Ohlala Abu Dhabi May 2017

THE ESSENCE OF STYLE Abu dhabi

A Fa m i ly Affa i r

A Candid Chat With The Cousins Behind Noon By Noor

Super

S tyl i sh

& S o p h i st i c ate d Fa sh i on T o M a k e Y o u F eel Fa nta st i c

Playful Prints, Florals, Purples, Metallics + More

G et T he B r i da l L oo k

Ways To Wedding Perfection

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www.ohlala-magazine.com May 2017 | Issue 19 Abu dhabi | AED 20

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UAE - THE DUBAI MALL, DUBAI MARINA MALL, YAS MALL / QATAR - LAGOONA MALL KSA - ASSILA TOWERS, AL FAISALIAH MALL www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Contents Ohlala

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Welcome To The Issue Wedding/Ramadan Fever Credits: Who We Are A Note From The Editor

The Starters A Look At Chanel Ultimate Arabian Charms The Wedding/Ramadan Edits

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bEAUTIFUL fACES Get Bridal Ready Editor’s Picks: The Top 6 How To Achieve That Glow

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The Looks To Love What To Wear Right Now The Floral Flair & More The Essential Extras

Ones to know Designer Focus: Noon by Noor Blooming Brilliant: Rami Al Ali High Octane Style: Victoria Scandale

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Luxury Lifestyle Travel Escapes: Magical Morocco Ohlala Boutiques: Best of Abu Dhabi Miss Ohlala

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May 2017 issue 19

Chief Executive Officer Greg Hughes Publishing Director Edward Smith

Editor-in-Chief Georgie Bradley

Editor

Creative DIrector

Regional Sales Directors

Angela Beitz

Paula Leal

Kirsty Edwards-Harris

Managing editor

Graphic Designers

Rami Khalil

Shabana Adam

Jyoti Rawat

SAles Coordinator Renie Simplina

Contributors Victoria Production Manager

Photographers

WEBSITE

Neil Mahmood

Sunder Pratap Singh

Melek Yildirimtekin

Credits image Chopard

Gigimon Thankachen

Distribution Manager Ajit Kumar Accountants COVER Image Rami Al Ali

Praveen Alexander

Distribution Team

Printing Press

Distribution

Jayapragash Ganesan

United Printing Press

Bahrain – Al Hilal Qatar – Dar Al Sharq

Rajesh Abdul Kadar

UAE - Tawzea Distribution Enquiries

Editorial: georgie@ohlala-magazine.com | Advertising: Edward@ohlala-magazine.com General: admin@ohlala-magazine.com | Telephone: (Bahrain) +973 1721 6099 | Postal Address: Ohlala Magazine, The Nans Group, P O BOX 30378, Budaiya, Kingdom of Bahrain. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. All Rights Reserved. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily the views of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, FACT M.E. Publishing and all of its publications cannot accept legal responsibility for any error, content or omissions.

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UAE | THE DUBAI MALL, DUBAI MARINA MALL, DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY MALL, CITY WALK, GALERIES LAFAYETTE, ROBINSONS, YAS MALL KSA | ASSILA TOWERS, AL FAISALIAH MALL

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E di t o r ’s

Let t er

W

e’ve come to a very fashionable crossroads this month. Between bridal season and Ramadan upon us later this month, our days and nights are filled with wonderful style and extravagant options. If you ask me, this is the time of the year which I relish the most, besides having one fabulous gathering after the next – the peace that descends on us all during the Holy Month restores balance, clarity and a sense of purpose. This reflective period is always necessary and we are so lucky to have it etched into our yearly calendar without fail.

Our fashion pages this month are my favourite of the year so far. From block colouring to perfect pastels to metallics to haphazard prints – we’ve given you more choice than you can keep up with – you’re welcome. If you’ve got a calendar booked up with events, I am sure you’ll find inspiration and your style calling with our spread. Add to that, our beauty pages focus on brides-to-be and all the promising products that have transformative power to make you feel your absolute best.

The main designer focus feature shines a light on two cousins (who are also thick friends) from Bahrain: Shaikha Noor and Shaikha Haya of Noon

by Noor fame. From their island beginnings to L.A. and New York and quite frankly, the world, their fashion empire has put the country on the map and has paved the way for emerging regional designers.

Their story has always been discreet, their collections have been bold and conversation-starting, but the girls have always been under the radar – flip to the heart of the magazine and uncover their substance and grace. More and more we come to realise that this part of the world is at the forefront of fashion.

Noon by Noor is one example of many, that we are on the precipice of greatness.

Georgie Bradley

Noon by noor

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Editor in Chief

Fine Mixology & Vintage Sophistication

Intimate, exclusive and very, very chic, Zsa Zsa Lounge is the perfect place to enjoy exquisite moments and creative handcrafted beverages in Abu Dhabi.

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First Word

solit air deste cartie inée r

Love& Marriage

This issue is particularly special for me as I’m about to walk down the aisle in less than three months. As we head into

wedding season many brides (like myself) are scrambling to put the finishing touches on flowers, dresses, food and are endlessly updating their lists. The stress has well and truly set in but it’s important to remember the big picture - the day is all about a lifelong commitment to loving and learning with someone.

Things will go wrong. Both on the day and leading up. A close friend had her wedding cake turn up on the big day and it was pink. Another lost her sparkly new engagement ring on a cold, London day as she removed her glove off in the street.

You don’t need to blow the budget on every aspect of your wedding. Decide what’s important to you both as a couple and choose some things together. This may the dress, the food and drink etc. Everyone has their focus and it’s up to you to decide where to put the money.

Try not to be influenced too much by others, like most things everyone has their opinions on what you should do, “oh but at my wedding we did this”. Try to block most of the unsolicited advice out and stick to what you want as a couple. It’s your day.

My other tips are to take long baths and do yoga to help with the stress of planning, have frequent massages and facials and try to just breathe and enjoy it.

Modern brides are changing the wedding industry with their bold choices and courage to try new or untraditional things and I just love that. But no matter what your theme or location, remember that aside from all the choices you make about your special wedding day, the most important thing is saying I do to the one you love.

Enjoy the issue,

Angela Beitz 14

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, Editor

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Style Icon

History of art

We can’t think of a better and more appropriate time of year to be celebrating the region’s best in fine jewellery. Saudi Arabian Haneen Saber pays homage to Islamic art through stunning pieces which evoke a sense of spirituality, authenticity and richness.

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Style Icon

Once upon a time...

Coco Avant Chanel, is a new High Jewellery collection illustrating the quest for freedom, the desire for sobriety, and the search for lightness: the fundamentals of Chanel’s style.

“Emilienne”

This necklace in 18K white gold is set with 2 round-cut diamonds for a total weight of 0,88 carat, 2 pear-cut diamonds for a total weight of 0,94 carat, 4 fancy-cut diamonds for a total weight of 1,41 carat, 87 freshwater cultured pearls, 79 Tahitian cultured pearls and 175 brillant-cut diamonds for a total weight of 2,16 carats.

Chanel’s new high jewellery collection includes 11 new jewellery sets, bearing the names of elegant women who had accompanied, marked or influenced the life of Gabrielle Chanel before 1920. The sets were inspired by the two founding elements of her style: lace and ribbon, which decorated her boater hats at the racecourses. In gold and precious gemstones, lace and ribbon appear in subtle gradations of rose and grey.

Morganite, pearls, spinels, moonstones and Padparadscha sapphires blend with diamonds. The jewelled ribbon undulates in complete freedom: loose, draped, wound or knotted in ethereal loops, its edges sometimes sharp and at other times frayed with diamonds. Refined, simplified and stylised, lace appears as though it is printed with camellias, flowers and birds. Recalling Gabrielle Chanel’s bold scissor cuts and the splendor of her creative stroke, lace is rendered in asymmetrical silhouettes, falling perfectly on the body.

“Marthe”

This ring in 18K white gold is set with a round-cut diamond of 1,55 carat, 51 brilliant cut grey spinels for a total weight of 0,72 carat and 47 brillant-cut diamonds for a total weight of 0,84 carats.

“Maud”

These earrings in 18K white gold are set with 2 pear-cut diamonds for a total weight of 2,02 carats, 38 baguette-cut diamonds for a total weight of 1,88 carats and 56 brilliantcut diamonds for a total weight of 1 carat. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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peter pilotto

dior Erdem

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Isabel Marant

prada

There are a lot of reasons to feel fantastic right now. Spring has us enjoying hot style.

Having both the bridal and Ramadan season in one stretch is giving us more options than can fit our wardrobes (that’s not a bad thing, ever) –we’re loving florals, pantsuits, shimmers and purple hues among other looks. Your day to night wardrobe is complete.

tadashii shoji

preen

What To Wear

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guiseppe zanotti

Salvatore Ferragamo

marc Jacobs

Lovely and light staples for the big day.

Rupert Sanderson

Alexander McQueen

The wedding EDit

jonathan simkhai

monique lhuiller

ortrait

Self-p

Fendi

johanna ortiz

poca & poca

burberry

marni

wish List

Experience the Spirit of Ramadan

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roger vivier

L’afshar

Rabih Kyrouz

jenny packham

Carolina herrera

The Ramadan Edit

Wonderfully decadent pieces for starry nights.

Christian siriano

oscar de la renta

poca & poca

Delfina delettrez Arwa al banawi

poca & poca

zimmermann

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wish List

For the Modern Middle-Eastern Woman

THE ESSENCE OF STYLE aBu dHaBi

a Fa M i LY a F Fa i r

a candid chat With the cousins Behind noon By noor

SupEr

STYLiSH

& S O p H i S T i C aT E d Fa S H i O N T O MakE YOu FEEL Fa N Ta S T i C

Playful Prints, florals, PurPles, Metallics + More

GET THE B r i da L L O O k

Ways to Wedding Perfection

www.ohlala-magazine.com may 2017 | issue 19 abu dhabi | aed 20

Cover ABU DHABI.indd 1

30/04/17 16:30

May Edition available now on issuu.com www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Blooms are back in a big way. Carrying over from winter, we’re reworkingthose dark petals and turning them into dreamy, floaty and gorgeous flowers.

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The Metallic Shimmer

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Flashy effects with foil finishes give us so much life.

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Fas hio T na i e ble s 38

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Cousins Shaikha Noor and Shaikha Haya of Noon By Noor fame, have more than just a family link between them. They’ve been best friends since childhood, travelled the world together and now sit queenly high on their fashion empire. The Bahraini duo talk to us about putting Bahrain on the map, New York Fashion Week and how they activate each other’s strengths.

H

ow would you describe each other’s personalities?

Shaikha Noor: As you may already know, we are not only cousins, but we have been best friends since childhood. Working together to fulfill our career goals only seemed inevitable due to how well we understand each other. Haya really enjoys travelling, looking for new places to explore and new cultures to discover. I really believe this fuels her creativity and her ability to bring in new design elements

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for Noon By Noor. She loves embellished pieces so she will always think of brilliant ways to incorporate them in new collections.

Shaikha Haya: Noor is independent, precise and very determined. She has an eye for detail and loves to explore new techniques to make the pieces more special. One of her passions is sketching as it’s her way to relax and unwind. Noor has always been fascinated by fashion, even as a little girl. She would spend hours in her mother’s closet exploring and admiring beautiful fabrics and designs, which has undoubtedly influenced her future in design.

How do you divide the roles up in the creative process?

Shaikha Noor: When it comes to the creative process of developing a collection, we both play equal parts as we work very closely together. In terms of business, my role is that of CEO and Haya is the COO. However, we make all final decisions together.

What inspires you in terms of design?

Shaikha Noor: Noon By Noor embodies the concept of East meets West. We are continuously inspired by our rich Eastern cultures, which is very important to us, and

Designer

Focus

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The World of Noon By Noor Morning Ritual?

N: A good cup of coffee and quality time with my twins.

H: A good cup of coffee and making sure I’m up to date with all the latest news.

Favourite Time of Day?

N: Mornings are peaceful.

H: Afternoon quality time with friends.

Yves saint laurent

N: Mascara & Eyeliner are a must.

H: The perfect lipstick.

chanel rouge allure

Must-Have Makeup Item?

Van Cleef & Arpels

Minimal or Statement Jewellery?

N: Statement H: Minimal Cartier

Heels Or Flats?

N: Gucci slippers H: Chanel espadrilles

Gucci

Chanel

Favourite Hotel In The World?

N: Four Seasons Hotel George V. Timeless and the epitome of luxury!

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H: Hotel Bel Air. Such a quiet and peaceful place.

Designer “The Noon By Noor woman embodies the essence of nonchalant chic, is internationally minded, sophisticated and not afraid of taking risks.” we mix it with Western styles and designs, which also resemble our personal styles. A lot of our inspiration also comes from our extensive travels, which have helped us rediscover our global perspective and understanding of various cultures.

Shaikha Haya: We always keep an eye and an ear open to all that surrounds us, because you can get inspired at any moment of the day, even at unexpected moments.

Another key source of inspiration to us is our family and close friends as well as our personal stories.

You’ve come so far from your Bahrain beginnings.

Did you ever expect it?

Shaikha Noor: We started Noon By Noor with the goal of being recognised internationally, while placing Bahrain on the fashion map. Although these were our goals since the beginning, achieving them feels quite humbling. We are extremely proud to represent our country in such a competitive industry.

Shaikha Haya: We always hoped to get as far as we have today, and we feel very proud and blessed to have undergone this journey. I believe our desire to succeed while loving what we do has been paramount to our success. We continue to grow with excitement at what the future has in store for our brand.

How would you describe the Noon by Noor aesthetic?

It is inherently Western - quite minimal with uncomplicated separates - where would you say the Middle Eastern undertones emerge?

Shaikha Noor: Our brand’s vision is to merge the East and West. This theme is constant throughout our collections. Noon By Noor’s refined aesthetic fuses understated luxury with playful femininity, and with an emphasis on sharp tailoring, clean silhouettes and attention to detail. Embellishments and floral motifs are synonymous with Noon By Noor, which are Bahrain inspired, so we find ways to incorporate them into our collections, while continuously looking for new and innovative ways to recreate these inspirations.

Who is the Noon by Noor woman?

Shaikha Haya: The Noon By Noor woman embodies the essence of nonchalant chic, is internationally minded, sophisticated and not afraid of taking risks with her wardrobe whilst staying true to her own individual style.

How did showcasing in New York come about over the other fashion capitals?

Shaikha Noor:Going abroad has been in the plans since inception. As we both studied and lived in

the US, we understand the power and value of the market, and for us New York is the center of the fashion industry. The choice for us came quite easily when we were presented with the opportunity to take part in New York Fashion Week How do the critics respond to the fact that you›re Arab designers in the US amongst other cultures?

Shaikha Noor: I believe that in fashion it doesn’t matter who you are or where you are from. Your brand speaks for itself and tells the story you want to share with the rest of the world. The key is to capitalise on what makes you unique and grants you the competitive edge to stand out. From the very first time that we showcased our collections at NYFW the critics were very enthusiastic about Noon By Noor.

Shaikha Haya: In February 2012, when we held our first presentation of Noon By Noor during NYFW we were recognised as the first GCC brand to be invited by IMG to present at NYFW, which was monumental to us. What makes us stand out is that we reinterpret fashion and offer a different perspective on style, which is very defined and pronounced. We are very proud to have been able to make a mark very early on in our journey.

What advice would you give to emerging designers starting their career?

Shaikha Noor: Believe in your vision and yourself and don’t take no for an answer, but most importantly, always follow your true passion.

Shaikha Haya: Love what you do and be prepared for a lot of hard but fun work.

Who would you like to see wearing Noon by Noor and why?

Shaikha Haya: Our designs have already been seen on the likes of Alexa Chung, Solange Knowles, Jennifer Lopez, Olivia Culpo, Eva Longoria, Blake Lively, Kate Bosworth, Miroslava Duma to name a few. We look forward to adding others to the list such as Sienna Miller and Emma Watson, who represent our brand in their femininity and effortless elegance.

Being constantly on the road must be tiring. How do you center yourselves and focus your energies on work and your personal lives?

Shaikha Noor: Things can get quite tiring at times, but because we love what we do, we are always able to combine our work with our personal lives. I am a very organised person, making it easier to find a perfect balance between spending precious time with my family and working on my businesses.

Shaikha Haya: Our days can get quite busy at times, but I believe our desire to succeed and loving what we do keeps us motivated on a daily basis. We are both passionate about our work, which makes fine tuning our schedules a lot easier and more pleasurable.

Focus

Wardrobe Winners

Most Comfortable Piece…

The ORRIN Bomber.

The Best Evening Number…

The SASCHA Dress.

The Most Daring Look…

The LEV Pants and EMMY Corset.

The Most Versatile Item…

The DUKE Shirt.

The Most Classic Look…

The RAYNA Gown. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Beautiful blooms Japan, cherry blossoms and a reworking of the kimono provided inspiration for the extravagant sculptural shapes that sparkle in Rami Al Ali’s SS17 couture collection. Each piece feels more exclusive than the next, with individual flair and elegance and presence-making detail.

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Primary Beauty 52

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Inspired simply by paint, the Victoria Scandale springion summer 2017 collect eets is sherbert shades m ts primary colours mee The monochrome magic. elegance with which is the VS woman flows breathtaking, soaring and sophisticated.

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Beauty Buzz

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AESOP has always advocated a seasonal approach to skin care, emphasising the need to change regimens with shifts in climatic conditions. Their Geranium Treatment and Balm are perfect for hot weather with a light fragrance.

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A smile with confidence? With new teeth whitening strips and toothpaste from Ibtisama Smile Lounges you can achieve this and more.

Take it a step further and replace your ordinary toothpaste with the new teeth whitening Brilliance Toothpaste. With a patented stain removal technology, it’s a vitamin enriched toothpaste with Vitamin A, B and C. Use it daily for a white and fresh smile!

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Get dry and dull skin sorted and indulge yourself with Beau & Eve’s Luxury Coffee Scrub collection. Made with the finest quality natural ingredients, this range will exfoliate and hydrate, leaving your skin feeling nourished and soft, whilst improving problematic areas. These fabulous scrubs are packed with skin loving, active ingredients such as Coffee & Organic Argan Oil, Ground Argan Kernel and Virgin Organic Coconut Oil.

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Clarins’ new make-up collection is based on flawless skin with a natural contour and subtle shimmer eyes. The limited edition Clarins Face Contouring Palette and Brush is very useful for chiseling those cheekbones and creating the perfect shadows when working on smaller areas.

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5. Inked To Perfection

Perfect for normal to oily skin, YSL’s Fusion Ink Cushion Foundation has a light texture and gorgeously fresh feel that is essential for summer. It’s just beautiful and the formula works so well in cushion form, it’s non-claggy, easy to blend and with a natural, non-cakey finish.

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Taste for Molton Brown, London’s fragrance experts, are tantalising the senses once more with the launch of their new limited edition Gourmand collections. It’s an enticing trio of olfactory desserts: Comice Pear & Wild Hone, Delicious Rhubarb & Rose alongside Exquisite Vanilla & Violet Flower.

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These exquisite, charming fragrances have been expertly crafted with the very best seasonal ingredients sourced from the English countryside, celebrating the brand’s British heritage.

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Beauty Insight

Feeling fabulous with Filorga Doing everything you can to achieve great skin but not quite getting there?

This is where French beauty brand Filorga steps in. Angela Beitz sits down with Maria Madadha, Marketing and Training Manager for Filorga in The Middle East to find out why this brand is taking over as a popular alternative to normal skincare brands.

How did Filorga come about?

Michel Tordjman, who was a French doctor of aesthetic medicine and a cellular biologist, founded Filorga in 1978. Even before Fillers and Botox took off, he was able to develop a unique cocktail of 53 ingredients plus Hyaluronic Acid for skin rejuvenation and mesotherapy as an injectable product for the medical profession, which he called NCTF solution . NCTF subsequently became the brand’s best-selling  product. With over 30 years of experience in providing specialised solutions to combat skin ageing, today, Filorga has become a leading provider of anti-ageing solutions for both the medical profession and general consumers.

How is it different to other skin care ranges?

Filorga is the first French laboratory derived straight from aesthetic medicine techniques . At Laboratories Filorga, our key strength lies in being aware that the best anti-aging results depend on highly effective techniques and the right products. We pride ourselves on providing world-class products that are developed by a scientific committee of internationally renowned experts, which includes physicians, pharmacists, biologists and cosmetologists.

Our range of products contain high-concentration, anti-ageing formulas including key ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid and 64

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Filorga’s patented NCTF (New Cellular Treatment Factor) to provide all the aesthetic demands of everyday cosmetics with additional antiageing benefits produced from medical experts.

What common skin care concerns do you see and how can your products help to combat them?

The most common aging skin issues are dullness of the skin, nonuniform skin tone , along with lack of firmness of skin and appearance of wrinkles around the eyes and lips. Our skin also tends to lose its natural glow and smoothness due to exposure to harsh sunlight and pollutants present in the atmosphere. The newly launched NCTFREVERSE Cellular Anti-Aging Range consists of products such as NCTF-Reserve Day Cream, which helps in repairing and restoring dry skin as well increase the radiance of your skin and improves skin quality in general including skin texture , tone, homogeneity, radiance and firmness. The NCTF-Intensive Facial Serum is formulated with plant DNA derived from wheat germ and anti-elastosis, which works to provide firmness to your skin and boost the production of retinol, collagen and elastin, thereby significantly reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

How can Filorga products help brides coming up to their big day?

Our anti-aging skin care range consists of both, products that provide

long-term solutions as well as quick fixes. For a bride-to-be who is preparing to look her absolute best we recommend using products from the latest NCTF-REVERSE Cellular Anti-Aging Range as part of their daily skincare routine on the days leading up to the big day. We also have our one time use masks that give your face intstant glow and lift (Hydra Filler and Time Filler masks). To enhance the appearance of your body, the Filorga Detox Body treatment, which is a feather-light creamy mousse that has physical antioxidant properties, helps in stimulating the skin’s natural detoxifying mechanisms.

What sort of skincare regime would you suggest?

A good skincare regime should consist of products that repair and protect your skin from the various signs of aging. Begin your daily skincare routine with a gentle yet effective foaming cleanser such as the Mousse Demaquillante from Filorga that helps in hydrating and removing impurities from your skin. Whether you have dry or oily skin, moisturisation is key to maintaining the good health of your skin, which is why the NCTF-REVERSE Cellular Anti-Aging Range consists of moisturising serums and creams that are made to be suitable for specific skin types. Whereas the NCTF-REVERSE DAY CREAM is more suitable for dry skin, due to its intense moisturising and nourishing formula.

What are your best selling products and why?

Our best seller world wide is Time Filler and every hour 120 Time filler products are sold. This product is very unique because it delivers the same effects as Botox, Filler and Mesotherapy treatments due to the combination of 4 different types of Hyaluronic acid plus other patented ingredients.

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Ohlala Arabia Bringing style across The Middle East

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esposa

Beauty Column

GEt Glowing

Everyone wants glowing skin for the walk down the aisle, but how do you achieve this?

Angela Beitz explains all the best tips from when to schedule facials and treatments as well as beauty basics to give you that bridal glow.

Sort Your Skin

If there’s ever been a time to get your skincare regime into full gear, now is the time. You should be cleansing you skin twice a day, no excuses and exfoliating twice a week with a low irritant exfoliator. Invest in the highest quality anti-aging day and night creams you can afford and don’t forget that serums are your new best friend (you can even layer different ones for best results). You should also be wearing SPF everyday under your make up and anywhere that the sun hits your skin. Chest, ears, neck, back of hands etc.

Save Face

Regular facials will also boost your skin and have your skin looking luminous and glowy by the time the big day comes around. Book one around every four to six weeks in the six months leading up to your wedding. Start with deep cleansing facials and ones that include light microdermabrasion and lead up to super hydrating and calming facials. If you aren’t used to having facials go for ones aimed at sensitive skin that will nourish and hydrate your skin. If you’re having any troubling or chronic skin issues, think about seeing a dermatologist so you can get any problems sorted early.

Trial And Error

Take your time to book your hair and make-up artist as this is a very key aspect of your look for the big day. Make sure you do a practice run of your hair and beauty look so that if you don’t like it, you still have time to change it. Be sure to speak up if you are unhappy about something - they want you to be happy as much as you do. Look for inspiration in magazines and on Pinterest and Instagram.

Keep It Simple

It goes without saying but book your manicure, pedicure, spray tan if you want one in advance and leave time in the evening for a good shower. To save time, book them in the one location if you can, or within walking distance.

If your hair is due for a wash get scrubbing, but if you know your hair looks great on its second day, keep it that way. Go with what you know, this is not a time to experiment with dramatic new looks or over the top make up.

Fresh Tresses

If you’re happy with your hair’s length get a trim so that it’s in tip-top shape come D-Day. If you’re brave enough, do get an extra centimeter off so that when you reach the wedding date your tresses still look refreshed. If you can bear it, lay off the styling tools to give your hair a break and nourish your hair with a hair mask twice a week.

Up Your Fitness Regime, But Look After yourself

James Duigan, whose A-list clients include models Rosie HuntingtonWhiteley and Lara Stone says putting pressure on yourself and your body can be one of the biggest obstacles when preparing for such a big moment like your wedding day. “Stress harms your body at a time when it needs to be nourished,” he says. Treat yourself to Epsom salt baths, body scrubs, meditation and yoga to keep your mind and body healthy while in planning mode. Similarly, nourish yourself from the inside out with healthy, organic whole foods. Coconut oil, green tea and omega-3 are the supermodel tools to fast-track your way to ultimate radiance. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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For the Modern Middle-Eastern Woman THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

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Modern Moroccan Elegance

Set on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, the Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca is the epitome of contemporary five-star sophistication with a touch of local culture. Shabana Adam indulges in rich history and sheer comfort.

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Travel Escapes

“You’ll get a mix of authenticity from local customs as well as a hint of modernity with the stylish décor and luxury setting.”

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The Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca

will have you saying “wow” at every turn. On approach to the five-star property, you’ll pass by the calm of the greenery, through streets that easily resemble any Hollywood neighbourhood in Beverly Hills, and miles of beautiful shoreline, before arriving at the sand-coloured building.

If it’s fresh air and sea views galore that you’re after, this place will endlessly please.

At only five storeys high, the Four Seasons Casablanca is an intimate hotel made up of 186 super spacious rooms, including 29 suites which come with private balconies overlooking the deep blue ocean or the lush gardens. Three restaurants, a picturesque outdoor pool and a fabulous spa all add to the allure of this beachfront hotel.

French, Arabic and English are just three of the main languages spoken by the multinational team here. Everyone from the doorman to the bellboy, the front desk staff and the waiters are polite, efficient and beyond welcoming. To top that off, we’re served a delicious plate of traditional Moroccan sweet treats along with a cup of the famous Moroccan mint tea upon check-in. Talk about a “sense of local” – you’ll get a mix of authenticity from local customs as well as a hint of modernity with the stylish décor and luxury setting – the best of both worlds.

Our Superior Room is located on the top floor, just down the hall from the lobby. Not only is this super convenient, it’s also a pleasant surprise to find how peaceful it is just a few minutes from the chic entrance. Again, if you want lively, it’s just seconds away from the room, and when you want to relax, rest assured that this room is a quiet sanctuary. One of the reasons why we love the

Four Seasons brand is because each property stays true to its roots – that’s no exception in Casablanca. The room we’ll call home for the next few days is very spacious. It’s beautifully-bright with cool, neutral interiors that boast elements of both Moroccan design and contemporary flair. Tailor-made lamps inspired by the typical brass work found in Moroccan moucharabieh and Berber tradition come together to create the most spacious and luxurious guest rooms, complete with floor-to-ceiling windows that let in an abundance of natural light.

Soft beige marble floors cover the room, providing excellent contrast with the dark brown timber and colourful décor. There’s mesmerising art on the walls, a fully-stocked refrigerated personal bar with delicious teas, a Nespresso machine, and a variety of snacks

“If it’s fresh air and sea views galore that you’re after, this place will endlessly please.” and beverages, alongside the best part of the accommodation – the customisable Four Seasons bed, with your choice of mattress topper – so plush.

The bathroom is an impressive set-up too. Adorned in marble with a deep soaking tub and glass-walled shower, an excellent make up mirror and thick terry bathrobes, it’s a one-stop hotspot for ultimate rest. This room is what we call a true sleeping sanctuary with top-quality furnishings and amenities. Our favourite thing of all was www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Travel Escapes

the blackout curtains and the uber fast internet connection.

We’re used to being spoiled with good food in the Gulf, and Morocco is no different. We can guarantee you that what you’ll find at the Four Seasons Casablanca will blow you away. From a sumptuous breakfast spread where the fresh juice bottles in ice, the array of egg concoctions and the mouth-watering patstries take centre stage, there’s also an exquisite afternoon tea and a once-a-month Sunday brunch, which genuinely exceeded all expectations.

The Mediterranean magic of Bleu restaurant is nothing short of cutting-edge and classy. Mirroring Casablanca’s coastline; waves to nautilus shells, the focus is on curves, creating a soft, relaxing ambiance. The white marble floor, wood columns and brown-leather banquettes create an elegant, contemporary flair – unique to this special city. The interior offers wave-like, floor-to-ceiling windows, while the outdoor terraces feature a transparent glass railing and delicate white zelliges.

A custom-made grill in the centre of the restaurant exposes the chefs in action, while a raw bar features tartars, oysters and seafood tastings. On the terrace, the focal point is a unique firepit surrounded by comfortable seating – perfect for enjoying the sound of the waves, the light breeze or kicking back with your choice of sips and cigars.

Brunch offers everything from the freshest, most innovative salads, beautiful appetisers, tasty meat, chicken and seafood dishes, and lip-licking desserts. Every month has a different theme and the city’s foodies have fast become big fans of the high-quality fare served during the three-hour dining soiree.

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“The heart of the hotel firmly sits on the tip of North Africa in a location that will have you in awe until the moment you check out.”

For something a little lighter, try the amazing afternoon tea, served at Mint – a heart-warming slice of Morocco. Gourmet sandwiches, creative salads, French pastries and yummy tid bits all await to be devoured. Mint’s indoor lobby lounge area is adorned with Moroccan white stucco embroideries contrasting with the black marble floor, which creates a refined yet relaxed ambiance.

Comfortable sofas inspired by traditional Moroccan homes invite you to relax and enjoy the impressive views that overlook the ocean. On the outdoor terrace, cosy up to the custom-made firepit adorned with Moroccan blue and gold zelliges. Aaaah, picture perfect.

If there’s one thing we’d recommend you to try at Four Seasons Casablanca, it’s Le Spa and its deeply soothing treatments. With a mix of Signature Moroccan Hammam experiences, ancient alchemist-inspired body therapies, healing Himalayan, glowing youth and natural emerald infused services to pamper you from head-to-toe, there’s literally something for everyone. Le Spa features opulent luxury and elite skin care brands with 10 spacious treatment rooms, including a special sumptuous retreat for couples. Changing lounges include heated whirlpools and steam rooms, and service is professional and welcoming.

When you’ve spent the day exploring the neighbourhoods of the city or haggling for bargains at Souq Habbous, unwind here for simple rejuvenation.

There’s nothing like ending a holiday where the hotel you’ve been staying in has immaculately given you a sincere flavour of local life.

The Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca has one foot in the city’s French colonial legacy and the other in Mauresque and Moorish influence, all with a European art deco panache. But, most importantly, the heart of the hotel firmly sits on the tip of North Africa in a location that will have you in awe until the moment you check out.

For more information or reservations call: +212 5290 73700 www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Mystique

The freshly opened Bab Al Qasr in Abu Dhabi has already elicited excitable conversation over its sweeping views, grand fixtures and luxurious comforts. We checked in and discovered Arabian charm in every corner.

Middle Eastern

Local Escapes

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You’ll undoubtedly crane your neck up until your head

is virtually horizontal to take in Bab Al Qasr’s lobby. Looking straight ahead of you is not enough – this hotel’s entrance leaves you speechless and gawking in every which direction. With its unending walls, Arabian fixtures, Mosaic tiles and a few palm trees punctuating the setting, it’s a modern Middle Eastern fairy tale where tradition, legend and a timeless spirit meld together.

We had checked in for a week – practically a staycation as far as we were concerned – and called our beautiful sea-facing junior suite home, our haven. Up on the 27th floor, we had expansive views of Abu Dhabi and the cerulean waters that engulf the city. Our room had an Ohlala designed cake waiting for us (which was so incredibly moreish, we had to practically force the fork out of our hands to resist!) and a lovely fruit basket with all our vitamin essentials.

The bathroom, with all its white marbled tiling, had a very fresh feel about it and gave us an instant hit of calm and tranquillity.

Between the sumptuous bath tub and the deep walk in shower, this space was one which we spent a lot of time in – admittedly we have a thing for bathrooms, and this one was no ordinary bathroom, it was a small studio. Above all, the biggest selling point for the Bab Al Qasr experience, in our view, are the accoutrements. The Amouage products are heavenly and silky on the hair and skin. Amouage is the perfect brand for this hotel as it speaks to the overall Middle Eastern opulence that has come to be the identity of this hotel. Lots of luxury points from us. Add to that the cosy fluffy white robes that cocooned us every morning and evening and made us not want to leave the room.

The beds were of the utmost comfort, particularly the plush pillows which had the dimensions of a carpet. Bab Al Qasr don’t skimp on making their guests feel like Kings and Queens, we can tell you that! The desk area, where we spent most of our time due to deadlines and a pile up of work, was conducive to the perfect work conditions. What we loved the most was the hotel notepad paper because it was so luxuriously thick and professional - our notetaking was taken up several notches than usual! There was plenty of space for our magazines, laptop, business cards and other work-related material. The plug situation was good and non-fussy while the

“The bathroom, with all its white marbled tiling, had a very fresh feel about it and gave us an instant hit of calm and tranquillity.” position of the desk was more than favourable – adjacent to the floorto-ceiling windows, allowing floods of natural lighting to appease the strain of tapping away on a laptop for hours on end.

The grounds throughout the hotel are nothing short of marvellous. The iconic Arabian architecture and interior design lend to the idea of a modern palace while the service is uncompromisingly swift and graceful where every need was met with warmth and precision down to the smallest detail. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Local Escapes

Each day we took to the Artisan Kitchen for breakfast and lunch. Serving up an array of international cuisine, you won’t tire of all the different options available to you. From salmon to dumplings to steak and a saccharine display of desserts, your every meal will be better than the next. There’s a great vibe about the restaurant too – not too big, not too small. You get an equal measure of socialising and privacy here.

And while we did that every day, we also went to the gym every day too. Set up on the 4th floor, with leafy views of the Corniche Road (the constant movement of cars actually makes you pound the treadmill faster!) we were at home here as much as we were in our rooms. The equipment is state of the art, polished and squeaky clean.

The towels, water and apples available for each gym goer adds a nice touch while the personalised TV screens for each treadmill offers all the channels you could want and makes your exercise routine seem less routine-like.

We have to be honest here, we were constantly at the gym because we were gorging (elegantly, mind you) on fantastic fare during our stay. One particular outlet at Bab Al Qasr deserves limitless praise: Limo. The Peruvian and Latin American evening dining restaurant is in one word: special. The Latin American food scene in our region is limited at best but there’s growing fanfare over it in recent months, not least for its unique flavours, complex compositions and wildly odd but beautiful pairings. We started off with a stunning ceviche: Chalaco: seafood ceviche, crispy calamari, Cancha, rocoto pepper and Leche de Tiger. If all of that is foreign to you, trust us, even if you’re 78

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“The service is uncompromisingly swift and graceful where every need was met with warmth and precision.” totally green, you’ll get so much out of this dish. It’s so swimmingly fresh and tasty, it hurts – the best kind of pain, we might add! We were then served Kadafi Shrimps which was comprised of crab tartare, Kadafi Nikkei shrimps with whipped Peruvian potatoes with Aji Amarillo pepper and lime juice – it’s the lime juice that made this dish burst to the high heavens with flavour. Our mains saw a hearty portion of meats. The Peruvian chicken brochette with rustic mashed potatoes with tari sauce alongside the Peruvian tenderloin

“One particular outlet at Bab Al Qasr deserves unending praise: Limo.”

brochette with smoked Anticuchera sauce and quail egg was such a fantastic treat. Every mouthful brought on yet another delightful surprise and ooo-ing and aaa-ing because we had never had a meal quite like it. The finale to this superb show of Peruvian fare ended with the creamiest, milkiest, smoothest pannacotta you’ve ever tried.

Placed within a crowning of Chicha meringue, kumquat puree and Chicha sorbet and cashew nuts, this sealed the night and indeed our entire stay off on the perfect note.

For more information and reservations call: +971 2 205 3000 www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Ohlala Boutiques

Summer Daze

As we go into the home stretch of spring and brave the summer, Ted Baker have the essentials to keep you cool, chic and collected.

Enter fine cuts, sorbet hues and elegant finishes. #meetthebakers

The Ted Baker Collection is available from Ted Baker stores throughout the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain and Egypt.

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Best Foot Forward This season, Dune London showcases bold hues. Feeling brave? Don’t shy away from vibrant colours at Dune, especially if it’s metallic. These amazing styles are a sure-fire way to inject a splash of colour into your life.

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Ohlala Boutiques

Spring Fling Treat yourself to the Ritual of Sakura with organic Rice Milk and Cherry Blossom which will leave your skin beautifully soft. The natural ingredient of Rice Milk has ultra-hydrating properties and gives the skin a silky soft feeling. Celebrate each day as a new beginning with the nourishing Ritual of Sakura and enjoy every wonderful moment the wind blows your way.

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Bejeweled David Morris has three new stunning collections available at The Galleria Al Maryah Island; Miss Daisy, Petite Palm and Rose Cut forever with a nod to the essence of the tranquil and award-winning gardens of England at the beginning of summertime.

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DivA Drives

HittingTHE UAE roads with Italian Style Two cars, the desert and an insatiable love of driving. We roar into action with the Maserati Levante and Maserati Quattroporte.

Maserati Levante

The Levante is the true definition of versatility, it delivers performance, all the elegance and the luxury you expect from a Maserati and it combines it with an outstanding off-road capability.

Yes, you need to test drive it to believe it. First we took a Levante S with its 430HP to the Dubai Velodrome racetrack and we tested the incredible adaptive air suspension system that can adjust the vehicle’s ride height by a range of 85 mm! When using the lowest center of gravity on the racetrack, the Levante was perfectly balanced with a (50-50) weight distribution between front and rear and it delivered the performance of a muscle car. We did the 0-100 km/h run in a reasonably-quick 6.3 seconds! Nonetheless the most powerful Levante can sprint to 100 km/h in 5.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 264 km/h so it has absolutely nothing to envy to its German rivals, the Porsche Cayenne or the BMW X6.

Particularly amusing was taking it off-road just outside Dubai. Indeed with its Off-Road 2 modes raising the vehicle by 40 mm above normal mode, it does very well off-road and there was more than enough juice 84

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to power through soft sand—maybe not better than the most advanced Range Rover but surely better than the Range Rover Sport!

However, it is hugely unlikely that a Maserati owner would expose his Levante to dune bashing and other extreme experiences, but it is reassuring to know the car can perform if necessarily.

Maserati Quattroporte

On the second day, Maserati gave us the opportunity to test drive the new Quattroporte S, on the road that leads to the top of Jebel Hafeet (the emirate’s highest peak). We had the choice between two unique trim options : GranLusso or GranSport. These two distinctive trims are available as an upgrade for all Quattroporte V6 powertrain versions.

As a first impression in both models the interior feels really huge!

The GranLusso (big luxury) model feature different bumpers and interior combinations to create a luxury feel with attention paid to small details such as the use of Zegna silk for the seating upholstery, a fourzone climate control or heated seats—while the GranSport option features exactly what you would expect of sportier trim—aluminum

paddle shifters, stainless steel sport pedals or a carbon fibre steering wheel definitely give a sportier presence.

Also, when you approach the rear of the Quattroporte GranSport, your eyes are literally blown up by the dynamic exhaust ports at each corner and a piano black rear spoiler which gives a sharp and aggressive finish to the Italian beauty. The S model uses a Two twin-turbocharged engine that makes 404 hp and 406 lb ft and it really sounds fantastic—but what else can you expect from a Ferrari-built engine!

We couldn’t drive it but the QP also exists as a V8 model. The twin-turbo 3.8-liter V8 puts out 523 hp and 524 lb-ft and makes it not only the fastest four-door Maserati ever built with a 307 km/h top speed, but brings it closer to the standards set by Germans competitors (BMW 7-series or Mercedes S class). However, we can easily say that the QP is a viable alternative to its German rivals in terms of style.

It was a wonderful experience driving it through Al Ain’s hairpin mountains and I can’t wait to go back and discover more of these Italian beauties. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Ohlala Spotlight

Haute Cuisine We speak with a genius behind gastronomy: Alain Ducasse.

In his words: “I propose, I do not impose.”

With 30 restaurants and more than 21 Michelin stars to his name, Alain Ducasse is the emperor of modern French Cuisine. Nonetheless, he is seen as both a genius and guru by many of his peers around the world. He anticipated trends, influenced international gastronomy and forged new paths to forward his art with always one motive: putting the vegetal and the local in the heart of the plate.

By using simple slogans such as ‘eat less but better’, or ‘vegetal en premier’ (vegetable first) he basically re-invented the French haute cuisine by ridding it of much of its excesses and engaging it in a more ethical and sustainable approach. “The planet’s resources are rare, we must consume more ethically and equitably,” Ducasse keeps on repeating.

We had the opportunity to meet the charismatic chef on his one-day visit to Doha at the iconic IDAM address (restaurant) in Doha.

The force of his presence is palpable—he is very smart and well spoken—in fact Ducasse looks more like a French Ambassador or a ‘grand patron’ (CEO) more than a chef. He is, of course, all three rolled into one. We speak with him to see what he thinks about the fusion between French and Middle-Eastern cuisine.

How did IDAM start?

Firstly, I like exceptional venues and if I wasn’t a cook, I would have become a traveller or an architect. When I was offered by to develop a restaurant

by Sheikha Mayassa Al Thani with my fellow friend and designer Philipp Stark in the iconic MIA, designed by architect Pei, it couldn’t have been more exiting. IDAM was born at the crossroads between two very strong concepts—integrating an iconic landmark and a restaurant offering a cuisine which appeals to local people. Indeed taking into account local tastes, without straying from the French cuisine techniques was my challenge. It was more about seducing the local clientele, than the expats.

How would you define the cuisine at IDAM? At the beginning Sheikha Mayassa Al Thani wanted to build a menu around seasonal vegetables from the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern region.

We integrated influences from Morocco, Lebanon and India (in particular) to create a cuisine based on contemporary Mezze— the key element was the fusion between local flavours and techniques of French cooking. As I like to say, I’m a local chef with a global expression. In a nutshell we can say that IDAM is still a contemporary French haute cuisine as per its DNA offering Middle Eastern flavors to seduce local palates.

Is adaptation the key of success in your industry?

Yes, when I go somewhere, I don’t impose: I propose.

What is the common denominator between all your restaurants across the world?

Refinement, elegance are the keywords. A cuisine based on local flavour and in osmosis with its environment and a cuisine that never misleads the DNA of traditional French cooking—the art of preparing food, the art of cooking and seasoning, harmony between containers and foods, peering between 86

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food and drink, just to name a few.

One other common denominator seems to be the ongoing search for the most unparalleled locations in world famous landmarks. Less fat, less salt, less sugar, more seasonal products and vegetables.

Speaking about vegetable, can you tell us more about your signature dish named cookpot?

Yes the Cookpot has become one of my signature dishes with the idea that

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over time more attention must be given to cereals, grains and veggies. It is a universal dish and we should decrease the amount of protein we eat and respect our environment.

Are you opening a restaurant in Dubai?

Yes, it is new concept called Mix and is due to open at The Emerald Palace Kempinski Hotel Palm Jumeirah soon. In Dubai everything is different, the population consists of expats from different cultures and backgrounds. We will open a multi-faceted venue with a bar, a roof top lounge, and some restaurant concepts, all under one roof.

It is based on a concept we opened 13 years ago in Las Vegas. We are also planning to open soon in Macau and Singapore with the same concept.

Which other great chefs do you admire?

I like the work of Brazilian chef, Alex Atala who sources products directly from The Amazon. He discovered new species of animals and plants over the past four years in the vast Amazon rainforest and we don’t even know if some of these products are comestible or not. It means there are still unexplored destinations fit for culinary lovers! And you have Gastón Acurio, the super chef who put Peruvian cuisine on the world map and who used gastronomy as an important factor of economic growth in South America. These two chefs deserve some recognition for their amazing effort, one because he is hunting new species in The Amazon and the other one for his honourable work in promoting local economy across the world.

What is your motto?

Never cease to work more, faster, and better - that’s my rule. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Ohlala Spotlight

All smiles Looking for the perfect pearly whites? CEO and Founder, Maissa Fattal wants to put a beautiful white smile on your face with her fantastic Smile Lounges, Ibtisama

You are a barrister, tell us how you made the change into the cosmetic industry? How did the idea of Ibtisama came from?

Yes, I trained as a barrister, and I worked on many cases when I lived in Geneva. When I came to the UAE five years ago, I always thought that I would continue in my career as a barrister, but I’ve also always believed that a smile is a power and this is where the idea of Ibtisama came from. I`ve always been interested in empowering people.

What does Ibtisama mean and what is the significance of a smile?

Ibtisama means ‘smile’ in Arabic. Smiling is contagious, shows your personality and accompanies at any step of life such as the wedding day. That‘s why it needs to be looked after and maintained like any aspect of our beauty routine.

Why should someone take care of hair, nail, skin and neglect their dazzling smile?

Tell us about the teeth whitening packages that Ibtisama offers for brides-to-be?

I can`t think of a day when I smiled more that in my wedding day. I remember it like it was yesterday. But I also remember the euphoria before the day, there is so much going during this exciting time, that at home option sounds your best bet. This is how I came up with the very first Bridal Teeth Whitening at Home Service package. The session is recommended any time before the big day, using only natural ingredients for instant results up to 7-8 shades whiter.

What can people expect when they visit one of the Smile Lounge?

Ibtisama is the only brand in the Middle East region to 88

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offer express teeth whitening sessions over-the-counter or at home. Our concept guarantees a pain-free natural teeth whitening experience while instantly getting teeth whiter over a scale of lighter shades. We seek to offer an incredible experience to our customers, to make them smile sincerely from the heart at the end of the session; over the years we expand our entertainment options during the pampering process, from automated back massage, feet massage or/ and an ample variety of 3D movies through VR Gear.

What would be your advice to other female entrepreneurs, and what is your next challenge with Ibtisama?

My advice is to persevere. Persevere and persevere. Rome has not been built in one day. And learn from any mistake could lead you straight to success.

Ibtisama locations in Marina Mall (02 441 6414) and Abu Dhabi Mall (02 621 9933). www.ibtisamabeauty.ae

Ibtisama bridal teeth whitening home services, Diamond Smile www.ohlala-magazine.com 89 1250 AED starting price including Ibtisama bride gift (02 5559272)

Chic Eats

Swimmingly Fresh You’ll find much joy at Beach Rotana’s Finz restaurant where you’ll be served the best seafood in Abu Dhabi – we indulged in a sparkling spread of mouth-watering food.

Well-heeled folks grace Finz.Think strappy platforms and chiffon

for women, Oxfords and pocket squares for men. The whitewashed décor against the soft waves of the surrounding sea is an absolute picture and feels like a signature restaurant aboard a five-star cruise making its way around the Caribbean.

We walked in one unusually but welcomed breezy afternoon and sat in the heart of the restaurant next to the bar and the floor to ceiling windows overlooking the cerulean waters. It wasn’t our first time at Finz but from previous experience, we knew it was the kind of restaurant that warrants many visits to really swim through the menu as it’s not your typical, pedestrian seafood outlet – it’s got more substance and panache than you can imagine.

Starting off with an elegant array of small plates, we tucked into a Baby Spinach and Chopped Kale Salad which saw a toss of saccharine dates, feta cheese, crispy chickpeas and lemon vinaigrette in the mix. The kale was garden fresh, had fun crunch and a delightful prick with each bite while the dates added a super sweetness to it, too. This was a dish we 90

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could have gone on and on with.

Sat lordly high was a Chilled Lobster and Crab Cocktail, with a dreamy creamy grilled avocado curled around it with a topping of citrus. The presentation alone was deserving of praise but the flavours had so much life in them as well. But the Grilled Calamari with Merguez Sausage was held in the highest regard among the starters. The combination of slippery calamari and dense sausage in one complete mouthful, was gorgeous. Normally, calamari served outside of Greece is of a shoddy effort but at Finz, the quality of their calamari could sway you into thinking it’s freshly plucked out of the Aegean, there and then.

To end our starters, a plate of Yellowtail Hamachi graced the table, swimming in orange juice and soy infused with chili – we’ve got a real soft spot for ceviche, namely for its light ingredients and the healthy feelgood factor – we’ve always said it’s the next big thing since sushi blew us out the water many years ago. This ceviche was as tangy as you’d expect and the ultimate refresher dish before the mains.

The crowning moment of our meal at Finz came with the arrival of the Whole Sea Bass Baked in Salt for two. Scented with lemon, thyme and garlic, this generous dish is at once gentle to cut into, pristine in quality and zingy in flavour – the stray chunks of salt strewn between layers of the fish gave some great pizzazz. What makes this dish even better, are the variety of sauces that come with it. Our favourites were the saffron-citrus aioli and the lemon parsley butter sauces. Each added dimension and depth to the already packed-with flavour-fish. This is a must-try dish on all accounts.

As you can probably guess with our gushing review, Finz had us leaping with joy and confirmed to us that it is still the mainstay favourite for seafood in Abu Dhabi.

For more information or reservations call: 2 697 9011

Zsa zsa

May Dining We round up the best dining spots for the month.

Sayad, Emirates Palace Throughout the month of May, Sayad at Emirates Palace pays homage to asparagus; the harbinger of spring by exploring the different ways this delicate vegetable can be prepared. Do not miss this one-of-a-kind feast of kings which is an al a carte menu.

For information or reservations call: 2 666 8066

Giornotte, Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal Opening its door at sunset, the Iftar buffet at Giornotte features family favorites from the region, including Lebanese, Egyptian and local Emirati cuisines, in a unique décor made of Arabic lanterns, date displays and traditional fabrics. AED 185 per person including local water, specialty juices, coffee, tea and assorted desserts. Children aged six to 12 years are priced at AED 90 and there is no charge for children under six years.

For information or reservations call: 2 818 8881

Sky Garden, Ray’s Bar, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Don’t miss your chance this month to enjoy Sky Garden at Ray’s Bar, Jumeirah Etihad Towers open now until Ramadan. Sip bubbles in Abu Dhabi’s highest garden overlooking the city celebrating Yellow Month with a special Veuve Cliquot menu, available everyday from 5pm-2am.

For information or reservations call: 2 811 5666

Fairways, The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa Friday is for Bubbalicious at Fairways in The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa. Raise your glass and treat yourself to a multi cuisine brunch and live cooking stations, fabulous entertainment and free flowing beverages overlooking a lush green golf course. AED 170 per child with soft drinks, AED 350 per adult with soft beverages, AED 425 per adult with free flowing house and sparkling beverage, AED 620 per adult with free flowing house beverage and French Bubbly. Every Friday, 12:30 – 4pm.

For information or reservations call: 2 694 4553

Sontaya, St. Regis Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi Sontaya, the resort’s Southeast Asian restaurant, takes guests on an enthralling journey with its Asian Fusion Brunch, offering ancient dishes with traditional flavors and aroma from South

Sayad

Take your girls’ night out to the next level with Glamour Nights at Zsa Zsa Cocktail Lounge at the beautiful Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi.

Every Tuesday, ladies receive a complimentary glass of bubbly on arrival and indulge in a selection of masterfully crafted cocktails available for as little as AED 25 each per cocktail. Every Tuesday, 6pm until midnight.

For information or reservations call: 2 333 2444

Le royal Meridien Abu DHabi

Zsa Zsa, Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi

East Asia. Guests can enhance the brunch experience with a pool and beach pass. Available every Saturday. 12.30pm – 4pm. AED 229 per person - Brunch inclusive of soft beverages and AED 299 per person - Brunch inclusive of house beverages with pool and beach access For information or reservations call: 2 498 8888

Market Kitchen, Le Royal Meridien Take a chauffeured spin around Abu Dhabi’s farmer markets every Saturday and learn how to select the freshest produce with expert chefs.

The four hour food adventure includes visits to the fish souq and fruit and vegetable market with our chefs to select your lunch ingredients, then back to Market Kitchen for a front-row seat as out experts prepare the food. You’ll only pay for the produce you select from the markets. Every Saturday from 10am (until May 29th).

For information or reservations call: 2 674 2020 www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Health Files

Rest & REtreat We indulge in some much-needed rejuvenation at Talise Spa, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers.

The Talise Signature Massage, AED 450 for 60 minutes and The Rejevenating Facial, AED 450 for 60 minutes. Talise Spa, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, 2 811 5555

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Jumeirah at Etihad Towers don’t do things by halves with its stunning rooms, plethora of amazing restaurants and more. Talise Spa is no different; tucked away from the main part of hotel lobby, it’s a beautiful, quiet retreat. The decor is super modern with marble finishes, modern light features and vast hallways. We were greeted in the relaxation room with a lemongrass tea and a refreshing hand towel, while our host talked us through what we wanted to get out the treatments and we filled in a form describing areas we were concerned with.

We were then directed by our therapist who took us through to our treatment room. We love that the treatment rooms have their own separate change areas so there’s no stuffing around with keys and lockers and it feels totally decadent. We were then taken to a large, comfortable chair where our feet were massaged and scrubbed. During this foot ritual we talked about what sort of pressure we would like for our massage and discussed our current concerns with our complexion.

We start with the Talise Signature Massage which is a combination of Lomilomi, Thai, Swedish and Balinese massages. Our therapist’s touch was very strong (which we had asked for) and a great job was done getting our knots out while making sure we were not in too much pain.

This massage was perfect to help relax our muscles without leaving us aching. There were a lot of stretching techniques done also which helped to undo all our kinks.

It was then time for the Rejuvenating Facial, designed to rehydrate and balance the skin while giving it a perfect glow and works to combat wrinkles, loss of elasticity and the appearance of pigmented skin and dark spots. Once our face was double cleansed, exfoliated and steamed, a super-rich mineral mask was applied to intensely hydrate and revitalise our skin. Our complexion was left deeply moisturised and glowing. Our face is massaged in strong, upward movements to help reshape the face so that signs of ageing are reduced. We’d highly recommend this spa for its fabulous treatments, chic surroundings and professional staff.

Abu Dhabi’s Spa Havens

friend along to unwind in one of our soulful escapes. TheDiscount will be applied to the lesser priced treatment. For information or reservations call: 2 690 9000

Our picks for the best treatments for the month of May.

In need of some rest and recuperation?

Restore and nourish your body at Heavenly Spa with their Ramadan Escape Package.

Take care of yourself during Ramadan with their hand & foot paraffin treatment accompanied by a scalp massage. We love this beautiful spa for it’s gorgeous decor with lots of light and stunning relaxation room so book your treatment now. AED 450 (60min).

For information or reservations call: 2 616 9999

Tips and Toes Float into serenity with the new Energy Healing Massage, available now at all branches of Tips & Toes. Aimed at rebalancing the chakras, clearing blocked energy, uncovering pressure points and easing tension, the thoroughly relaxing 90-minute full body and head massage promotes restored mental health and emotional harmony. Available at the introductory price of just AED 275 throughout May (usually AED 320). For information or reservations call: Various locations, 4 399 0550 Emirates Palace Spa Enjoy Ramadan at Emirates Palace Spa and treat yourself to some much deserved me time. Receive two spa treatments on any Monday or Tuesday during the holy month of Ramadan and receive a 50% discount on the second service. Treat yourself or bring a

Heavenly Spa, The Westin Golf Resort & Spa

Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal Make a date to keep fit this year by signing up for annual Health Club membership on May 6 and you’ll receive a very special benefit – 35% off the usual membership rate.

What’s more, refer a friend for membership and when they sign up, you will receive a night’s stay at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, including breakfast, with compliments. (Advance booking required.)

For information or reservations call: 2 818 8051 Remède Spa,The St. Regis Abu Dhabi Remède Spa, has welcomed the latest Elemis Biotec machine. The clinically proven result?

Thriving, visibly healthy and energised skin.

Both male and female guests can experience specific treatments dedicated to anti-aging, skin lifting, firming and strengthening, sensitive skin soothing, oxygen infusing, illuminating and brightening. For information or reservations call: 2 694 444 Dahlia Spa, Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi Get ready for your best skin ever with Biologique Recherche Dahlia Spa have welcomse the acclaimed French brand Biologique Recherche used by the likes of Madonna, Sharon Stone, Brad Pitt and the Olsen twins. Biologique Recherche’s revolutionary treatments offer astounding effectiveness based on a clinical approach to beauty care using intentionally pure, concentrated, raw ingredients, as well as innovative and meticulous protocols and procedures. Biologique Recherche Facials start at AED 850 For information or reservations call: 2 694 444 The Nail Spa Need a detox after too much festive fun? Drop a dress size in 90 minutes with Shrinking Violet, the revolutionary non-invasive body inch loss wrap.

The Shrinking Violet Wrap successfully removes fat from all over the body especially problem areas using a method called lipolysis. It works by breaking down fat stored within your fat cells.

This process continues over 72 hours, seeing you lose more inches from your body for an instantly slimmer and detoxified you. For information or reservations call: Various locations, 600 544 001 www.ohlala-magazine.com

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health Column

H a r d An d Fa st R u les Our health and lifestyle columnist, Lena Dobschall explains how to lose weight and obtain a healthier lifestyle with intermittent fasting.

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, right? Wrong!

Some of you will be absolutely shocked right now, and for those who can’t bring themselves to eat anything in the morning then it’s definitely good news. For me that’s bad news, because breakfast is hands-down my favourite meal of the day, I just love a crunchy granola bowl, fresh fruits and green smoothies, so when I heard about this new trend of skipping breakfast I had to do my own research about it as nobody can just talk me out of having breakfast.

To my horror I found out that this new diet trick is not even a trend – it’s based on scientific research and has been proven to be extremely effective on weight loss, and contributes to a healthier lifestyle, a fitter body and last but not least, it’s a game-changer for anti-ageing: The magic trick is called interval or intermittent fasting.

I’m sure some of you have heard of this kind of eating pattern already and said “thanks, but no thanks!” when the word fasting came to the table. So let us start this slowly: I’m on your side here. Nothing sounds worse to me than food restriction, but to be honest the arguments here are hard to beat and we should probably have a second look on the facts.

There has been a lot of research and studies on the effects of intermittent fasting on our bodies. Especially among fitness and health experts the topic has gained a lot of attention and recognition: Intermittent fasting is not considered a diet but rather an eating pattern, where you only restrict the timeframe of your food intake.

The most popular intervals are called “5:2” and “8:16”, where the first option here calculates the 7 days of a week, and the other one the 24 hours of a day.

With the 5:2 interval you would be eating normally on five days a week and restrict your calorie intake on the remaining two days to 500-600 calories.

The two fasting days can either be consecutive or on two different days per week.

The slightly easier and more popular version is the 8:16 interval. In this version the eating window is restricted to 8 hours during the day followed by a fasting period during the next 16 hours. You can eat two, three, or five meals in that eight hour window, but it is important that you fast for 16 hours until you eat the next time.

Let’s say you’d skip breakfast and start your day with an early lunch at 12pm, that would give you a time window until 8pm to finish the day with dinner. Good news for breakfast lovers like me: you can also start your day with a late breakfast in the morning at 10am, but would have to finish with an early dinner at 6pm.

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But, why is this so effective? Studies found that longer periods of fasting challenge our bodies in many ways which triggers different processes in our metabolic system in order to adapt.

Fasting causes a lot of neurochemical changes in our brains and in order to balance this out, our brain starts to produce a protein that promotes the growth of neurons and the formation and strengthening of synapses (in simpler words: it improves our brain function, we can think faster and have a lower risk for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer and Parkinson).

Intermittent fasting also stimulates the production of new cells and is therefore a real anti-ageing secret! During the fasting period the body shuts down damaged and old immune cells and produces completely new cells during the eating window.

When we fast, our bodies react with a shift in our energy metabolism and we start burning fat. Everything in our body optimises its energy consumption, which improves our physical performance and keeps the brain sharp.

Even from an evolutionary perspective fasting from time to time is probably more natural than eating 3-4 meals per day! Our hunter-gatherer ancestors didn’t have access to supermarkets 24/7, did they? Our body is well equipped to handle longer periods of famine, so skipping breakfast or dinner is probably only a challenge for our appetite.

With Ramadan beginning at the end of this month I suggest we all give it a go! But please remember that if you don’t fast for religious reasons, you need to drinks lots of water! This will help your brain and muscles to store all the minerals they need to function best!

And if it helps: You can find my 8:16 fasting food diary here (and yes there is breakfast!).

Clearly I don’t restrict myself on the amount of food or (god forbid) on calories… It’s only the timing that matters here…

07:00 am – Hot lemon water with ginger .

08:00 am – Big soya latte (unsweetened).

10:00 am – Breakfast bowl with chia seeds, granola, coconut flakes, blueberries, pineapple and almond milk.

12:00 am – Green juice.

2:00 pm – Big salad bowl with quinoa, lentils, chickpeas, avocado, corn, cucumber, tomatos, peppers and sesame sauce.

4:00 pm – Green tea or coffee with my favorite cookies.

6:00 pm – Pan fried tofu (or fish if you prefer) with ratatouille.

8:00 pm – Herbal tea. + 1 glass of water every half an hour!

Do’s and Don’ts for intermittent fasting Do’s

Drink a lot of water and unsweetened teas, at least 2-3 liters per day.

Coffee is allowed (unsweetened) but shouldn’t be consumed excessively.

Fresh air and activity will keep you distracted from feeling hungry and lets you burn even more calories.

Find your way into your fasting pattern slowly: If you cannot do the 8:16 interval at the beginning, start with 10:14 and then 9:15 until you reach the 16 hours fast.

Don’ts

Do not fast when you are pregnant or breast feeding.

Do not fast when you are underweight or suffering from eating disorders.

Do not fast when you are on medication. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Award winning Abu Dhabi’s dining industry gathered at Asia De Cuba along with the capital’s bloggers and influencers to celebrate the best and favourite restaurants at Fact magazine’s Dining Awards for 2017. Zuma Abu Dhabi went home with Best Restaurant and Tamba Restaurant claimed Best Newcomer.

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Miss Ohlala

If I Could Wish Upon A Star

Ira Sumbaeva

Miss Ohlala suggests some improvements that could be made to life in Abu Dhabi.

I feel blessed to have a great life in Abu Dhabi which is relatively easy in comparison to my lifestyle back in the UK. It is futile to try to compare London to Abu Dhabi, however here are a few things that in my opinion would make Abu Dhabi an even better place to live...

A climate-controlled dome. How amazing would it be to have a climatecontrolled park to cycle and play in during the summer months? I’m convinced there must be a technical or ecological reason why this hasn’t been built yet, as it seems such an awesome idea. Any chance you could put a summer dome over the fabulous Umm Al Emarat Park please?

Vintage and thrift shops. Apart from the obvious, practical point that there are more limited places in Abu Dhabi to give away second hand clothes, I enjoy hunting in London charity shops and markets for vintage bargains. The Ripe Market is a great addition to the UAE, but if we could just transport the likes of the Portobello Road and Colombia Road markets over here too, that would be incredible. Cafes, brick-a-brack markets, vintage clothes shops and flowers are the perfect, quintessentially-British mix.

Little tapas restos and bistros. I miss small, quirky restaurants which are casual and relatively affordable. In Soho, London there are some fabulous establishments which you have to queue around the block to get into. Once in, you are squeezed onto little wooden tables with uncomfortable school chairs, often sharing tables with others. However the atmosphere is electric 98

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and you have to speak loudly to be heard over the din of people enjoying themselves and eating delicious plates of tapas. Polpo, Brindisa and The Providores are fine examples of such establishments.

Roll top baths and decadent bathrooms. I can’t even swing a cat in my bathroom, let alone fit into the bath, which was clearly designed with The Borrowers in mind. I miss lounging in a hot bath, listening to Pavarotti and drinking bubbles. I prefer not to wear my contacts in our bathroom as the combination of 1980s orange and brown tiles offends my eyes. I long for a bathroom that one would actually enjoy spending time in (not to mention the plumbing/drains).

Online grocery shopping. In my opinion supermarket shopping is a tedious experience. I also entirely fail to comprehend why people in the UAE insist on taking their entire (extended) family to the supermarket with them. A few supermarkets in Abu Dhabi are now offering, or are soon expected to be offering, online shopping. However, the online grocery scene in Abu Dhabi appears to be light years behind that in some other parts of the world. We are all looking for ways to save time nowadays and I long for hassle-free on-line grocery shopping from the sanctity of my villa.

Unicorns with glittery horns... one can always dream. However, I don’t think they would look out of place roaming free around Umm Al Emarat Park?

✑✍❚❁❐❆✿❄❉■❇❂❁▼▲✿❁❂❃❄❅❆❇❈❉❊❋●❍■❏❐❑❒▲▼◆❖◗❘❙❚❀✑✒✓✔✕✖✗✘✙✐✍✝✻✽✼✛✌✎✏ ✡✢✣✤✥✦✧★✩✪✫✬✭✮✯✰✱✲✳✴✵✶✷✸✹✺❞✁✠✃✄☎✾✆☛✈✉✿☞❛❝❜✚✜✞✟ marriot_light_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" €$€£¥₩฿руб marriot_light_italic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € $€£¥₩฿руб marriott_med_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € $€£¥₩฿руб marriott_med_italic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € $€£¥₩฿руб marriott_bold_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? åç´ƒ©˙ˆ˚¬µ˜øœ®ß†¨¥`¡™£¢§¶•ªº–“‘«…æ÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜،‰Íˇ¨„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € $€£¥₩฿руб marriott_bold_italic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? åç´ƒ©˙ˆ˚¬µ˜øœ®ß†¨¥`¡™£¢§¶•ªº–“‘«…æ÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜،‰Íˇ¨„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € $€£¥₩฿руб marriot_condensed_light_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € $€£¥₩฿руб marriot_condensed_medium_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € $€£¥₩฿руб marriot_condensed_bold_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € $€£¥₩฿руб AbadiMTStd-Light_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆΔ˚¬µ˜øϖœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" $‚Ǩ¬£¬•‚Ç©‡∏ø—Ä—É–±

©2017 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.

AbadiMTStd-LightItalic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆΔ˚¬µ˜øϖœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" $‚Ǩ¬£¬•‚Ç©‡∏ø—Ä—É–± AbadiMTStd_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆΔ˚¬µ˜øϖœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" $‚Ǩ¬£¬•‚Ç©‡∏ø—Ä—É–±

Create magical Ramadan memories with friends and family.

Discover an Arabian retreat offering an intimate indoor setting and an extensive Iftar buffet for AED 185++ per person as well as a luxurious Ramadan tent for an authentic Sohour experience at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal.

For more information and reservations, please contact +971 2 818 8282 or e-mail abudhabi.restaurants@ritzcarlton.com.

www.ohlala-magazine.com

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A vacation for your body and mind Escape to a sanctuary of indulgence and relaxation in the heart of the capital.

The serene Remede Spa awaits, with light filled rooms, state of the art facilities and stunning views overlooking the sparkling Arabian Gulf and Abu Dhabi Corniche.

Š2016 Marriott International, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Preferred Guest, SPG, St. Regis and their logos are the trademarks of Marriott International, Inc., or its affiliates.

Relax, unwind and luxuriate as we tailor each bespoke treatment, with dedication to lasting benefits, for a renewed you.

For reservation please call Remède Spa +971 2 694 4100 or email remede.abudhabi@stregis.com 100 www.ohlala-magazine.com

www.remedespaabudhabi.com