The Chartwell Journal - Fourteenth Edition by Chartwell Media

MENA Edition

Luxury

Investment

Culture

Chartwell explores the most exclusive spots in Dubai and discovers a city full of luxury and opulence. From the Armani Hotel to the world’s first sevenstar hotel – the Burj al Arab, we showcase some of the extraordinary attention to detail and service that make a stay in Dubai unlike any other.

With our introduction to the Middle East market, Gateway to Mena, along with guides to business protocol and the economic makeup of the region, discover a new frontier for investment and opportunity that has shown remarkable recent recovery.

Along with an incredible look at the cultural architecture of the Middle East through the ground-breaking photography of Mohammad Reza Domiri Ganji, we feature the latest in Middle East cultural events that includes the 2016 Dubai Design Week, regional art, music…and an Oscar-nominated short-film.

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Welcome

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Welcome to the Fourteenth edition of the Chartwell Journal - MENA - Middle East North Africa. We start our look into an exciting, vibrant land of opportunity with our Gateway to MENA, and introduce you to the breadth of cultures and ancestry that the the warm sands and eclectic countries of MENA have to offer. Armed with this insight, we dive into Dubai Design Week and take a look at the captivating beauty dreamt up by some of the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most exciting new designers and craftsmen. Our mesmerising photographic tour of the Mosques and Palaces of Iran will captivate your imagination, inspiring your cultural palette as we invite you to join us on an indulgent trip to the Talise Ottoman Spa at the Jumeirah Zabeel Saray hotel. As usual we showcase the latest in industry developments of our featured region, and this edition stands as testament that bigger is indeed better (or certainly more challenging at least!) with a study of what it takes to build some the worldfamous Mega-structures of MENA.

www.chartwell-media.com Grace Sheppard Head of Chartwell Media / Editor in Chief grace@chartwell-group.com Benjamin Fowler Editorial ben@chartwell-group.com Harrison Rose Journal Designer harrison@chartwell-group.com

Once you have finished your visit to MENA with our Journal, feel free to take a look at our online verson as you will find extra hidden MENA gems - www.chartwell-group.com/journal We at Chartwell would like to take this opportunity to thank all our loyal readers, advertisers and welcome all newcomers to the Journal. We wish you a wonderful festive season and...in true Chartwell spirit...a rich and fruitful New Year! Enjoy the read! Grace Please do not hesitate to get in touch with us via twitter @chartwellmag or email pressoffice@ chartwell-london.com with any comments, feedback or suggestions.

Designed and Published by Chartwell Media www.chartwell-media.com

Every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of published content. Chartwell Media does not endorse any advertisements or opinions expressed. Chartwell Journal is a registered trademark of Chartwell Media. All rights reserved. No part of Chartwell Journal can be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without written permission of Chartwell Media.

December 2016 @chartwellmag, @ladychartwell or Please do not hesitate to get in touch with us via twitter email pressoffice@chartwell-london.com with any comments, feedback or suggestions.

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* Residential Project of the Year 2014 MENA

A N A R C H I T E C T Multiple Award Winning Architecture, Interior and Design practice based in Dubai specialized in delivering bespoke Residential, Leisure, Hospitality, Workplace and Cultural projects for private and corporate Clients globally Architecture | Interiors

| Design

www.Anarchitect.com

Contributors The Team GRACE SHEPPARD Editor in Chief

race loves the world of PR and marketing and when she is not overseeing the Chartwell Media Empire she is building a budding wedding planning and events company. Grace has a love for fine dining and is always on the lookout for the world’s finest vegetarian dishes, especially when there is cheese involved. A lover of Gin & Tonic and a great red wine she can usually be found with pen and notebook in one of London’s leading hotels hand sourcing the latest content for her popular Journal. She is also the proud owner of Stanley.

BEN FOWLER Editorial

HARRISON ROSE Journal Designer

STANLEY Office Dog

enjamin Fowler has an educational background in sociology and psychology, which focused on neuroscience and perception. Since college, he has written online reviews for movies, music and literature, with a particular interest in alternative cinema, the books of Tom Swift and humorists like Terry Pratchett. Years spent in Portugal have led to his interest in old world viticulture and various aspects of winemaking.

arrison has always aimed to bring a creative approach to any situation, whether that was in his early years as a project manager on luxury property renovations or in the boxing ring as an amateur boxer. Currently residing in Monte-Carlo, Monaco, where Harrison’s interests lie between classic cars investments and attending major sports events including world championship boxing and formula 1. He is also proud designer of the Chartwell Journal.

aws to meet you; this chocolate cockapoo cutie is Chartwell’s Queen Street office dog. When this pooch isn’t bounding around Berkeley Square or squirrelled away in a snug spot of one of the Shepherd Market’s pubs…. or working hard in the office he can be seen in the cosmopolitan Clapham Old Town, doing his very best to meet and greet anyone and everyone. If you see Sir Stanley around please feel free to say hello #SirStanleyOfMayfair @ SirStanley14

NIANINA DAVIES

ianina was our intern at the time of publishing and was essential with the finishing touches to this edition. She is currently in her graduating year, studying an eclectic mix of Geography with Business. If she’s not soaking up the sun back home in the Algarve, Portugal, you can find her either socialising with her friends at the University of Nottingham or travelling around Europe “finding herself” in places such as the Lennon wall in Prague.

ELIZABETH ATTEW

lizabeth founded and launched mayfairofficegirl. com, aka MOG, three years ago to share her top ‘musts’ & happenings in the Mayfair area. She keeps in-the-know through local knowledge, networking and attending events such as retail, bar and hotel openings to chic cocktail and wine tastings. Her love for all things Mayfair grew from a young age and has continued to work and play in the area for almost a decade. Elizabeth is also Mayfair Ambassador for London Cocktail Week and a committee member for both Mayfair Neighbourhood Forum + Lanes of Mayfair.

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Postcards from MENA Words by BEN FOWLER & GRACE SHEPPARD

A picture is worth a thousand words. On the dawn of a new day for Chartwell, let us take a look at our path ahead and remember that an investment in knowledge often pays the best interest...

Algeria This arresting landscape of fascinating culture is dominated by the Sahara; its desert sands cover over 90% of Algeria. Unsurprisingly, this results in only 12% of its lands being inhabited – and even oasis towns like Salah have recorded temperatures in excess of 50°C. The largest country in Africa is notable as an example of an Islamic nation where women have gained a more prominent status in the society – making up 60% of Algeria’s judges, 70% of the lawyers, and 60% of the student population.

Bahrain In Arabic, Bahrain translates as ‘the two seas’, presumably because it is actually an archipelago of 33 islands. The largest, and most populous, is 55km long by 18km wide and areas such as Sitra and Muharraq are actually upon separate islands. Interestingly, the islands are thought of by some academics to be the actual Garden of Eden - due to Eden’s supposed resemblance to the ancient land of Dilmun accepted by many scholars as the area encompassing Bahrain.

Egypt The cradle of civilisation, largely unrecognised as a part of Africa, is synonymous with ancient history. The pyramids, the sphinx – and plenty of desert. The land once ruled by one hundred gods has preserved its past like no other yet is climbing the ladder of modernity – surprisingly, Egypt now has the largest Facebook population in the Middle East. In 2011, an Egyptian family even named their daughter Facebook Jamal Ibrahim in honour of the role social media played in the Egyptian revolution…

Iran Formerly known as Persia and seated at the heart of the Asian continent, Iran is a rich and influential culture that has shaped the rest of the Middle East and Central Asia. A diverse nation of many ethnicities, Iranian culture has spread easily to the immediate nations of the MENA region. Perhaps less well known is that as the world’s largest producer of pistachio nuts,

Iran is considered to be the pistachio capital of the world – and its second largest export next to oil and natural gas.

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Yemen Yemen has several parts in Biblical tales Noah knew it as “the land of milk and honey.” Legend says that Shana’a Shana’a, the capital city, was founded by one of his children. While the Three Wise Men bought forth myrrh and frankincense from its mountains, it is now known more for its export of crude oil and coffee. Although priding itself as the only republic in the Arab peninsula, the rest are kingdoms and emirates, it remains one of the more highly conservative Muslim nations.

Libya A harsh climate and environment means that this African nation is forced to import most of their food. With desert covering most of Libya, it is very arid with some areas only seeing rain once every 10 or more years. It is, therefore, understandable that almost one third of the population do not have access to safe drinking water. Geography also provides its greatest resource - the significant oil reserves discovered in 1959 transformed what was once one of the world’s poorest countries into an extremely wealthy nation.

Morocco Situated in the north-western corner of Africa, we find a land filled with treasure, mystery and abundant natural treasures. Surrounded by a pristine Mediterranean coastline and flanked by rugged hilly interiors, Morocco has an architectural tradition that has impressed travellers since the middle ages â&#x20AC;&#x201C; earning it the nickname the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;oasis of the senses.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Its Eastern roots are evidenced by Morocco being the only African nation being a member of the Arab League and not a part of the African Union.

Oman A part of southwest Asia, Oman is bordered by United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Thousands of years ago, Oman was the home of ship building due to its heavy involvement in the incense trade. Ubar, the legendary city believed to be in control of this Frankincense industry, was buried under the desert. The reason cited for this is that its wealth made people astray and led them away from religion. At this point, Oman was considered one of the richest countries in the world.

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Iraq In contrast to current perception, Iraq was once renowned for its rich medley of art, culture, and heritage. A teeming cauldron of not one but numerous successive civilizations that flourished and effaced with time - leaving behind footprints of their wisdom, practice and, beliefs. in Arabic means ‘deep rooted’ – fitting considering that the Sumerian site known as Eridu is one of the earliest known human settlements, dating back to 5000 BC.

Jordan Jordan is home to some of the most spiritual and breath-taking sights in the world; from The Dead Sea to the city of Petra – one of seven wonders of the world – it is a country full of history. It is even believed that Mount Nebo in Jordan was the burial site of Moses. The capital, Amman is unique architecturally; spanning 19 hills, almost every single building is clad with thin, white limestone slabs - there are no real landmarks creating a one-of-a-kind skyline.

Lebanon Known as ‘God’s Country on Earth’, Lebanon’s actual name is one of the oldest in the world existing for nearly 4,000 years. A lively, cheery and enthusiastic country with a diverse heritage, it has more recently emerged as a banking hub, with a flourishing industry of more than 100 banks. Perhaps the proliferation of such enterprise is due to Lebanon having the largest gold reserve in the Middle East.

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Palestine For centuries, olives have been an integral part of the Palestinian culture, tradition and ethos; 45% of the land in Palestine is dedicated to olive production, most of this land is found in the West Bank. The historic connection to olive branches is quite fitting; despite facing many problems â&#x20AC;&#x201C; half the country under the poverty line - Palestine is the only Arab country that is still widely being portrayed as the upholder of peace in the Middle East.

Israel This relatively small country holds a fascinating place among MENA; remaining a window to biblical times while, at the same time, more than keeping up with the modernity of the rest of the world. With the three great monotheistic religions, Judaism, Islam, and Christianity, very much represented in Israelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s society, it is heralded as a prime pilgrimage and holy destination. Extraordinarily given its prominence, Israel takes up only 1/6 of 1% of the total landmass of the Middle East.

Qatar Located in the Arabian Gulf, Qatar shares its land borders with Saudi Arabia and is surrounded by the Arabian sea. The Global Peace Index recently featured Qatar as one of 30 most peaceful countries in the world - and the most peaceful in the MENA region. Qatar will soon become more widely known to Europe by hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2022. For this nine eco-friendly stadiums are currently being built, some of which will be able to host up to 80,000 people.

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Saudi Arabia There are perhaps three things that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is best known for in the West: black gold, Mecca, and Islam. With the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest oil field, Ghawar, located near Ad Dammam, Saudi Arabia has an abundance of natural riches - and probably the most developed banking sector in the Middle East. As hard as it to believe in the West, diesel is much cheaper than water - with a litre of bottled water worth approximately twice as much as a litre of diesel.

Syria Syria lies in Southwest Asia, with the majority of the population living on the Mediterranean coast or near the Euphrates River. An ancient culture, Damascus has been inhabited for over four thousand years, making it the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the world. Thankfully, despite many years of war, this heritage endures; in the unique city of Hama, for example, huge, age-old water wheels still turn defiantly upon their archaic mechanisms today.

UAE It is easy to mistake to overlook the other six emirates of the United Arab Emirates in favour of Dubai, the sci-fi-esque city of iconic skyscrapers and palm-shaped islands – but there are many other riches to be found. Oilrich Abu Dhabi, the UAE capital, is positioning itself as a hub of culture and leisure. The vast Al Gharbia is a magical region dominated by the Rub’ Al Khali desert. Look closer and we may find the art and heritage of Sharjah to the north, glimpses of pre-oil days in the tiny Ajman and Umm Al Quwain regions, and the Hajar Mountains in Ras Al Khaimah.

Tunisia The most northern country of Africa Tunisia is a favoured tourist attraction that still welcomes holiday makers from around the world. This is helped by strong ties to Europe, particularly with France - although the official language is Arabic, much of the population also speak French. The city of Kairouan is considered one of the most important cities in the Muslim world after Mecca – with the Great Mosque considered one of the world’s oldest places of worship.

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A Gateway to MENA Words by BEN FOWLER

From the windows of Chartwellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dubai office the stunning architecture of its home city casts long shadows across the desert, dark fingers pointing outward to the gates of an even greater potential market. One that spans the time between Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tomorrow and the ancient yesterdays of Egypt, for UAE is a part of a larger territory known as MENA. An acronym referring to the Middle East and North Africa region, MENA covers an extensive region full of Eastern promise; from the sensory excess of the Moroccan bazaar to the fires of industry on the oil fields of Iran.

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he generally agreed composition of MENA is comparable to the Greater Middle East and consists of Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Yemen, United Arab Emirates, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Israel, Qatar Saudi Arabia, Syria and Tunisia. A region of considerably abundant natural resources, MENA accounts for a large share of world petroleum production and exports. There is within both this classification and its individual members, enormous divides of this potential wealth. Although varying substantially in resources, economic and geographical size, population, and standards of living, intraregional interaction is weak - with limited trade in goods and services. The sheer scale of MENA might well explain this…

MENA covers a surface of over 15 million square kilometres and contains around 6 percent of the world’s population, roughly the same population as the European Union (EU) in an area nearly four times greater. The three smallest countries - Bahrain, Djibouti, and Qatar - each have a population of about half a million inhabitants. By contrast, the two largest - Egypt and Iran - comprise about 60 million inhabitants each. Together with Algeria, Morocco, and Sudan, the five most populated countries account for about 70 percent of the region’s population – with half this population living in cities. Although the region is plagued by harsh climates, limited groundwater and rainfall, and scarce arable land - Egypt for example only manages to cultivate around 3 percent of its total land mass - it is blessed by an abundance

of natural resources that make MENA crucial to global economic stability. The world’s largest proven reserves of natural gas, about 15 percent of the world’s total, rest below Iran. Beneath the soil and sands of MENA lie around two thirds of the world’s known crude-oil, staggeringly with a quarter located in Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, MENA possesses numerous other crucial resources. Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Jordan, and the Syrian Arab Republic account for about one third of the world’s phosphate, while Morocco alone has more than 30 percent of the world’s phosphate rock and 40 percent of its phosphoric acid trade. MENA is also rich in a wide variety of other exports; potash from Israel and Jordan, iron ore and coal from Iran, ammonia from Qatar, copper from Mauritania, cotton from Egypt and Sudan, tobacco from the Syrian Arab Republic, and coffee from the Republic of Yemen.

of Saudi Arabia - Iran and Israel. In an example of the inequality of resources and wealth, the eight smallest economies, including Jordan and Sudan, account for about 6 percent of MENA’s GDP combined. Culturally MENA is nothing if not multi-textural. At various times in history, Baghdad, Cairo and Beirut were world-renowned hubs of culture and the arts. While not as true today, MENA - from Rabat to Tel Aviv to Lahore - retains its vibrancy and in many ways is re-emerging into the world of literature and art. Repressive regimes like Syria and Iran have their activist artists and dissidents, creating evocative work amid social upheaval. Embattled places like the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Lebanon, Iraq and Afghanistan have given life to their own unique voices of conscience. As diverse in culture as MENA is in scale, everything from popular arts to philosophy can be found in regions as varied as Jerusalem, Cairo and Casablanca.

Possessing by far the largest economy Saudi Arabia accounts for one fifth of the region’s total GDP, followed by - each at around half the size Its architecture reaching high above all the vibrant cities of MENA, Dubai is symbolic of progress and forward thinking; from its encouragement of technical innovation and new technologies to its desire to shed a reputation built on oil dependence with world-leading ecological initiatives. The towering buildings of Dubai point the way; for Chartwell to new lands of opportunity…but for the rest of MENA to a future based on encouraging foreign investment and involvement with an attractive image of tomorrow. And from the vantage point of Chartwell Dubai, with an eye beyond the shadows in the sand and into MENA, tomorrow looks very attractive indeed. www.chartwell-group.com

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Building by Susan Hefuna, 2014, Courtesy of Pi Artworks and the artist

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Art Dubai 2016 Words by BEN FOWLER

When this quote, written in black marker across sheets of glass by Brazilian artist Marlon de Azambuja, appeared at Art Dubai 2015 it could not have found a more fitting setting. The piece was entitled Edicta in reference to the set of norms Corbusier laid out for the construction of the city of Chandigarh, India; although it could easily be an edict for its host city. For Dubai’s own adoption of architecture as art - as a living, breathing entity - has led to its place as a hub to undiscovered international markets…and no event is a better expression of this than Art Dubai.

O Architecture is a thing of art, a phenomenon of the emotions, outside and beyond the constructive questions, Le Corbusier,Vers une Architecture, 1923

ver the last nine years, Art Dubai has developed into a cornerstone of the fast-growing contemporary arts community across MENA. Similar to Dubai itself, it is recognised as a globalised meeting point – one of the most prominent in the art world today. In testament to their 10th edition, 2016 would prove the most diverse to date with more than 500 artists of 70 nationalities represented by 94 galleries from 40 countries. Despite the scale of the 2016 fair, the emphasis on maintaining an intimate, human scale within this foreground of diversity was clearly apparent. Between the 16th and 19th of March, the Madinat, Jumeirah welcomed over 25, 000 national and international guests to celebrate art rooted in the Middle East and Africa. The particularly global and innovative philosophy of Art Dubai was expressed in three featured gallery programmes aimed at sharing a true representation of the regions movements and history – Contemporary and Modern showcased current works and masters from the region; while each year Marker presents a curated section of art spaces focused on a particular theme or geography. Excitingly new galleries from Georgia, Ghana. Lithuania, Oman, Palestine, Philippines and Sri Lanka stood proudly alongside the established

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of her excitement at hosting such a unique assembly of artistic voices, “This year marks the 10th edition of the fair, and this anniversary encourages us to reflect on the dramatic growth of the art market and arts scenes of the Middle East and Africa over the past decade. Art Dubai acts as a catalyst and focal point, locally and for the wider region, and the diverse nature of our programming reflects the central role played by the fair”. A successful tenth year anniversary has confirmed the festival’s place as an integration of a regions art with its philosophy – one of diversity and collaboration.

Les Marocains, Souk de Boumia, Moyen Atlas by Leila Alaoui, 2011, Courtesy of Art Factum

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The Contemporary programme featured a large number of galleries from both India and Istanbul, demonstrating the convergence of wider regional markets that Art Dubai alone is able to showcase to such an international audience. This year’s emotive special project, presented by the Atassi Foundation for art and culture, was a specially commissioned mixed media exhibition in tribute to Syrian artists curated by renowned film director Hala Alabdalla. 2016 marked the third year of the Modern programme - the only curated programme of its kind in the world. This year’s programme was heavily oversubscribed – again demonstrating the exponential growth of the market and demand for modern works from the region. Featuring works from the 1930s onwards, with particular focus on the vibrant period of 1940s to 1980s. The event demonstrated the strong role of female artists during this period, with Galerie Janine Rubeiz of Beirut showing Huguette Caland and Laure Ghorayeb; and Lawrie Shabibi of Dubai showing Palestine-born Iranian painter Maliheh Afnan.

Sunflower by Olu Amoda, 2014, Courtesy the artist and Art Twenty One, Lagos scenes of Europe and the USA. Local growth proved very healthy indeed with more galleries than ever before attending from UAE. Interest and demand in rare works by Middle Eastern modern masters, notable contemporary galleries and independent artists demonstrated the extraordinary growth in the MENA art market. More than ever, 2016 firmly established Art Dubai as a cultural meeting point – the world’s largest number of artists in one place, at one time. This year’s event director, Antonia Carver, spoke

Each year the Marker programme highlights a particular theme or geography, with this year focusing on the Philippines. The first showcasing of the region at a major international fair, the programme was run by the Manilla-based artist and curator Ringo Bunoan, who was able to present an exciting new generation to the global stage with a startling collection of independent, artist-run spaces. If architecture is a thing of art, then as the city of Dubai lives and breathes, its spirit is philosophically linked to Art Dubai; both are expressions of multicultural collaboration - and in both we find gateways to the wonders of unknown frontiers. www.artdubai.ae

The Royal Treatment Words by GRACE SHEPPARD

I found myself walking on air as I left the Talise Ottoman Spa at the Jumeirah Zabeel Saray hotel. I had just experienced the ultimate spa treatment feeling enlightened, relaxed, light, smooth, hydrated and empowered with the confidence of a goddess. The ‘Royal Hammam Spa Treatment’ is something I feel should be every woman’s right.

he deep colour of turquoise, the soft light and striking marble floors welcomed me to the Talise Ottoman Spa. After being greeted I was shown to the female changing facilities, guided along by the pebbled hallways. The opulent spa boasts 42 individual treatment rooms and three grand traditional Turkish hammams across two levels, split into female, male and couple areas.

Words by GRACE SHEPPARD

Slipping out of my toweled robe I treated myself to a steam before the hammam treatment started. My masseuse collected me, the masseuses for Hammam experience are experts from Morocco, Tunisia and Turkey, and are known locally as Tayels or Tellaks. Taking my arm for guidance, the Tayels took me around the corner...nothing could have prepared me for what beauty lay ahead - pure interior design perfection. A fiery orange dome with a grand tiered lantern chandelier taking center stage draws your eye to the breathtakingly unique flotation pool. I pass the intriguing hideaways that line the room as I’m guided across the checked floor, before arriving at the grandiose wooden door at the other end of the room. Behind this mysterious entrance is where the treatment begins... I remove my jewellery as my Tayel holds me steady on the glassy marble floor. Looking around the room I notice other Tayels in the light blue traditional wrap - known as pestemal -

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and loose sandals, carrying large brass bowls, invigorating my imagination. A large marble octagonal table fills the room, knee height, along with chambers hidden in every corner of the room. Being honest, as I had never experienced a Turkish Hammam before, I did not expect to see several other ladies in the room simultaneously, leaving me slightly bewildered.

In a light daze, my Tayel took me by the arm back through the grand doors, to be seated in the checkered floor area, looking on to the flotation pool. Seating me in a velvet red pillow cave of relaxation, this time is key...to take as long as you need to relax, to enjoy a salted yogurt drink and a plate of dates and nuts as you watch the ripples of the pool.

I nervously perch on a corner of the large warm marble slab, becoming increasingly aware that this is not a waiting area and it is exactly where my treatment will take place. I see three other ladies close to me at different stages of their massage, all lying down and sharing the same piece of marble. Resting on my back, my eyes are wide open staring at the domed ceiling, identical to the ceiling in the room I had just come from.

From the moment you arrive you will endure a spa sensory journey that will instantly relax, de-stress, and uplift both your body and mind, The Royal Hammam left me set up for the rest of my time in Dubai and left me with a mission to inform all ladies of this empowering and rejuvenating treatment.

Warm water begins washing over me, head to toe, bowl after bowl. My nerves are still high and not yet fully relaxed as I still haven’t adjusted to my surroundings. A rigorous exfoliation, beginning with the back and moving on to the face, neck, shoulders, chest, stomach, hips, legs and feet – care is taken over every inch of the body, leaving me with softer skin. My Tayels carefully helps me to my feet, ushering me to another area of the Hamman, a private marble and stone benched seating area, where she maternally washes my hair using the large brass bowls of water, washing my skin from all of the beautiful honey, olive oil and herb treatment - I felt like a little girl again!

To heighten the experience, you can upgrade to the VIP area on the Mezzanine floor, which provides a dining room, five treatment rooms, hammam, relaxation area and steam room, sauna and showers. Further treatments provided by the spa include the hydrotherapy room, aromatherapy room, the Vinchy shower, adventure showers, two snow rooms and hot stone beds. Annual memberships start from £6100 www.jumeirah.com/Jumeirah-Zabeel-Saray

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The Emirates Towers: A Blueprint for Dubai Words by BEN FOWLER

Dubai’s race to the skies has given rise to some of the most extraordinary architecture in the world, an arms race of engineering and design metaphoric for the exponential economic and market growth of the city of tomorrow. With plans already in place to smash the record set by the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, let us take a look at one of the pioneering inspirations for this iconic, futurist skyline – perhaps the buildings that first began Dubai’s reach for the heavens, the Emirates Towers.

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he two towers form a uniquely distinctive skyscraper duo, the first project located along Sheikh Zayed Road – the financial heart of Dubai – to truly capture the international imagination. This would be the big bang for Dubai megaarchitecture, signalling a trend that has since seen the thoroughfare boom with innovative construction activity. A beautifully landscaped environment of lush vegetation and meandering pathways envelop the complex, leaving visitors with the feeling of an oasis in an otherwise rigid urban hardscape. This only furthers the idea that the Towers are an allegory for Dubai itself. Each of the towers rise from a three-story terraced podium, where you will find the expected hallmarks of Dubai luxury - a boutique retail mall with a bevy of high-end restaurants and cafés. From this base, a ground-breaking system of intersecting curvilinear planes intersected by vertical elements frame grand staircases lead to the higher podium levels. The streamlined towers are clad in gleaming silver aluminium panels, iridescent with silver and copper reflective glass, that react and interplay with the shifting patterns if natural

light in the day whilst enhancing the renowned glittering lightshows of the Dubai evenings. An imaginative design concept is extended to either side of each tower, as low-rise parking structures undulate in homage to the shifting dunes that surround the city. Such extravagant designs pose considerable engineering challenges, each of the towers feature an equilateral cross section, with a triangular footprint providing stability from the lateral forces of wind and earthquakes. This would become a feature in many international mega-skyscrapers currently chasing the records set in Dubai. Emirate Tower One has some individual construction features, steel transfers at level nine distribute loads from concrete-filled steel tubular columns into three massive triangular legs at the perimeter. In addition, three additional transfer floors and a tuned mass damper at its peak provide the reassurance of maximum stability. A steel and concrete hybrid solution throughout the tower allows for an abundance of column-free office space – making the tower the perfect international business centre for the middle east.

The Jumeirah Groups involvement at the towers has led to the towers becoming a hospitality highlight for a stay in Dubai. In a city boasting some of the most prestigious hotels in the world this is high praise indeed. Situated on bustling Sheikh Zayed Road, their hotel is only a minutes’ drive from the famous Dubai Mall. A stay there offers unlimited access to Wild Wadi Waterpark and its own private beach, with an interior décor boasting elegantly furnished accommodation, opulent with fine detailing and plush sofas. With restaurants and bars providing an international culinary experience, from chic grills to authentic Lebanese cuisine, contemporary British, honest Italian and modern Japanese, the Jumeirah group have created an extraordinary stay at an extraordinary building. Perhaps the buildings of Dubai will continue to reach farther and farther – not just into the sky, but also to the limits of engineering and design. But as time passes, there is always a place for historical context in architecture, making the Emirates Towers among the most important buildings in a city full of ground-breaking icons. After all, you can be the next big thing – but you can’t be the first… www.jumeirah.com/Emirates-Towers

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Presscription: Your Juice Doctor Organic Cold Pressed Juice Cleanses Designed to Break Bad Eating Habits and Reset Diets Words by GRACE SHEPPARD

The expert team of nutritionists, chefs and holistic and homeopathic practitioners at UK-based health juice company Presscription have designed a bespoke range of juice cleanses to help you detoxify and re-engage your body. If you are looking for a way to kick start a diet, break with unhealthy eating habits - or if you simply want to give your health a super-charged boost - a Presscription cleanse can provide the perfect platform to start reinvigorating your body.

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ollowing a cleansing programme can be a great way to permanently change bad eating habits because once you start to feel the health and lifestyle benefits of a cleanse it often becomes more natural to continue eating more mindfully than to fall back into old habits. Ultimately, this process of detoxification and re-invigoration of the body leads the way to a healthier lifestyle. There are four types of cleanses available from Presscription: the Signature Cleanse, Intermediate Cleanse, Advanced Cleanse and Custom Cleanse. So, after learning about the wonders of the Presscription juices, Chartwell decided to give the 24 hour Signature Cleanse a go... The Presscription Signature Cleanse has been designed to gently support the natural detoxification processes in the body, promoting the elimination of accumulated toxins. This is achieved by a powerful injection of vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and superfoods into the body through a variety of green vegetables, root vegetables, fruits and nuts.

The day before the cleanse was due to start, a neat parcel arrived containing five 500ml coldpressed juices, one 500ml nut mylk and two 30ml booster shots. All were neatly prepared and numbered ready for the next day. My 24 hour signature juice detox experience 7:15 am: I started the day by drinking a glass of water and a small mug of warm water with lemon. 9:00 am: Juice One - GREEN REVIVE (cucumber, celery, apple, romaine, lemon, ginger and cayenne). And so it begins.... this is an earthy green juice - not the worst juice I’ve ever tasted but not the most fabulous either. It’s an instant reminder that I’m committing to a full 24 hour juice cleanse and juice number one takes me about 30-45 minutes to get through. 11:45 am - Juice Two - AMBER BOOST (alkaline water, lemon, lime, red chilli and coconut blossom nectar).

skin looked clearer and the bags under my eyes were lighter. I had a glass of water and a warm mug of lemon water again and I felt ‘lighter in my step’. I didn’t weigh myself before or after the cleanse; however I believe it is more about how you feel than how you look (even though several people commented on how radiant my skin looked over the next couple of days). When my mid-morning gremlins appeared I didn’t want to eat any of my usual snacks, instead I felt like having a green juice or a nut mylk. It left me with the feeling that I want to treat my body better and that was the wakeup call I needed.

I’m now feeling hungry, my tummy is rumbling and the Amber Boost was not the boost I needed. This was the only juice in the entire cleanse that I just couldn’t finish (I kept going back to it throughout the day). It was just a case of personal preference: I’m not a big fan of chilli. 11:45 am - Juice Three - ANTIDOTE SHOT (orange, turmeric, ginger, cayenne and lemon). The Antidote shot was a proper treat after the Amber Boost. It has an earthy, rich texture and you can really feel the healthy goodness when drinking this shot! However, I’m still hungry at this point and I am starting to feel tired and a little grumpy. 1:30pm - First Shot - ORANGE TONIC (carrot, sweet potato, apple, lemon, flax oil and maca extract). ‘Lunch’ couldn’t have come sooner - it was PERFECT. This shot was naturally sweet from the sweet potato: filling and creamy but still refreshing thanks to the apple. The Orange Tonic gave me the power I needed to see though the rest of the afternoon and evening. This was my favourite juice throughout the entire cleanse. 3:34pm - Juice Four - RED REMEDY (beetroot, cucumber, carrot, celery, ginger and lemon). Sweet heat! The sweetness of the beetroot and cucumber against the ginger was a great boost for the afternoon and very much needed as my hunger was wide awake from about 3pm and my grumpy gremlin was kicking in.

4:45pm - Second Shot - ENERGISE SHOT (pineapple, Siberian ginseng and ginkgo biloba). This was refreshing and energising and kicked away the gremlins, carrying me through to the evening. The pineapple added just the right amount of sweetness to keep the sugar cravings away. 6:20pm – Juice Five - GREEN ELIXIR (kale, spinach, celery, cucumber, romaine and pear). My ‘dinner’ this evening was goodness in a glass jar: the Green Elixir was packed with so much leafy, green goodness that I felt as though I were munching my way through an allotment. I can’t say it filled me up, however it did make me feel slightly more normal again. 8:10pm – Juice Six - MYLK MAKE-WELL (activated almonds, medjool dates, Himalayan sea salt, vanilla bean and alkaline water). Well, this was the perfect way to finish up the cleanse - I could drink the Mylk Make-Well any time of day. It tastes like a naughty milkshake: richly flavoured with vanilla bean, making it creamy and filling. If I’m honest, by the time I went to bed I was feeling hungry again, however I felt empowered and satisfied that I had completed the full cleanse. It felt like a positive step forward towards a healthier lifestyle, perhaps as a start to a diet or a deeper, longer cleanse. The following day I woke up feeling great; if anything I was shocked by how well I felt - my

After a cleanse it is common to feel more energised and toned and many people find they have less bloating too. Cleanses sometimes even improve mental focus and cognitive function. Of course, weight-loss can also be a key benefit of a cleanse, with many people losing several pounds if they follow a full threeday course. Cleansing can also lead to clearer, more radiant skin and it can help the condition of hair and nails. A cleanse can even help to alleviate stubborn coughs and colds, relieve joint pain, stiffness and headaches and combat sleeping problems, leading to an improved sleep cycle. I highly recommend doing a Presscription juice cleanse, however I would advise pushing yourself to do the three-day course rather than just the one-day cleanse to really see the benefits. Presscription cleanses are available to order online via presscription.co.uk, with a variety of options from one to seven days and are priced accordingly, starting from £65 for one day through to £375 for seven days. www.presscription.co.uk

Chartwell Journal

Fourteenth Edition

Weaving the Past into the Present Words by BEN FOWLER

A recurring theme of our journey into the Middle East will be one of temporal duality; of a region weaving modernity into a rich cultural tapestry of tradition. When this proves seamless, it can create a distinct aesthetic completely unique to these lands. This imagery is not simple metaphor, however, as traditional weaving is surely one of the more renowned Eastern artifices, which, thanks to the work of Aljoud Lootah is now also being infused with modern design.

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multidisciplinary designer based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Aljoud Lootah has often displayed interest in another duality – that of the contrasts between form and function. Her work in the fields of product design and personalised corporate gifts would often result in signature compositions of traditional silhouettes and concepts blended with modern elements and design sensibilities. Often at the heart of such work are patterns, folds and geometric shapes that distinctly interpret the Emirati culture – yet they are realised with a passion for detail and experimentation that bring traditional craftwork firmly into the contemporary. Perfect demonstrations of this are found in the designer’s two new carpets, Misnad and Uwairyan –both interweaving yesterday with

today by reinterpreting traditional Al Sadu geometric artwork. Al Sadu is an indigenous weaving style that uses colour and patterned motifs as decorative elements - whilst also incorporating representations of social artefacts and cultural values. The results are distinctive geometric forms, typified by narrow bands of iconography. The craft is mostly practiced by women among the rural communities of the United Arab Emirates to produce soft furnishings and decorative accessories. The word ‘Misnad’ refers to a cushion typically used with the traditional low seating known as Majlis – forming an object to lean upon. The Misnad carpet features geometric motifs inspired by Al Sadu and comes attached to a black leather bench reflective of a Majli. This

offers a variety of seating options, from a bench to a resting nook - remaining true to Lootahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s philosophy of contrasting form and function. The second carpet is named Uwairyan after the two-toned triangles found in Al Sadu weaving. A modular carpet that also uses geometric patterns, it plays with functionality in a different manner. Its form allows for it to be fully customisable to a given space, allowing for the creation of tailorable formations comprising multiple carpets. Facilitating this, each carpet edge extends to form symmetrical lines inspired by the fringes which can be found on either side of the carpet. Remaining true to a spirit of reinvigoration, each carpet is hand-woven by skilled artisans who use only the techniques employed by the

ancient art form of Al Sadu. The results are a contemporary integration of a cultural legacy...a fine reminder that the present may best be enjoyed through acknowledgement of the past. For more information on Misnad, Uwairyan and other works by Aljood Lootah visit www.aljoodlootah.com

Chartwell Journal

Fourteenth Edition

Playlist: Middle East Beats Words by BEN FOWLER

Benjamin Fowler met up with our resident music expert, Richard Watson, for an exploration into some exciting Middle Eastern music scenes. From established bands to up and coming new artists, they found plenty of tracks worthy of adding to your playlists. Join them now as they share their thoughts on some of the regions recommended listeningâ&#x20AC;Ś

Juliana Down; UAE

Ester Rada; Israel

Sampled Track: Control

Sampled Track: Life Happens

Easily the most mainstream of the acts featured here, Juliana Down are appropriately based in the Middle East’s most international city – Dubai. Their stadium rock sound has met with considerable success - they have opened for Justin Timberlake, Maroon 5 and Guns N’ Roses, becoming the first UAE-based music group to sign a major distribution deal.

With her Ethiopian roots clearly audible in her music, Ester Rada is an arresting young singersongwriter with a rich musical heritage – heavily influenced by Israel where she grew up and now lives. Life Happens, her first EP, was released in 2013, and showcased a powerful, soulful voice with a seductive combination of Ethiopian Jazz, funk and R&B.

RW: It’s very western…

RW: Probably the best production…really subtle use of instruments.

BF: I didn’t dislike it – it’s just not what you think of when you think Middle Eastern music – I want to hear those influences… RW: Good production – just very western production.

TAKH; Egypt Sampled Track: Moftah El Beit

Athena; Turkey Sampled Track: Tam Zamani Simdi Formed in 1987 by twin brothers Gökhan Özoğuz and Hakan Özoğuz, Athena started out as a metal band, before reinventing itself as a ska outfit. Still a giant in the Turkish music scene today, they have performed large-scale gigs, including opening for the Red Hot Chili Peppers in Istanbul. RW: It’s a really fun song – very Frusciante guitars, 80s style bass – but no solo? BF: It felt like it needed one too…

As part of a once underground music scene, Egypt’s Yousra El Gendy’s stream of consciousness lyrics found significance among the nation’s youth following the 2011 revolution. Defying convention and mixing urban slang with quirky electronic beats, there is a clear western influence to her style and attitude. TAKH is the result of her collaboration with fellow groove enthusiasts Ezz Shahwan and Gamal Fahim. BF: I loved this – it’s so funky…the vocals are awesome – like CSS or something like that… RW: Yes, there’s loads of funk stops – like BB King said “sometimes the best way to make sound is to be silent.” BF: High praise!

RaSh Radio; Egypt Sampled Track: Ghosts A “groovematically guitared” indie band formed in Egypt, they are fronted by guitarist and songwriter Ahmed RaShad – who won the 2008 Nokia Music Festival Pop Solo Award. They cite The Dave Matthews Band as the biggest influence on their sound. BF: I’m going to listen to more of this – it’s really melodic… RW: Great video – just great simple melodic riffing – I loved it too.

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RW: I heard a bit of Prince there too – playing with the two guitar tracks…just really attention grabbing.

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Souad Massi; Algeria Sampled Track: Raoui Singing in both French and Arabic, two languages widely spoken in her native Algeria, Souad is an acoustic singer-songwriter influenced by western rock and folk – and also by Chaabi, a traditional form of Algerian folk music. Early in her career, she was forced into hiding after receiving death threats due to her politically-charged lyrics. RW: It’s a really simple song – she has an amazing voice – ethereal… BF: I found I wanted to be able to understand the lyrics – she’s known for her controversial lyrics...so I think they take centre stage. I’d like to read a translation…

& The Centurions; Bahrain Sampled Track: The Other People This Bahraini indie-band, now based in the U.K., is most often compared to the celebrated English rock band the Foals. Their main extended play, Animalism, embodies a mainstream, international sound. RW: It’s a traditional song structure, the chorus is cool – there’s a lot of vocal harmonies. BF: It’s very British sounding… RW: Not many Middle Eastern influences though…

Lazzy Lung; Lebanon Sampled Track: 8 hours to get home In 2011, this Lebanese indie rock band won Rolling Stone Middle East’s Battle of the Bands competition, and was nominated for “Musician of the Year” by Esquire Middle East. Lead singer Allan Chaaraoui and his three other band members continue to play in local venues in Beirut - including teaming up with the American band Black Lips for a two-week Middle Eastwide tour. BF: Great title… slick pop-rock.

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Mashrou Leila; Lebanon

Yellow Dogs; Iran

Sampled Track: Raksit Leila

Sampled Track: Dance Floor

Probably the Arab world’s most famous indie band, Mashrou Leila has been producing wildly popular songs that broach social taboos. The band’s lead singer, Hamed Sinno, sings mostly in Arabic, mixing funky Middle Eastern-influenced beats with an internationally-appealing indie genre. Going from strength to strength, Mashrou’Leila will present their new album, Ibn El Leil, at the Dubai Music Hall on April 12th

The Yellow Dogs’ indie rock beats were too controversial for Iran’s Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance, which declared the band’s music illegal. In search of a way to play legally above ground they moved to Brooklyn –and became the subject of a documentary about Iran’s underground rock music scene, No One Knows About Persian Cats. Tragically, two of the band’s founding members, brothers Soroush “Looloosh” and Arash Farazmand, guitarist and drummer respectively, were shot dead in Brooklyn on November 11, 2013 by a disgruntled Iranian musician.

BF: Are you surprised to hear that this was probably the most successful of the bands on the playlist? RW: It makes sense…the production is fantastic – great vibe and video. But it’s really well layered – new instruments join and build – unusual and I loved the flip in the middle. BF: I always enjoy listening to the inflections of a different language – the voice sounds like a different instrument… RW: Me too – and all those Arabic influences made it really interesting. Like 20s jazz… BF: I think we can agree we both loved it!

RW: So it made me think of The Clash – that ska sound – raw guitars…but really melodic, with a great solo. BF: It also changed my perception of the song once I heard the back story – that rock and roll mythology effect…I really enjoyed it… RW: Yeah – it’s really danceable – made me want to listen to more of their songs for sure. BF: I think if I learnt something from the playlist, it’s that I enjoyed the songs that highlighted their Middle Eastern influences above the others. RW: I know – it felt that if it what made the most interesting music. BF: Take it out and you’re left with just generic Western music – and maybe we have enough of that already…

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Chartwell Journal

Fourteenth Edition

A Lesson in Design Dubai Design Week Words by BEN FOWLER

Good design is good business – and if you think good design is expensive, you may find yourself counting the considerable costs of bad design. Good design deserves to be celebrated with the same pageantry afforded to less functional art forms. Recognising this, and showcasing a time of considerable growth for the industry, the close of 2015 saw the inauguration of Dubai Design Week. Held at the Design District (d3) in late October, it marked a watershed moment for a city already firmly established as the regional capital for design, but also created a global meeting point for the international design community. Design-dedicated events, activities and projects within d3 and across the city helped to celebrate the best in design - regionally and internationally. Looking forward to the events sophomore to be held from the 24th to the 29th of October 2016, Chartwell presents a visual guide to the best design concepts 2015 had to offer – and wonders what the best designers of Dubai and MENA have to teach us…

Yaroof by Aljoud Lootah Yaroof is a geometric installation by Aljoud Lootah, a multidisciplinary designer based in Dubai, and was inspired by a traditional fishing technique known as Yaroof. It consists of four octagon frames, each with patterns created by using nylon ropes to depict the shape and structure of a fishing net. The patterns are inspired by complex Arabesque motifs, and similar to the form of these motifs, the curves found in the designs are created entirely with straight lines. When placed upon a beach, it forms a shelter through the intricate combination of its geometries – providing ample shade from the sun.

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Weaving Workshop The Fatima Bint Mohamed Initiative weavers gave an instructional workshop on traditional weaving techniques for visitors of Dubai Design Week – including one on one tutorials. The Initiative is the UAE’s very own carpet production and community development program that empowers more than 4,000 female artisans in the hand-knotted carpet industry. The incredibly precise mathematics of the geometric patterns on display paradoxically the result of age old tradition and artifice.

Untitled (Archway) by Anjali Srinivasan Anjali Srinivasan’s work seeks to erode the notion of a self-contained object – remaining incomplete without human presence. She currently directs the UAE’s only artist-run, handcrafted glass making enterprise, ChoChoMa Studios, in Dubai. Untitled (Archway) is an ephemeral, transparent arch built, in real-time, from web-like glass filaments. The design of the structure is guided by the specific rules of arrangement found among flowers on a plant’s stem – a system

known as indeterminate inflorescence. Under this system there is no true end…each node is a starting point. The system, therefore, is mutable, self-supporting and ever-expanding. Inspired by such plant systems, Untitled expresses the strength and fragility of glass simultaneously, playfully treading the thin line between concrete form and ephemeral experience.

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Notional Field by Annica Cuppetelli and Crisobal Mendoza

generated video lines. The motion of these lines projections is directly influenced by a viewerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s movements the physical gestures of the participant are translated into virtual forces that affect the computer-generated lines - while the physical lines of the installation remain motionless. The piece is concerned with the idea of an interface between two distinct entities: the viewer and the field, the real and the virtual.

exterior installation by luciomx

Chartwell Journal

Based in Detroit, Annica Cuppetelli and Cristobal Mendoza began collaborating as Cuppetelli and Mendoza in 2010. Their latest work, Notional Field (Dubai), is a site-specific interactive installation where hundreds of vertical and parallel elastic cord strings are illuminated by the projection of computer-

An investigation into perception and participation, Notional Field, like the other works we have highlighted from Design Week, has a clear lesson to teach us; that good design is not purely science or art â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but it is where the two break even. for more information please visit: www.dubaidesignweek.ae

Tales from the Top Building the Burj Words by BEN FOWLER

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The Burj Khalifa

see the sun set twice in one day – once from a lower floor, and then again as you reach the top.

The spider lily is cultivated widely across Dubai, yet the delicate flower has an unlikely part in defining the city’s renowned skyline - as the aesthetic inspiration for the Burj Khalifa. The tallest building in the world, standing at over 800 m, is a symbol for cultural union and regional aspiration; an Eastern tribute to the art and science of modern engineering. Touching the Sky The combined residences and offices of the Khalifa cover over 2 million square feet, and are spread over 160 floors with a staggering 57 elevators or, if you are feeling energetic, 2,909 steps to the top. Almost as dizzying are the number of world records it holds; tallest building, tallest man-made structure, tallest elevator – even greatest distance for pumped concrete. Amazingly, from the building you can

The Height of Luxury With public areas featuring the designs of Nada Andric, the interiors combine glass, stainless steel and polished dark stones – with handmade rugs and stone flooring. All these areas have a unique bespoke fragrance harmonising with the materials used for a reactive sensory experience. It is also home to the world’s first Armani Hotel, all aspects of which bear the signature hallmarks of Giorgio Armani, from the room designs to the fabrics and furnishings selected. His intention was to create the feeling that a guest was stepping into his home - as a result, the reception has no check-in desk.

Tower of Art The lobby of the residential areas is dominated by artist Jaume Plensa’s eponymous sculpture ‘World Voices’ – made up of 196 cymbals. Water drops gently from the ceiling striking the cymbals for a shimmering, choral representation of international collaboration. Meanwhile at the corporate entrance resides Egyptian-born artist Karim Rashid’s ‘Evolutes’, a magnificent sculpture of shifting, reflective arcs in natural stone. The Numbers Game Constructing the world’s tallest building took 330,000 cubic metres of concrete; 39,000 meters of reinforced steel; a series of individually-programmable cutting-edge stroboscopes; and 26,000 individually hand-cut glass panels - it took over 22 million man hours to build the tower.

The concrete alone – the equivalent weight of 100,000 elephants - required a dedicated on-site concrete plant. The total weight of aluminium used is equivalent to that of five A380 aircraft, with the total length of stainless steel fins used totalling over 293 times the height of the Eiffel Tower. Construction was guided by close to 4,000 initial drawings - with over 40,000 more being produced on-site. To put the scale of this vertical city into context, the maximum occupancy is close to 35,000 people - or the entire population of West Somerset. Running the Tower With a water system that supplies an average of 946,000 litres of water a day, the ecological concerns of Dubai are represented by the gardens partial irrigation with water collected through condensation from the tower’s airconditioning systems. This is helped by the daily equivalent cooling capacity of approximately 10,000 tons of melting ice – this would be greater were it not for an ambient temperature at the highest floors six degrees cooler than at ground level. The cleaning schedule of the facade is carried out by 18 permanently installed track and telescopic cradle-equipped units, even still it takes three to four months to clean the entire exterior facade. Height is not without its inherent problems, flight paths in and out of Dubai have had to be changed at various height milestones since progress on the building passed 700 m in height – with the exterior fitted with high-intensity xenon warning lights flashing 40 times per minute. It does, however, make it one of the most effective lightning conductors in the world, regularly harnessing the forces of nature to stage a spectacular show. Because It’s There… …was the answer George Mallory gave when asked why he wished to climb Everest. The Khalifa seems to pose a similar challenge… The tallest building in the world has proven to have a magnetic effect for weird and wonderful achievements. In 2011 Alain Robert, aka ‘The French Spiderman’, managed to scale the tower in just over six hours, had he tried this at the

turn of 2014 he would have witnessed the world’s first vertical fashion show as models cat-walked down the famous glass walls. Finding a faster way to the bottom, Nasser Al Neyadi and his skydiving trainer Omar Alhegelan BASE-jumped off the tower to make a smooth landing after covering a vertical distance of 672 metres.

For the spectacular inaugural firework ceremony more than 10,000 individual fireworks were attached to the exterior of the building, several years before models in high heels walked on its surface, this was only achievable by a hand-picked team of French alpinists. For more information about the Burj Khalifa visit www.burjkhalifa.ae

Chartwell Journal

Fourteenth Edition

Going Round In Circles Words by NIANINA DAVIES

Dubai is no stranger to world records and it appears that they want to be the destination for all of the world’s structural records.

s Dubai has done in the past with the Burj Khalifa, they did not look to build a new high rise that was just a few feet taller than the last one, they sought to build the tallest possible building at the time by putting the Burj around 320 meters taller than any other skyscraper. Their newest attraction, Ain Dubai ferris wheel, will be no different....48 luxury capsules, 1,400 visitors and a 48 minute rotation time. Ain Dubai will sit amongst the $1.6 billion Bluewaters Island Development, which includes the creation of a new island, entertainment, hotels, residential housing, hospitality and retail. Ain Dubai will tower high above Dubai’s coastline with its dimensions far exceeding any similar existing structure. The observation wheel will open up never-seen-before 360-degree views of Dubai and its renowned landmarks and skyline - it will also be possible to see it from the highly popular Jumeirah Beach. As if this wasn’t enough, Ain Dubai will also take ferris wheels one step further by adding a 165 foot LED screen to the center of the wheel that will broadcast movies, adverts and interactive information. Stood side-by-side, Ain Dubai would completely dwarf the London Eye. With 10 less capsules, a holding capacity of only 1,000 people and a rotation time 18 minutes below its Middle Eastern counterpart, it is almost impossible to visualise the vastness of this new ‘mega’ ferris wheel. It is still under construction and is due to be completed in 2017. Although no height has been completely confirmed for Ain Dubai, reports have put it between 210-260 metres, which is at least 75 metres larger than the London Eye.

FACT The assembled hub and spindle is approximately 40 metres long and 20 metres high and weighs a massive 1,805 tonnes - which is equivalent to four A380 aircrafts. Two of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest cranes, each comprising a 180 metre-long boom and boasting a lifting capacity of over 3,000 tonnes each, have soared over the construction site on Bluewaters Island setting the Hub & Spindle in place on top of the 126 metre-high legs.

Chartwell Journal

Thirteenth Edition

The Only Restaurant To Try - Palm Style Words by GRACE SHEPPARD

STAY by Yannick AllĂŠno, one of the restaurants at the One&Only The Palm luxury resort in Dubai, sets the tone for a distinctive yet unforgettable and romantic evening.

Chartwell Journal

utdoor seating overlooks the grand pool and Moorish inspired gardens, whereas the inside is surrounded by tones of monochromatic black, bronze and silver, vaulted ceilings decorated in Bohemian black crystal chandeliers and high timber walls. Yannick Alléno, a French chef, is credited with the highest award in cuisine: the coveted three Michelin stars. He has refined his work over the last 25 years, delighting the gastronomic world with his spectacular creations. Yannick’s unique style stems from reinventing traditional dishes, modernizing them and giving them a new interpretation. On a warm, April evening, I had the wonderful pleasure of dining at STAY to sample the cuttingedge “Food & Extractions Pairing” menu created by Yannick Alléno. By extracting vegetable and fruit jus. Yannick creates the perfect distillation of flavours, using modern techniques, to perfectly complement them to carefully selected dishes. These pioneering beverages, known as extractions, excel because of their true taste; allowing the very essence of a product to express itself, right down to its texture. Being a vegetarian, this was a journey I was very excited about - finally a frontier highlighting fruit and vegetables as pure entities, rather than pushing them into the background. The Chef de Cuisine, Gautier Gaschi, was a wonderful host that evening. On arrival to the restaurant my partner and I the incredible opportunity to enter Gautier’s kitchen to personally select the vegetables I would like to eat that evening! The kitchen went on to say that they had been really looking forward to having a vegetarian trying the extractions as my taste palate should recognise the vegetables stronger. We were seated on the terrace, with the most breathtaking view - a golden sunset, vibrant palm trees and the glistening pool all adding to the most tranquil and serene atmosphere, whilst sitting on beautiful grand white chairs. My partner and I were sat on our own private table, however the restaurant also offers communal seating such as The Conversation Table, a curved ‘S’ shaped lounge, which encourages socialising and conversation. Our meal was absolutely divine - a distinct dining experience without traditional formality. One of my personal highlights of the several courses was the ‘celerisotto’ - a hollowed celeriac with a fine celeriac risotto accompanied

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by an extraction of onion, celeriac, mushroom, fennel and carrot that my meat eating partner experience with me. The combination of flavours exploded in my mouth, leaving behind the longing to order the dish again and againâ&#x20AC;Ś My partner dined from the traditional Food & Extractions Pairing menu - everything looked as exquisite as my vegetarian options and judging by his expressions, I could tell it tasted even better than it looked. His most memorable dish had to be the confit milk-fed lamb shoulder with ras el hanout, carrot, fennel and celery glazed with simple juice, paired with an extraction of squash, carrot, fennel, mushroom and artichoke. The combination of flavours for this dish have clearly been so carefully thought out, which were even further enhanced when the intense flavours of the extraction were added into the mix. During our many courses, Chef Gautier Gaschi personally came to check how our evening

was going. He was kind enough to pull up a chair and sit with us on our table for a while to have a chat about ourselves and the various establishments we enjoy dining at, back home in London. This addition made our evening even more enjoyable and personal than before and the atmosphere was even further heightened. It was a great pleasure to hear about Gautierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prefered London and worldwide restaurants and to hear about his home life cooking skills - these personal details made our evening. To finish the evening off, the Pastry Library offers a unique experience. Diners are taken on amazing culinary journeys where you are invited to play an active role in the creation of desserts from selecting the final ingredients to observing the preparation by the chef de patisseries. Whether you fancy a custard crime novel or a banana bread biography, the Pastry Library has something on offer for everyone. Gautier arranged a selection of his personal favourites - pastries like no other.

STAY restaurant truly is a case of exceptional dining with a culinary genius. STAY - One&Only The Palm. www.oneandonlyresorts.com/one-and-onlythe-palm-dubai/

Chartwell Journal

Reel Time Middle East Film Words by BEN FOWLER

If it can be thought, it can be filmedâ&#x20AC;¦

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From the cinema of a culture, its thoughts, there is so much to learn; the discovery of its struggles, dreams and aspirations. Yet thoughts can prove fleeting, and may quickly pass unrealised unless encouraged and invested in. Every year the Dubai International Film Festival does exactly that; presenting new and exciting cinema from the Arab world and beyond, introducing audiences to a wealth of regional fresh new talent and original and distinctive filmmaking.

ince its inception in 2004, the DIFF has thrived in this role, playing a crucial part in the development of a thriving regional film culture. By providing greater opportunities for Arab filmmakers, the festival offers an invaluable cultural insight into the people of Dubai and the UAE. The DIFF’s highly contested Muhr awards, a competition for fiction and non-fiction films and short films originating from the Arab world, has been an integral part of the festival since 2006, and continues to nurture and reward exceptional Arab cinematic talent.

industry partners to promote local film with the #SupportArabCinema campaign launched during the Festival.

The 12th Festival took place in December 2015 and showcased 134 feature films, shorts and documentaries from 60 countries - including 46 MENA premieres. Year after year, DIFF strives to support the growth of Arab cinema, screening an impressive bill of more than 70 films from the region whilst joining forces with

The success of DIFF can certainly be measured by the increasing awareness of Arab cinema; the winner of the 2015 Muhr short, Ave Maria by Basil Khalil, would later earn an Oscar nomination for best live-action short film. This remarkable movie is the focus of our MENA edition film review…

Ave Maria

So what would happen if the Israelis and Palestinians really needed each other? How would that change the world?

2015 Director: Basil Khalil Writers: Basil Khalil, Daniel Yáñez Khalil Stars: Huda Al Imam, Ruth Farhi, Maya Koren Awards include: Muhr Award, Dubai 2015; Oscar Nominated – Live Action Short Film 2016: Live Action; Palme d’Or Nomination Best Short Film. Synopsis: The silent routine of 5 Palestinian nuns in the middle of the West Bank wilderness is disrupted when a family of Israeli settlers come knocking at their door for help after crashing into the convent’s wall. The Israelis can’t operate a phone to call for assistance due to the Sabbath laws, and the Nuns have taken a vow of silence. Together they have to come up with an unorthodox plan to help them get home.

This momentum shows no sign of slowing, back for its 13th year, the DIFF will take place from the 7th to the 14th of December, 2016 at its spiritual home - Madinat Jumeirah. The festival will see thousands of cinema-goers, actors, directors, producers, writers and industry experts descend on Dubai to enjoy the world’s best films in one of the world’s premiere locations.

While these are not really the questions that Basil Khalil asks through his charming, funny, beautifully made short film, they are posed within the microsm he creates. Premiering with a hefty presence at Cannes this year, it doesn’t deal with the Netanyahu and Hamas of the conflict, instead choosing the human side of the struggle. The strength of such allegory is the ability to break down the enormity of a subject into a smaller world – and that is the true success of the film, a tiny story with big inferences. Reducing the scale of his canvas, Ave Maria tells the tale of a group of Palestinian Carmelite nuns that collide with a family of Jewish settlers literally and figuratively – in a car crash outside the convent. Both parties need each other’s cooperation to get away from one another as soon as possible.

Simultaneously touching and remarkably funny, with a stunning poster (the best at Cannes, with a design by Maher Diab), the movie has an ingrained universality that may explain its international success. The term allegory is perhaps misleading - in this case applicability is a far more appropriate term. In finding a universal applicability of theme, the film is the embodiment of the Dubai Film Festival; sharing the region’s thoughts, its aspirations and struggles, in a way that transcends borders that so often seem impassable. Now available on itunes UK, for more information please visit: www.avemariafilm.com

Chartwell Journal

Fourteenth Edition

The Art of Lighting ByBeau Studios Words by BEN FOWLER

The design process is often reactionary. Perhaps to a building, an architecture, or the vision of the client. At other times it can be inspired by something a little less tangible â&#x20AC;&#x201C; trying to capture a feeling or a sensation. Beau McClellan and his high-end lighting design team at ByBeau are proud to present their latest ground-breaking design, Dimple, a modular lighting system that was born from contrasting inspirations, an interpretation of both dramatic engineering spectacle and the most intimate of emotions.

Chartwell Journal

Fourteenth Edition

eau’s Reflective Flow for Hitmi Al Hitmi Doha Qatar is aptly named, being reflective of the incredible flowing engineering of the building itself. The world-record holding chandelier took its inspiration from a trip to Canada, where Beau became transfixed by the wonderful geological staging of two rocky outcrops. Visiting the site, he transposed this image, visualising a river between the two rock crags, winding and shimmering, a breakwater against the tectonic forces pulling them apart. The piece is comprised of over 2,500 individually hand-ground crystals, each shrouded by concave glass and finished with a unique reflective coating. Invisible behind this glittering body is a state-of-the-art system of over 55,000 individually controllable LEDs - a spectrum of glass spheres that would evolve into the Dimple unit.

Each crystal is fully independent to create shifting tides of colour, shape and light. During the day an organic art sculpture, harmonising with the natural light of its environment. But at night it really comes alive. When illuminated, the reflective surfaces – the result of three years’ development - become either fully or semitransparent, bursting alive with waves of light in an unmatchable expression of movement. It was the expressiveness of these crystals that Beau wished to extend into his next product range, tentatively named Dimple. Reflective Flow is intended to extract you from reality and - if only for a second - to lose yourself within. Which is exactly what happened to Beau when working inside the installation. Despite an aversion to confined spaces, he found that working within the myriad crystalline

structure had a calming effect, an almost ethereal sensation. Within Reflective Flow, the installation felt somewhat alive. Fascinated, he became interested in recreating this feeling through Dimple, creating a modular unit that would capture this extraordinary, magical sense of interaction. The Dimple unit he developed is a unique sensory expression both inspired by Flow and what it then inspired in others, harmonising with natural light in the day - only to burst into life by night. Light is such a great communicator; so natural and innate. Reactive and sympathetic, it can inform and express our moods and emotions; seeming to have a life if its own… For this project a new plug and play RGBW chip was specially designed to give total control

over each unit - the possibilities limited only by imagination. The client is given true interactivity; with different moods and ambiences reactive to a range of stimuli. Different temperatures and movements are interpreted and expressed by Dimple to create an art installation of unlimited variability. When switched on, the pioneering two-way mirror-coated finish unveils an extra interior hand-blown glass ball. A playful expression of the whimsy of imagination; transitioning throughout the day, a magical twist that gives it a personality all of its own. ByBeau worked with Climar Lighting to develop an ambitious showcase for Dimple that would best demonstrate how far this design could be pushed – the aim to fully convey a sentient personality within a lighting system. Using a pioneering think-tank facility in the north

of Portugal, HAB 50, ByBeau collaborated with artists, designers and media specialists to create MeetDimple. At this laboratoryworkshop, Beau was able to experiment and play with Dimple units in all manner of ways; different set ups, programming and, most importantly, stimulus-responses. Expanding on the theme of emotionally-reactive lighting, the MeetDimple installation would only reveal itself when a viewer remained still. The installation debuted at Light+Building 2016 in Frankfurt and comprised of over 400 Dimple units creating a totally unique sensory environment. By taking a moment of stillness MeetDimple would interact with each visitor – and the longer they stayed motionless the more he would reveal. The project was an exercise in creating a feeling of sentience, with a

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character and even a voice of its own; a playful, reactive entity expressing itself through light and sound. This was a new philosophical approach to lighting design, reminding us to take a second out from the worldâ&#x20AC;Śto see that anything truly is possible. Winning the designer award at Light+Building would be joined by success at the prestigious DARC awards 2016, where Dimple would win best lighting product design. With these plaudits Dimple soon became in high demand as the light-art installation for fairs and shows across the world â&#x20AC;&#x201C; as was the case at the Pronovias 2017 catwalk launch in Madrid. Dimple was ideally suited to Pronovias, who specialise in that special moment of magic suspension conjured up by the wedding dress.

The Dimple installation for the launch reflected the symbolism of a wedding dress; a meeting of minds distilled in a moment of magical intimacy suspended amidst the breath-taking spectacle. ByBeau exemplifies the right approach to a perfect partnership; the marriage of the creative force of Beau McClellan’s team with the pragmatism and design quality of Climar Lighting. Dimple itself has been a massively collaborative product to realise, involving the skills of artists, musicians and visionary technicians like Rebeca Sanchez of LEDScontrol. All of this working toward capturing the emotion of the moment, stunningly demonstrated as each beautiful dress was presented underneath a shimmering sky of Dimple stars. Commitment. To inspiration. To design. Here we find a fine metaphor for everything ByBeau and Dimple represent. Commitment to an original vision and to creating the partnerships necessary to realise it. But more importantly, a pure commitment to that moment of calm within Reflective Flow and the desire to share

that feeling with the world. ByBeau have worked hard to produce a system that brings high-end design and artistry to a wider market. Dimple is not just for the art fairs or the catwalks, it is for the home or the office. It is for everybody – because, after all, who doesn’t need that little bit of magic in their lives? For more information please visit: www.bybeau.com

Chartwell Journal

Fourteenth Edition

Battle to be Biggest The Mega-structures of MENA Words by BEN FOWLER

Bigger is better. That’s the logic our species seems to function on, whether it’s the Saudi Royal family and their kilometer-high Kingdom Tower or the extraordinary attempts to build a country-scale archipelago in Azerbaijan. Some projects are of such scale that they transcend architecture; to become a statement of intent to a world held in awe and wonder. Dreaming big is one thing, but if there’s one thing we can learn from the megastructures of MENA it’s that though ingenuity, commitment and considerable investment, dreams can be made a reality…

Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, UAE In the ancient Near East, the palm frond was a symbol for triumph and peace – providing the re-imagining of Dubai with the perfect statement for a new era and philosophy. A statement of such immense scale that The Palm Jumeirah is visible from space with the naked eye. Upon completion The Palm Jumeirah was the worlds’ largest man-made island - covering over 560 hectares of land. The prospect of living on the fronds of the palm proved so attractive that every single one of the first phase properties - 4000 in total - was sold within 72 hours of their initial sales release. Certainly proof that evocative imagery is an effective sales tool. Creating the unique form of The Palm was a pioneering logistical challenge, fickle and unpredictable – it was, after all, the first time such a complex configuration had been forged through land reclamation. By the time Jumeirah was completed, 94 million cubic meters of sand and 7 million tons of rock had been used – enough material to build a 2-metre-high wall circling the world three times. Some of the involved engineers may argue that this would have been easier…but certainly not as fascinating.

Sheikh Mosque, Abu Dhabi, UAE When the late former president of UAE, His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, dreamt of a unifying testament to both the history of the Islamic world and its modern architecture and art, its realisation became personal calling. His Grand Mosque, located in Abu Dhabi, is large enough to accommodate over 40,000 worshipers – the fulfilment of His vision for unity a collaboration of artisans from around the world. The main prayer hall is graced by the world’s largest carpet - designed by Iranian artist Ali Khaliqi. Measuring over 5000 m2, this design would be realised over two years by 1,300 expert carpet knotters. The 2 billion knots they wove make up a carpet that weighs an incredible 35 tons. Above the carpet hang seven imported chandeliers from the company Faustig in Munich that incorporate millions of glittering Swarovski crystals. Light is a large part of the Mosque’s aesthetic, with pools along the arcades reflecting the spectacular columns - which at night use a unique lighting system to interpret the phases of the moon. Beautiful bluish-grey clouds are projected onto the external walls, brightening or darkening in reaction to the night’s sky. Fitting, beneath this heavenly wonder, lies the final resting place of its creator.

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Kingdom Tower, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Big things are coming to Jeddah. Visible construction has already started on what is expected to be the world’s tallest building at a rumoured 3,280 feet – amazingly over 568 feet taller than the Burj Khalifa. Intended as a representation of the new spirit of Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom Tower will loom over the Red Sea known as the gateway to Mecca. Designed by Adrian Smith who comes with a (literally) high-minded pedigree having already designed the Burj Khalifa, the secrecy of the project’s dimensions recalls the theatrical New York City height wars of the last century - when the top of the Chrysler Building was kept hidden until it debuted in order to triumphantly beat out the Manhattan Trust Building. What is more certain is the enormity of the construction site itself, covering 5.7 million square feet - with the project requiring around 80,000 tons of steel. The scale of the building is so great that designers have been unable to realistically portray it in a single rendering. Only elevations and birds-eye views can contain the entire project. With that being the case, just try to imagine all those construction drawings...

The Mecca Hotels, Mecca, Saudi Arabia Known as the mother of cities, the historical tradition of Mecca has enduring prominence in the world of modern megastructures. It is currently graced with the tallest building in Saudi Arabia, the 600 meter Abraj Al Bait, and will soon be home to the world’s largest hotel, the Abraj Kudai due to open in 2017. While not reaching the heights of Burj Khalifa, Al Bait does, however, boast the world’s highest clock, the four faces of which can be seen from 16 miles away - so there is no excuse for arriving late in Mecca. At least, until further megastructures like the Kudai arrive to dominate the skyline... Sharing location and aesthetic, the Abraj Kudai will offer an unprecedented level of luxury to travellers and royalty alike. Expected to span an incredible 1.4 million sq. feet, it is of such gigantic scale that it will more closely resemble a vertical city-state than a hotel - one where every guest is a guaranteed millionaire. Both buildings portray a modernist, desert variant of the classic 1930s Manhattan high-rise. If size does indeed matter for you, then perhaps you have started to plan your trip to Mecca already…although despite the scale of these megastructures, rooms will not easy to come by - for non-Muslims are strictly prohibited from entering Mecca…

Chartwell Journal

Thirteenth Edition

The Gazelle, the Horse and the Falcon The Chalhoub Group and the Middle East Luxury Market Words by BEN FOWLER

The Middle East offers an ideal for opulence; an oasis of opportunity in the luxury market – and a fast growing new frontier for upmarket style. At the forefront of this expansion you will find the Chalhoub Group who last year celebrated 60 years of building highend brands in the Middle East. As we search for our own metaphorical oasis - and the promise it holds – the wise traveller will pay heed to CEOs Anthony and Patrick Chalhoub as the perfect guides on the road to success in the region’s luxury market.

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his journey begins in 1955 when Michel and Widad Chalhoub opened the first Christofle boutique in Damascus, Syria. Sharing a special cultural and personal bond with France, they created a luxury hub that would bridge the gap between the East and West. Today, with a growing workforce of more than 11,000 people across 14 countries, over 600 retail outlets, and the management of over 150,000 sq. meters of warehouse space, the group’s success is attributable to its most valued assets - highly skilled teams with an innate understanding of their markets. The family owned business now stands as the leading partner for luxury across the entire Middle East. As an expert in retail, distribution and marketing services, the Group has become a major player in regional beauty, fashion and gift sectors. Blending this regional expertise with an intimate knowledge of luxury, the Chalhoub Group offers service excellence to all of its partners - and a unique experience to its customers. Professionalism and passion are the keywords to the Chalhoub Group philosophy - and this has given them a competitive edge in today’s market. With the strength of over five decades of experience behind them, the

Chalhoub Group is a repository of knowledge and axis of connection to the Eastern world of beauty, fashion and gifts. Boasting an unmatched knowledge of the local and regional markets and consumers, the group is able to tailor strategies for a partner or market via a dedicated department studying long-term consumer behaviours, market evolution and trends. Anthony Chalhoub himself authored a study shedding some light on recent behavioural market changes. An insightful piece, he notes that “we are seeing a significant change in behaviour among luxury consumers in the Gulf countries where the purchase centres on the choice and the selection available “ ln the Middle East, consumers demonstrate a unique relationship with luxury - with the youngest generations immersed in concepts of wealth from birth. Even with this being true, not all of them have the same interests or – more importantly - the same habits.

falcons more often seek specific products rather than brands. In contrast to the gazelle and the horse, they are primarily influenced by “the personal relationships that they have with their friends and family. “ These three consumer types are actually a concentrated, metaphorical expression of the three iconic consumer trends in Gulf countries; the desire for connection, the need for recognition and the quest for satisfaction. With consumers spending, on average, over two thousand Euros on gifts, fashion or beauty every month, understanding these trends has been crucial to the success of the Chalhoub Group. And, of course, to any new venture in the region. Knowledge is one thing, exploiting it effectively is another entirely. The Chalhoub Group has used their insight to devise four multi-brand concepts, each tailored to fill a gap in the market. The study posits the existence of three distinct consumer types: the gazelle, the horse and the falcon. Gazelle consumers identify themselves through luxury, knowing how to track down that unique piece. Seeking products aimed at a narrow market, and taking inspiration from bloggers, fashionistas and celebrities. The study explains that “gazelles are distinguished by intense activity on social networks, as much to get information as to share opinions and provide advice “ Horse-types however, attach considerable importance to social status. Luxury for them is a way of achieving social recognition, a demonstration of position that prefers “the best known and the most expensive brands.” Further their sphere of influence is comprised of their peers, Sheikhs and national celebrities of desired rank. Finally, there are the falcon-types, who value the experiences and pleasures that luxury can provide. Energised by their passions,

A destination for timeless luxury, Tanagra is an impressive network of 11 boutiques across 5 countries and incorporates TDesign - a multifaceted showroom for bespoke limited editions, luxury design and custom-made pieces from Dubai. Wojooh, provides a face for the beauty market with over 70 stores across the region, a branded make-up line - Wow and hundreds of beauty experts. Katakeet is a fantastic concept children’s wear store that revolves around storytelling in its 4 stores located in UAE and KSA. The Level Shoe District, meanwhile, ushers in a new era of shoe reverence through unprecedented luxury. This iconic district of Dubai covers 9000 sq. meters, selling around 700 pairs of shoes per day. It is easy to quantify success based on the numerical; we can clearly see how many shoes have been sold or how much profit a sale makes. Often, it may seem a little harder to do the

same with knowledge and research. It is, after all, a little more intangible in the sales process – but as The Chalhoub Group have proven, understanding a market, how it behaves, how it is changing, can be the true secret to finding our own oasis in the Middle East. And certainly in their case, it would seem that an investment in knowledge paid the greatest interest – and that’s advice worth heeding. For more information please visit: www.chalhoubgroup.com

Chartwell Journal

Fourteenth Edition

Showcasing the Mosques and Palaces of Iran: The Photographs of Mohammad Reza Domiri Ganji Words by BEN FOWLER

To the outside world, The Middle East presents a world of wonder and mystique, that proliferates even the ultra-modern cities of UAE with the undeniable tracts of a unique cultural landscape. This is due to an architectural language with roots that delve deeply into a distinct spiritual earth – the columns, the mosaics, and, of course, the stunning exoticism of the Mosque.

erhaps one of the reasons for the preservation of such mystique is the relative sanctity of such sites - it is not easy to wander freely on such sacred ground. Large crowds and restrictions on professional photography means that the abundant documentation available for many historic sites does not exist for Islamic temples. A young Iranian photographer, however, has created a collection of images that capture the magnificence of ancient Mosques – that have, in turn, captured international recognition and acclaim.

The Shah - or Imam - Mosque is located on the southern side of the Naghsh-e-Jahan Square in Isfahan. Built under the order of Shah Abbas the First, it is thought to date back to 1500 A.C – with some believing that it was built upon a fire temple. The enormous dome rises to nearly 57 meters and is decorated with mesmerizingly intricate tiled designs in complete symmetry. It is one of the most exquisite works of architecture that Mohammed Reza encountered on his travels. Using a wide lens, he was able to capture the ceiling in its entirety - losing none of that mathematical perfection.

Mohammad Reza Domiri Ganji was inspired by some beautiful interior shots of the Egyptian pyramids and wondered if he could apply similar techniques to the grand Mosques of his homeland. Travelling far and wide to temples in Isfahan, Shiraz, Yazd, Kashan, and Tehran, he was able to express their scale and splendour in a distinctive style. Attempting to highlight the individual characteristics of each site he visited, his works became concerned with expressing each detail of symmetry and interplay of light woven into the architecture. With an aim to preserve the ancient majesty of his homeland, he was able to introduce a treasury of Middle Eastern culture to the world.

The Jameh Mosque is completely unique, with a ceiling so dramatic that visitors find it difficult to look away. The dome of the mosque is adorned with Arabian geometric patterning that is dynamically illuminated by four skylights to create an ambience that transitions throughout the day. Standing in the middle of this structure, Mohammad Reza became fascinated by the artistry of such geometry. His shots capture the wonderful lighting upon both the tiled patterns and the Quran verses inscribed upon their surface.

The results of his largely self-taught techniques are extraordinary, using fisheye and wide angle lenses with panoramic perspectives to convey the full impact of each site’s grandeur. Presenting an entire mosaicked ceiling as if standing at its feet, they provide a rare glimpse behind the doors of some of the most culturally significant buildings of MENA.

Located in the city of Shiraz, the eastern bedchamber of the Nasir Al-Mulk Mosque is a study in harnessing natural light. In the autumn and winter seasons, sunlight pours through the columns and stained glass windows onto Persian rugs and tiled surfaces, creating a sense of ethereal beauty. Mohammed Reza arrived at the site early on a winter’s morning and watched as the light moved gently from the right hand side of the mosque towards the left, waiting for

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Chartwell Journal

Thirteenth Edition

Chartwell Journal

Thirteenth Edition

it to fall dead-centre so that his photograph would be completely symmetrical. Boroujerdiha House is located at the city of Kashan, dating back to the Qajar era, in the 19th century, when it had belonged to a carpet merchant. The house has special aesthetic significance due to the preserved moulded ornaments and paintings of Kamal-ol-Molk - a distinguished painter of the era. Today, Boroujerdiha now serves as a fitting home to Kashan’s Cultural Heritage Organization. The images from Mohammed Reza’s collection display it’s incredible oscillating symmetry, a showcase of this regional heritage. Aliqapu means ‘great doorway’ in the Azeri language, which makes an appropriate name for this palace. The hall of its sixth floor is known as “the music hall”, due to the installation of the peculiar Stucco-shaped porcelain jars set into its ceiling. These jars create a natural echo chamber, with sounds from all over the palace reverberating around the hall. This feature alone captures the imagination, but even more striking still is the bold red colour scheme that stretches from the floor to the ceiling. Trying to translate this unique environment, Mohammed Reza took wide-angled shots from the centre of the hall with the camera held high above his head. For more information and sales please visit: www.gravity.ir

Chartwell Journal

Fourteenth Edition

Contemporising Bond: Carte Blanche in Dubai Words by BEN FOWLER

The sexiest cars. Incredible hi-tech gadgets. Accommodating women who are also martial-arts experts. The James Bond films have more tropes than OO7 has had Martinis. The dramatic, sweeping shots and iconic scenery that signature the franchise have led Bond to search as hard for his next exotic location as he has for Blofeld. When Dr. No was first released in 1962, the impossible paradise of the Jamaican beach where Ursula Andress emerged from the sea in that bikini, must have seemed like another world to a generation largely unfamiliar with international travel. With Daniel Craig hanging up his PPK, the world considers their next Bond – perhaps instead we should also consider where he might find paradise today.

he latest official Bond novel putting 007 in a contemporary setting was Carte Blanche, written by Jeffery Deaver and released in 2011. Of note to Chartwell, it would provide this new adventure amid the skyscrapers and blue waters of Dubai. Deaver, speaking at a press conference during Dubai’s Festival City 2011 said he felt inspired by the city upon his first visit. “When I thought about the setting for the new book I thought immediately about Dubai,” said Deaver. “Not only is it an incredibly fun, wonderful and exhilarating place but it retains at its heart an exotic core. If Ian Fleming had lived to write more books I’m sure this would have been the place he would have chosen to set at least one of them.” Deaver is no stranger to the movie set, nor to sweeping aesthetics. Included among his over 30 thrillers is 1997’s The Bone Collector, adapted for the big screen in 1999 starring Angelina Jolie and Denzel Washington. With Carte Blanche he joins a long line of high-profile authors who have penned 007 novels since Ian Fleming died in 1964. Many of these modern entries, such as William Boyd’s Solo,

2013 and Anthony Horowitz’ Trigger Mortis, 2015, benefit from taking place within the established continuum of Bond – Trigger Mortis, for example, is set two weeks after the events of Goldfinger and even features Pussy Galore. One of the challenges facing Deaver would be to recapture such feelings of classic adventure and escapism in the very different world of today. And where better than “the city of the now.” Corrine Turner, the managing director of Ian Fleming Publications, said she was delighted to welcome Deaver to the Bond family and was certain that he was the right man to contemporise the familiar OO7 tropes. “With Jeffery we decided to bring James Bond’s literary adventures into the 21st century,” she said. “Dubai is a wonderfully Bond-esque location and it was a great thrill to work with Deaver on producing 007’s newest mission.” One of the key attractions of Dubai would become something of a metaphor for a modern Bond adventure; the juxtaposition of ancient culture and modern skylines analogous to the desired perfect blend of class and modernism. As an example, Deaver added that during his visits to Dubai, he became fascinated with the “soul” exhibited by Port Saeed and Deira in particular. Perfectly suited to Bond, he found a sense of history that was merely shaken, not stirred. Much debate has gone into who, or what, is James Bond...Since producers first cast Sean Connery in Dr. No. to the recent news that Spectre actor Daniel Craig will soon pass the mantle on to a fresh face, the talk rages again. As Chartwell prides itself with having a knowledge of fine suits, fine drinks, and fine living—those pillar qualities of Bond—we had a few ideas. Idris Elba seems destined to become the forever dream Bond, while Damien Lewis is a name that has come up with each new movie. There is also potential in the new direction offered by Tom Hiddleston or Michael Fassbender. One thing is for sure: there is no point in a leading man without a stage, and with the possibility of a film version of Carte Blanche already being raised, that stage might well include Bond BASE jumping from the Burj Khalifa or sharing an elegant meal overlooking at the Burj al Arab. After all, whoever plays Bond, what the cinema-going audience really want is to see him with the cars, the gadgets and the accommodating, martial-artist women – and the truth is that nowhere in the world is a better setting for that than Dubai. Carte Blanche was written by Jeffery Deaver and published by Hodder & Stoughton For more information visit: www.jefferydeaver.com and www.hodder.co.uk

plant, destroys his plane with a laser cannon, sits down for lunch with him and then suggests a duel on the beach. An average day in the life of 007… Sugar Loaf Mountain, Rio de Janeiro, Moonraker (1979)

The Greatest Bond Locations Words by BEN FOWLER

MENA has featured in several of the more recent Bond cinematic outings from Morocco in Spectre, to Turkey in Skyfall, these new frontiers offer a new world to the audience – and, as the following examples prove, an appearance in a Bond movie can elevate a location to an iconic new status… Ocho Rios, Jamaica, Dr No (1962) In one of cinema’s most famous scenes, Bond comes across the bikini-clad Honey Ryder (Ursula Andress) emerging from the sea on Crab Key Island, conch shell in hand. Fitting, as all Fleming’s novels were written in Jamaica at his Goldeneye estate. Ko Tapu, Phang Nga Bay, Phuket, Man with the Golden Gun (1974) Scaramanga’s island hideaway on Ko Tapu is now known as James Bond Island. Here, the hitman shows Bond his hidden solar power

Atop two cable cars, Bond battles the metalmouthed Jaws high above Rio de Janeiro’s Guanabara Bay, before sliding down the cable with astrophysicist Bond girl Holly Goodhead (Lois Chiles). Jaws bizarrely finds redemption (amazingly simply because he was hugely popular with kids at the time) after falling several hundred feet...and then in love with a Swiss girl. Lake Picchola, Udaipur, Octopussy (1983) Cunningly disguised in the world’s most unconvincing crocodile decoy, Roger Moore’s Bond swims up to the ‘floating palace’ - the lair of Fabergé egg-stealing Octopussy, populated only with attractive women. And fake-looking crocodiles, presumably. Paradise Island and Nassau, Thunderball (1965) Most famous for Bond’s rocket pack, Thunderball finds OO7 in pursuit of SPECTRE agent Emilio Largo. Paradise Island, in the Bahamas, becomes the backdrop for an epic game of poker and underwater scuba battle with Largo’s men. Venice and at the Hotel Cipriani, Casino Royale (2006) Mooring his yacht at Hotel Cipriani, Bond and Vespa make plans to get supplies before their escape. A fast-paced chase leads a radically different OO7 all through the city, into disused buildings and the waters of Venice.

Chartwell Journal

Fourteenth Edition

Petworth - Rich and varied history waiting to be discovered Words by GRACE SHEPPARD

Petworth is a picturesque market town nestled in the heart of the South Downs National Park, just over an hourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drive from London and only 30 minutes from the south coast. Petworth is not only an important centre for antiques, it also has much more to offer the visitor. Within the Petworth area is the famous National Trust Petworth House, open to the public every day. Petworth House is home to a wonderful collection of paintings including local scenes by JMW Turner, who worked and stayed here, and the extensive Petworth Park laid out by Capability Brown in the 18th century with its herds of roaming deer around the lakes.

ther attractions and events in Petworth include the charming Petworth Cottage Museum, the cultural highlight of the annual Petworth Summer Festival, the traditional Petworth Fete in the Park, and the Secret Gardens weekend â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the list is endless. There is also much to enjoy in the surrounding area too, including the grandeur of Arundel Castle, the delightful Elizabethan mansion and gardens at Parham House & Gardens and Weald & Downland Open Air Museum. Go horse or motor racing at Goodwood or have a relaxing game of golf at Cowdray Park. Whatever you

chose you will not be disappointed with your visit.With good connections to the rest of West Sussex and beyond, the nearest BR station is only 4.6 miles away at Pulborough and buses serve Chichester, Horsham, Midhurst and Worthing.

Health, Beauty and Fitensss

Where to go / What to do

Where to shop in Petworth

Angels and butterflies massage therapist

Goodwood racecourse - (Sporting events)

Augustus Brandt - (homeware shop)

Kay Howard healing therapies

Petworth house - (National trust and gardens)

Augustus Brandt Editions - (Furniture)

Pilates fitness West Sussex

Artful Teasing - (Skincare and Toiletries)

Walks in West Sussex - (South Downs) 4.

Antiquated Antiques - (Antique Furniture)

Retail Therapy - (Petworth is known for its unique retail therapy)

Carol Page Antiques - (Fine Linens)

Cowdray Polo Park

Chequers Antiques - (Silver, Glassware, China etc)

The Petworth park antiques and fine art fair

Decorum EST - (Marble, Natural stone, Glass, Precious stone)

House in the Country - (French country furniture)

The Hungry Guest - (Food shop- ‘’One of the best out of London’’- VOGUE)

10. Nigel Williams Silver - (Antique Silver) 11. Marks & Ayling - (Interiors in the heart of Petworth)

Eat and Drink 1.

The Hungry Guest cafe - (30 best places for Brunch in Britain)

The Leconfield Restaurant and Bar

The Star pub - (Family friendly ‘’Charming and Characterful’’)

Coco cafe and Sugar lounge - (Coffee and Nibbles)

Chartwell Journal

Fourteenth Edition

Celebrating The Qatar Goodwood Festival Words by GRACE SHEPPARD

July found Qatar hosting The Goodwood Festival, a showcase of British horseracing at its finest - enjoyed alongside an abundance of food, champagne and fresh strawberries. With over 200 years of history and experience, Goodwood Racecourse is the ultimate destination for racing and entertainment. Nestled amongst 12,000 acres of idyllic countryside, this beautiful course provides the perfect backdrop for a uniquely British affair.

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his would mark the second year of Qatari investment into the iconic Festival, formerly known as ‘Glorious Goodwood’. The five-day sports entertainment extravaganza taking included the Group 1 Qatar Sussex Stakes, which ran for prize money of £1 million, making it the richest and most significant mile races in the horse racing calendar. The benefits of the investment has already been seen in areas other than the horse racing, with wonderful infrastructural changes taking place. Improvements include the impressive new Owner’s and Trainer’s restaurant, where connections can celebrate their horse’s success.

Guests can also now enjoy a transformed Sussex Grandstand; improved betting facilities allow for a ‘flutter’ and winnings can be spent in the new Sussex Bar and Canteen, which provide much more room for guests to drink and socialise in a comfortable setting. Lord March, owner of the Goodwood Estate said; “The Qatar Goodwood Festival has been wonderful for the Racecourse. Qatar completely understands the significance of our rich history and totally gets what Goodwood means to the English summer season. To be racing at Goodwood and know you are seeing the best horses competing for the highest prizes adds hugely to the excitement and atmosphere of the festival – it’s all about being in the presence of the world’s best. It’s not only a very positive thing for Goodwood but also for the sport as a whole. This support from Qatar has raised the racing game in this country.”

Ladies take centre stage Notorious for being a stylish and sophisticated occasion, Goodwood’s guests embraced fashion in a relaxed atmosphere alongside the excitement of world-class racing. From flowing summery dresses and classic racing finery for the ladies, to panama hats and linen suits for the gentlemen, cool sophistication is definitely Goodwood’s distinctive style. Traditionally the most glamorous day, Ladies’ day combined sporting excellence with fashion in a unique way with the Magnolia Cup – a race in which high-profile ladies compete for the benefit of charity. The Magnolia Cup has raised well over £1million for a number of charities in the six years since it began, with Qatar Goodwood Festival 2016’s chosen charities being World Vision & Best Beginnings. Each year a new selection of talented amateur riders competes, wearing bespoke silks created by renowned fashion designers – who in the past have included the likes of Vivienne Westwood, Frost French and Beulah. The 2014 racing title was won by supermodel and former Ladies’ Day ambassador Edie Campbell and this year the ever-popular Magnolia Cup charity race returned with a new line-up of prominent designers and riders. Those present included

the Creative Director of Harvey Nichols, Shadi Haliwell, Capital Radio presenter and model Lilah Parsons and Bank of England COO Charlotte Hogg. In true English style, a spectacular show of hats took the spotlight this year, with Laylaleigh Johnson chosen as Goodwood’s preferred milliner. Laylaleigh created a unique Goodwood capsule collection inspired by and named after the historical ‘Ladies of Goodwood’. This Goodwood collection of millinery incorporated a special range of styles that represented the likes of Lady Charlotte, Lady Emily, Amy Ricardo and Hilda, Duchess of Richmond. Hats off to her! www.goodwood.com

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1508 London Founded in 2010, 1508 London has grown dramatically and for a design studio still in its infancy, it has made a remarkable impact with illustrious projects including a Regency duplex in Belgravia, a Victorian postal office which has been transformed with Corten steel and concrete, and a Grade II listed Georgian property.

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ver 40 talented individuals including interior designers and architects from around the world make up this multidisciplinary design practice creating the most exceptional interiors and architecture. Hamish Brown is one of four partners behind this luxury interior design studio. Here he discusses what makes 1508 London’s approach unique and what it means to be a luxury design collective.

What sets 1508 London apart from its competitors? I believe it is our team and the ethos behind 1508 London. We aim to bring together some of the industry’s most forward-thinking and creative minds and to ensure that the designs we create are never formulaic but are derived from measured principles. We are a team that believe you shouldn’t simply respond to the client’s brief but instead interpret their personality, the character of the property and its history and surroundings, and weave these elements together into a compelling design. The 1508 house principles are at the core of every scheme, resulting in a unique project portfolio of interiors with unparalleled detail and style.

Have there been particular highlights? We were extremely proud to be awarded Best London Interior at the UK property awards for Project Elizabeth. It is a converted Victorian postal office that is extremely modern, with a very industrial palette of Corten steel and concrete with minimalist furniture, which I believe illustrates how our designs always derive from our first principles.

What’s the next project you are working on? We’ve recently officially launched our hospitality division, so we’re looking forward to working on international hotels, bars and restaurants. We’ve already secured a prestigious project in the Middle East and are just about to complete a spa for one of London’s finest, and most loved hotels. We’re really looking forward to bringing the 1508 London design ethos to the hospitality sector. On the residential side, we continue to be incredibly lucky to have a lot of clients approaching us with exceptional projects. We’ve recently completed the show apartment for one of London’s most anticipated developments - Southbank Tower - and we are also working on a huge project in St. Petersburg with Squire and Partners. We have some amazing projects for private clients in Prime Central London, but unfortunately that’s all I can say!

What plans does 1508 London have to expand globally?

How do you source your products? We aim to work with the finest artisans where we can, and in particular those in London. We are always on the lookout for people who share our principles and our meticulous eye for detail and we have been lucky enough to work with some of London’s finest. We see each project as an opportunity to create something new, and it is always a pleasure to commission individuals and businesses that understand our passion for exceptional interiors.

How do you think the luxury sector is evolving? The design world has changed dramatically in recent years, and fast-paced, design studios like ours are now seen as a profitable investment, which also has the potential to grow globally. Investors understand that interior designers unlock the value of properties, and with a wellorganised studio infrastructure and efficient systems in place, they can generate high revenues in short periods of time.

We have a number of international projects going through the studio, particularly in the Middle East. We see that area as a very exciting opportunity for growth, and in particular Dubai. I believe Interior Design is a global business, which presents excellent business growth opportunities. Since 1508 started, the studio has grown rapidly and is flourishing, with excellent client relationships, an inspiring project portfolio and very ambitious plans for the future. Find out more about 1508 London and their work: www.1508london.com

Chartwell Journal

Hotel Grande Bretagne Words by ELIZABETH ATTEW

Hotel Grande Britagne

eparting London, you arrive in Athens just over 4hours later, a scenic route passing over Croatia. A 30minute car journey from Athens Airport, Hotel Grande Bretagne look forward to welcoming you. The hotel is quite simply a jewel of the city, a five star property boasting two terraces with 360 degree views over the city, a roof-top pool and world class spa. A hotel all should stay in, even if like us, your trip can only allow less than 24hours in the city. After a short, fabulous lunch by the pool with Valmont and before we had become acquainted with our boudoirs, which by the way they are, we were whisked off into the world of Valmont, a 80minute facial awaiting.

Treatment

confess to having only received one facial prior to this- I have good genes. I am also at an age where I have been advised to have just one per year; so I was in luck to be experiencing the new Valmont before almost anyone else in the world! The GB spa is one of the few locations globally where you will find Valmont. In London, the partner with The White Room, Knightsbridge. I like the thought of the product being so exclusively created that it has availability. Valmontâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ethos, a breath of fresh air for the skin would be an apt description of how my face and pores, felt post treatment. My London skin was reenergised and there was an immediate visual difference, a smoother, brighter defined tone. The Valmont underlying rose scent resting softly.

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Exploring Athens

ith just a short few hours to explore Athens, we checked into our rooms, freshened up and wandered out nearby in the city’s evening sun. I wish I had longer to enjoy the rain shower and inviting bath! The hotel’s location means that you are only a short walk from the city centre, restaurants, market and Acropolis. The Acropolis, stands so very proudly over Athens, architecturally beautiful, the craftsmanship is mind-boggling.

DETO2X Cream

hat evening, we were treated to a world exclusive, top secret presentation.

Step forward, Valmont’s DETO2X Cream - my staple- my new love. This pot of beauty- I know- was created as an anti-oxidant to the increased pollution and lack of pure oxygen our skin experiences. Arriving with its own brush, to ensure precise application, the cream has a bubbly texture until applied to the skin when it melts. It is quite heavenly. The secret ingredient? A Swiss Apple- Uttwiler Spätlauber- known for its remarkable properties of preservation.

DETO2X injects O2 into the heart of the cells, eliminates CO2 and promotes oxygen circulation and boosts cell removal.

Dinner at GB Roof Garden

Athens to Hydra

he hottest seats in town, they must be. The back drop featuring the Acropolis is a super romantic setting. After a day of pampering and sight-seeing, I couldn’t think of a better way to see out the day. We were treated to a superb starter of Greek Meze, main of Veal, desserts galore and very drinkable Greek wines. A real welcome to Greece. Each dish as memorable as the view. I will be back, if only for the Aubergine Salad!

ising with the sun, we had to return to the roof-top for that view of the Acropolis, again, even more beautiful with the seas sitting silently behind it. A fittingly a’la carte breakfast, juices and coffee before making our way by car, 40minutes to part two of our trip, one of the Saronic Islands, Hydra Island.

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Hydra

ydra is reached by a Hellenic Seaways boat, departing Piraeus port; just under a 90minute journey and you arrive in island bliss, donkeys waiting in the port to transport your luggage onward. Valmontâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural yet scientific approach to skincare is comparable to the island of Hydraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clean living ethos. Crystal clear waters, nature, fresh food and pollution free. We were staying at one of the recently renovated new hotels on the island, Hotel Hydroussa- regal in its setting and fabulously simple, in setting with the island. Before exploring the island, we lunched in the port, as you do. Meze and Octopus seemingly never ending. A perfect moment. A popular island, many tenders arrived into the port during our visit, from vessels moored nearby. Exploring the island, rustic beauty, minibeaches and enough diving spots to keep you entertained. The island looks out onto the most beautiful blue seas and neighbouring islands to the sound of island birds and summer glee. Making our way back to the hotel, in anticipation of sampling some of the Valmont body products and Aria de Mare Scent before visiting the recent Valmont Foundactionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exhibition on the island.

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The Exhibition

he Fondation Valmont this year hosted their second exhibition at the Historical Archives Museum of Hydra.

Where art meets beauty, a celebration of light and dark. A collection of pieces from the personal collection of Didier Guillon and from rising stars; the contrast of dark and light created and felt so intensely.

Dinner at Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Milos

nother romantic setting, still waters, black skies lit by the moon in one of the islands most popular restaurants, Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Milos. We enjoyed a selection of starters and then a classic dish of baked fish and vegetables. www.boutiquevalmont.com

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Bridging the Distance Avoiding Cultural Misunderstandings Words by BEN FOWLER

The world of business is so small today that it brings to mind the saying that the biggest distance between two people is misunderstanding. As The Chartwell Group takes steps into UAE, it should be remembered that despite the architectural familiarity of Dubai, we enter a cultural landscape very different to our own, with unique customs and social cues – and as in any professional relationship your client’s perception will be your reality…

he recent plight of an American oil rig supervisor in Indonesia provides an extreme illustration of cross-cultural misunderstandings. Advised of the need to be firm with his new crew, while unaware that this excluded the kind of public berating unthinkable to an Indonesian, he shouted at an employee to take a boat to shore in a rather aggressive manner. In the ensuing chaos, a mob of outraged co-workers armed themselves with axes and chased the shocked supervisor around the rig. While an unlikely event to be recreated it does highlight that behaviours are context sensitive, and that by learning these sensitivities we are more likely to stay ahead of the mob. Quite literally, it would seem. The UAE market is highly attractive to a foreign business; thriving with opportunity in a stable, safe environment - with little to no crime or corruption. This infers much about the Emirates unique cultural identity; for while English is recognised as the language for business in many Emirates, the mentality behind that language is quite different. The Geert-Hofstede analysis of UAE found that many aspects of its society are almost identical to other Arabic countries - most notably that Muslim faith plays a large part in their daily lives, enormously greater than religion does for the majority of Europeans. UAE however is distinguished by two large scores for power

distance and uncertainty avoidance. This manifests itself in several ways that are of interest. Firstly, it is accepted that leaders separate themselves from the group and issue complete and specific directives. Their absolute authority is not subverted, but accepted as part of a cultural heritage. In a meeting you may find the person who talks the most is the least important – the decision maker will play the role of silent observer. An interesting piece of advice is that silences in such meetings are not considered uncomfortable and one shouldn’t feel the need to fill them without risking your perceived authority. Secondly, a low tolerance for uncertainty has garnered a high societal need for rules, laws and regulations to eliminate the unpredictable. As such they have cultural tendencies resistant to change and highly averse to risk. Combined with a high collectivist score, we find a society where loyalty is paramount and often overrides other behaviour patterns. What this means for business relationships is that each encounter is a step forward in building a long-enduring relationship based upon trust. Hospitality is a large part of engendering such a relationship, playing a significant role in their culture. Time is fluid in the Middle East, unlike the UK time is not correlated with money, nor punctuality with professionalism…and as such business is freely mixed with pleasure. We

may consider being kept waiting in terms of how much money we are losing – they simply do not…so be prepared to be kept waiting for a meeting or interrupted as your host takes a personal call. Learning to understand this interrelationship can be crucial, being aware not to reject hospitality when offered in a business setting – refusing coffee or refreshment may be considered offhand or rude. We are often perceived by Arabian cultures as being “all business and no ceremony.”

in a meeting can cause unexpected offence. Similarly try not to beckon or point with a finger - this too can be construed as offensive… although to complicate matters the thumbs up gesture can as well. Remember that the left hand is considered unclean and reserved for hygiene – so give and receive exclusively with the right hand. If at this point are wondering what to do with your hands, males may feel free to hold the hand of their nearest male co-worker – this is considered a sign of bond and trust.

This legendary sensitivity to the sincerity of hospitality requires the unlearning our own predilection for small talk. When we ask “how are you?” it is merely to receive the reply “I’m fine.” An Emirati will only ask you the same question when expecting the answer to be in earnest - so choose your conversation with care. A colleague once told me of an incident in an Emirate where he absent-mindedly complimented an ornament in an office, awkwardly leading to his host feeling obligated to presenting it to him as a gift…

That seems an unexpectedly suitable image to draw our conclusions – traversing cultural difference is all about building bonds and trust. These conventions can certainly feel intimidating, but remember the lessons learnt by our American Rig worker; cultural etiquette may be difficult to manage – but a mob of his axe-wielding colleagues proved considerably more so…

Advice on greetings leads us to the potential minefield of gender context. While it is perfectly acceptable to ask an Emirati businessman about the health of his family – it is not of his wife’s. Handshakes are just as gendersensitive, due to religious reasons many Muslim women are uncomfortable shaking a man’s hand and vice versa, the best advice is to let the host lead the way – wait for a hand to be offered rather than extend your own. To further complicate matters, such handshakes are noticeably gentler than in western cultures where a firm handshake is considered a sign of trustworthiness. Even in Dubai, the most liberal Emirate, visitors are expected to dress to local standards of modesty. This can vary from Emirate to Emirate, although dress considered appropriate for business is jacket and tie for men; with women preferably dressed conservatively, with high necklines and sleeves at least to the elbows. This is something of an unspoken expectation and as such can prove confusing - whilst researching this article, for example, I kept running into the vaguely humorous definition of “baggy concealment”. In general, it is best to adhere to a standard of mild conservatism. Body language is the last, and probably easiest of our considerations – consisting mostly of definable “don’ts”. When letting your hands do the talking, be aware of what they are saying. For instance, revealing the sole of your shoe is an insulting gesture, so crossing your legs

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Catch, Dubai Words by BEN FOWLER

With an aesthetic that brings a slice of the Big Apple to Fairmont Dubai, Catch is a contemporary restaurant that successfully fuses great food, mixology and service to create the kind of exceptional ambience so essential to the modern dining experience.

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ubai is a nothing if not a meltingpot, a hub where the tradition of the East opens its doors to the influence of cultures from the world over – while retaining a unique identity if its own. Representative of this, although Catch is influenced by a myriad of regional cuisines, there is an overarching sense of direction, a philosophy of incorporating culinary cultures that showcase seafood. The Catch experience is exciting, social and vibrant, with a staggered, shareable approach to dining that caters to the varied palates of an international and well-heeled clientele. With courses renowned for elevating classic dishes into contemporary new renditions, the menu includes the tableside-torched Catch Roll, Bourbon-Miso Sea Bass Lettuce “Wraps” and the Gold label Wagyu Beef Surf n’ Turf Skewers as well as the heady heights of The Burj Waffle.

Boasting one of the most creative and original cocktail menus to be found in Dubai, the bar is coloured by a unique line-up of visually appealing and distinctively crafted concoctions. Handcrafted with precision by a highly entertaining and talented bar team, drinks like the Hook, Line and Sinker or the Persephone are the perfect way to start an evening to remember. Priding themselves on providing the most sophisticated level of dining while at the same time not forgetting those rustic New York roots, Catch Dubai creates a fresh, new scene of its own. With an incredible playlist, fused with the live atmosphere of our guests, we discover a vibe of urban sociability - a shareable, interactive hangout with the perfect balance between dining and nightlife. Undeniably cool, stylish and hipster - now that’s how you bring a little piece of New York to the Middle East. for bookings please visit: www.catch.ae

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Exploring Israel’s First Wine Village Words by BEN FOWLER

From Cape Town to Gloucestershire, The Chartwell Journal prides itself on showcasing the vineyards that you may not have heard of – but should most definitely be talking about. Our most recent edition found our dedicated team sampling the best of British wines, discovering a thriving new market with some excellent sparkling whites and roses. I know, it’s a tough job but someone has to do it...

ontinuing our exploration into new frontiers, our next challenge was to uncover similar gems in the Middle East. Whilst this may at first seem an improbable mission, it soon became apparent that we had found an overlooked region of considerable pedigree. Fast becoming a favourite topic of conversation among the world’s top connoisseurs, Israel is an unlikely hero of viticulture. For a country with scarce farm land, the Holy Land nonetheless produces some highest-level merlots and sauvignons.

Once, recommendation of Israel wines was mostly of a sentimental nature. That is no longer necessary. Frank Prial, New York Times Since the modernisation of Israel’s wineries during the 1980s - inspired by contemporary French and US techniques - the region’s wines have been steadily improving. There are now more than 300 wineries in an industry that boasts some superb examples of modern wine expertise integrated into significant national technological and agricultural prowess. These enterprises range from small boutique to large-scale commercial production plants. Sales of Israeli wines stand at £215 million per year, with £20 million worth of wine exported annually to the US and Europe. The biggest

leap forward for the industry, however, has been in the boutique marketplace. Over the past twenty years, the number of boutiques has grown from a mere 7 to well over 250. The personalisation and story-telling of such ventures adds depth to the character of a nation’s wines, a sense of the dreams and passion that went into their creation. In celebration of this, our showcase for the MENA edition of the Journal concerns the best insight into boutique wineries in Israel, the pioneering Assaf Winery at Golan Heights - the first Israeli “wine village.” Located in the north of Israel, the Assaf Winery grows Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Pinotage, Chenin Blanc and Zinfandel over more than 11 acres. This location is crucial to the quality of the wine produced; the altitude, and the cool, dry climate of the Golan combine with rich volcanic soils. As with any great winery, this perfect blend of terroir and conditions is what make Assaf so successful. Producing over 50,000 bottles a year, the estate winery is owned by the Kedem family. A personal touch is ensured by winemaker Assaf Kedem, who harvests each vineyard separately – and by hand – to maintain strict quality control over every cluster. Above all this is a family business - and one that has developed firm roots - the first vines were planted in 1990 with a first harvest in 1997. The Kedem family noticed the growing trend of the boutique experience before any of their peers, establishing the Kedem Wine Village in 2012. The village allows guests to enjoy the full “Assaf” experience; from the winery itself to the intimacy of the AdiKa Caffe and beautiful cabin lodgings.

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From Cape Town to Gloucestershire, our journeys into the often unexpected side of viticulture have led us to one conclusion; to one commonality. Wherever in the world we find these hidden gems, in whatever soil they have grown, and whichever rains have nourished them, it is in the love and passion imbued into them by their makers that they find kinship. The magic of the Assaf Village is that this is felt throughout, threaded into the experience from soil to winery…and to the first taste of their extraordinary wines. Chartwell Recommends… Assaf Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, 2009 A dry red wine made of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc and aged for 18 months in oak barrels, this Reserve is truly representative of The Assaf Winery. Characteristic of the unique personal attention lavished upon all of their wines the grapes were hand-harvested from two separate and distinct plots tailor-made for each variety. It presents aromas and tones of rich black fruit, cherry and eucalyptus, subtly balanced with a refreshing touch of mint. A testament to the philosophy of the Kedem family – the time and care they invest clearly present from aroma to finish. for more information please visit: www.assafwinery.com

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Mayfair Office Girl Words by ELIZABETH ATTEW

Dubai. An almost new world, to the Western society. It is the new destination spot which international Mayfair retailers are keen to be a part of. Mayfair, of course is the aspirational location where one wishes to visit and to be seen.

de GRISOGONO recently opened a new flagship store on New Bond Street, the concept was developed by de GRISOGONO founder Fawaz Grousi in collaboration with London interior architecture practice David Collins Studio. The store houses three salons, The Corte, The Stanza Del Tempo and The Grand Sala; beautifully lavished in dark walnut, pistachio coloured silk and personally curated works. The store is set to be a showcase for future stores in the UAE region.

Raymond Blanc Cookery School Just an hour away from Mayfair, sits the world renowned Belmond Le Manoir Aux Quat’Saisons, created by Raymond Blanc OBE, it has held its two Michelin stars since it was awarded them in 1985, just a year after opening. In early 2016, Raymond Blanc Cookery School was re-launched. The school hosts several masterclasses throughout the month, with the occasional children’s course. I recently visited and took part in the Let’s Cook three hour course and left feeling much more confident in the kitchen. I am sure that many of the tips and recipes will remain in my repertoire for many years to come. Braised Brill, Wild Mushroom Risotto & Grand Marnier Souffle. Further information can be found by visiting their website, www.belmond.com

Acqua di Parma Oud Long famed for their Italian scents, Acqua di Parma have reached for a more intense scent of through citrus fruits, spices and precious woods. Well defined notes of Calabrian Bergamot, Agarwood oil, Cedarwood Atlas oil and Leather accord, make this scent intensely masculine. Created with the Middle East market in-mind, this is sure to a cologne of the season. Available in travel size too, I Don’t travel without it.

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From Dubai to Mayfair

From Mayfair to Dubai

Where to be dine: The classic seafood restaurant, Scott’s restaurant on Mount Street followed by a little retail therapy in nearby Celine, Simone Rocha and Georg Jensen

Where to be seen: The recently launched bar, The Little Black Door, the soon to be open Nikki Beach Resort and Mayfair’s Mahiki.

Where to be seen: The many arcades of Mayfair, filled with independent, international boutiques and the galleries in the Bond Street area.

Where to hide: Get lost and let your imagination lead you through Souk Al Bahar Where to dine: Zuma & La Petite Maison are always favourites

Where to indulge: The Dorchester Hotel, arrive for Afternoon Tea and spend your afternoon people watching Where to stay: Kipling Suite at Brown’s Hotel, The Kipling Suite is the first of Forte Suites to be unveiled by Rocco Forte Hotels part of a newly launched Rocco Forte Suite Experience programme. The suite features floor-to-ceiling windows throughout, with views over Albemarle Street.

www.mayfairofficegirl.com

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Treatments that Visibly Transform Words by GRACE SHEPPARD

Margaret Dabbs, has a simple, holistic philosophy that visibly transforms – hand and foot care that is both luxurious and provides results. Having established herself with expert manicure and pedicure treatment protocols, the treatments are performed at luxury hotels and spas around the world, and her products are sold at some of the most premium and respected retailers globally.

argaret Dabbs is a pioneering podiatrist with a passion for hand and foot care – treating both men and women. Margaret’s philosophy acknowledges that hands and feet are extremely important to everyday life, your look and well-being – and as such deserve to be treated with respect. From founding her first foot clinic in Harley Street, Central London in 1998, she has gone on to create award winning foot clinics with nail spas across the UK and internationally. With insight and innovative ideas, Margaret Dabbs introduced the now renowned Medical Pedicure and went on to personally craft her own line of award-winning products for use in her clinics. The Medical Pedicure treatment is carried out by a professional podiatrists, giving your feet a thorough overhaul and addresses all aspect of foot health within 45 minutes. The pedicure is performed on a dry foot to ensure exceptionally long lasting results and uses the award winning Margaret Dabbs product range. It is hugely liberating, delivering instant and long lasting results for visibly healthy feet, which look and feel ten years younger, popular with both men and women, this is a must for a healthy sole. Margaret felt there was a gap in the market and designed solutions to provide results driven treatments and product ranges. In other words, using both beauty and specialist treatments alongside formulated products - there will always be a need for patients to be provided with solutions that make a visible difference. This innovative fusion of beauty and health for the hands and feet transformed the market – not only were the products beautifying, anti-ageing and luxurious but also

exceptionally effective on a treatment level. With a dedicated team of nail professions and her skilled podiatrist, Margaret incorporated her techniques and training into specialist manicures and pedicures providing exceptional results. And the award-winning products have become integral to these treatments. February 2013 saw Margaret Dabbs venture out of London for the first time and into Level Shoe District, Dubai Mall, Dubai UAE. The 96.000-square-foot of shoe frenzy is the perfect fit for the Margaret Dabbs Sole Lounge for men and women. With over 300 designers and 40 shoe boutiques offering luxurious and bespoke collections, the Margaret Dabbs Sole Lounge offers foot therapy with a difference. Margaret Dabbs London now consists of 5 Clinics in the UK and one in Dubai, with another 2 set to open in the very near future. At the heart of the business is Margaret herself who as the founder has guided the business and infused her own philosophy and beliefs into all of our products and treatments. She alone has put hands and feet back where they belong – at the forefront of the beauty industry. www.margaretdabbs.co.uk

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D3 - Designers, Artists and Creative Thinkers Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Design District Words by GRACE SHEPPARD

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As Dubai continues to grow, new developments such as d3 are being built using the ‘smart city’ principles. Offering digital connectivity to enhance people’s experience during events, cultural activities, and to ensure accessibility and safety for everyone using the location. Just three minutes from Downtown Dubai and The Dubai Mall’s, six minutes from the Dubai International Financial Centre, 15 minutes from the Dubai International Airport,18 minutes from the city’s Dubai Media City and Dubai Internet clusters, d3 is incredibly easy to access

ince d3’s announcement in 2013 over 220 businesses signed up to the project. To ensure that d3 provides the right facilities and infrastructure to both international brands and emerging regional designers, d3 held focus groups with prominent industry figures to allow the people that know the industry best – the experts – to add value into the project’s physical development from the outset. An interconnected master plan was formed, elements of fashion and design such as weaving, transparency, bold lines, and expressive symbolism. The d3 site offers residential, commercial, retail and hospitality real estate, characterised by distinct public spaces, unique street furniture and shaded walkways. The development will include a creek

side promenade with international and boutique hotels, a pop up shop area, amphitheatre and convention centre. Innovation is a key part of the d3 concept. Not just in the strategy of developing an entire design community from scratch, but also in the conceptual design of the project. There are a number of architectural elements that will be unique in Dubai and indeed, across the MENA region. The vision is not just to create innovative space for designers and retail outlets, but to come up with a way of allowing emerging regional designers sit alongside internationally leading brands to create an ecosystem thriving on creativity. The master plan ensures that d3 leverages the cluster effect, appealing to creative nomads allowing a true community to develop and making the most of the natural features of the site.

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d3 is not only a place where designers will have their studios and workshops, but rather a true design community where we can share projects and inspire each other on local, regional and international levels. By evolving into a true community, d3 is push in designers to achieve more and be part of a greater vision. Nadine Kanso Founder of Bil Arabi

for an on-shore licence to trade. This allows companies that ability to export and import their products and supplies easily through the newly established MoU with Dubai Customs. In providing both options, d3 is helping the design industry to build a sustainable industry, one that is self-sufficient and provides easy access to relevant government services.

With a dynamic and thriving creative scene in Dubai steps are being taken to grow the potential. In order to be credited as a genuine fashion hub, d3 must showcase the global designers who have emerged from the region. The core objective is to act as a catalyst for growth of businesses and people through a deep understanding of the needs of industry. d3 is a free zone - creative partners can enjoy the benefits of a license that provides 100% ownership, tax free status, and the ability to fully repatriate profits and capital. Unique in the UAE in that also offer the option to apply

Phase One of the project was completed in 2015. Phase 2 will focus on d3â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Creative Community which will come online by 2017 and Phase 3 will include the launch of the waterfront (the Creekside promenade) which will comprise of design-led hotels, unique cafĂŠâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and restaurants and boutique retail outlets. This will be live by 2019. www.dubaidesigndistrict.com

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Mohammad Saeed Al-Shehhi Chief Operating Officer, Dubai Design District (d3)

Mohammad Saeed Al-Shehhi is the Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Design District, also known as d3, the region’s first community dedicated to the design industry.

rior to d3, Mohammad held a number of prominent roles within the broadcast sector. In 2008 he was appointed was Deputy CEO at DMI where he was responsible for developing the organisation’s corporate strategy and analysing operational and performance efficiencies. Mohammad also launched the first DMI native HD channels, developed DMI’s state of the art technical infrastructure and led DMI’s digital offering. Prior to this, Mohammad was Senior Director of Broadcast Services at du, where he managed the telecommunications company’s strategy and growth plans for the broadcast divisions achieving year on year growth of 24%

and expanding the growth of du’s media and broadcast services regionally. Mohammad holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from the American University of Sharjah, and a Master’s degree in Digital Wireless Communications from the University of Leeds. Mohammad is a graduate of EDAAD as well as the Young Arab Leaders programmes. He was also voted amongst the most influential people in the Middle East in Digital Media.

We’ll build a city dedicated to support entrepreneurs in Dubai. I invite the creative Arab youth to join the march of innovation & entrepreneurship

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Defining Luxury: The Burj al Arab Words by BEN FOWLER

Defining luxury can be a little tricky; and all too quickly today’s careful cultured opulence can become tomorrow’s pedestrian. The transience of luxury is perhaps best understood in terms of exclusivity; take any trend in cuisine or technology – the moment it becomes widely accessible the sheen of luxury dims to the eye of the elite. So the question facing The Chartwell Group becomes how to avoid this almost inbuilt obsolescence? Looking towards MENA we may find some answers. Incredibly, against a skyline dominated by architectural wonder, the Burj al Arab, Dubai is still considered the most luxurious hotel in the world over 18 years after first opening its doors. Let us take a tour that demonstrates an unrivalled attention to detail – and in a fast moving world perhaps no luxury endures like attention.

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To achieve such symbolism throughout the hotel, Khuan Chew, of KCA International, drew inspiration for the interiors from the land, transforming the desert’s nomadic traditions into an iconography of new prosperity. The robust, vibrant colour palette is an homage to the elements; earth, air, fire and water. These themes are augmented by spectacular fire displays and flowing waterfalls. At the Cascade Waterfall, for example, finely atomised water interplays with fibre optics to produce a unique kaleidoscope effect – the water and fog arcing elegantly in choreographed movement. Inside and out, the layout meticulously incorporates the ancient and revered traditions of hospitality and luxury so particular to the Arabic nations. Executing the design was no small feat – and it’s cost certainly not for the faint of heart. The rarest Statutario marble – as used by Michelangelo for his masterpiece sculptures was used for all walls and flooring. With over 30 different types being used throughout the entire hotel, this amounts to nearly 24,000 square metres. As is usual with such a megastructure the statistics can become as dizzying as their scale – for instance over 40.000 square metres of glass was used for the interiors alone. Perhaps the most evocative image is that of a hotel where the corridors are, quite literally, paved with gold – with almost 2,000 square metres of 24-carat gold leaf embellishing the interior walkways.

he philosophy is clear from the onset, although the striking sail-design hotel has been widely described as a “seven-star” property, the hotel neither encourages its use nor use it in their advertising. The legend goes that an unnamed British journalist first used the moniker – and, although flattered, the Burj al Arab has always sought a standard beyond classification. Visible from almost everywhere in the city, it was intended to be an icon of Dubai, reflective of the extravagance of Arabic traditions of hospitality - a beacon to light the city’s future.

Natural curiosity draws the imagination to the most exclusive suites in the world – to the two regally appointed Royal Suites that span the entire 25th floor. That’s a staggering 780 square metres each. The grand entrance door of each suite leads to a magnificent hall of marble, where a gold pillared staircase invites guests to the upper level – which is essentially divided into two sections…one to suit a man’s taste, and

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the other for a woman’s. The fittingly palatial surroundings provide a private elevator between the two levels…and also a private cinema, private library, four-poster rotating canopy bed and a sumptuous Majlis area for entertaining guests. The dressing room alone is larger than the average hotel room… But if luxury was as simply defined as the size of a dressing room, the longevity of the al Arab would not be possible – the devil, as they say, is in the details…Every suite in the hotel benefits from a range of unique first-class flourishes that no other hotel has been able to replicate. From an extensive selection of complimentary Hermès amenities to the famous pillow menu of 17 options - including some for children. In addition to the 24-hour private dining service, guests are able to coordinate with the Executive Chef himself to create a personalised menu for a romantic dinner or even for a party to be served in the intimate opulence of a private suite. Perhaps above all else, this type of personalised service is the signature of Burj Al Arab; each floor features a dedicated reception with checkin conducted in the privacy of the individual suite. Not only are there butlers in attendance 24 hours a day to address the needs of each guest, but also around 1,600 other colleagues making the staff-to-suite ratio 8:1…one of the highest ratios in the world. The hotel boasts one of the world’s largest fleet of Rolls Royces available for guests’ transfers to the airport or around Dubai, having arrived in such style they are met by The Marhaba Welcome – perhaps the epitome of true Arabian hospitality… offering guests rose water, refreshing cold towels, dates, Bakhoor and authentic Arabic coffee upon arrival. The Burj al Arab has sustained a reputation as the world’s most luxurious hotel for almost two decades. This seems an impossible accomplishment in a world of constant progression - where one can be tricked into mistaking novelty for luxury. But as this extraordinary hotel has proven, luxury is in each detail…and that it is from attention to the smallest of these details that big things happen - and they don’t come much bigger than the Burj al Arab. For more details and reservation visit: www.jumeirah.com/en/hotels-resorts/dubai/ burj-al-arab

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The Secrets of Seven Star Success

There are 29,000 Swarovski crystals in the ceiling of Junsui Lounge…designed in the shape of the Milky Way no less. Every year, the restaurants use 10 tons of chocolate, that’s about 17 000 mars bars. The new ones…they’re lighter…but still… Every female member of the front office and greeting desk Team wears bespoke, gold earrings and necklace pendants, in the shape of Burj Al Arab logo. The female shark living in the aquarium of Al Mahara has experienced four straight years of ‘virgin births’ - a feat never before documented among sharks. Or most other animals. It takes one full month, 19 people, plus the rope access team to clean the windows of the whole building. There are a total of 27 phones in each of the Royal Suites, guests are also supplied with 24carat gold iPads upon check-in, which serve as the “virtual concierge.” It takes a mere 1080 steps to reach the highest suites on the 27th floor – it is, of course, easier to hire one of the hotel’s helicopters.

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Welcome Dana & Jos Words by GRACE SHEPPARD

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riginally from Wales, Jos, joins the Chartwell Group in a dual creative and project managerial role after spending several years within the high end world of luxury residential design. Holding an Architecture degree from Newcastle University, Jos has taken his knowledge of developing strong conceptual ideas and creative solutions from the studios to the construction sites, where he carries out a more hands on approach overseeing operational and managerial tasks to ensure a well-run and efficient project.

ana grew up in a sleepy town nestled in a green valley among the rolling hills of the Western Carpathian Mountains. She enjoyed a peaceful childhood and teen years dreaming about bright city lights. She set off to London straight after graduating from The Academy of Commerce in Slovakia as an accountant. Having always been attracted to the creative industry and not finding personal satisfaction working as an accountant or an administrator, she decided to change her direction completely. Dana graduated from Middlesex University with First Class Hons in Interior Architecture and Design. After working in a small Interior design studio where she had a chance to work on some very trendy London properties and later working as a designer in a busy showroom in London, she landed a role working for Chartwell. Under the watchful eye of renowned interior designer Alan James Beake, she grew in confidence, working on some very prestigious projects as an Interior designer, CAD technician and a Graphic designer. Being a keen designer with a real passion and dedication to her work, Dana has proven to be a great asset to the Chartwell group family as she isn’t afraid to turn her hand to any task.

Starting in London at luxury aquarium design company, Aquarium Architecture, Jos’ eyes were opened to the world of international design and HNWI where he designed, supplied and installed aquaria into some of the world’s most luxurious residences. From the heart of London, to Lagos and New York he provided unrivalled turn-key solutions to all manner of challenging briefs for his clients, often exceeding their expectations. After being exposed to and working alongside many prestigious architects, designers and contractors Jos returned to his love of architecture and interiors at Interna where he further honed his design and managerial skills in some of London’s most desirable properties before joining Chartwell in late 2015. Combining his love of design with his determination, attention to detail and clear organisation skills, Jos now works alongside the Chartwell team to ensure all London projects are fulfilled to the highest standard.

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From Dubai to Doha: A Year in MENA Design Words by BEN FOWLER

Drawing fresh inspiration from the year’s most striking interior designs from the region. Over the following pages we profile some outstanding interiors from across MENA, where, from the refined to the extraordinary, we find a showcase of design diversity...

The InterContinetal Hotel, Dubai by DrawLink Group

ith an intriguing design brief, the long waited InterContinental on the Dubai Marina works as a successful blend of two distinct - potentially disparate - concepts. With design furniture and bespoke art pieces scattered around, the unique lobby area is effectively an open-space exhibition; a gallery hotel. The intention was to create a hotel for those who prefer to “live in” rather than to “stay at”, the design was realised by DrawLink Group, who created a contemporary museum atmosphere by an integration of statement artwork throughout the interior of the hotel.

With bold pieces - from enormous sculptures to subtle engravings - positioned unexpectedly, yet integrally, art becomes a subtle, surprising method of helping guests navigate through the hotel. For bookings visit: www.ihg.com Design by: www.drawlinkgroup.com

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Cafe No. 57, Abu Dhabi by Anarchitect

wo years ago, two female Emirati entrepreneurs caused a social media frenzy with an underground eatery sensation – the pop-up fusion food experience known as The Dinner Club No.57. Wanting to extend this enterprise, creators Buthaina Al Mazrui and Alamira Noor Bani Hashim charged design firm Anarchitect with the challenge of distilling the creativity and flare found at each surprise location into No.57’s first permanent home. To achieve this a simple and refined palette was used, based around three natural materials – stone, wood and metal. Preserving the original philosophy of The Dinner Club, a secret dining room was incorporated, hidden behind bookshelves this is only accessible to guests who have received a personal invitation.

For more information visit: www.no57.co Design by: www.anarchitect.com

Chartwell Journal

Fairmont Hotel, Ajman by GAJ

jman is the smallest of the seven emirates within the UAE, but it is as proud of its cultural heritage as any of its larger neighbours. For the newly opened Fairmont Hotel, GAJ brought together contemporary flair and Middle Eastern influences. The traditional geometric patterns found in Arabian architecture is a consistent theme throughout hotels and resorts in the Middle East. Reference to this traditional style has been introduced throughout the Fairmont where textured patterns are applied. An expansive lobby lounge is decorated with a glass beaded ceiling installation, which hangs as a tribute to the local fishing industry. This installation is enhanced by a bespoke carpet, manufactured by a local company called United Carpets, which together with the furnishings merge into the various blue shades of the Arabian sea.

For bookings visit: www.fairmont.com Design by: www.gaj-uae.ae

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The Catch restaurant, Dubai by Creative Clinic

he streets of New York have inspired film, music and literature with a distinct mood and vibe - an energy that Dubai shares an affinity with. To successfully import such a unique ambience would be a challenge to any design team - with Creative Clinic managing that elusive perfect distillation. That New York kind of mood. Inspired by the Catch NYC, a flagship venue in a trendsetting area known as Manhattanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Meatpacking District, the Dubai branch captures the same industrial feel through specific design choices. Concrete, brick, copper are detailed with large bronze pillars, gothic fans and geometric flooring. The main dining room incorporates tufted leather chocolate brown booths, coloured with orange, yellow and turquoise details throughout the space. A sense of urban vitality is ensured by a reflective corridor and large faceted mirrors.

For more information visit: www.catch.ae Design by: www.thecreativeclinic.com

Chartwell Journal

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The Cocktail Kitchen, Dubai by Anarchitect

uccessfully conceptualising a space for a client will often require an understanding of their philosophy. True hospitality is at the heart of the Cocktail Kitchen. Here, guests experience the knid of welcome that theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d expect from family, from friends, from home. Anarchitect wanted to design a sequence of spaces that would facilitate this; maximizing social interaction as part of the overall experience. A refined material palette of stone, metal and wood combine to reflect a playfulness crucial to the project. References to kitchen chopping

boards (larch parquet), mixologist tools (copper) and natural ingredients (Ivy print wall) instill the humor and personality at the essence of the Cocktail Kitchen. These details are intended to reveal themselves subtly; perhaps unnoticed until second or third visits. Philosophy and concept; the Kitchen wants to you to get to know you - after all, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re friends of the house. For more information contact: www.cocktailkitchen.com Design by: www.anarchitect.com

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The Fast and The Luxurious Words by BEN FOWLER

The summer of 2013 was an interesting time of recovery for Dubai, both financial and promotional. As the city launched a campaign to land Expo 2020, it was faced with something of an image crisis. Global economic collapse had altered the international perception of Dubai’s opulence, and ahead lay the challenge of demonstrating that it has recovered from its debt crisis. The ruling family’s vision for Dubai has always been that of a millionaire’s playground – with that philosophy in mind the question really being asked was how does a millionaire project wealth and success? One answer was pretty simple – they buy a very expensive sports car.

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nter the city’s police chief, Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, one of the more public relations-aware officials of the region. He was having to catch-up with some of the side-effects of building such a playground – among them an abundance of supercars effectively mistaking their daily drives upon Dubai’s roads for the scenes shot there for The Fast and the Furious 7. His solution to both problems was a move that would lead to the Dubai Police gaining massive social media popularity – by building the most incredible fleet of police cars in the world.

the most extraordinary police vehicle in the world. At the time valued at £360,000, the supercar has a top speed of 217 mph and can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 2.9 seconds. Perhaps keen not to show favouritism, they would follow this with the addition of a Ferrari. With the ‘wow’ factor of the sleek Aventador already on the roads, something a bit more practical was chosen. After all, despite the relief of an arresting officer to know that their red leather interiors will remain unspoilt, the lack of rear seats in their Lamborghini made detaining suspects rather tricky.

In April 2013, the Dubai police force acquired a Lamborghini Aventador, immediately becoming

The four-wheel drive Ferrari FF was the fastest four seat car in the world when it debuted on

the Dubai streets, and was given cosmopolitan appeal by first being crewed by a female officer. Following the sight of a Lamborghini and a Ferrari dressed up in the Dubai Police uniform, the news that they were being joined by a McLaren MP4-12C, Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG and a Bentley Continental GT didn’t shock anybody. No-one even found it necessary to report that the Bentley was the W12 model,

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have become synonymous with. The supercars soon demonstrated a mesmerizing effect upon tourists, and as several YouTube videos have shown, on those arrested for speeding too – with perpetrators pausing to take pictures of the arresting vehicles before being handed their fines. When Lamborghini handed over a Huracán LP 610-4 to the Italian State Police in 2014, the jealousy of the world’s traffic police may have flared up again. Unfortunately for them, there is not much hope that they too may receive their own supercar fleet. This is because the Dubai police force differs to, say, their British counterparts in one very significant way. Not the subject of personal taxation, the people of Dubai did not feel they had paid for the Aston Martin themselves… images courtesy of Marcin Wojciechowski

rather than the V8. At this point it just seemed a given… Every squad needs a commander, even a squad of supercars, and filling this position would require a car that, incredibly, would cost more than the aforementioned four combined. The Dubai Police would next welcome one of the seventy-seven manufactured units of the Aston Martin One-77. Considered a masterpiece of art, and awarded with several internationally renowned design awards, the One-77 reportedly cost £1,150,000. After this, the Chevrolet Camaro SS that followed might have seemed like an attempt at economising, but having been showcased in The Transformers movie, was one of the most recognisable supercars in the world at the time. Although capable of reaching 157mph, it would easily be left behind by the most recent addition – a Bugatti Veyron, the fastest production car in the world with a recorded speed of 253 mph. The task of creating the world’s most expensive police uniforms fell to a company based in the Au Quoz industrial area, Sixty Seven Auto Services. While most of the superfleet were supplied in white, requiring specialised green foiling exported from the US, the Aston Martin One-77 required special treatment. The car left the factory dressed in silver, and so required a complete make-over. Each vehicle was then installed with the latest in law enforcement technology and equipment – after all, if you’re going to attach flashing lights on a One-77 they had better be the best money can buy.

Dressed and ready for duty, this collection of some of the most exotic cars in the world, would prove an effective display of financial force, a statement akin to the Burj Kalifa or Palm Jumeirah. In practice, the fleet wouldn’t be used for hot pursuits - they are presumably too expensive to risk - but rather for patrolling touristic areas around the city. Cruising past the Dubai Mall and the Burj Al Arab as an extension of the luxury that these landmarks

Chartwell Journal

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hartwell Media Celebrated the Best of British Issue Launch and 5 year Anniversary at the prestigious Linley showroom in Belgravia late last year.

The evening saw well-heeled clients and associates of Chartwell gather at the exclusive Belgravia store Linley. The celebration ran with a British theme to celebrate the latest edition of the Chartwell Journal. The evenings partnered with Marshall Murray Gallery, who provided stunning marble sculptures at the entrance to Linleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for the evening, Beyond Bespoke a hub for British luxury brands, Tessa Packard fine jewellery, Bremont watches, and Royal Warrant printers Barnard and Westwood who gifted personalised embossed notebooks to guests. Linleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

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showroom was dressed in seasonal floristry by the creative Elizabeth Marsh Floral Design. Guests nibbled on fine British cuisine provided by White Tie catering and sipped drinks from Bruichladdich Whisky - Laddie Taylor cocktails , Fentimanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soft drinks - Rose Lemonade Ginger Beer, Wild English Elderflower & Tonic water - and Gin and Tonic from Berkeley Square Gin and Nyetimber Champagne. Guests were entertained by classical British music played by world renowned Van Beuningen. Notable guests include Liz Brewer, tv property experts Gary Hersham and David Harriott, Contessa Allegra Baistrocchi and actor Sean Blowers and Clients of The Chartwell Groupsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; businesses.

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A Stay with Giorgio The Armani Hotel, Dubai Words by BEN FOWLER

Amid a city famous for excess, inside the tallest building in the world, Giorgio Armani has created something extraordinary – bringing his trademark minimalist style to the most unlikely of settings. Dressed in an understated palette of cream and earth colours, The Armani Hotel, Dubai has offered thousands of guests a uniquely elegant experience of luxurious indulgence since opening in 2010. Perhaps the most surprising aspect of a stay there, however, is the feeling of intimacy with its creator, beginning with warm Italian-style hospitality and moving through to each individual design element - from the Eramosa stone floors to the personally designed hotel amenities.

Elegance is not standing out – but being remembered.

t 75 years old, every aspect of the hotel’s design and service offerings was meticulously planned by Giorgio Armani himself, from the bespoke furnishings to restaurant menus and in-room amenities. Armani’s signature duality of practical elegance informs a sophistication of finish to create a highly personalised space – with an overarching philosophy that each guest enjoys a ‘Stay with Armani.’ This is an ethos integrated into the experience from the very beginning – there is no reception for check-in to facilitate the feeling of a ‘home from home’ that transcends the aesthetic. If I took a feeling away from The Armani it was inspiration at what could be achieved through the honest, committed expression of such a personal philosophy. Never in my wildest dreams did I entertain the idea that I would become a fashion designer. Years before, Armani had no intention to enter the world of fashion, let alone that of hotel design. After initial aspirations toward medicine and later a stint in the army, perhaps no other designer has so fully achieved philosophical integrity with financial success – and perhaps no other designer was so perfect for the Burj Khalifa. “I am a minimalist, less is more... and when I looked at what was happening here it was the opposite,” he said at the hotel launch. “But they wanted me and I wanted them.”

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Downtown Dubai has been described as “The Centre of Now”, home to the world’s largest shopping and entertainment destination, the Dubai Mall, and some of the world’s most compelling tourist attractions, including the world’s tallest performing fountain. Among all this, occupying floors 8 to 39 at the Burj Khalifa, Armani was able to bring a distinct sense of discreet elegance easily lost when trying to distil that sense of the ‘Now’ – all too often by mistakenly trying to enforce the ‘Next’. From its 160 luxurious guest rooms and suites, seven innovative restaurants, exclusive retail outlets and a spa, the hotel owes a completely unique sense of outward spectacle to the height of its record-setting home - possessing unparalleled views of Dubai and beyond. This spectacular backdrop is combined with

an unprecedented drive – in line with the personalised ideology of Armani – to offer an emotional journey to a guest as well as their physical one. I love things that age well - things that don’t date, that stand the test of time and that become living examples of the absolute best. In the words of Emaar Hotels & Resorts: “Armani Hotel Dubai has created a new benchmark in luxury hospitality, pushing the accepted norms and frontiers in the industry. The collaboration with Giorgio Armani brings a new level of aesthetics to the hotel. Additionally, the concept of Lifestyle Managers, who meet every need of the guests, introduced for the first time in Armani Hotel Dubai, has redefined service standards.” Armani worked on the concept that

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each stay needs an emotional connection as much as it needs a physical one â&#x20AC;&#x201C; especially when surrounded by the imposing architectural marvels of Dubai. The hotel does so by assigning each guest a personal Lifestyle Manager to serve as a personal contact and host from the moment they make a reservation to the time they check out - and even beyond. Seven restaurants offer an exciting collection of world cuisine, from Japanese and Indian to flavours of the Mediterranean and authentic Italian. The impressive culinary options reflect the cosmopolitan nature of the city and stunning restaurant interiors are complemented by the exciting al fresco opportunities of the Burj Khalifa. The 12,000 ft2 Armani/SPA provides an oasis of peace and tranquillity in the heart of a bustling city, again with meticulous

attention to detail, with even the fragrances custom-made from Bois, Jasmine and Jade oils by Armani. To create something exceptional, your mindset must be relentlessly focused on the smallest detail. Amid a city famous for excess, Giorgio Armani has created a retreat into minimalist elegance. Sophisticated colours, clean lines and unique textures blend together seamlessly with the towerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stunning architecture and use of natural light to create a sanctuary of calm serenity. More than this though, The Armani Hotel is a uniquely tailored experience to each guestâ&#x20AC;Ś with each stay a personal invitation into the hospitality of a unique tailor.

For more information and reservations visit: www.dubai.armanihotels.com

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The Life Aquatic Words by BEN FOWLER

Just when you thought it was safe to go into the water...well, it was…The centrepiece of the Dubai Mall is the Dubai Aquarium, one of the most extraordinary marine facilities in the world – offering incredible close-encounter experiences with the most fascinating underwater animals on the planet. Unique to the Dubai Aquarium, however, are the controlled encounters with the most feared predators of the sea. Yes, at Dubai one is literally swimming with the sharks.

he Aquarium features the largest suspended tank in the world at over 50 m long, and one of the world’s largest viewing panels running along well over 30 m of the habitat. Holding 10 million litres, it is home to an ecosystem of more than 33,000 living animals – a figure probably prone to fluctuation when the bigger fish get hungry…With more than 140 species represented, the tank includes over 400 sharks and rays combined – among them the largest collection of Sand Tiger sharks in the world. At over 10 feet in length when fully grown, this species has a surprisingly docile nature which make them perfect for a range of interactive experiences.

There are numerous ways to experience the main tank, the most spectacular being the 270-degree acrylic walkthrough tunnel - making for a unique sensation of immersion within the marine environment. This is facilitated by a special ‘lunar-cyclic’ lighting system that changes the ambience of the tank depending on the time of day – creating a far more natural habitat for its occupants. The tunnel runs almost the entire length of the tank, an incredible 48m tube made of acrylic 19 cm thick that removes any sense of a barrier from the wonders of the deep.

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The area known as Kraken’s Lair is named after the legendary sea monster of such giant size that unfortunate naval crews would often mistake it for an island. Within the Lair we find the curiosities of the Cephalopods, the octopodes and squid, in their own world of cryptic mystery. Featuring several newlydiscovered tentacled guests unique to the Lair, this strange family creates a display of metamorphosis as they change shape and colour in manipulation of their environment. Surprisingly, they are thought to be among the most intelligent animals on earth, and have been found to play with ‘toys’, displaying individual responses and temperaments with some scientists believing them to have individual personalities. Almost inevitably though, everyone’s attention is drawn to the sharks. There is something innately primeval about our attraction to these prehistoric predators. For those brave enough, the Aquarium allows us to engage such curiosity directly - by jumping into the 10-million litres of shark-infested water without an air tank. Voluntarily. While close encounters with thousands of different aquatic animals are available through cage snorkelling experiences, the sharks are by far the most popular attraction. 750 pounds, 300 teeth, 100 million years in the making... the tank is something of a microsm for Dubai itself – a city where bigger is better.

Swimming with Sharks Cue the Jaws music…

For more information visit: www.thedubaiaquarium.com

Funnily enough, the Jaws theme rose to prominence quite mistakenly. Due to the repeated malfunction of Bruce the mechanical shark, Steven Spielberg finished filming with very few usable scenes of the titular maneater. In desperation, Spielberg asked John Williams to produce a simple theme that would represent Jaws without actually showing him. Richard Dreyfuss later spoke of filming as “starting without a script, without a cast and without a shark.” An ancient shark called Carcharodon Megalodon (translated as “rough tooth, big tooth”) had teeth measuring more than six inches long set in jaws big enough to swallow an entire car. Some believe this shark may still exist in deep water, although at 30 metres in length – the entire length of the Dubai Aquarium viewing panel – it is tempting to hope they remain down there. The tiger shark is considered one of the most dangerous sharks in the world, and is

sometimes referred to as the “garbage can of the sea” - because it will eat almost anything. Remnants of an entire chicken coop filled with bones and feathers were once discovered in the stomach of a dead tiger shark. Unfortunately, the bizarre prologue to this discovery will have to remain lost to the deep. The 80s saw a Wall Street-inspired business philosophy that you were either ‘a sheep or a shark’ – and perhaps an element of this still holds true today. Like a modern company, most sharks cannot ever stop moving. They are forced to swim constantly because they lack the ability to pump water over their gills like the majority of fish - granted the metaphor falls apart a little here... The average shark has 40-45 teeth and can have up to seven rows of replacement teeth. Because sharks lose a lot of teeth and grow them back quickly, they often go through more than 30,000 teeth in a lifetime. With 300 sharks at Dubai Aquarium that’s 9 million teeth…and one delighted souvenir-shop. Shoes made from shark leather last over four times longer than regular leather shoes. In a related note of advice, the best way to fight off a shark attack is to strike it hard on the snout – although not with your fist, as a shark’s skin is highly serrated. Perhaps the best approach would be to use your shark-skin shoe…

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Lady Chartwell The Beauty Room Lady about town lifts the lid of where’s hot to trot this season... pressoffice@chartwell-group.com

101 Dining Lounge and Bar - The Palm Tiptoeing over The One and Only’s marina with panoramic views of New Dubai’s skyline, 101 is Dubai’s latest ultra-chic place to be! Mediterranean seaside alfresco dining and indoor tables decorate the beautiful waterfront lounge. From tapas and fresh salads, to seafood and grills, 101 is perfect for pre-dinner drinks while their resident DJ taking you from afternoon to evening, don’t miss the Friday night Jazz evenings and Latin music, cocktails and tapas saturday afternoon. www.oneandonlybrand.com

Full Moon Yoga Calling all yoga bunnies, Talise Spa invite you to experience true inner peace on a full moon night. Unite your body, mind and spirit with an invigorating session of yoga by the beach. The sound of gentle waves and soothing classical music will enhance your experience while our in-house yoga guru takes you on a journey of self-discovery. Each month, full moon yoga sessions are available to Jumeirah hotel guests looking to experience true inner peace. The various asanas repeated during a full moon helps maximise oxygen intake and provide better blood flow as your Yoga Master takes the class on a journey of internal reflection. Zabeel Saray Full Moon 2016 Dates - July 20th, August 18th, September 16th, October 16th, November 14th and December 14th. AED 90 per person www.jumeirah.com

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Souk Madinat Jumeirah The gem of Dubai. Darlings, once you’re all shopped out at the mega malls…. A little wander through the traditional Arabian souk at Madinat Jumeirah is in order, lantern lit hallways and narrow waterways to discover the treasures hidden within. A truly unique shopping experience, from Lulu Guinness to trinket shops, Vilebrequin and Cinnabon!

The Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project All seven species of marine turtles globally are listed as vulnerable to extinction, endangered or critically endangered. The Hawksbill turtle, native to the Middle East, is listed as critically endangered with only an estimated 8,000 nesting females left worldwide. The Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project (DTRP) is based at Burj Al Arab and Madinat Jumeirah and is run in collaboration with Dubai’s Wildlife Protection Office. Since 2004 the release of over 560 rescued sea turtles have swam back into Dubai’s waters. Without exception, all of the turtles found in the DTRP were at one stage very sick or injured. Turtles are brought to Dubai’s Wildlife Protection Office or to the Aquarium team at Burj Al Arab by members of the public where the team closely monitor their recovery. During the recovery process, the animals are subjected to ongoing veterinary examination and monitoring, with appropriate medication or surgery being administered as necessary. Once the team is satisfied with the progress and condition of the turtles, they are then transferred to the Mina A’Salam turtle enclosure. The large enclosure at the Mina A’Salam allows the team to monitor the final stages of rehabilitation before the turtles are released back into UAE territorial waters. The DTRP is currently the only project of its kind in the Middle East and Red Sea region. Please make a difference and learn more about DTRP, If you find yourself at Mina A’Salam look out for the feeding time… one of the turtles is over 100 years old! www.facebook.com/turtle.rehabilitation

Perfect throughout the day and into the night, enjoy unlimited amusement at the magical Middle Eastern marketplace… don’t forget to have a little fun, have a barter. Located in the heart of Madinat Jumeirah The Arabian Resort, Dubai. www.jumeirah.com

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Danny Ivan Words by NIANINA DAVIES

Danny Ivan is a graphic designer and digital/visual artist currently living in Porto, Portugal. He grew up admiring American advertisements and communication of the 80 and 90s, such as MTV, McDonald’s and Coca Cola. This inspired him to begin graphic arts and after his first photoshop edit job at the tender age of 16, he started to become more in tune with his ‘artistic side’. After enrolling at the university ‘Escola Superior de Comunicação Social’, he focused his artistic interest to design and visual arts.

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is digital illustrations range from abstract geometric forms to raw textures. His work is consistently full of bold colors, which represent powerful emotions, such as happiness, enthusiasm and energy, all of which possess his signature irreverence and partiality towards the splendidly weird and hypnotic images. Danny says, “I think life told me to be an artist, because at my last job I was always trying to take different approaches to things and my boss was always complaining about my “madness”. I’m confident about taking risks. Maybe it’s because I hate routine and when you are an artist you must look for something new every day. I really love geometry concepts and 3D with a quirky touch, so I see my future revolving and utilising these fields.”

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He goes on to say, “My creative process defines what I really love in life: bold people, bold moments and bold emotions. What I really want when I’m making an artwork or design is for the people to react when they see it. I try to capture everything I see, listen and taste in one piece of work.” He is regularly approached by big brands asking to commission his work. He has already worked with numerous large names including Adobe, Starbucks, Sony Music Sweden and even ad agencies such as Wieden+Kennedy London and Love London. He has also received special featuring on design-milk.com, Digital Arts Magazine, IdN Magazine and Behance. Danny Ivan designed the piece that was chosen for the Front Cover of our last edition, Best of British, for the 50th Anniversary of the Death of Sir Winston Churchill. info@dannyivan.com www.dannyivan.com

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Building Tomorrow’s MENA Words by BEN FOWLER

As 2016’s future swiftly becomes our present, let us profile some of the impressive projects set to come to fruition across MENA in 2016. As we can see the future of the Middle East is being built around us - and there is plenty of opportunity to be found in a region that moving so enthusiastically into tomorrow.

Dubai Canal Project Da Vinci once wrote that water is the driving force of all nature…bear this in mind as we look at the scale of the Dubai Water Canal – an enormous feat of engineering attempting to harness that elemental might. Due for be completed by the end of 2016, this £380 million project will run a canal - with accompanying development-laden banks – from downtown Dubai all the way to Jumeirah. That’s 75 km of prime retail, residential and hotel real estate. To put that into perspective, The Arabian Canal will cover more than 4 million square meters, broken down into 605,000 sq. meters for commercial use, 5,345 residential units and 948 hotel rooms. Other sights to be seen along the waterways will include four residential towers linked to Al Safa Park and a strong emphasis on dining culture.

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Louvre Hundreds of years after the construction of its world-famous namesake, the spectacular design of the Abu Dhabi Louvre, conceived by Pritzker prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel, is intended for the same iconic status when it opens in late 2016. Situated in the heart of the Emirate’s cultural district of Saadiyat, the project is thought to have cost over £700 million. The scale of the Louvre is immense, encompassing 9,200 sq. metres of galleries. Of these spaces, two thirds will be dedicated to a permanent collection, with the remaining presenting temporary exhibitions of international standards. Whilst these collections will surely delight visitors from the world over, the design of the Louvre itself is a work of art certain to attract cultural landmark status. Sometimes, it seems, you can judge a book by its cover…

Khalifa International Stadium Hosting The World Cup Finals is a massive undertaking, with many potential venue countries lacking the football infrastructure or showcase stadiums that they will require. Qatar, however, has ensured that when the first whistle is blown at Qatar 2022, the eyes of the world will be dazzled by spectacle. Construction work at the first of Qatar’s planned stadiums is due for completion in 2016. The Khalifa International Stadium, situated in the country’s capital Doha, is undergoing major renovation work for the world event, which includes adding a new building to the stadium’s east wing, and building a single roof to cover the whole seating area. These new enhancements will increase the stadium’s capacity to 40,000 and has necessitated massive structural work that will significantly raise the height of the complex. When the World Cup trophy is finally held aloft by the worthy winner, this magnificent arena will certainly provide the perfect stage.

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Mall of Qatar The next project, found on the same soil, dwarfs even the Kahlifa Stadium – so much so that the upcoming Mall of Qatar is comparable in size to 50 football fields. Sprawling over an area of 464,515 sq. meters and costing £600 million, the Mall will house over 500 boutiques, restaurants and tourist attractions - and is expected to attract 20 million visitors in its first year. Among the unique features of The mall will be the world’s largest IMAX cinema screen and its own dedicated metro station. The football connection continues as the project is being built adjacent to one of the planned stadiums for the 2022 World Cup – the Al Rayyan Stadium. Perhaps this is in anticipation of the arrival of the WAGS…

Nakheel Mall Never to be outdone, Dubai is also expanding its already considerable reputation as a shopper’s paradise. Due for completion during 2016, the £500 million Nakheel Mall will rival even the Dubai Mall when it opens on the shoreline of Palm Jumeirah. The 435,000 sq. metre complex will comprise over 200 retail stores, including several department stores, 12 restaurants, a cinema multiplex, six medical clinics and a roof plaza boasting a range of fine dining restaurants. A 50-storey tower will rise from the mall, dedicated to a 5-star hotel and serviced apartments. As always, when Dubai builds - it builds big. Which leads us to our next project…

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Dubai Opera The opera does spectacle like nothing else – except maybe Dubai of course, which it the perfect home for this incredible opera house. Designed by architecture firm Atkins, it will become the centrepiece of The Opera District, Downtown Dubai, when it opens mid-2016. The Dubai Opera is a 2,000-seat, multi-forat theatre, situated in an Opera District that will house a museum of modern art, two art hotels, design studios and galleries. It also features a huge 66 storey residential tower, named The Opera Grand, with over 200 two, three and four bedroom apartments. The Dubai Opera House will not purely be used for opera, with theatre, concerts, art exhibitions, orchestra, film, sports events planned along with seasonal programmes. The goal to create a thriving cultural hub befitting of city so synonymous with the aesthetic.

Jumeirah Al Naseem Hotel Already a significant influence on that skyline are the Jumeirah Group – something that will continue into 2016, with the opening of the Jumeirah Al Naseem hotel. The 430-room hotel is currently under construction, and will soon join the Mina A’Salam and Al Qsar hotels at Madinat Jumeirah. This is part of a wider expansion to Madinat Jumeirah of around £500 million which involves the addition of a villa complex, restaurants and a commercial centre. As we can see, 2016 will bring some extraordinary landmarks to the lands of MENA… and some extraordinary opportunities along with them…

Chartwell Journal

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Nicolas Tye: Sustainable Design Words by BEN FOWLER

Amid a world of rapid change, sustainability and cohesion have become important tools for modern architecture. Nicolas Tye embraces both of these concepts as the key philosophies for his companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work, using local products and materials sympathetic to any communal aesthetic for a sustainable environment. The result of close collaboration with a client, his award-winning projects are signatured by their responsiveness to their ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lifestyle.

Lacinia bibendum purus, et consequat ipsum elementum nec. Lacinia bibendum

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Two fine examples are provided by the exceptional work at the Cedarwood and Stockgrove residential projects.

Cedarwood Set upon an expansive landscaped plot looking out to the glorious Cheshire countryside, Cedarwood is a highest-end contemporary rural residence with a classic, elegant design intended to harmonise with the beauty of its surroundings. Comprising of a series of linear structures, Cedarwood blends seamlessly into the landscape, each building and courtyard carefully positioned to achieve an integration with the pre-existing environment. A cohesion of look and feel that extends to the choice of materials. Clad in Western Red Cedar, noted for its durability and rich colour, Cedarwood is visually connected to the landscape, with natural slate roof tiles deepening these roots. High levels of insulation, strategic natural lighting and recessed glazing are some of the details that help make Cedarwood a showcase of sustainable design.

Stockgrove House Here we see the same commitment to sustainable cohesion - but in a different context that provided its own challenges. Situated in the green belt within an area of Special Landscape Value. The project required a design that would allow the residents to integrate into their new surroundings whilst preserving the environment and its future. Modularization created intimate areas that emphasize and echo the topography of the landscape. Using white render, timber louvres and elegant glazing systems the buildings harmonize with their surroundings, blending external and internal aesthetics with modernist forms. Again particular focus was given to issues of sustainability, utilizing locally sourced materials selected for environmental compatibility - including all-natural paints and stains. Rainwater harvesting and recycling systems created an energy efficient and environmentally responsible dwelling - one that brings a fresh, modernity respectful of the significant character of its location. Looking over these designs we find an exciting commitment to principles that are becoming

increasingly important to modern design and build. And in doing so, Chartwell looks forward to working with a vibrant, dynamic company that share our own concern with building not simply for today... but for tomorrow as well.

For more details visit: .nicolastyearchitects.com

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Alexander Schott Words by GRACE SHEPPARD

Alexander Schott, a German born banker, has a career that spans over 40 years and 4 different countries. He has worked in both High Street and Investment banking, but has spent the last 24 years serving his clients as a Private Banker. Chartwell sat down to interviewed Alexander to find out his thoughts on banking today and where the industry is headed.

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The term “banker” is a description that carries an awful amount of weight that lately has come to have bad reputation. But it’s a noble trade don’t you agree?

Do you think there is a divergence between private banking and the way mainstream banks operate?

If you can live on the interest of the interest of your capital, then that is the definition of a rich man.

Yes completely, because in mainstream banks everything is becoming computerised – they have robots running the systems. In a private bank, you get personal treatment, you see the same face again and again and the relationship will last many years, indeed I have clients that have been with me for over 20 years, and I know that if I decide to move they will follow me wherever I go. Soon you become a friend of the client, a friend of the family even.

If you would like an introduction to Alexander and his services please feel free to Contact Chartwell and we can arrange a meeting: enquiries@chartwell-group.com or

I’ve been a banker all my life. No nation can exist without a banking system so the world is forced to live with bankers.

What is the prime objective of any banker? To create wealth and protect wealth – these are the most important points in banking. Clients bring you the money and they expect you to keep it safe and to bring them a return.

What then, is a private banker?

Do you think as a banker what happened was a crisis for bankers or the people that use banks?

A private banker is such whereby the client gives him the authority to take care and preserve his money and give him a return. The private banker’s first duty is to make sure that when the client comes back he finds his money plus some interest earned on top. The private banker is in effect the custodian of the wealth of the individual. Private banking is a luxury business, it’s there for people who have made their wealth and wish to protect rather than risk it.

I think the crisis occurred because of the government’s handling of the economy and thus, bankers were forced to do things they shouldn’t be doing. It is the politicians who make the mistakes, and the bankers must bear the brunt. In Wall Street, they blame the bankers, but it’s the compliance that created the problem, so to put it on the shoulders of all the bankers is a little unfair.

The lower level press painted the bankers as the enemy, the perception of bankers is lower than it’s ever been, why do you think this is?

The Swiss are leading the Private Banking world Alexander Schott

I think the perception comes from the fact that many people don’t understand how the bank functions. They don’t understand the activities of the banker. They have the wrong image because they have a misunderstanding of how we work, and that we are controlled and regulated, so the public is often not properly informed. Bank crises existed over centuries that people often forget and there always will be a situation where some bankers overstep the line. Therefore compliances today are much more forceful - in order to prevent crises in the future as much as possible.

Where do you think banking is heading? Private banking will continue to grow as the wealth in this world is becoming greater each year. You only need look at the wealth being generated in Asia, and Africa - don’t underestimate Africa – it is growing as is South America. People know how to make money but then they don’t know what to do with it. So, they will always need private bankers, without them they’d be lost.

+44 (0)207 409 0545

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Spreading the Word The International Prize for Arabic Fiction 2016 Words by BEN FOWLER

There is surely no better expression of humanity than literatureâ&#x20AC;Śand no more effective bridge for cultural divides than to extend its reach beyond the language barrier. Helping to achieve this, The International Prize for Arabic Fiction was presented for the ninth time in 2016. Now widely recognised as the leading prize for literary fiction in the Arab world, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s winner was announced at an awards ceremony in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday 26 April - the eve of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair.

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A Race of Riches The Dubai World Cup Words by BEN FOWLER

The exhilaration of a day at the races is somewhat allegorical of Dubai. The spectacle of its sights. The drama of its competition. And, of course, the temptation of the riches to be won. The striking forms of that incredible skyline capture the imagination in a display of wealth evocative of the pageantry flaunted at The Royal Ascot. It is little wonder then that horse racing is big business here â&#x20AC;&#x201C; with the Dubai World Cup 2016 promising to be the most lavish equestrian event in history.

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ith typical flair for showmanship, this will all culminate in the world’s richest race day – with an amazing $30 million in prize money up for the taking. After all, when you go to the races at Dubai, you can expect to be rubbing shoulders among one of the highest-rolling crowds imaginable. In the shadow of the Burj Khalifa, over 60,000 spectators will fill the luxurious Meydan Racecourse, with many of them staying at its exquisite five-star hotel. And while from the hallowed turf this may seem a crowd like any other, between them well over $23 million will

be changing hands. True to the spirit of the city itself, this is a veritable race of riches. Traditionally taking place on the final Saturday of March, the Dubai World Cup is undoubtedly the most glamorous sporting event to take place in the United Arab Emirates, with a total of nine exciting races run over the course of one incredible day. Fought over 2,000 metres – roughly 10 furlongs in traditional racing imperial measurements – the Dubai World Cup is one of the most coveted prizes in professional horseracing, rivalling the Cox Plate, Kentucky and even the legendary Grand National for prestige. No one horse has ever won the race more than once, making it all the more difficult to predict who might triumph at the next event. Translated from Arabic, Meydan means meeting place, a social hub. Come race day this is exactly what the Meydan Hotel becomes. Offering guests an unparalleled equine experience overlooking the iconic Grandstand and Racecourse - right in the centre of the action. As the top thoroughbreds of the world compete below, the most elite of racing fans can enjoy up-close views of the races from the luxury and opulence of their 5-star vantage point. And while they may not have picked the winner that’s the nature of the game - they will at least feel like one themselves. The spectacle and drama of The Dubai World Cup gathers a crowd of considerable wealth and influence, all attracted by the promise of the richest race in the world. Perhaps this nickname is as much in reference to this unique crowd as it is to the prize money. For at this race of riches, the sheer amount of wealth on display is enough to make the eyes water – and that’s no mean feat under the Dubai sun.

Picking a Winner Just like any investment, backing the right horse requires skilful market research – and maybe just a little luck…Let’s look at some tactics aimed at reducing the need for too much of the latter.

Form Like a property that’s been on the books too long, there is much to be read from a horses’ history, or form. A long gap since it’s last race may indicate recovery from injury or health problems, raising questions about its fitness. As you can imagine, it is not often a good idea to back a horse on the first outing after a break…

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Odd Race odds are calculated by the amount of money placed on each horse, meaning that these odds are in a state of constant flux. Obviously, the favourite is the horse with the most money placed upon it; whilst those with the least known as longshots. Part of the attraction of horse racing is that outsiders can sometimes win at very long odds. It’s sometimes worth betting on an outsider due to the increased rewards – it’s this drama and excitement of the sport that make it so popular.

Career Handily for the novice, the race card will tell you all the information you need to know - how many times the horse has run this calendar year, how many times it has run in its career and how many times it has run over similar surfaces and distances to today’s race. It will even let you know how many times the horse has run at today’s specific track. Careful study of the card is essential…and will at least make you look like you know what you are doing.

Nature Backing your horse is something of a personal thing too – pick out a competitive horse that you feel is a ‘winner’. Horses are herd animals, and like people, some are content to stay in the middle of the herd, where they feel protected. Try and find a horse that’s consistently in the front few runners; if it has the competitive urge it will be more likely to want to win.

Condition Study of the horse itself may tell a tale. Consider the way the horse is moving in the paddock and reacting to the crowd. Horses that are very excited before the race will often lack the energy to do well once competition starts. More experienced horses remain calm and save their energy - look for a bright eye, glossy coat and an air of general alertness. All are signs of good health…and a potential winner. Form more information please visit: www.dubaiworldcup.com

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Teeing Off in MENA Words by BEN FOWLER

The MENA region is a huge expanse, in both scale and diversity, crossing the geographical and cultural borders from Morocco to Iran. With this in mind it can prove quite a difficult prospect to understand, to find the communality among the disparate - after all, you can hardly take it all in with a brisk walkâ&#x20AC;Śor so you might think. Mark Twain once said that golf was a fine way to spoil a good walk, but in this case it is quite the opposite. This year MENA Golf Tour completed its sixth edition following the trail from Mohammedia to Cairo; a proud exhibition of the showcased cities and courses of MENA. Walk with us now, from tee to green, as we take in the sights of one of the most characterful and unique sporting tours in the world.

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The Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, for more information visit: www.dubaigolf.com

ne of our first stops on the tour is for the Royal Golf Mohammedia Open at Mohammedia, Morocco, where players compete on the coast to the south of the capital city of Rabat. The impressive wooden doors of the club open up into a colourful mosaic of flowerbeds and Moroccan tiles. With a design dating back as far as the 1920s, holes run through avenues of pine and eucalyptus against the restless Atlantic. The white sand dunes are dotted with cactus – providing some interesting hazards when combined with the wicked crosswinds. The course is reminiscent of the classical Scottish style, an imagery helped by the gorse and acacia that decorate the landscaping. Regular players attest to the shifting dangers of the similarly Scottish winds, and recommend adaptation to them - playing with force on the twelfth hole and finesse on the sixteenth. Next, we travel to UAE and the Ras Al Khaimah Classic at the Tower Links Golf Club, Ras Al Khaimah. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Hajar Mountains, the Tower Links is a much newer course – somewhat appropriate as we move from the tradition of Morocco to the futurism of the Emirates. First opening its doors in 2004, we find a challenging 18 hole, par 72 golf course possessing an outstanding range of modern facilities - the back nine holes, for example, are fully floodlit for night play. A long course of some 7,200 mangrove-shrouded yards, the clubhouse exterior design is based on a ‘Watchtower’ in reflection of the rich history of the Emirate - creating a landmark building. From here, we move deeper into UAE’s vision for the future, crossing into the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Dubai for the Dubai Creek Open. Dominating Dubai’s enchanting waterfront, the course opened in January 1993 to world acclaim going on to host numerous prestigious tournaments and events - including the Dubai Desert Classic on two occasions. The course record of 63 is jointly held by Lee Westwood and Darren Clarke. This sporting oasis in the heart of the city has a distinct aura of a delightful journey across the fabled landscape of Dubai, a city that thrives in all seasons. Well-groomed fairways lined with date palms and coconut trees, attractive water hazards and shrubbery lend a tropical air to the Club’s 18-hole, par-71 championship course that rolls into thousands of undulating yards. The majestic Clubhouse, its design mirroring the sails of the traditional Arab dhow, captures the essence of Dubai - the perfect fusion of heritage with modernity and style.

In Saudi Arabia, like everywhere else in MENA, golf is increasing in popularity. The Dirab Golf Championship takes place at the Dirab Golf & Country Club, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and has done much to promote the sport in a relatively new market. The only grassed 18-hole, Par 72 golf course in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is located 45km south west of Riyadh, nestled among the lush trees of the picturesque Tawfiq valley. Nowhere could be more inspiring to new golfers – and to those with more discerning tastes; immaculate lawns and amazing grass formations are set against a spectacular backdrop of desert and mountains. Lush trees line a meticulously designed course intended to attract all skill levels, a growing course for a growing market - from novice to professional. Ghala Golf Club in Muscat, Oman is unique in the Middle East. The course is fully integrated into the traditional local geography, following a natural wadi through a breath-taking setting of mountainous backdrops with spectacular sea views. Wadi is an Arabic and Hebrew term referring to a dry riverbed that has developed into a valley. The Ghala Golf Club was originally created as a sand course in 1971 – in part due to its location. Over time this would change, the club opened the first nine holes of its new grass course in December 2010…and now holds the Ghala Open as part of the MENA tour.

We finish our own tour of MENAs golf courses at the Cairo Classic, one of the last stops on the MENA Golf Tour 2016. The Classic will take place at the Katameya Heights Golf Club, where previously uncultivable land has been transformed from harsh desert sand into lush green rolling hills. The first commercial venture to combine golf and real estate in Egypt, Katameya has provided an oasis in the midst of the Sahara. The Yves Bureau designed course is a fitting way to end our journey, a new enterprise that has found success in bringing a new level of sophistication to a remote part of MENA. Perhaps this is a lesson that we can learn from our travels with the MENA Golf Tour, that there are opportunities to be found in the remotest of deserts - and as the continuing success of the tour has proven, despite the cultural and historical diversity of MENA, there exists a market across its borders for the very highest levels of luxury living…and it is in such pursuits that The Chartwell Group has a handicap that will prove hard to match. www.dubaigolf.com

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IPAF Shortlist 2016 Tareq Bakari was born in Missour, eastern Morocco, in 1988. An Arabic language teacher, Numedia (2015) is his first novel.

ne of the aims of the prize is to increase the international influence of Arabic fiction, with the winner guaranteed an English translation for their novel. This year, the authors in contention to share their works with a wider world are Tareq Bakari, Rabai al-Madhoun, Mohamed Rabie, Mahmoud Shukair, Shahla Ujayli and George Yaraq. Their novels have been shortlisted from 159 entries from 18 countries. Wide-ranging in subject matter, setting and style – this is a compelling reading list reflective of a thriving literary scene. When Professor Yasir Suleiman CBE, Chair of the Board of Trustees spoke about these selected works, he described a “strong list, one that reflects the energy of the Arab literary scene as it marches forward to reach an ever-expanding readership”. He went on to explain thst the Prize aims to celebrate the universality of literature, saying that the novels chosen “transcend their local sources to reach distant shores where the human spirit is the ultimate champion.” Join us now as The Chartwell Journal takes a look at the novels and authors that have achieved such cultural transcendence. After all, your own reading list may soon include one of their number…

Numedia tells the life story of Murad, written by his former girlfriend Julia, a Frenchwoman. An orphan, Murad is cursed by the people of his village. Ostracised, insulted and beaten, he turns to love in an attempt to take revenge on fate: first with Khoula, who becomes pregnant; then Nidal, his classmate and fellow comrade in resistance; then Julia, seen as the French coloniser, and with his final love Numedia, the mute Berber. The rich story of Numedia unfolds against the backdrop of the real-life historical, political and religious landscape of Morocco. Rabai al-Madhoun is a Palestinian writer, born in 1945. His published works include The Lady from Tel Aviv (2010), a novel shortlisted for the 2010 International Prize for Arabic Fiction, which was translated into English by Elliot Colla and published by Telegram Books. Destinies: Concerto of the Holocaust and the Nakba is the pioneering Palestinian novel written

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in four parts that would be awarded the 2016 prize, and is certainly a worthy winner. Each part representing a concerto movement, the novel looks at the Palestinian exodus from Israel in 1948 (known as the ‘nakba’), the holocaust and the Palestinian right to return. Destinies: Concerto of the Holocaust and the Nakba is a novel of Palestine from outside and from within. It examines the tragedy of everyday Palestinian life, telling the story of Palestinians living under occupation and forced to assume Israeli nationality, as well as exiled Palestinians trying to return to their now-occupied home country. Mohamed Rabie is an Egyptian writer, born in 1978. In 2012, he took part in the IPAF nadwa (writers’ workshop) for promising young writers. Mercury is a dark fantasy which imagines “the counter revolution” in Egypt as a reality in a nightmarish future. The eponymous hero of this fantasy novel is an officer who witnessed the defeat of the police in Cairo on the 28 January 2011. Over a decade later, Egypt is occupied by a mysterious power and the remnants of the old police force are leading the popular resistance, fighting among the ruins of a shattered Cairo. It is a daily hell of arbitrary killing, an intensified version of the sporadic massacres witnessed since the famous revolution in January.

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Mahmoud Shukair is a Palestinian writer, born in Jerusalem, 1941. He is the author of fortyfive books, six television series, and four plays. His stories have been translated into several languages, including English, French, German, Chinese, Mongolian and Czech. Praise for the Women of the Family is a history of the women of the Al-Abd al-Lat clan, which has left the desert and is preparing to leave its Bedouin customs behind. The women of the clan struggle with these changes and many scorn those embracing modern life: when Rasmia accompanies her husband to a party, Najma wears a dress and Sana gets a tan on her white legs, they set malicious tongues wagging; meanwhile, Wadha, the sixth wife of Mannan, the chief of the clan, still believes that the washing machine and television are inhabited by evil spirits. Set after the nakba (the Palestinian exodus from what is now Israel) in a time of political and social change, the novel witnesses the rapid advance of modernity and the seeds of conflict beginning to grow in 1950s Palestine. Shahla Ujayli is a Syrian writer, born in 1976. In 2014, she also took part in the IPAF nadwa (writers’ workshop) for promising young writers, where she worked on a passage from her 2016 longlisted novel, A Sky Close to Our House. A Sky Close to Our House spans the second half of the 19th century to the present, featuring characters from different backgrounds who meet in Amman, Jordan, the city at the heart of the story. It is here that Jaman Badran, a Syrian immigrant, gets to know Nasr Al-Amiri, a Palestinian-Syrian who has come to Amman for his mother’s funeral. They soon discover that their grandparents were neighbours in Aleppo. Through the dramatic fall of families in Syria, Palestine, Iraq, Serbia and Vietnam, A Sky Close to Our House shows how wars can change concepts of identity and nation, and create new destinies for large numbers of people; it also underlines that mass tragedy does not in any way negate the significance of individual suffering. George Yaraq is a Lebanese novelist, born in 1958. His first novel, Night, was published in 2013. Guard of the Dead is the story of Aabir, a hospital undertaker. Working in the morgue by day and the operating theatre by night, he learns to pluck out and sell the gold teeth he finds in the corpses’ mouths. However, he lives in a state of constant dread and apprehension, his past working for a political party and as a sniper during the Lebanese Civil War hanging over him. One day, Aabir is kidnapped from the morgue. With no idea about

where he is, who has taken him or why, he finds himself searching for clues about his kidnapping in his past. for more information please visit. www.arabicfictionaward.org

Chartwell Journal

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Shimmers - On the Beach Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai Words by GRACE SHEPPARD

Even upon a stunning length of exclusive beachfront, Shimmers stands out as the jewel - one with unique views of the famous Dubai skyline. This Greek-inspired restaurant is a local hot spot where one needs to be seen. Sat upon the edge of the Arabian Gulf, guests can enjoy the refreshing sea breezes only a few steps away from the white sands or the opulence of the Burj Al Arab.

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ffering authentic Greek food and a chic atmosphere, a casual lunch or dinner can be enjoyed either in the main seating area or the comfortable bean bag cushions of the lower tables. The light wood panels, snug cushions and warm atmosphere make it a standout option for a Dubai dining experience. Chef Ilias Kokoroskos brings years of experience along with a flair for innovation to his new menu that features tempting lunch options like wild green pita with feta cheese honey and yoghurt; refreshing beetroot salad and fried calamari with quinoa. Signature highlights on the dinner menu include the incredible tuna ceviche and the Patagonian toothfish with white fennel.

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This vibrant restaurant is the perfect place to meet after work...or even for a more intimate affair. The atmosphere at Shimmers manages to make you feel like youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on holiday after a long day at work - one that will last long into the warm Dubai evening. . www.jumeirah.com

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CZECH & SPEAKE No.88 shaving set & stand £310

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Thirteenth Edition

Get them while they’re hot…

THE GOLDEN ONE - Limited edition Quooker boiling-water tap - Available in the United Arab Emirates. Energy efficient, safe, water saving, space saving and - above all - time saving. The Quooker Fusion switches immediately from cold to boiling water and back.

Quooker - THE GOLDEN ONE From AED 12,990 www.quooker.ae

Drawing on its rich history as trusted advisors to the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most influential individuals, Chartwell offers its discerning international clientele a truly bespoke turn-key service from historical build renovations, construction and development, to design and architecture, property acquisition and disposal (commercial and residential), interior design and family office support services. Chartwell company specialises in bringing traditional British engineering, construction, project management and fit out, to remote and challenging locations around the world.

London: +44 (0)207 409 0545

enquiries@chartwell-group.com