re sleeping, when what we really need is to spend spending it watching classic shows or strolling that time with others! Ramadan is all about getting through Khan El Khalili, make sure that your together and you can’t really do that if you’re asleep time is spent with loved ones. They’re what make most of the day. Work out a sleeping pattern that the good old days good and the newer ones better! allows you to maximize both your sleeping time and your quality time. It’ll help you get back to the days when it was livelier.
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WHY RAMADAN GETS THE BEST OUT OF US by Amina Moustapha 56 Identity June 2016
Generosity, decency and cheerfulness are, in a nutshell, the manners that rule the atmosphere during the holy month of Ramadan. An undeniable purity of souls and noble actions are seen in peoples’ dealings with each other. In the high number of the traditional tables of the ‘Merciful’ (ma’edat rahman) set everywhere in the country, in the donations that flood hospitals and orphanages, and in many other appearances that occur during the course of the month.
who have to go hungry for lack of means. It is a time to draw near to them and share our meals at break of fasts. People tend to show this by donating money, volunteering there time to serve food to the homeless, or restore a damaged ecosystem, or pick up trash in their neighbourhood. You don’t need to donate money: you can brighten someone’s day with a smile or a few kind words. You can even give back to others simply by being patient and kind. This month is an opportunity to be the best sort of person that you can be.
Weird and bizarre, that’s how these facts should be described. Not because they exist, but owing to the fact that they exclusively take place in Ramadan. It should make us pause and wonder why? What is it with this month that brings the best out of us? What makes it unlike or different from the other months of the year? There must be reasons behind why this month turns our life into utopia.
WE TAME OUR TONGUES
This month provides us with a sort of “Boot camp.” It is a month of intense moral training. This month isn’t just about restricting our body from food and drink, this is a month where we polish our character with righteous deeds. Since cursing and negative attitudes can break your fast, so obligatory you have to watch your mouth and attitude, otherwise the day’s fasting will go to waste. Therefore Ramadan helps us learn RAMADAN CLEARS OUR MINDS to deal with our anger positively, it helps us avoid unnecessary conflicts where irreparable psychological Fasting addresses a fundamental weakness in the damage can occur due to physical or verbal abuse. It human self, the tendency to act on impulse. The is a good time to exercise self-control. constant exercise of willpower to refrain from eating, drinking or having sexual relations, even though the body is constantly sending impulses to the human RAMADAN IS FAMILY TIME self, means that the will is in control. During the daytime hours that we fast, we go about our habitual If we tried to come up with a word that could sum lives working and going to school, we just steer clear up life, the word would most probably be “busy”. of food, drink, sex, and provocative manners such as The pressure of work, studies, raising kids…etc. may cursing, backbiting, and rudeness. not allow us to go out as much as we like. The easy route we take to avoid the guilt is calls and messages, Stopping yourself from falling into those conducts that’s the modern way of reaching out to friends or gives peace of mind that allows you to think clearly and a distant relative. Ramadan breaks all these barriers. rationally without being clouded by overwhelming emotions. It allows you to be productive instead of Unlike normal days, when everyone is scattered in spending time thinking about grievances in your life different places, when schedules conflict, and each that can make you angry or depressed. person takes there lunch at mismatched times, this holy month helps you acquire a sense of order and It is an opportunity to forgive, let go, and focus on harmony; we all go home and eat at the same time what is most important. which give us the perfect chance to arrange family gatherings. Most of the families, especially extended families gather over Iftar several times during GENEROSITY IS THE CENTRAL THEME the month. Ramadan is renewing solidarity and TO THE ETHOS OF RAMADAN cultivating positive relationships with one’s family and community. Only one who observes fasting One of the lessons of the month is sharing and in Ramadan can truly know the beauty and joy of empathizing with the less fortunate. The haves breaking fast with others, celebrating the gift of life are made to experience the plight of the have-nots daily for thirty days with loved ones. June 2016 Identity 57
heartfelt discussions
HOW
IDENTITY SEES RAMADAN
Since the dawn of time, people have thought differently, acted differently, and fared differently from each other. Things in the close-knit Identity office are no different; each of us has his own unique mind-set. So when it comes to the holy month of Ramadan, we all see it in a different, albeit special, way.
ROLA KAMEL
Publisher & Managing Editor Honestly, I hate Ramadan. I orchestrate my mornings to the tune of my tea, and without it I can’t function or start my day. Also I hate cooking in general, let alone cooking in Ramadan. On the other hand I love the spiritual gathering, it’s the only time of the year we get to eat together as a family.
RIHAM YEHIA
Marketing & Advertising Manager
STEVE NABIL
Digital Marketing Manager I have a hard time with people in Ramadan; people use fasting as an excuse to be lazy, but what I love is that the country never sleeps, and the outings for Sohour with friends. 58 Identity June 2016
It’s a mixed bag to me; I hate working during Ramadan, I can’t wait for the firing of the cannon to drink water, the torturous smell of food only few minutes before the Iftar, and when your husband mentions that the food needs more salt. On the other side, I adore the gatherings – as long as I am not the host of course - and I love the month’s spiritual moments.
ADEL SALIB
Senior Arabic Editor It is not how it used to be few years back; it had a different taste, festivity and I miss the Fawazir. But I love to gather with my friends for Iftar, and go out for Sohour.
LIZA DUNHAM Senior Editor
ALIA EL ABD
Senior Graphic Designer I love when on the first day, my whole family gets together at my granny’s; it’s something no one will dare miss. Also I love the lazy feel of Ramadan, the food we eat heartily at the Iftar, but I loathe Ramadan’s sweets.
I love getting caught outside right before the cannon and witnessing the tables and tents set up in the streets. The sense of community is very strong. And even though Egypt is the country for staying up all night, somehow this is even more true during Ramadan.
ALIA EL SAADY Junior Editor
I adore Ramadan, especially the family gatherings, the TV series, the decoration in the streets, and last but in no way least, the food. I can’t keep my paws out of Mandarine’s basbousa, or stop at one slice of Le Carnaval’s chocolate attayef.
AMINA MOUSTAPHA Junior Editor
I love this month, especially that it comes now during the summer, that way I can travel to Sahel and stay away from Cairo’s traffic and heat. I love the battle between TV series on who is going to win the audience, because at the end of the day we are the only winners in this battle. June 2016 Identity 59
cuisine cues
QUICK RAMADAN RECIPES for late cookers
Ramadan always means that you’re going to be cooking in a pinch, especially if you have work earlier in the day. That’s why we’ve pulled out our chef hats for four quick and easy recipes to help prepare a fast Iftar for your family and friends.
HASTY HUMMUS
1 15-ounce can chickpeas, rinsed 1 clove garlic 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for serving 2 tablespoons tahini (optional) 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon paprika 2 tablespoons water (optional)
1. In a food processor, puree the chickpeas and garlic with the olive oil, lemon juice, tahini, cumin, and ¾ teaspoon salt until smooth and creamy. 2. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons water as necessary to achieve the desired consistency. 3. Transfer to a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with the paprika before serving.
EXPRESS CHICKEN VERMICELLI SOUP 1 medium white or yellow onion 6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) butter Two 14.5-ounce cans diced tomatoes One 46-ounce bottle or can tomato juice 3 to 6 tablespoons sugar 1-2 tablespoons chicken base, or 3 chicken bouillon cubes Freshly ground black pepper 1 1/2 cups heavy cream 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil 1/4 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley 60 Identity June 2016
1. Dice the onion. 2. Melt the butter in a large pot. 3. Throw in the onion and cook until translucent. 4. Dump in the diced tomatoes and stir to combine. Add the tomato juice. 5. Add 1 or 2 tablespoons chicken base to the pot. 6. Add lots of freshly ground black pepper. Stir to combine, then heat almost to a boil. 7. Stir in the cream. Add the basil and parsley and stir.
FAST SYRIAN FETTA 2 cups rice 2 cups water 500 g cooked chicken breast cubes (boiled) 4 tablespoons garlic (crushed and made to paste) Salt and pepper to taste 4 loaves thin Shamy bread 1/4 cup of roasted pine nuts 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1. Boil rice in 2 cups of water until cooked and all water evaporates. 2. Cut bread into small squares. 3. Fry bread in a pan with vegetable oil until it turns orange and crispy. 4. Mix yogurt, garlic, salt, and pepper. 5. Place all in a casserole dish; first the rice in the bottom, followed by the crispy bread, and then spread the yogurt mix to cover all of the surface and sprinkle the pine nuts on top. 6. Serve immediately before the bread softens.
SWIFT SHISH TAWOOK 1 kilo of skinless boneless chicken breast, cut into cubes/Kabab chunks 1 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice a small slice of lemon with the peel (optional) 15 cloves of garlic, crushed 6 Greek yogurt 6 table spoons of olive oil 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 1.5 to 2 teaspoons of ground white pepper ⅓ teaspoon of ground ginger spice ½ teaspoon of ground thyme, or ground oregano ⅓ teaspoon of paprika
1. Mix all ingredients well together while rubbing the chicken 2. Place in a container, cover, and let rest/marinate in the fridge for at least 4 hours 3. Skewer the chicken right before grilling 4. Grill on medium heat for 12-18 minutes maximum 5. Remove from the grill, place in big warm pot, replace the lid tightly, and let rest for 8-10 minutes before serving.
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editorial SHERATON MIRAMAR, EL GOUNA
RAMADAN OUTINGS THE NILE RITZ-CARLTON, CAIRO The Nile Ritz-Carlton Cairo invites you to break your fast this year with an array of delicious food offerings at Culina and Bab Al Sharq restaurants as well as ‘Wust El Balad’ Ramadan tent. CULINA AND BAB AL SHARQ RESTAURANTS The culinary team at The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo has put together a selection of gourmet Arabic and International delicacies for the extensive Iftar buffet experience. The Iftar experience at Culina or Bab Al Sharq is priced at 395 EGP all inclusive per person.
‘WUST EL BALAD’ RAMADAN TENT Located at the spacious garden and overlooking the magnificent Egyptian Museum, The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo features a unique Ramadan tent for memorable this special time with friends and family, at our worldSohour nights and delicious shisha flavours. class venues or through our elegant banquets that can cater to up to 3000 guests. THE CAIRO MARRIOTT We invite you to another year of our infamous Som3a Bab Al Qasr Restaurant invites you to experience Basha Tent around The fountain at The Patio where an authentic Levantine Ramadan without having to you can enjoy the oriental atmosphere in style; live leave the city! Relax and enjoy warm hospitality. street-style cooking stations for our Sohour Buffet The State invites you to break your fast with an There’s more, not only can you cheer on your excellent Iftar buffet. Sit back and relax as our team favourite team in the European League on our big of talented culinary experts welcome you to the screen but you can also enjoy a “Takht” band playing traditional flavours of a sumptuous Iftar buffet. after midnight (and we won’t forget the shisha!) Omar’s Café will be serving an ‘iftar’ buffet including a For Sohour the palace invites guests to reunite with daily extravaganza of oriental & international delights their beloved family and friends during Ramadan under our glistening stars and warm weather at Aqua for you to break your fasting. Chill, by the pool, this open air venue provides you with a refreshing and inspiring haven . CATERING TO YOUR EVERY CRAVING!
Ramadan is all about home Iftars & Sohours and all the Ramadan Family gatherings so at Cairo Marriott we cater to your every need with our outside catering FAIRMONT NILE CITY Our main restaurant Napa Grill will offer a lavish iftar services. buffet in an indoor casual setting on the banks of the Nile only for L.E. 320. Fairmont Nile City is also ROYAL MAXIM PALACE KEMPINSKI Royal maxim Palace Kempinski invites you to share offering special iftar and sohour menus for groups of 62 Identity June 2016
all sizes indoor and outdoor settings starting from L.E. 215; that’s in addition to shisha and dessert packages. The recently renovated Bab El Nil will open its doors once again after its great popularity in the past six years. The venue reflects a traditional Egyptian setting, decorated with colourful pop art stylish touches of everybody’s favourite local icons. Enjoy the summer night breeze on our outdoor terrace overlooking the Nile while smoking shisha, playing board games, and catching up on your favourite Ramadan TV series.
DUSIT THANI LAKEVIEW CAIRO Enjoy an amazing “Eftar & Sohour” experience along with oriental tunes of a live performance of takht sharky, a singer, and DJ in the tranquil open air setting overlooking the pool, all embraced with unique quality of service of Thai signature for more intimate gatherings. An array of delicious delights and flavours of Arabic cuisine to choose from including Arabic delicacies, live cooking stations, a large selection of hot and cold mezzeh.
SOFITEL CAIRO EL GEZIRAH Share the spiritual Ramadan days with your family and friends. Sofitel El Gezirah offers you a truly fantastic experience on this blessed month. Welcome Ramadan by sharing a variety of dishes with your loved ones. Taste our authentic culinary, Middle Eastern speciality, including a delightful variety of Oriental sweets in our restaurants: La Palmeraie for authentic tagines, Sud with lavish buffet created especially for Ramadan and Kebabgy for traditional barbeque specialities with ambient music and live Oriental takht.
KEMPINSKI NILE HOTEL As the holy month of Ramadan marks its start, distinguished by its generous dining and immense spiritual indulgence, Kempinski Nile Hotel invites you to a true authentic experience full of Ramadan spirit. During this festive season, live the spiritual moments of the holy month and indulge in an unforgettable Ramadan experience with your family and friends. Embrace Ramadan festivities at The Blue Restaurant with a sumptuous oriental and international Iftar buffet served daily for only EGP 275 (subject to service charges and applicable taxes). Or feast on the finest Turkish specialities of Ottoman cuisines as well HILTON ALEXANDRIA KING’S RANCH as oriental delicacies at Osmanly Restaurant, offering Hilton Alexandria King’s Ranch hotel’s General you a true Turkish Iftar experience for only EGP 275 manager Karim Helmy have announced the hotel (subject to service charges and applicable taxes), distinctive offers during Holy Ramadan 2016, Where while listening to the Turkish tunes. food offers will provides in Splash, Teatro and Zaatar restaurants and another collections of offers begin CONRAD CAIRO from special offers for rooms and the stunning Spa Experience the true essence of Ramadan ambiance and organizing bookings groups to gather families at Conrad Cairo offering unrivalled service and and friends. hospitality. Guests can enjoy Also guests will enjoy daily live entertainment by the breathtaking views of the Nile while having their iftar pool side that all comes with authentic ambiance, or sohour at Solana or Jayda: 200 Gift voucher will presented from Premedion Spa Solana Restaurant: Iftar Buffet will be served daily, with every room booking during the holy month of and an a la carte sohour menu will be offered Ramadan. Jayda Restaurant: An iftar set menu will be served in the Nile View dining area for individuals. SHERATON MIRAMAR, EL GOUNA Celebrate Ramadan in a relaxing atmosphere and SONESTA HOTEL, TOWER & CASINO- CAIRO enjoy the summer breeze in our fascinating Resort Enjoy the summer breeze accompanied by the unique experiencing an array of inspiring restaurants and Ramadan atmosphere at the Swimming pool Lounge authentic cuisines. at Sonesta Hotel, Tower & Casino - Cairo. Sheraton Miramar offers a fabulous Oriental Treat yourself to our delicious “Iftar” & “Sohour” Iftar Buffet and set menu Sohour served daily at Specialities, while enjoying the traditional Ramadan Miramar Restaurant overlooking the Red Sea. The spirit and nightly live entertainment overwhelmed Buffet incudes oriental food, appetizers and famous by typical Ramadan decorations and various “Shisha” Ramadan desserts. After having a delicious ‘Iftar’ flavours. you’ll also find your choice of Ramadan drink at Special prices for groups and companies Iftar & Coconut Grove, an Oriental al fresco corner in the Sohour. open air where you can feel the mythical mood of the orient along of Shisha flavours. June 2016 Identity 63
editorial
ROMANOV KEMPINSKI ROYAL MAXIM Located in Kempinski Royal Maxim, Romanov offers European grill at its finest with a range of premium meat cuts prepared with bursting flavours on and off the grill. The elegant design of the space was enough to tell us that Romanov was not new to luxury cuisine. Gold accents and red velveteen carpets lined the interior and gave the space an overall feel of sophistication. Overlooking the Kempinski Royal Maxim Palace’s courtyard, candle lights also promote the romanticism of this place.
Aussie steak tenderloin coupled with delicious melt in your mouth mushroom sauce, and potato gratin on the side.
Eric Pellen, the executive French chef, gave us insights on the restaurant and his experience in Egypt. Pellen’s dream was always to become a chef since the young age of 7. Although he stated that no task was difficult for him as a chef, he does point out that presentation is a difficult feat for any chef. Since any chef can master good tasting food, presentation is The menu is sure to leave you satisfied because of the an important component of any dish that he creates. variety present in its choices from appetizers all the Pellen’s experience in Egypt is a story of return, having way to desserts. But what definitely got our mouths already worked in Egypt in the past. He returned last watering was their beef tartare, a savoury dish of year because of his love for the country, its people hand chopped raw beef topped with a poached egg and its food. “Mah’shy” was one of his favourite cooked to perfection, and trickling wonderful yolk dishes. Supported by his family and Egyptian wife to on the beef as you sink your knife into it. We didn’t excel, Pellen found himself in Kempinski where he stop there when it came to their beef. We followed now serves as the Executive Chef. this succulent dish with an appetizing 300 gm cut of 64 Identity June 2016
Mountain View iCity: Egypt’s Biggest Upcoming Residential Project
“Today we are reaping the benefits of the Egypt Economic Development Conference in Sharm AlSheikh,” said Dr. Madbouly. “This project reaffirms the confidence investors have in every facet of the Egyptian economy, and especially in the real estate The Ministry of Housing, represented by the New sector, one of the pillars of our national economy.” Urban Communities Authority (NUCA), and SaudiEgyptian Alliance Mountain View-Sisban unveiled Welcoming cooperation with investors, both through Egypt’s biggest upcoming project, the $3.6 billion partnerships and through facilities, he added that the Mountain View iCity which is set to be developed Ministry of Housing will spare no effort to provide in New Cairo City with investments exceeding $3.6 every possible facility and remove every existing or billion. potential hurdle in the way of serious investment. Set to be built in New Cairo City, the project aims to provide modern, affordable residential units, while providing more than 200,000 direct and indirect job opportunities. The total area of the project is 2.1 square kilometres.
Ali Al-Sharif, the President of Sisban Holding, said that the Mountain View iCity project would add more value to the Egyptian national economy.
In his speech at the ceremony, Amr Soliman, Chairman of Mountain View, said, “We celebrate Mountain View iCity is one of the first major projects with you today the launch of the Mountain View iCity in Egypt to be based on a public-private partnership, project, which coincides with the 10th anniversary of in which Mountain View-Sisban will own 60 percent, Mountain View’s presence in the Egyptian market, with the remainder belonging to the Egyptian during which the company has developed 10 square Ministry of Housing, represented by the New Urban kilometres, and built and delivered 10 residential Communities Authority. The memorandum of communities to more than 10,000 clients.” understanding was signed at the Egypt Economic Development Conference in Sharm Al-Sheikh. The Mountain View iCity is a great opportunity to assert project aims at providing modern, affordable housing. confidence in the stability of the Egyptian market and its appeal to national and international investors,” Dar Al Mimar Group, in partnership with Callison RTKL he said. “The company ably helped achieve the Associates, a major architectural house, will jointly objectives of the Egypt Economic Development draw the design and layout of the project, which Conference in Sharm Al-Sheikh by encouraging is set to combine innovative design with modern foreign investors to come to Egypt, and one of the construction. It will be built to world-class standards highlights of that effort was to convince Sisban with all-Egyptian manpower. Holdings to invest in this project.” June 2016 Identity 65
bits & pieces
COURTYARD MAADI HOSTS ITS FIRST COURTYARD FEST! Courtyard Maadi hosted its first Courtyard Fest for a day full of fun for the entire family. The event was full to the brim, serving special food menus from the many restaurants available at The Courtyard Maadi, live music by The Cadillacs and Salalem and a wide Marriott Rewards, the award- array of children’s entertainment. winning loyalty program of The invitees spent their day Marriott International, Inc. trying the many different cuisines (NASDAQ: MAR), has announced available at The Courtyard Maadi, three new benefits that make it enjoying the special menu created easy for members to explore the especially for the day. The cuisines things they love and experience range from Asian, Latin American travel to the fullest. to International and Seafood, with an eclectic selection of all • The new Marriott Rewards 18 outlets and some scrumptious experiences marketplace gives dessert outlets satisfying every all members, including The Ritz- sweet tooth. Carlton Rewards members, even more access to a collection of unique, curated experiences. MARRIOTT REWARDS EMPOWERS MEMBERS TO GET THE MOST OUT OF TRAVEL Members Get It — Introducing a New Experiences Marketplace and Elite Benefits
• For an initial group of Elite members of Marriott Rewards, a new Elite concierge service will provide them with a dedicated concierge so that their travel experience is both seamless and ITALIAN LUXURY CAR tailored to their individual needs. MANUFACTURER MASERATI RESTARTS OPERATIONS IN EGYPT • Guaranteed late checkout will give Gold and Platinum Elite Italian luxury car manufacturer members of Marriott Rewards Maserati has announced the and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards official re-start of its operations in increased flexibility and peace of Egypt. While Maserati continued mind when they travel. to support its existing clients with aftersales services, vehicle imports and sales operations stopped in 2013. The renewed focus on the market is in line with Maserati’s global growth strategy. 66 Identity June 2016
MERCEDES-BENZ EGYPT CELEBRATES GOLF AND GLAMOUR DURING THE MERCEDESTROPHY 2016 NATIONAL FINAL AT SOMA BAY The MercedesTrophy Egypt 2016 has concluded with the National Final played at Soma Bay Cascades Championship Golf Course, on the 21st and 22nd of May 2016. Three Egyptian winners with Aly Sabry qualifying from division “A”, Hany Abou Hussein from division “B” and finally from division “C” Zaki Khaled will fly to the MercedesTrophy World Final in Stuttgart, Germany representing Team Egypt to compete with golfers from over 60 countries
NESPRESSO CONTINUES MIDDLE EAST EXPANSION WITH A NEW BOUTIQUE IN EGYPT Nespresso opens its 3rd Boutique in Egypt in the Zamalek Area Nespresso, the worldwide pioneer in premium portioned coffee, announced another achievement in their Middle East expansion plan with the opening of its third Boutique in Egypt. The new Boutique was launched to meet increased demand as the community of Nespresso coffee lovers continue to grow throughout Cairo. This is a testament to the brand’s growing popularity in Egypt and a source of delightful news to all Egyptians.
BRAUN SILK-ÉPIL LAUNCHES NATION-WIDE CAMPAIGN TO EMPOWER WOMEN’S FASHION CHOICES PULL & BEAR Pull & Bear kick-started the summer season of 2016 with its loyal customers and media partners at the cinema! Pull & Bear brought the long-awaited latest release of the legendary X-Men series, X-Men: Apocalypse to its customers in Egypt days after its international release. Fully-booked by Pull & Bear, the guests enjoyed an exclusive movie night at Point 90 cinema with light refreshments and neon light signs to give them a cinematic experience to remember.
EXPERIENCE SUMMER GETAWAY AT KEMPINSKI HOTEL SOMA BAY
Take sometime out to pamper yourself and your loved ones away from the city’s hustle and As the summer begins and the bustle, to indulge in a charming heat kicks in, Braun Silk-épil 9 atmosphere and to explore the encourages women to embrace hidden gems of Soma Bay with its unlimited fashion choices to help captivating nature. them feel and look beautiful. The Silk-épil 9 epilator is creating waves, as the must-have beauty and fashion accessory in the country, with endorsements from celebrity Yara Naoum, fashion designers Malak El Ezzawy, Donia TATWEER MISR LAUNCHES THE Farouk and Egyptian fashion icon FIRST ART SYMPOSIUM IN ITS Hadia Ghaleb amongst many FLAGSHIP PROJECT IN EGYPT more. The campaign initiated a “IL MONTE GALALA-SOKHNA” social media competition running on Instagram to collect women’s The Project Promotes Art Tourism empowerment stories from across Creating Harmony between the the country to earn a chance Unprecedented Nature and the to win a beauty makeover to Stunning Artwork of Prominent showcase their confidence in style. Egyptian and Italian Artists
PORSCHE The stars were shining on Saturday 21st of May 2016 with the arrival of celebrities from different fashion industries, movie stars, anchors and journalists. All gathered to celebrate the new Porsche 911 Carrera and the new 718 Boxster and mainly to support the Egyptian designers like Gamal Nasr , Ola Medhat, Ghada Ghafagy and others. After the shown success this fashion show will be repeated during winter for the new winter collection.
SPEED LAB MAIN SPONSOR IN VIRUS C CHARITY EVENT AT AUC As part of their aim to support charity and people in need, Speed Lab participated on Virus C Charity event that was held in the American University in Cairo. Speed Lab hires highly qualified staff and uses the latest technology to deliver the most accurate results.
LG EGYPT CELEBRATES LAUNCHING A RANGE OF NEW PRODUCTS IN THE EGYPTIAN MARKET The new products include LG’s latest technologies in home entertainment, appliances, televisions, air conditions and mobiles June 2016 Identity 67
your star GEMINI
May 21 – June 20
Strengths: Gentle, energetic, outgoing, adaptable, clever Weaknesses: Inconsistent, superficial, flighty, nervous, restless Most Compatible with: Libra, Aquarius, Sagittarius How to Attract Taurus: Catch a Gemini’s attention with witty and interesting conversation. Focus on having fun and leaving emotions on the back burner until later in the relationship.
Horoscopes ARIES
Think of purple as a symbol of balance between your usual energetic red and peaceful blue, this month is your chance to find your own balance.
TAURUS
This month take the time to focus on reconciliation. Forgiveness isn’t always easy for you, but your conscience will feel much better letting things go.
GEMINI
You will feel torn between complete opposite emotions and burning questions of life and existence. Despite its difficulty, it will be a great learning experience.
CANCER
Your advancements in work will require purposeful rest. Enjoy beauty in the small details, and take a trip to a scenic location if you can.
LIBRA
Typically honest with others, go ahead and be straightforward with yourself this June. A little bit of soul seeking can go a long way.
SCORPIO
Make it your goal to get rid of all pretence this month, even when it’s well-intentioned. Embrace good energy with sincerity and open mind.
SAGITTARIUS
A thrilling experience that will broaden your mind awaits you this month, but instead of spending time posting and sharing it, enjoy it genuinely for yourself.
CAPRICORN
Usually the victim to being over self-critical, try instead to be thankful for what you have and how far you have come in the past few years.
AQUARIUS
The health of your body affects the health of your spirit, so if you are trying to strengthen your LEO As long as you do it responsibly, expect to find peace spirituality now, don’t forget fitness as well. in your adventures this month. So if you have a travelling itch, don’t feel guilty. You will feel extra ambitious this month, embrace it and work on goals you have set aside for too long, VIRGO You will feel more anxious than normal by the world’s especially those that focus on character building. troubles this month. Keep your focus on what is important and you will feel calmer for it.
PISCES
68 Identity June 2016