October 2026 | Issue #321 www.bazaar.town
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Don’t blink, because somehow, we’re already in October. It feels like only yesterday we were easing into a new year, making plans, setting intentions, and wondering what the months ahead might bring. Now, suddenly, the year is entering its final stretch, and there is something about this time of year that makes you pause, take stock, and, perhaps, settle in a little. But this year has not passed quietly. For those of us in Kuwait, 2026 brought moments that made the world outside our windows feel much closer than we would have liked. The attacks that reached Kuwait disrupted the sense of normalcy we often take for granted, leaving an imprint that does not simply disappear when the immediate danger passes. Even now, as life returns to familiar rhythms, there is an awareness that something has shifted, and that many of us are still carrying the weight of what happened. Perhaps that is part of why the arrival of October feels particularly welcome. There is comfort in familiar rhythms, in returning to our homes, reconnecting with the people around us, and finding small ways to make everyday life feel good again. There is a natural instinct to nest as the year moves into its final months. We start looking at our homes differently, noticing the drawer that has become a black hole, the wardrobe that no longer works quite as well as it should, or the corner that could become something more. IKEA’s latest storage solutions tap into that desire to make our spaces work better for the lives we actually live, creating more room for the things we love and the things we do. But in Kuwait, October also brings another kind of invitation: to leave the house. After months of heat, the first cooler evenings feel like a collective exhale. Balconies become rooms again, rooftops become destinations, and suddenly there is every reason to take dinner, coffee, or conversation outside. ABYAT’s Outdoor Season collection arrives at just the right moment, reminding us that our outdoor spaces can be just as much a part of home life as the rooms inside. That movement between indoors and out feels fitting for this time of year. We are making our homes more functional, comfortable, and personal, while rediscovering the spaces beyond them. And perhaps it is also a good time to think about the things we challenge ourselves to do. In this issue, we meet Kuwaiti adventurer Rand AlSumait, who took on Mont Blanc and discovered that climbing a mountain is about much more than reaching the summit. There is the literal mountain, of course, but also the mountains we climb figuratively when we step beyond what is familiar, accept uncertainty, and discover what we are capable of. We then meet Steven Steven, the newly appointed General Manager of Philip Morris International in Kuwait, as he begins a new chapter and gets to know the market he now calls home. Elsewhere, we look at evolving mobility, from Toyota’s new Land Cruiser FJ to CEER’s EXOBOT, and explore the technology, design, and experiences shaping how we live. Because the year may be flying by, but October reminds us there is still plenty of time to make the most of it. To nest. To gather. To explore. To climb a few mountains, literally or otherwise. To step outside when the weather calls. And to leave a little room for whatever comes next.
The bazaar team... Editor
Alia Al Duaij
Boss
Ahmed El-Adly
Operations Ihab Youssef
Content
Yasmine El Charif
Design
Shadi Mofeed
Staff Writer/Online Media Yasmin Gamal Israa Odeh Hanan Othman
Communications Hala Y. Sharara
Syndicates & Sources Fast Company LA Times MCT International Newsweek
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The views expressed in bazaar magazine are those of the respective contributors and not necessarily shared by the magazine or its staff (but sometimes they are).
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LA TAVOLA ITALIANA Embark on a culinary journey through Italy with handcrafted pastas, wood fired favorites, and classic desserts, thoughtfully prepared to celebrate authentic Italian flavors and regional traditions.
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INDEX OCTOBER 2026 22
BEYOND THE SUMMIT For Kuwaiti adventurer Rand AlSumait, climbing Mont Blanc was about more than reaching the top. From learning technical mountaineering skills to navigating uncertainty, fatigue and changing conditions, she discovered that sometimes the biggest challenge is stepping beyond what you already know and trusting yourself to keep going.
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MAKE ROOM FOR LIFE WITH IKEA What if making your home feel better didn’t mean making it bigger? IKEA looks at the everyday clutter, awkward corners and changing needs that can make a home feel smaller than it is, with storage solutions designed to give everything a place while leaving more room for the life happening around it.
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Newly appointed General Manager Steven Steven arrives in Kuwait with an international career behind him and a new market to understand. We sit down with Steven to talk about finding his feet in Kuwait, listening to consumers, the thinking behind Bonds by IQOS and what he hopes to bring to his new role.
October brings a season of thoughtful experiences to Waldorf Astoria Kuwait, from immersive sound healing and restorative wellness rituals to a Pinktober Afternoon Tea and intimate celebrations. A collection of moments designed around connection, renewal and refined indulgence.
A NEW CHAPTER FOR PHILIP MORRIS KUWAIT
50 THE ART OF PERSONAL PERFORMANCE Porsche Centre Kuwait showcases the essence of the brand at Auto World Show 2026, bringing together sporting heritage, precision craftsmanship and the endless possibilities of personalization in one distinctive experience.
THE ESSENCE OF WALDORF ASTORIA KUWAIT
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FREEDOM, REIMAGINED The Land Cruiser has always been about going further. Toyota’s new Land Cruiser FJ brings that familiar off-road DNA into a more compact, agile package, combining the nameplate’s legendary capability with a design made for a wider range of everyday adventures.
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DIFFERENT BRANDS. DIFFERENT WAYS OF LIVING. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to technology. From Apple and Samsung to Dyson, Ninja, Lenovo, HP and WHOOP, Xcite brings together brands that approach the way we work, cook, connect, move and unwind from very different perspectives.
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EXOBOT: BOLD, EXTRAORDINARY, SAUDI CEER introduces its first flagship electric vehicles, bringing together dramatic Saudi design, extreme electric performance and technology developed with the realities of the region in mind. Meet EXOBOT, the sedan and SUV opening a new chapter for the Kingdom’s homegrown automotive brand. 14
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AL SHAYA GROUP OPENS ITS FIRST COMPANYOWNED DISTRIBUTION CENTER IN KUWAIT
A new 51,000-square-meter facility in West Abdullah Mubarak brings Alshaya’s retail, food, eCommerce and last-mile operations together under one roof. By bazaar staff
Behind the stores, cafes and restaurants we know and love is a vast network of people, products and logistics that keeps everything moving. For Alshaya Group, that network has just expanded with the opening of its first company-owned distribution center in Kuwait. Located in West Abdullah Mubarak, the new Kuwait Distribution Center marks a significant step in the Group’s ongoing development of its logistics and supply chain infrastructure in its home market. The facility is designed to bring key logistics activities together in one central location, helping Alshaya serve its stores across Kuwait more efficiently while supporting the continued growth of its international brand portfolio. Spanning 51,000 square meters, the center offers 51,000 pallet locations and approximately 140,000 cubic meters of storage capacity. More than simply a warehouse, it brings together retail, food, shop-fit, eCommerce and last-mile delivery operations in a single location, supporting around 50 brands and 490 stores across Kuwait. For a group whose portfolio spans everything from fashion and beauty to cafes and restaurants, the scale of the operation reflects just how much needs to happen behind the scenes to keep those customer experiences running smoothly. “The opening of our new Kuwait Distribution Centre is an important milestone for Alshaya and reflects our continued focus on strengthening the infrastructure behind our brands and stores,” says Tony Arnold, Chief Logistics Officer at Alshaya Group. “Its more central location allows us to serve our stores more efficiently, improve the movement of products across our network and provide an even more responsive service to our operations.” The center is supported by a fleet of 110 vehicles, connecting the facility with Alshaya’s extensive store network and last-mile operations. Behind the wheels and warehouse operations is a team of 585 colleagues representing more than 15 nationalities, highlighting the human scale of the infrastructure as well as the physical one. The new facility also provides a platform for Alshaya’s future growth in Kuwait, consolidating its logistics operations while creating a more agile supply chain capable of supporting its expanding network. The opening was attended by John Hadden, Chief Executive Officer of Alshaya Group, and represents another milestone in the company’s long-standing presence in Kuwait. Established in Kuwait in 1890, the family-owned business has grown into one of the world’s leading brand franchise operators, with more than 70 international brands across the MENA region, Türkiye and Europe. 20
Today, Alshaya operates more than 3,500 stores, cafes, restaurants and leisure destinations, alongside major logistics and food production operations and more than 125 online and digital businesses. Its portfolio includes Starbucks, American Eagle, Foot Locker, Victoria’s Secret, H&M, Bath & Body Works, Charlotte Tilbury, Raising Cane’s, Shake Shack, Chipotle, Primark and Ulta Beauty.
With more than 50,000 colleagues across its markets, the Group’s new Kuwait Distribution Center is ultimately about what happens beyond the shop floor: building the infrastructure that allows the brands, products and experiences customers know to keep moving. Learn more about Alshaya Group at www.alshaya.com.
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BEYOND THE SUMMIT:
RAND ALSUMAIT ON CLIMBING MONT BLANC
For Kuwaiti adventurer Rand AlSumait, climbing Mont Blanc was less about conquering a mountain than learning to embrace uncertainty, challenge her limits and discover what happens when you keep moving. By bazaar Staff
There is a particular kind of quiet that settles over you when you are high in the mountains. The world narrows to the ground beneath your feet, the rhythm of your breathing and the person moving beside you. For Rand AlSumait, that sense of focus became one of the most memorable parts of climbing Mont Blanc. “I remember how quiet and focused everything becomes once you’re actually climbing,” she says. “Your world suddenly becomes very small. You’re watching where you place your feet, listening to your breathing and concentrating on the next few metres rather than thinking about how far you still have to go.” For someone who has spent years travelling, trekking and working in the adventure travel world, the climb represented a natural progression. Rand had already become comfortable in the mountains, but Mont Blanc offered something different. It was not simply another trek, but an opportunity to become a beginner again. “I wanted to experience something that would take me beyond the kind of mountains I was already comfortable with,” she explains. “Mont Blanc felt like that natural next step.” What drew her to the experience was its technical nature. Unlike a traditional trek, climbing Mont Blanc meant learning to use crampons and an ice axe, moving across glaciers and travelling as part of a rope team. There was altitude, unfamiliar terrain and the need to remain constantly engaged with what was happening around her. “I liked the idea of putting myself in a situation where I would have to learn again and become a beginner in some ways,” she says. That distinction is important. While Mont Blanc can appear deceptively accessible in photographs, the reality involves considerably more than simply being fit enough to walk uphill. Life Happens Outdoors, the adventure company behind Rand’s trip, runs an eight-day programme comprising six guided mountain days. Participants begin by learning essential mountaineering skills before progressing through Alpine terrain while acclimatising to the environment. The final phase allows three days for the approach to Mont Blanc, a possible summit attempt and the descent, with a maximum of two participants per IFMGAcertified mountain guide. Whether the summit attempt goes ahead depends on the participants, the weather and the mountain conditions. 22
For Rand, the biggest surprise was that endurance was only one part of the challenge. “I imagined the biggest challenge would be endurance, when in reality there were so many other elements happening at once,” she says. “You’re thinking about your steps, the conditions, your equipment, the person you’re roped to, the pace and your own energy. It requires constant concentration.” That concentration is something LHO founder and CEO Rami Rasamny considers central to mountaineering. The company recommends that participants allow roughly four to six months to prepare, depending on their starting point, building endurance and strength while gradually increasing the amount of time they spend on their feet. Training needs to prepare participants not only to climb, but to descend with control, carry a pack and repeat the effort over consecutive days. Much of that preparation can happen in Kuwait. Stairs, incline treadmills, strength training and regular walking can all form part of the foundation, while actual mountain days help participants develop their footing, pacing and familiarity with their equipment. Boots, clothing and packs also need to be tested before departure rather than introduced for the first time on the mountain.
For Rand, preparation meant focusing heavily on endurance and strength, with incline walking, cardiovascular work and training for her legs and core. But she also recognised that there was a mental element that could not be recreated in a gym. “You have to become comfortable with discomfort,” she says. “There will be moments when you’re cold, tired, nervous or simply wondering why you voluntarily signed up for this.” The uncertainty was perhaps the hardest part. Training can make you stronger, but it cannot eliminate variables such as altitude, weather and mountain conditions. For Rand, being ready eventually came to mean something different from feeling completely confident. “Being ready didn’t mean feeling completely fearless or certain that I would succeed,” she says. “It meant knowing that I had prepared as well as I could and trusting myself enough to show up and try.” That mindset is one LHO believes is just as important as physical fitness. The company describes Mont Blanc as a serious mountain, with long days, exposed terrain, altitude and changing conditions. Mental preparation involves staying attentive when tired, communicating when something feels wrong, accepting instruction and being willing to change plans.
Perhaps most importantly, that includes understanding that reaching the summit is not the only measure of a successful expedition. Knowing when to turn around can be just as important as knowing when to continue. For Rand, the experience also carried a wider significance. She was part of a group of four women from Kuwait, the UAE and Lebanon, and found something particularly meaningful in sharing such a demanding environment with women from the region. “There was something powerful about being women standing together in an environment that was so far removed from our everyday lives,” she says. The group supported one another throughout the climb, with each woman experiencing moments of strength and difficulty at different times. Rand also appreciated what their presence represented. “None of us needed to prove anything, but there was still something meaningful about seeing women from the Arab world choosing to put themselves in such a challenging environment simply because we wanted to see what we were capable of.” Women from the Gulf and wider region are part of LHO’s community, both as participants and as leaders. Rand herself is a particularly [Continued...]
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fitting example of that progression. According to Rasamny, she joined an LHO Mont Blanc climb in 2019 and later became one of the company’s team leaders. For LHO, stories like hers can help make an unfamiliar experience feel more accessible to someone considering their first adventure. That sense of possibility is at the heart of why Rasamny founded the company in the first place. His own relationship with the outdoors began as part of a personal decision to change his lifestyle. He wanted LHO to provide a welcoming entry point for people who were interested in adventure but did not know how to begin, from understanding equipment and training to finding a community in which they felt comfortable asking questions. Today, the community includes first-time participants alongside people returning for their fifth or seventh adventure. Some have even progressed from joining trips to becoming team leaders themselves. For Rand, though, the most lasting lesson from Mont Blanc was not about becoming an accomplished mountaineer. It was about what happens when you allow yourself to attempt something before you are completely certain you can do it. “Confidence doesn’t always come before doing something difficult,” she says. “Sometimes you have to step into something while still having doubts, and the confidence comes afterwards when you realise you handled situations you weren’t completely sure you could handle.” The experience also shifted the way she thinks about adventure itself. The more time she spends 24
[...Continued]
in the mountains, she says, the less she feels the need to conquer anything. “Mountains are much bigger than us,” she says. “For me, adventure has become less about collecting summits and more about the experiences, the people, the lessons and the version of yourself you discover along the way.” And for anyone watching from Kuwait and wondering whether an experience like Mont Blanc is possible, her advice is refreshingly simple: do
not decide what you are capable of before you have given yourself the chance to find out. “Start small. Train properly. Learn the skills. Surround yourself with experienced people and slowly build confidence through experience.” Because sometimes the most important part of an adventure is not standing on the summit. It is deciding to take the first step towards it. If you’re ready to go on your own adventure, visit lifehappensoutdoors.com. All images courtesy of LHO.
NO FUSS, NO FUSION; JUST SHAWARMA
What makes shawarma in Kuwait distinctive is not a single secret ingredient, but accumulation: Levantine technique, Iraqi bread, Kuwaiti heat, and decades of after-dark ritual. By Purva Grover
Much has been written about it, and much will be written about it in the centuries to come, yet the mouth-watering stories around the humble Shawarma stay around to entertain us, feed us, and make us nostalgic. Or, in the case of all those who have not relished a Shawarma in Kuwait, deeply envious too. For the sake of English, and out of deep respect for this street food, we’d address the dish with a capital S. Much has been written about it, and much will be written about it in the centuries to come, yet the mouth-watering stories around the humble Shawarma stay around to entertain us, feed us, and make us nostalgic. Or, in the case of all those who have not relished a Shawarma in Kuwait, deeply envious too. For the sake of English, and out of deep respect for this street food, we’d address the dish with a capital S. Now, imagine this: a bunch of children crowd around a shop, just by the corner—or rather, every other corner in the city—waiting patiently to get their hands on street food wrapped in a humble paper cover. No brands are stamped across it, and no big billboards announce the corner shop’s name. Many a time, these were nameless shops, yet always easy to find, even in an era without Google Maps, and hugely popular in the pre-Instagram handleand-hashtag years. The kids have lined up, with adults watching over them, and it is summer (isn’t it mostly in Kuwait!). As sweat trickles down their necks and foreheads outside the shop, the scene inside is ‘hotter’: the meat is on the rotisserie, and the preparation suggests no air-conditioning in this kitchen-cum-shop. The heat is visible to the naked eye, and the aroma of cooking meat is enough to leave anyone nearby hungry and greedy. The meat is constructed, not simply skewered. Thin marinated slices of chicken, beef, or lamb are layered tightly into an inverted cone. The vertical spit turns slowly before the grill, and the shawarmamaker shaves away only the browned exterior with a long knife. The newly exposed surface returns to the heat, creating that essential contrast between crisp edges and juicy meat. “That’s where it belongs,” laments dear husband, who was born and raised in Kuwait City, which, in short, means no Shawarma other than the ones he had there will ever be good enough— or even come close. We may now live in Dubai, with Michelin-star-worthy Shawarmas within reach, but we don’t have the roadside Shawarma from Salmiya. He and his childhood buddies aren’t against elevating the street-served Shawarma’s status many notches above anything served in seven-star hotels, but they do get upset over the loss of authenticity in ingredients, taste, flavors, preparation methods, and, yes, even the rate card!
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Two hundred and fifty fils for a Shawarma and 100 fils for its equally popular vegetarian counterpart, falafel. A single penny more is both a sacrilegious thought and a fact in 2026. Every other evening, a long day at college or work would end with a stopover at one of the multiple shops; everyone had their favourites, of course. His was Canary. Irrespective of your choice, the Shawarma tasted absolutely the same! There was no science to it, no fusion thrown in and no immersive experience attached. Just basic layering: garlic sauce, a handful of pickles and meat. No wonder his food vocabulary is limited but rich: “A dollop of toum, some pickles and meat; and that’s it.” No Mexican Nutella version to make your eyes gawk in horror, he says of the ones he sees in his current home now. The bread, too, can define a generation. Today, Shawarma comes wrapped in thin Lebanese or saj bread; older Kuwait-style versions favoured samoon, a soft, elongated or diamond-shaped roll popular in the 1980s. Chicken is typically paired with toum, pickles, and fries, while meat favors tahini, parsley, onion, and tomato. The fries, an extra, absorb the juices and add texture; the pickles cut through the fat, salt and garlic. So, what is it about this most clichéd item on the menu that ensures its charm never fades, but quite the opposite? It’s the character: unpretentious, affordable, dependable, democratic and deeply nostalgic. It comes from the country’s Palestinian, Lebanese, Syrian and Iraqi culinary
influences—and from the way Kuwait’s cafeterias adapted it into a small, inexpensive and highly customizable street snack. Contemporary versions may even carry a touch of maabooj, Kuwait’s chili condiment, giving the Levantine sandwich a recognizably Gulf accent. Shawarma carries a long after-dark history in Kuwait, with restaurants such as Bou Khalil, near Fahd Al-Salem Street, once drawing crowds of young customers and cars. The bunch of young boys now wear fancier suits, the kitchen hands are wrinkled, and the hair is grey, but neither the wait nor the skill passed down through generations has changed. As I hear stories dipped in memories, I am convinced that when Lorette C. Luzajic wrote the prose poem “The Shawarma King”, she was referring to the shawarma-makers of Kuwait: “He can craft five shawarmas at once.” The skilled performer’s speed, physical movements, and mastery of the preparation process turn an ordinary food counter into a small stage, and the cook’s repetitive labor into something theatrical: the rotating cone, rhythmic carving, spreading of sauce, and rapid wrapping. And if I were to take the liberty of adding to the prose, I’d add, “He can gorge on five shawarmas at once!”—an apt tribute to individuals I now call friends and family. Purva Grover is a UAE-based author, journalist, and creative entrepreneur. You can stalk her on Instagram, @purvagr. Photo by Omar Hakeem on Unsplash.
A NEW CHAPTER FOR PHILIP MORRIS KUWAIT
Newly appointed General Manager Steven Steven talks about finding his feet in Kuwait, listening to consumers and the evolving vision of PMI. By bazaar staff
Steven Steven’s first introduction to Kuwait came in the middle of summer, which may not have been the most forgiving welcome. “I landed 11 of July,” he recalls. “Everyone told me that’s the best time in the world.” They were, he admits, not entirely truthful. Still, the heat has not dampened his enthusiasm for his new home. What has made the stronger impression is something that had nothing to do with the weather: the warmth of the people. Having relocated from Indonesia and previously spent four years in Switzerland, Steven has experienced very different cultures and working environments throughout his career. In Kuwait, it is the openness and hospitality that immediately stood out. “It’s different. They’re so open,” he says. Steven took on his role as General Manager of Philip Morris International (PMI) in Kuwait in 2026, where he is responsible for leading the company’s business and operations in the market. His career spans commercial leadership, business planning, brand and portfolio management, strategy and innovation, with previous senior roles at PT HM Sampoerna in Indonesia and international positions at PMI in Lausanne and Hong Kong. Now, as he begins his next chapter in Kuwait, Steven is bringing that international experience to a market he is still getting to know. Our conversation takes place around the launch of Bonds by IQOS, but quickly becomes a discussion about something broader: understanding consumers and responding to what they want. Listening to Consumers For Steven, the story behind Bonds by IQOS begins with the question of why it exists. “Our objective is simple: to move adult smoker that wants to smoke to switch to a smoke-free alternative,” he explains. According to Steven, Bonds by IQOS was developed in response to consumer feedback around taste intensity. Rather than focusing on a single product experience, the expanded portfolio is intended to offer options that address different preferences among adult smokers. He illustrates the idea with a simple comparison. “It’s like coffee. You like Arabica. You love Robusta. For me, as simple as that.” For Steven, the point is that consumers are not a single group with identical expectations. “It’s about giving options to our adult smokers, to what their needs [are], because every person is different.” That emphasis on listening is central to how he sees innovation. Consumer expectations, he says, “keep changing” and “keep evolving every day.” The challenge is to take those insights and translate them into innovation that responds to those changing needs. 28
Technology That Works When the conversation turns to the technology behind the product, Steven deliberately keeps the explanation simple. For him, technology ultimately needs to deliver an experience that is functional, reliable and easy to use. “I always believe there is no point you have the high technology, but it’s not very reliable and simple.” That philosophy is reflected in how he describes Bonds by IQOS, with simplicity and functionality sitting alongside the taste experience that informed its development. It is also indicative of his broader approach: innovation should respond to a real consumer expectation rather than exist simply for the sake of technological advancement.
feet in Kuwait. He has already begun exploring the local food scene, developing a particular fondness for hummus and trying dishes including fattoush and machboos. Coming from Indonesia, he has also noticed the dramatic contrast in Kuwait’s landscape, particularly the amount of desert visible even around the city. But it is the people who have made the most lasting impression. That process of discovery is perhaps fitting for someone whose career has taken him across Asia, Europe and the Middle East. His academic background combines a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science with a Master’s degree in Management from BINUS University in Indonesia. Now, Kuwait represents the next chapter.
Discovering Kuwait Outside of the business, Steven is still finding his
Looking Ahead While Bonds by IQOS is the immediate focus,
Steven sees it as part of PMI’s wider ambition in the Kuwaiti market. “There are still nearly millions of adult smokers out there,” he says, describing the company’s objective of moving adult smokers towards smoke-free alternatives. For him, achieving that ambition requires more than developing products. It requires continued engagement with consumers and an understanding of why they make the choices they do. “As long as there are still smokers out there,” he says, “every day me and my team… [will] connect with you.” Then comes the part he considers most important. “The most important is to really tell you why it exists.” For Steven, that philosophy provides a clear starting point for his new role: listen to the market, understand its consumers and use those insights to shape what comes next. As he settles into Kuwait, his next chapter is only just beginning. 29
THE KUWAIT YOU DON’T NOTICE ANYMORE Sometimes, rediscovering a place begins with paying attention to the things we pass every day. By bazaar staff
There is a strange thing that happens when you live somewhere long enough. The extraordinary becomes ordinary. The sea becomes part of your commute, familiar buildings fade into the background, and the little details that make a city itself become things you barely notice. We spend so much time looking for somewhere new to explore that we forget how much there is to discover right outside our doors. Kuwait is particularly good at hiding its character in plain sight. Beyond the skyline and the latest openings is a city of small rituals, familiar sounds, architectural details and everyday moments that tell a much richer story. Sometimes, all it takes is a slightly different route home to remember why this place feels like nowhere else. THE OLD SHOP SIGNS Before everything became polished branding and matching storefronts, there were hand-painted signs, wonderfully specific shop names and lettering that seemed to have a personality of its own. You can still find traces of this visual history in older commercial streets, particularly around Kuwait City and Hawally. Look closely at the typography, the colours and the way Arabic and English share space. These signs are tiny pieces of design history, often created with more character than an entire contemporary branding campaign. THE SOUND OF THE SOUK Al Mubarakiya is not just somewhere to shop. It is an entire sensory experience. The conversations between shopkeepers, the clinking of tea glasses, the smell of spices and the unmistakable rhythm of people moving through narrow passages all contribute to its atmosphere. There is something reassuring about a place that encourages you to wander without a particular destination. You might arrive looking for one thing and leave with something completely different, along with a conversation you never expected to have.
THE SEA THAT IS ALWAYS THERE For a country with such a deep maritime history, it is surprisingly easy to treat the waterfront as background scenery. We drive alongside it, arrange coffee meetings overlooking it and occasionally remember to stop and enjoy it. But the Gulf changes character throughout the day. Early mornings bring a different kind of quiet, while late afternoons soften the skyline and turn familiar stretches of coastline into something worth photographing. You do not need a beach day or an elaborate plan. Sometimes, twenty minutes watching the water is enough.
THE CITY BEFORE EVERYONE WAKES UP Kuwait has an entirely different personality in the early morning. Streets that will soon be crowded are briefly peaceful, the light is gentler, and even familiar neighbourhoods seem to move at a slower pace. There are people opening shops, preparing breakfast, walking along the waterfront and beginning their routines long before the rest of the city gets going. It is worth experiencing occasionally, even if you are not naturally a morning person. The same streets can feel like a different place when you encounter them at a different hour.
THE ARCHITECTURE BETWEEN THE LANDMARKS Kuwait’s architectural story is not limited to its most recognisable buildings. Look beyond the obvious landmarks and you will find older houses, shaded entrances, decorative metalwork, patterned concrete blocks and buildings that reflect different chapters of the country’s development. Some details were designed for the climate, others for privacy, and many simply reflect the aesthetic preferences of another era. Together, they create a visual language that is easy to overlook when we are moving too quickly. Next time you walk through an older neighbourhood, look up. The interesting part might be above the shopfront.
THE LITTLE SOCIAL RITUALS Some of Kuwait’s most recognisable details are not physical at all. They are the small gestures that shape everyday life. The insistence that a guest has something to drink, the conversations that begin with a greeting and somehow last half an hour, and the way a quick visit can turn into an entire evening. The diwaniya remains one of the country’s defining social traditions, but that spirit of gathering extends far beyond a single space. It lives in homes, workplaces, neighbourhoods and the familiar places where people meet. These rituals are so embedded in daily life that we rarely stop to consider how much they contribute to the feeling of belonging.
LOOK AGAIN Perhaps rediscovering Kuwait is less about finding somewhere you have never been and more about approaching somewhere familiar with curiosity. Take the longer route. Walk instead of driving when the weather allows. Photograph a building you have passed a hundred times. Visit a neighbourhood without a shopping list. Ask someone about the history of a place you thought you knew. A city is never just its landmarks. It is the collection of details, habits and memories that make it feel like home. And sometimes, the best way to appreciate where you live is to look at it as though you have only just arrived.
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& OTHER STORIES FALL 2026: DRESSING BY INSTINCT
The new collection embraces individuality through sculptural tailoring, unexpected contrasts and a rich palette of seasonal neutrals punctuated by red, purple and tartan. By bazaar staff
For Fall 2026, & Other Stories turns its attention to the art of dressing instinctively. Rather than prescribing a singular way to approach the new season, the collection encourages experimentation, bringing together contrasting textures, silhouettes and influences to create a wardrobe that feels personal, expressive and distinctly modern. Launching September 3, 2026, the collection is available globally in selected stores and online. Described as “charismatic, contrasting, and expressive,” the Fall 2026 collection takes inspiration from the energy of moving through the city, weaving together design influences from different eras to create a contemporary wardrobe with plenty of room for interpretation. The result is a selection of pieces designed to be layered, adapted and styled according to individual expression, rather than worn according to a fixed formula. At the heart of the collection is an approach to styling that favours unexpected combinations. Graphic knitwear meets tassel details, heritage tweeds are layered with delicate lace, while soft brushed cashmere is set against high-shine leather. Strong tailoring is softened with fluid layers and feminine detailing, creating silhouettes that balance polish with a sense of ease. That contrast extends to the collection’s colour story. Seasonal neutrals form the foundation, providing a versatile base for dressing throughout fall, while flashes of primary red and purple introduce energy. Purple moves from soft lilac to vivid violet, while graphic tartan adds another layer of pattern and visual interest. Rather than dominating the looks, these accents punctuate the wardrobe, bringing a spontaneous quality to otherwise grounded combinations. Silhouettes take their cues from the architecture of the city. Sculptural shapes are balanced with relaxed volume and fluid movement, creating a dialogue between sharp definition and softness. Tailoring remains an important part of the collection, but it is offset by more fluid forms, feminine gathering and lace detailing. The effect is structured without feeling restrictive, reflecting the movement and changing pace of everyday city life. The fabric selection reinforces this tension between structure and softness. Long wool overcoats, Italian wool tailoring, tweed and herringbone bring weight and definition, while patent leather introduces a glossy finish. Merino knitwear, silk and brushed cashmere add softness and movement, creating combinations that rely as much on tactile contrast as they do on colour or silhouette. The styling imagery brings these ideas to life. 32
One look pairs a structured merino jumper with a midi fringe skirt, while another combines a cashmere balaclava and wool-cotton vest with a tartan skirt, leather ankle boots and a suede bag. Elsewhere, a lace-trimmed satin blouse is paired with a matching midi skirt, wide leather belt and knee-high leather boots, offering a more romantic interpretation of the season. Accessories are treated as essential components of the overall silhouette rather than finishing touches. Sand-washed suede and leather basketweave bags, silk scarves, long leather gloves, pointed-toe pumps and boots all contribute to the collection’s considered styling. A pillbox hat adds a more distinctive finishing detail, reinforcing the idea that accessories can transform an outfit and give it character. For Gabriella Cullhed, Lead Collection Designer, the season is ultimately about creative freedom. The collection is designed for women who dress instinctively, combining pieces in ways that feel
authentic to them. Cashmere can meet high-shine leather, tweed or bouclé can be paired with lace, and sharp tailoring can be layered with fluid, feminine pieces. The intention is not to dictate how the clothes should be worn, but to create a wardrobe that invites interpretation. That philosophy gives & Other Stories Fall 2026 its defining character. Instead of treating fall dressing as a fixed set of trends, the collection approaches the season as an opportunity to experiment with proportion, texture and contrast. The pieces can be mixed, layered and reinterpreted, allowing personal style to remain at the centre. With its combination of architectural silhouettes, tactile fabrics, expressive colour and unexpected pairings, Fall 2026 makes a case for dressing without too many rules. The message is simple: take the pieces that speak to you, put them together in a way that feels right, and make the season your own. Available in selected stores and at stories.com.
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THE ESSENCE OF WALDORF ASTORIA KUWAIT
Discover a season of refined indulgence at Waldorf Astoria Kuwait, where immersive wellness experiences, Pinktober-inspired offerings and intimate celebrations come together in thoughtful style. By bazaar staff
This October, Waldorf Astoria Kuwait presents a curated collection of experiences celebrating meaningful moments, mindful wellbeing and refined indulgence. From immersive sound healing and restorative wellness rituals to elegant social celebrations and a Pinktober inspired Afternoon Tea, each experience is thoughtfully designed to inspire connection, renewal and lasting memories. SOUND HEALING & WELLNESS EXPERIENCES Waldorf Astoria Kuwait hosts a three-month series of immersive Sound Healing & Wellness Experiences in collaboration with Shaimaa Bou Rashed, certified sound healing teacher, meditation guide and wellness consultant. Held bi-weekly, guests can experience the journey while floating peacefully in the pool or relaxing poolside, as sound, vibration and mindful awareness come together in a unique wellness experience. Each one hour session begins with guided meditation, followed by immersive sound healing designed to encourage deep relaxation and inner balance. The experience concludes with a thoughtfully curated monthly ritual, offering a meaningful moment of reflection and connection. Spaces are limited and advance reservations are recommended. KWD 35 per person | October 3, 17, 31. Contact us to reserve: +965 2477 4424 PINKTOBER AFTERNOON TEA Peacock Alley presents an exclusive Pinktober Afternoon Tea inspired by the spirit of hope, strength and empowerment in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Thoughtfully crafted for the occasion, the experience brings together an elegant selection of pink inspired pastries, delicate savories and freshly baked scones accompanied by artisanal preserves, complemented by a signature beverage. Every detail reflects the spirit of the month through an experience of refined indulgence and meaningful awareness. Daily | 3 pm to 11 pm KWD 19, sharing for two, including the tea experience 34
PINK SERENITY JOURNEY Embrace the spirit of Pinktober with a restorative wellness journey thoughtfully designed to inspire relaxation, renewal and self-care. Begin with a 60-minute Signature Relaxation Massage to release tension and restore balance, followed by a 30-minute Glow Facial to revive the skin’s natural radiance. The journey concludes with a 30-minute Nourishing Body Ritual, leaving the body refreshed and renewed from head to toe. 120 minutes | KWD 115
SIGNATURE OCCASIONS BY WALDORF ASTORIA KUWAIT Celebrate life’s most cherished moments with Signature Occasions at Waldorf Astoria Kuwait, where every gathering is thoughtfully designed to feel truly personal. From baby showers and birthdays to engagements, anniversaries and intimate celebrations, each occasion brings together elegant settings, curated menus and personalised service, complemented by thoughtful details at every touchpoint. With dedicated planning and the timeless hospitality of Waldorf Astoria Kuwait, every celebration becomes a beautifully crafted experience to share and remember. To learn more or reserve your experience, scan the QR code.
Or call: +965 24774424 | +965 2477 4414| +965 2477 4444 35
BONDS BY IQOS: EXPANDING THE CHOICES FOR SMOKE-FREE ALTERNATIVES Launching in Kuwait, the new-generation device combines ROUNDHEAT Technology with a compact, low-maintenance design and a wider range of experiences. By bazaar staff
When it comes to technology, more does not necessarily mean more complicated. For Philip Morris International, the latest addition to its smoke-free portfolio is built around a combination of advanced heating technology, simplicity and choice. BONDS by IQOS, newly launched in Kuwait, is a compact, all-aluminum tobacco heating device designed for legal-age adult smokers who would otherwise continue to smoke. Its arrival expands PMI’s range of smoke-free alternatives in the market, reflecting the company’s focus on offering different technologies, experiences, tastes and price points. At the heart of BONDS by IQOS is ROUNDHEAT Technology, which uses resistive external heating to heat specially designed ROUNDHEAT STICKS, known as BLENDS, across their external surface rather than burning them. According to PMI, this produces a nicotine-containing aerosol without ash or cigarette-smoke smell. For Steven Steven, General Manager of Philip Morris International Kuwait, the thinking behind the launch starts with understanding the people who will use the products. “Understanding adult consumers and listening to what they expect from alternatives to cigarettes is essential,” he says. “Different people have different preferences, which makes greater choice important.” That idea of choice is central to BONDS by IQOS. PMI’s approach recognises that there is no single smoke-free alternative designed to meet every adult consumer’s requirements, which is why the company is developing a broader portfolio across different technologies, usage experiences, tastes and price points. Designed for Simplicity BONDS by IQOS takes an all-in-one approach, with a lightweight aluminum construction and a low-maintenance design that requires no regular cleaning. The new-generation device also introduces a larger 3,100 mAh battery, compared with the previous generation’s 2,800 mAh battery, while reducing full charging time from three hours to approximately two. It offers up to three consecutive experiences and has a pre-heating time of approximately 30 seconds. On a full charge, the device delivers up to 28 experiences with BLENDS sticks, giving users the option to move through multiple experiences before recharging. BONDS by IQOS is designed exclusively for use with ROUNDHEAT STICKS, or BLENDS.
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For Steven, however, the technology is only part of the equation. During our conversation around the Kuwait launch, he emphasised the importance of keeping the experience simple. “I always believe there is no point you have the high technology, but it’s not very reliable and simple,” he says. That philosophy is reflected in the product’s positioning: advanced heating technology packaged into a device designed to be straightforward and accessible. A Broader Portfolio The launch of BONDS by IQOS is also part of PMI’s wider strategy to expand its smoke-free portfolio. Since 2008, the company says it has invested more than USD 16 billion, as of December 31, 2025, in developing, scientifically substantiating and commercialising smoke-free products for adults who would otherwise continue to smoke, with the stated goal of completely ending cigarette sales. PMI estimates that more than 43 million adults globally used its smoke-free products as of
the end of 2025, including more than 35 million IQOS users. In Kuwait, the introduction of BONDS by IQOS adds another option to that portfolio. For Steven, that comes back to a simple principle: people have different preferences. “It’s about giving options to our adult smokers,” he explains. “Because every person is different.” As consumer expectations continue to evolve, PMI’s challenge is to keep listening and developing products around those changing expectations. BONDS by IQOS represents one response, combining a new heating technology, a compact design and a broader range of choice within the company’s smoke-free portfolio. Important information: BONDS by IQOS is not risk-free and provides nicotine, which is addictive. PMI states that the best thing smokers can do is quit tobacco and nicotine altogether. The product is intended for adults who would otherwise continue to smoke or use other nicotine-containing products.
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MAKE SPACE FOR WHAT YOU LOVE WITH IKEA® More space. More calm. More you. By bazaar staff
Every home has its own storage and organisation challenges. There is the infamous “drawer of doom,” where everything without a proper home eventually ends up. There is the kitchen counter that seems to attract everything from appliances to paperwork, and the cupboard that is technically full but somehow never has room for what you actually need. Chargers disappear just when you need them, leading to the increasingly familiar experience of spending far too long looking for one. Sometimes, things get so out of hand that clutter is simply moved from one room to another before guests arrive. And in some homes, even the oven has quietly become an extra storage cupboard.
Maximise insides
These are some of the everyday realities explored in a recent global report by IKEA, which examines how we live with our belongings and the role that storage and organisation play in our homes. The report doesn’t suggest that our homes need to be perfectly tidy. Instead, it reflects something much more relatable: our belongings are part of our everyday lives, and finding ways for them to coexist with everything else can help our homes work better for us. And that is often what brings us to IKEA in the first place. Sometimes, you want your home to look and feel better, especially the spaces where you welcome family and friends. Sometimes, a room simply isn’t working as well as it could, and you want to make better use of the space you already have. The kitchen may have accumulated more than you know how to organise, and you need a better way to reduce clutter. A child’s room may need to be rethought as they grow, 38
or an existing room may need to take on an entirely new purpose. And sometimes, you simply want to refresh your home and make it feel more like you. Whatever prompts the change, storage and organisation can be part of the solution, because there is an important difference between the two. Storage gives your belongings a place to live; organisation helps that space work harder. A box can hold your things, but dividers can keep them separated and easier to find. A wardrobe can contain your clothes, while inserts and organisers can help you see and access them more easily. A kitchen cabinet gives you space, while clever compartments can help you make better use of every inch. Together, storage and organisation work hand in hand to transform the way a room functions. And making those changes doesn’t have to mean spending more. With more than 1,500 IKEA products now available at an Even Lower Price, creating smarter storage solutions can be surprisingly affordable.
Whether it’s a small upgrade or a complete room refresh, there are ways to make more of the space you have without putting your other plans on hold. Because good storage isn’t about creating a perfect home. It’s about making more room for life. THE HIDDEN COST OF CLUTTER Clutter has a way of becoming part of the scenery. We move things from one surface to another, promise ourselves we’ll sort them out later, and eventually stop noticing them altogether. Until we need something. Then the search begins. When belongings don’t have a designated place, putting them away becomes harder. When storage doesn’t suit the way a room is used, everyday routines can take longer. And when surfaces, corners and cupboards are constantly competing for space, even a comfortable home can start to feel smaller.
Store it out of sight
But the answer isn’t necessarily to own less. Our homes are meant to hold the things that make our lives richer: the books we love, the clothes we wear, children’s belongings, kitchen equipment we actually use, supplies for our hobbies, and objects that remind us of people and places we love. The challenge is finding a way to make room for all of them while still living comfortably. Thoughtful storage gives belongings a proper place, while organisation helps us make better use of that space. The result is a home that can accommodate more of the life happening inside it. RECLAIM YOUR SPACE AND YOUR TIME There is a difference between having space and making space work. A large wardrobe isn’t necessarily useful if its interior is hard to organise. A spacious living room can still feel crowded if everything ends up on the same surfaces. And a small home can feel surprisingly generous when every corner has been considered. Smart storage can help close that gap. It can make the inside of cabinets and wardrobes work harder, give overlooked spaces a purpose, and introduce furniture that serves more than one function. It can also make everyday essentials easier to reach while giving less frequently used belongings somewhere to go. The payoff is time as much as space. When you can find what you need more easily, put work away at the end of the day, or reach your hobby supplies without digging through a cupboard, everyday routines become simpler. A well-considered storage solution can help a room transition from work to relaxation, keep children’s belongings manageable, and make the things you use most part of the flow of daily life rather than another source of friction. That is the real value of making your space work harder: less time managing your belongings, and more time enjoying your home.
Use doubleduty furniture
Discover unused spaces
STORAGE THAT WORKS FOR THE WAY YOU LIVE There is no universal definition of an organised home because there is no universal way of living. The right solution depends on what you own, how you use your space, and what your life looks like right now. A living room may need to feel polished when guests arrive while remaining comfortable for everyday family life. A kitchen needs to accommodate the things you use constantly without allowing clutter to take over the counter. A child’s room has to evolve as they grow. And sometimes, a room simply needs a new purpose or a style refresh. The six IKEA storage essentials offer different ways to rethink your home, helping you create solutions around the way you actually live. MAXIMISE THE INSIDE For wardrobes, kitchens, and anyone who needs more from the storage they already have. Sometimes, the answer isn’t another cupboard. It’s making better use of the one you already own. The inside of a wardrobe, cabinet or drawer can often accommodate much more when it is properly organised. Dividers, inserts, boxes, compartments and additional shelving can transform a large, difficult-
to-manage space into several useful zones, making it easier to see what you have and reach what you need. In the kitchen, organisation can help separate cooking essentials, utensils, ingredients and smaller items, so the things you use most are easy to find. In a wardrobe, internal organisation can help make room for clothing and accessories while making the everyday routine of getting dressed simpler.
STORE IT OUT OF SIGHT For living rooms, dining spaces, and busy homes where the rhythms of daily life needs somewhere to go. Not everything needs to be visible. Living rooms and dining spaces often accommodate a surprising amount of everyday life. Books, electronics, paperwork, children’s belongings, games, cables and other essentials can quickly find their way onto every available surface. [Continued...]
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Show what makes you happy
Closed storage gives these things a home without making them part of the room’s visual landscape. It doesn’t mean hiding everything away. Open and closed storage can work together, allowing you to display the pieces that add personality while keeping practical essentials tucked away. The result is a space that feels more considered without losing the lived-in character that makes it feel like home. USE SMART FURNITURE For smaller homes, multifunctional rooms, and spaces that need to do more. When one room needs to serve several purposes, the furniture inside it needs to work harder too. A living room might become a workspace during the day and a place to relax in the evening. A dining area might accommodate everyday meals, entertaining and homework. A spare room might function as an office most of the time while still welcoming overnight guests. Smart furniture can help these different functions coexist. A bed with storage underneath, a bench that also provides space for belongings, or shelving that helps divide a room while adding storage can give a space more than one role without filling it with more furniture.
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DISCOVER UNUSED SPACES For small-space living, awkward corners, and anyone who feels they simply don’t have enough room. Before deciding you need more space, look at the space you already have. There may be storage potential above a wardrobe, underneath a bed, behind a door, along a wall or inside a narrow corner. These areas can easily go unnoticed because they are not traditionally thought of as storage, but they can become valuable when approached differently. Vertical solutions can make use of wall space without taking over the floor. Under-bed storage can give seasonal or less frequently used belongings somewhere to live. An awkward corner can become useful rather than simply remaining empty. Sometimes, the most effective way to create more space is to discover the space that was already there. SHOW WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY For living rooms, dining spaces, collectors, book lovers, and anyone who wants their home to feel more personal. An organised home doesn’t have to be a minimalist home. Books, photographs, artwork, collections, travel finds, ceramics and other meaningful objects are part of what makes a space feel personal. Storage can help create a balance between the things you want to display and the things you would rather keep tucked away. Open shelving can give favourite belongings a place to be seen, while closed storage handles everything else. For hobbyists and collectors, this means the things they love can become part of the room rather than being treated as clutter. 40
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And when you’re ready to update the style of your home, changing how you display and organise your belongings can be a simple way to give a familiar room a fresh perspective. GO MODULAR For growing families, changing rooms, and homes that need to evolve. Our homes don’t stay the same because our lives don’t stay the same. A child’s room may need to change as they grow. A guest room might become a study. A home office may eventually become a creative space. A room may simply need to serve a completely different purpose. Modular storage can adapt alongside those changes, allowing you to adjust your setup rather than starting from scratch. It gives you flexibility as needs evolve, whether you’re making room for growing children or repurposing a room for a new stage of life. Because the home that works for you today may need to work differently tomorrow. MAKE SPACE FOR WHAT YOU LOVE, FOR LESS Good storage isn’t about creating a home where everything is perfectly arranged all the time. Real homes are lived in. They hold busy mornings, family dinners, unfinished projects, hobbies,
memories and all the things that come with everyday life. The goal is to make those realities easier to live with. It can mean finding what you need more easily, making a room work harder, creating a calmer living space, giving children somewhere to put their things, or finally giving your hobby the room it deserves. And it doesn’t have to come with a big price tag. The IKEA Even Lower Price offering makes it possible to rethink how your home works without needing a major renovation or a major budget. Start with one drawer, one cabinet, one corner or one room, and build from there. Because storage isn’t really about putting things away. It’s about creating a home that works for the way you live, while leaving room for whatever comes next. Make space for what you love and for what you love to do for less, at IKEA today by scanning the QR code.
6 MOVIES THAT ARE LIKE TRAVELING
Some films take you somewhere without ever leaving the sofa. By bazaar staff
There’s a particular kind of movie that makes you want to book a flight before the credits roll. Maybe it’s the unfamiliar streets, a long train journey, a table at a restaurant you’ve never heard of, or simply the feeling of being completely out of your element. These six films capture the thrill of travel in different ways, taking us across continents, cultures and landscapes while reminding us that sometimes the best journeys are the ones that change how we see the world, or ourselves. 1. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty Walter Mitty spends most of his life daydreaming, until an unexpected adventure takes him from Greenland to Iceland and beyond. With sweeping landscapes, missed connections and the thrill of not knowing what comes next, the film captures that particular magic of travel: the moment you stop watching life from the sidelines and actually step into it. 2. Before Sunrise Two strangers meet on a train in Europe and decide to spend one night walking around Vienna together. That’s essentially the entire premise, and somehow it feels like an entire journey. Before Sunrise is travel stripped of itineraries, landmarks and checklists, leaving only wandering, conversation and the strange intimacy of being somewhere you have never been before. 3. Lost in Translation Tokyo becomes almost a character in Sofia Coppola’s quietly beautiful film about two Americans who find themselves far from home. Neon streets, hotel rooms, crowded bars and unfamiliar rituals create the particular feeling of being somewhere completely foreign, where even the smallest encounter can feel significant. 4. The Darjeeling Limited Three brothers board a train across India in an attempt to reconnect with one another, but naturally, things do not go according to plan. Wes Anderson turns the journey into a colourful, eccentric meditation on family, grief and starting over. It is also a reminder that the best trips rarely unfold exactly as planned. 5. The Motorcycle Diaries Before he became a revolutionary figure, Ernesto “Che” Guevara travelled across South America with his friend Alberto Granado on an old motorcycle. The journey takes them through Argentina, Chile, Peru and beyond, introducing them to landscapes, communities and realities far removed from their own. More than a road movie, it is a portrait of how seeing the world up close can change you. 6. The Talented Mr. Ripley Italy has rarely looked more seductive than it does in this psychological thriller. From sun-drenched coastal towns to elegant villas and leisurely lunches, the film immerses you in a glamorous Mediterranean world while quietly reminding you that beautiful places can inspire complicated desires. Consider it the darker side of the travel fantasy. 42
A FAMILIAR NAME. A NEW CHAPTER.
Dai Forni returns to Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya with a bold new all-day dining experience. By bazaar staff
There are some places that simply feel good to return to. Dai Forni, the much-loved Italian dining destination at Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya, is once again welcoming guests, but this time, there is more to discover from morning until night.
Reimagined for a new chapter, Dai Forni retains the warmth, character and Italian soul that have long defined it, while introducing a more relaxed and versatile approach to dining. Think Italian soul with an international flair: familiar flavours, elevated comfort food, generous portions and dishes designed to bring people together around the table. The result is a restaurant that feels both reassuringly familiar and refreshingly new. A new day at Dai Forni For the first time, the Dai Forni experience begins in the morning. 44
From 7:00 am, the restaurant comes alive with an international breakfast buffet, transforming its spectacular setting into a new destination for leisurely mornings, breakfast meetings and relaxed family gatherings. And when the weekend arrives, mornings are made to last a little longer. On Fridays and Saturdays, breakfast gives way to an extended weekend brunch from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, bringing together abundant selections, a lively atmosphere and the kind of easy-going dining experience that encourages guests to settle in and stay awhile. For families, a dedicated Kids Corner during
breakfast and brunch gives younger guests their own space to play and enjoy, while parents can relax and make the most of the occasion. Italian at heart, with something new to discover As the day progresses, Dai Forni returns to what it has always done best: bringing people together over good food. The new menu builds on the restaurant’s Italian identity while loosening the rules a little. Fresh pasta, wood-fired pizzas, premium steaks and dishes made for sharing sit alongside a selection of international favourites and contemporary comfort dishes.
From Truffle Maccheroncini, traditional Lasagna and Veal Parmigiana to the Dai Forni Wagyu Burger, BBQ Short Rib and Lobster Mac & Cheese, the menu moves effortlessly between Italian classics and more playful international favourites. Those looking to share can also explore impressive cuts including the 1 KG T-bone and Tomahawk Steak. It is generous, uncomplicated food made for the way people actually like to dine: order several dishes, pass them around the table, try a little of everything and stay longer than you planned. Bigger. Bolder. Made for sharing. Lunch is served from Sunday to Thursday, while dinner brings Dai Forni to life every evening, creating an experience that can move effortlessly from a casual meal between friends to date night, family dinner or a celebration around the table. The setting you remember, with a new energy Part of Dai Forni’s appeal has always been its sense of place. High above Kuwait City, the restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing guests to experience the space in different ways throughout the day. Inside, warm contemporary interiors create an inviting setting for everything from breakfast meetings to relaxed dinners, while a private dining room offers an intimate setting for special gatherings and dinner occasions. Outdoors, Dai Forni’s one-of-a-kind terrace opens onto uninterrupted panoramic views of Kuwait City, creating a striking backdrop for long lunches, sunset gatherings and evenings under the open sky. The atmosphere evolves naturally as the day unfolds. Bright and welcoming in the morning, relaxed through lunch and increasingly vibrant as evening sets in. Live entertainment on selected days adds another layer to the experience, complemented by a refreshed selection of mocktails and drinks created for lingering lunches and lively evenings alike. The transformation is not about leaving the old Dai Forni behind. It is about giving guests more reasons to come back. Breakfast with the family. A long weekend brunch. Lunch with colleagues. Dinner with friends. A table filled with pasta, steaks and plates being passed from one person to another, indoors or out, always with the city as part of the experience. Different occasions, one familiar address. Back around the table Dai Forni’s return marks a new chapter for one of Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya’s most recognizable dining destinations, one that feels less defined by a single meal or occasion and more by the simple pleasure of gathering together. Because while the experience may have evolved, the heart of Dai Forni remains the same: great food, generous hospitality and the joy of sharing it with the people around you.
Dai Forni is now open daily at Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya.
Lunch: 12:30 pm – 4:00 pm, Sunday to Thursday Dinner: 6:00 pm – 11:30 pm, daily
Breakfast: 7:00 am – 11:00 am, daily Weekend Brunch: 11:00 am – 3:00 pm, Friday & Saturday
For all Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya news, follow @FSKuwait on Instagram, or call 22006000 to book a stay or a spa treatment. 45
A QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF AT THE END OF EVERY WEEK
The week is over. Before rushing into the next one, take a moment to check in with yourself. By bazaar staff
By the time Friday arrives, most of us are already thinking about what comes next. The errands we still need to run, the messages we need to answer, the plans for the weekend and everything waiting for us on Monday. But somewhere between finishing one week and beginning another is a small opportunity to pause.
A weekly check-in does not have to mean colourcoded planners, elaborate routines or an exhaustive list of everything you did wrong. Sometimes, a few honest questions are enough to help you notice what is working, what is draining you and what you might want to carry differently into the week ahead.
particular conversation, obligation, environment or habit that consistently left you feeling depleted? You do not have to eliminate everything difficult from your life, but noticing patterns gives you useful information. Sometimes the thing we keep calling a “busy week” is actually a week filled with things that are taking more from us than we realise.
WHAT MADE ME FEEL GOOD THIS WEEK? Not necessarily what made you productive or successful. What genuinely made you feel good? A long conversation, an excellent meal, an unexpected laugh, a quiet morning, finishing a book, walking somewhere beautiful or simply having an hour to yourself. We can be surprisingly quick to overlook small sources of joy when they do not appear on our list of accomplishments.
WHEN DID I FEEL MOST LIKE MYSELF? There are moments when you feel completely at home in your own life. Maybe you were laughing with friends, working on something creative, walking alone with your headphones on or sitting around the dinner table with your family. These moments can tell you something about what matters to you, particularly when life starts becoming dominated by obligations.
WHAT DRAINED ME? Think beyond obvious exhaustion. Was there a
WHAT DID I KEEP PUTTING OFF? There is a difference between procrastinating on
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something because you do not want to do it and postponing it because you are overwhelmed, uncertain or simply do not have the capacity right now. Instead of judging yourself for the unfinished task, ask what is actually getting in the way. The answer might be more useful than forcing yourself to simply “try harder.” DID I SAY YES WHEN I WANTED TO SAY NO? It is worth noticing the small moments when we override our own preferences to keep someone else happy. Maybe you agreed to plans you did not have the energy for, accepted another responsibility or avoided an honest conversation. One yes does not mean you have terrible boundaries. It is simply information for next time. WHAT AM I PROUD OF? This question is deceptively difficult because we often reserve pride for major achievements. But getting through a difficult day, asking for help, having
a necessary conversation, showing up when you wanted to cancel or finally dealing with something you had been avoiding all count. Give yourself credit for things that may never make it onto a CV. WHAT DID I LEARN? It does not have to be a profound life lesson. Perhaps you discovered a shortcut, learned something about a colleague, found a new restaurant or realised that you are terrible at assembling furniture without reading the instructions. Curiosity keeps ordinary weeks from becoming a blur. There is almost always something worth taking forward. DID I MAKE TIME FOR THE PEOPLE I CARE ABOUT? Being busy can make relationships feel like something we will get around to later. Did you have a proper conversation with someone you love? Did you check in on a friend? Did you spend time together without everyone staring at their phones? Connection does not always require a grand gesture.
Often, it is the small moments of attention that matter most. WHAT DID MY BODY NEED THAT I DIDN’T GIVE IT? Maybe you needed more sleep, movement, proper meals, water, fresh air or simply a day without rushing. Our bodies tend to communicate long before we are willing to listen. This is not about judging yourself for not having the perfect routine. It is about noticing what your body has been asking for. WHAT CAN I LET GO OF BEFORE NEXT WEEK? Not everything needs to come with you. It could be an argument you keep replaying, an unrealistic expectation, guilt over something that cannot be changed or a task that does not actually matter as much as you thought it did. A new week does not have to begin with the full emotional baggage of the previous one. WHAT DO I WANT MORE OF? More laughter? More time outside? More creativity?
More dinners with friends? More reading? More quiet? More adventure? Rather than immediately focusing on what needs fixing, think about what you want to expand. Sometimes moving toward something is more motivating than constantly trying to correct yourself. WHAT DOES NEXT WEEK ACTUALLY NEED FROM ME? Finally, resist the temptation to turn the answers into a list of 27 new goals. Ask what matters most. Maybe next week needs focus. Maybe it needs flexibility. Maybe it needs you to finish something, start something or simply make it through without expecting yourself to do everything. The point of a weekly check-in is not to produce a perfect version of yourself by Sunday night. It is simply to pay attention. Life moves quickly, and without pausing occasionally, weeks can disappear into one another. A few honest questions can create a little space between what happened and what comes next, giving you the chance to notice where you are, decide what matters and begin again. 47
5 KUWAITI TRADITIONS WORTH LEARNING
From weaving and calligraphy to the art of hospitality, Kuwait’s heritage is something to experience, not just admire. By bazaar staff
Heritage is often presented as something we look at through glass. Beautiful objects, carefully preserved photographs and stories about how people used to live. But some of the most interesting parts of Kuwait’s cultural identity are not confined to museums. They are skills, customs and creative practices that continue to be passed between generations. In a world where almost everything can be learned through a screen, there is something particularly satisfying about discovering a tradition through the people who practise it. Whether you are learning to weave, perfecting a handwritten letter or understanding the rituals behind a familiar gathering, these experiences offer a different way to connect with Kuwait. Here are five traditions worth exploring, not simply because they belong to the past, but because they still have something to teach us today. 01. AL SADU WEAVING Few traditional crafts are as visually distinctive as Al Sadu. Its geometric patterns and striking combinations of colour are instantly recognisable, but behind the finished textiles is a practice that requires patience, precision and considerable skill. Traditionally practised by Bedouin women, Al Sadu weaving uses horizontal looms to create durable textiles from natural fibres. The craft is closely connected to desert life, with patterns and techniques carrying knowledge between generations. Today, Al Sadu continues to inspire contemporary artists and designers, proving that traditional craftsmanship can evolve without losing its identity. For anyone interested in textiles, interiors or design, learning about the weaving process offers a fascinating introduction to how form, function and cultural expression can come together. Where to start: Visit Sadu House to explore the craft’s history and discover the educational activities offered by the Al Sadu Society. 02. ARABIC CALLIGRAPHY We encounter Arabic lettering constantly, from street signs to packaging and architecture, yet rarely stop to consider the artistry behind it. Arabic calligraphy transforms writing into an expressive visual practice. The proportions of a letter, the angle of a pen and the space between words all become part of the composition. Different scripts offer different possibilities, from the structured geometry of Kufic to the flowing elegance of Diwani. Learning even the basics changes how you look at written language. It also demands something many of us could use more of: slowing down. A single line can require repeated attempts, careful observation and a willingness to begin again. Where to start: Look for an introductory calligraphy workshop or begin by exploring the differences between 48
traditional scripts before choosing one to practise. 03. THE ART OF KUWAITI COOKING Food is one of the most accessible ways to understand a culture, particularly when recipes are passed down through families rather than written in cookbooks. Kuwaiti cuisine reflects the country’s relationship with the sea, its trading history and the ingredients that have shaped everyday life. Dishes such as machboos, mutabbaq samak and traditional desserts carry techniques that are worth learning in their own right. But learning to cook a traditional dish is about more than following a recipe. It is understanding why certain spices are used, how ingredients are prepared and the small adjustments that make one family’s version different from another’s. Ask someone who makes a dish particularly well to teach you. Chances are, the most useful instructions will be the ones they have never bothered to write down. Where to start: Choose one family favourite and learn it properly, from preparing the ingredients to serving it the traditional way. 04. THE DIWANIYA TRADITION Not every cultural practice involves making something with your hands. Some are about understanding how people come together. The diwaniya has long been an important part of Kuwaiti social life, providing a space for conversation, hospitality, exchanging ideas and maintaining relationships. There is an art to these gatherings that extends beyond simply offering coffee or arranging a room. The customs surrounding welcoming guests, conversation and hosting reflect values that have been cultivated over generations. For younger generations, understanding these traditions offers insight into how Kuwait’s social fabric
has developed and how community connections continue to be maintained. Where to start: Ask family members about the customs of their diwaniya, how gatherings have changed and which traditions they hope to preserve. 05. TRADITIONAL MARITIME KNOWLEDGE Before Kuwait’s modern skyline, the sea played a central role in its economy and everyday life. Fishing, trading, shipbuilding and pearl diving required specialised knowledge that was developed and shared across generations. Learning about this maritime heritage reveals a world of practical skills, from understanding the construction of a dhow to recognising the tools and techniques associated with life at sea. It also introduces the songs, stories and collective experiences that accompanied long journeys across the Gulf. You do not need to become a sailor to appreciate this history. Understanding the relationship between Kuwait and the sea adds another dimension to the coastline we see every day. Where to start: Explore Kuwait’s maritime museums and speak to older family members about the stories they remember. KEEPING HERITAGE ALIVE The beauty of learning a traditional skill is that you become part of its continuation. You might never master the loom, produce a flawless piece of calligraphy or cook machboos exactly like your grandmother, but the act of learning still matters. Heritage survives because people remain curious enough to practise it, share it and find new ways to make it relevant. Sometimes, preserving the past begins with simply asking someone to show you how.
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WHERE PERFORMANCE MEETS PERSONAL EXPRESSION
Porsche Centre Kuwait brings the marque’s sporting heritage, craftsmanship and endless possibilities for personalization to Auto World Show 2026. By bazaar staff
There are few things more unmistakably Porsche than the thrill of performance paired with the freedom to make a car distinctly your own. At Auto World Show 2026, Porsche Centre Kuwait, Behbehani Motors Company, brought that philosophy to life with a striking showcase that celebrated the marque’s iconic sporting heritage, craftsmanship and individuality. 50
The annual automotive event offered visitors the opportunity to experience a carefully selected line-up of Porsche models up close, ranging from the legendary 911 Carrera to the versatile Cayenne, Cayenne Coupé and Macan. The Porsche display also introduced visitors to the brand’s extensive personalization possibilities, while Porsche experts were on hand throughout the exhibition to provide insights into the models and their individual configurations. Taking centre stage was an exceptionally configured 911 Carrera in Paint to Sample Speedyellow, which captured attention with its striking colour and distinctive specification, showcasing a touch of Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur craftsmanship and individualization. Its sporting character was complemented by the SportDesign Package, 20-/21-inch 911 Turbo Design wheels and HD-Matrix LED headlights. Inside, Dark Night Blue leather was paired with Racing Yellow seat belts, while the driver-focused cockpit featured Sport Chrono instrumentation and a Burmester®High-End Surround Sound System. Alongside the 911 Carrera, Porsche Centre Kuwait presented a selection from its SUV range, demonstrating how the brand’s performance DNA extends across models designed for everyday versatility. The Cayenne in Arctic Grey combined a confident exterior with 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels and a Black high-gloss exterior package. Inside, its two-tone Black/Bordeaux Red leather interior and comfort-focused features created a refined environment that balanced everyday practicality with the performance character associated with Porsche. It was joined by the Cayenne Coupé in Crayon, whose sportier silhouette was complemented by 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels, a SportDesign front apron and sports tailpipes in Dark Bronze. Its two-tone Black/Bordeaux Red leather interior further combined sporting character with comfort and intelligent technology. Two distinctive interpretations of the Macan completed the SUV showcase. A Macan in Volcanogreymetallic paired its understated exterior with 20-inch Macan S wheels in Black high-gloss and a Black/Bordeaux Red leather package. Alongside it, a second Macan in Carmine Red delivered a more expressive presence, complemented by exterior-colour side blades, Black high-gloss wheels and a Black/Mojave Beige interior. Together, the two configurations highlighted the Macan’s blend of sporty design, comfort and everyday versatility. Beyond displaying its models, Porsche Centre Kuwait used its presence at Auto World Show 2026 to bring visitors closer to the possibilities of Porsche personalization. Guests were able to explore how colours, materials, equipment and individual details could come together to create a Porsche reflecting their personal preferences and style.
Commenting on the participation, Hany Marie, General Manager of Porsche Centre Kuwait, said: “We were delighted to return to Auto World Show and engage with the vibrant community of sports car enthusiasts and Porsche lovers who came together from across Kuwait and the region for this occasion. The annual event continued to provide us with a platform to bring the Porsche experience closer to our customers and showcase the breadth of our model range in an engaging setting.” He added: “This year, visitors had the opportunity to explore a carefully selected line-up of Porsche models, bringing together the iconic sporting character of the 911 with the performance, comfort and versatility of our Cayenne and Macan SUVs. Through our participation in Auto World Show 2026, we celebrated the qualities at the heart of Porsche: performance, innovation, craftsmanship and individuality.” Visitors to the Porsche stand were also introduced to exclusive offers available during
the exhibition, including a promotion on selected Porsche SUV models that provided a choice between a four-year service package with a fouryear warranty or 0% interest financing, alongside additional privileges available during the show. Porsche Centre Kuwait’s participation reflected its continued connection with Kuwait’s automotive community, creating an opportunity for both long-standing Porsche enthusiasts and those discovering the marque for the first time to experience its models, craftsmanship and approach to individualization in a dynamic setting. Beyond Auto World Show 2026, Porsche enthusiasts can continue to explore the latest models and personalization possibilities at the Porsche Centre Kuwait showroom in Shuwaikh, alongside the wider world of the brand through the Porsche Lifestyle collection. For all things Porsche, follow @porschecentrekuwait on Instagram. 51
HOW TO LEARN A NEW SKILL
From choosing what to learn to sticking with it, a better way to become a beginner. By bazaar staff
Learning something new sounds deceptively simple. Pick a skill, find a tutorial, practise and eventually become good at it. In reality, the beginning can be messy. There are too many videos, too much information and an overwhelming number of people online who seem to have mastered the thing you have only just picked up. The good news is that you do not need the perfect course, the perfect equipment or a perfectly structured plan. You need a manageable starting point and enough consistency to let your brain catch up. The good news is that you do not need the perfect course, the perfect equipment or a perfectly structured plan. You need a manageable starting point and enough consistency to let your brain catch up. CHOOSE SOMETHING SPECIFIC “Learn photography” is a goal. “Learn how to take better portraits using my phone” is something you can actually work on. The more specific your starting point, the easier it is to know what to practise. Instead of trying to master an entire subject, choose one small skill within it. Want to learn to cook? Start with five reliable meals. Want to draw? Learn basic shapes and shading. Want to speak a new language? Focus on everyday conversation. You can always expand later. Starting small simply makes the first step less intimidating. FIND ONE GOOD TEACHER The internet gives us access to an almost ridiculous amount of information, which is both useful and slightly exhausting. Resist the urge to watch 47 tutorials before doing anything. Choose one course, book, teacher or resource that explains the basics clearly. Follow it long enough to understand the fundamentals before jumping between different methods. Once you have a foundation, you can explore other approaches and decide what works for you. PRACTISE BEFORE YOU FEEL READY A common trap is spending too much time preparing to learn rather than actually learning. You can research the best knitting needles for weeks without knitting a single stitch. Start practising early. Make the terrible first attempt. Then make another one. Your early mistakes are not evidence that you cannot learn the skill. They are part of the learning process. You need to give your brain enough attempts to recognise patterns and begin making adjustments automatically. MAKE IT SMALL ENOUGH TO REPEAT An hour of practice once a month is less useful than 15 minutes several times a week. You do not need to build your life around your new hobby. Attach practice to something that already happens. Spend 15 minutes sketching after your morning coffee. Practise vocabulary on your commute. 52
Play scales before dinner. Write for ten minutes before bed. The goal at first is not intensity. It is familiarity. EXPECT THE AWKWARD STAGE Every skill has a period when you know enough to realise how much you do not know. This is often where beginners quit. At first, improvement can feel exciting because every attempt produces an obvious breakthrough. Then progress becomes less dramatic. You make mistakes you thought you had already conquered. Something that looked easy when someone else did it suddenly feels impossible when you try. This does not mean you have stopped improving. It usually means you are entering the part where improvement requires repetition. USE PROJECTS, NOT JUST PRACTICE Practice teaches individual movements or techniques. Projects teach you how to put them together. If you are learning photography, give yourself a mini photo project. If you are learning to sew, make something simple. If you are learning graphic design, redesign a poster you like. If you are learning a language, try having a five-minute conversation. Projects give your learning a destination, which can make it easier to stay engaged. GET COMFORTABLE WITH BEING BAD This may be the most important part. Being a beginner means producing work that does not match the version you have in your head. Let it be bad.
You are allowed to make an ugly cake, play the wrong note, pronounce something incorrectly, crochet a wonky square or take a photograph that makes absolutely no sense. Nobody becomes skilled by skipping the stage where they are unskilled. KEEP A RECORD OF YOUR PROGRESS Take photographs. Save your first attempts. Keep a list of what you have learned. Write down questions you still have. When progress feels slow, look back rather than only looking forward. The difference between your first attempt and your latest one can be surprisingly motivating. KNOW WHEN TO CHANGE YOUR APPROACH Persistence is important, but blindly repeating the same thing is not. If you have been stuck for weeks, try changing the teacher, method, environment or type of practice. Sometimes the problem is not your ability. You simply have not found the explanation that makes the concept click. LET YOURSELF ENJOY IT Not every skill needs to become a side hustle, a qualification or a new identity. You can learn something simply because it is interesting. The world is full of things worth being bad at for a while. Pick one, start small, practise often and allow yourself to enjoy the strange, satisfying process of becoming someone who knows how to do something they could not do before.
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THE JOY OF BEING A BEGINNER
Why starting from scratch can be one of the most rewarding things we do. By bazaar staff
There is something wonderfully humbling about being bad at something you have just started. You forget how to hold the racket, your first attempt at sourdough looks suspiciously like a science experiment, or the stitches in your first knitting project seem determined to go in every possible direction. Yet somewhere between the awkward first attempt and the slightly-less-awkward tenth, something shifts. You stop worrying about being good and start enjoying the process.
NO EXPECTATIONS, JUST CURIOSITY When we are beginners, there is no standard to live up to. We are not comparing today’s attempt with years of experience because we simply don’t have any. That can make learning feel surprisingly light. Instead of asking, “Am I good at this?” we get to ask, “What happens if I try?”
PROGRESS BECOMES VISIBLE One of the nicest things about learning something from scratch is that improvement is impossible to miss. The first attempt might be gloriously terrible, but the fifth is marginally better, and the tenth better still. Small gains become their own reward. You begin to notice that progress rarely arrives as one dramatic breakthrough. More often, it sneaks up on you.
THE LUXURY OF NOT KNOWING Being an expert means knowing what to expect. Being a beginner means everything is a discovery. A new recipe, language, instrument or creative hobby can make the familiar world feel slightly bigger because suddenly there are things to figure out everywhere. That sense of curiosity is easy to lose as adults, when so much of daily life is built around what we already know.
IT’S A GOOD WAY TO PLAY Adults do not always get enough opportunities to do things simply because they are fun. We tend to turn hobbies into goals, projects into achievements and interests into something that needs to be monetised. Being a beginner offers an escape from that mindset. You can take a pottery class and make an ugly bowl. You can learn three chords and never play a song. You can paint something you would never hang on your wall. It still counts.
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YOU GET TO MEET A DIFFERENT VERSION OF YOURSELF Starting something new can reveal sides of your personality that routine keeps hidden. Perhaps you are more patient than you thought. Maybe you love competition, hate competition, or discover that you are surprisingly willing to make a fool of yourself. The activity itself almost becomes secondary. What matters is seeing who you become while learning. So take the class. Pick up the camera. Learn the language. Try the recipe. Make the terrible first attempt. There is no deadline for becoming good at something, and perhaps that is the best part of being a beginner: for a little while, you get to do something with no obligation to be anything other than curious.
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THINGS THAT FEEL LIKE SAVING MONEY BUT AREN’T Some of the habits we associate with being financially savvy can quietly encourage us to spend more. By bazaar staff
There is something deeply satisfying about getting a good deal. A discount, a coupon, free delivery or an inexpensive alternative can all give us the pleasant feeling that we have outsmarted the system. But spending less than expected is not necessarily the same as saving money. Sometimes a bargain persuades us to buy something we never needed. Sometimes choosing the cheapest option means replacing it sooner. And occasionally, we spend extra simply because we have convinced ourselves that doing so will save us money. The trick is knowing when a deal is actually a deal. THE SALE THAT CONVINCES YOU TO BUY A 50 percent discount sounds impressive. But if you had no intention of buying the item in the first place, you have not saved 50 percent. You have spent money you otherwise would have kept. Sales create a sense of urgency, making us feel that walking away means missing an opportunity. Try a simple test: would you still want the item if it were full price? If the answer is no, the discount may be doing more work on your psychology than your wallet. WHEN CHEAPER BECOMES MORE EXPENSIVE There are plenty of situations where buying the less expensive option is perfectly sensible. But price alone does not tell you what something will ultimately cost. An inexpensive item that needs frequent replacing, repairing or upgrading can easily cost more over time than a better-made alternative. Think about how often you will use something before deciding what to spend. An object you rely on every day may justify a higher initial price if it lasts longer. The cheapest option is only the economical one when it actually works for you.
Before adding another item, ask yourself whether you would have bought it if shipping were free regardless of the order total. If the answer is no, paying for delivery may actually be the cheaper decision.
THE BULK-BUYING TRAP Buying more for less can be genuinely useful when it involves something you already know you will consume. The problem begins when the size of the discount becomes more important than the amount you actually need. A large multipack is not a bargain if half of it goes unused. The same applies to perishables that expire before you can finish them. Bulk purchases save money when they replace purchases you would have made anyway. Otherwise, you have simply found a more efficient way to overspend.
THE “INVESTMENT” YOU JUST REALLY WANTED Calling a purchase an investment can make it feel more responsible. But not everything expensive will increase in value, and something being described as collectible does not automatically make it a smart financial decision. If you love something, will use it for years and can comfortably afford it, that is a perfectly reasonable reason to buy it. But purchasing something primarily because you have been told it will become valuable requires research rather than optimism. Otherwise, “investment” can become an elegant justification for buying something you already wanted.
PAYING MORE TO GET FREE DELIVERY Few things are more effective at turning a sensible shopping basket into an unnecessarily large one than a free-shipping threshold. You are a few dollars away, so you add something else. Now you have successfully spent extra money to avoid paying a delivery fee.
REPLACEMENT IS NOT ALWAYS THE ANSWER We live in a culture that makes replacing things remarkably easy. Something stops working properly and the immediate instinct can be to buy another one. Sometimes replacement is the sensible choice. But when a minor repair or some basic maintenance
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[...Continued]
could extend the life of something, throwing it away can mean spending money unnecessarily. Clothing, furniture, appliances and everyday objects can often remain useful for much longer when we take care of them. Sometimes the cheapest thing you can buy is nothing at all. WHAT ACTUALLY COUNTS AS SAVING? Being good with money does not mean chasing the lowest price at every opportunity. It means paying attention to what you are buying, why you are buying it and how much value you will actually get from it. Question the discount. Consider how frequently you will use the item. Think about durability. Be wary when a promotion makes you feel that not spending money means losing out. Because the smartest financial decision is occasionally the least exciting one: putting something back on the shelf and walking away. The most expensive purchase is often the one you never really needed.
Image by Claudio Schwarz on Unsplash.
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FREEDOM, REIMAGINED
Toyota’s all-new Land Cruiser FJ brings the legendary nameplate’s offroad capability into a more compact, agile and accessible form. By bazaar staff
There are few automotive names that carry the same sense of adventure as Land Cruiser. For decades, Toyota’s iconic 4x4 has been built around a simple promise: take people where they need to go, whatever the terrain, and bring them safely home. Now, that enduring philosophy takes on a new form with the arrival of the all-new Land Cruiser FJ, launched in Kuwait by Mohamed Naser Al Sayer & Sons Est. Co. W.L.L and Toyota.
Joining the Land Cruiser 300, Land Cruiser 70 and Land Cruiser Prado, the newest member of the family is built around the concept of “Freedom & Joy.” It combines the reliability, durability and off-road performance associated with the nameplate with a shorter wheelbase, compact dimensions and an approachable character designed to suit a broader range of lifestyles. The Kuwait launch brought the new model into the spotlight at Grand Avenue at Avenues Mall, where hundreds of visitors gathered for the public unveiling alongside social media influencers and senior Toyota and ALSAYER executives. The event marked the arrival of a vehicle that looks back to the roots of the Land Cruiser while deliberately moving the formula forward. 58
A Land Cruiser at its Core The FJ’s story reaches back to the origins of the Land Cruiser itself. Since the introduction of the Toyota BJ in 1951, the family has evolved through decades of real-world use in some of the world’s most demanding environments. With cumulative sales of approximately 12.4 million units across more than 190 countries and regions, the Land Cruiser has built its reputation around dependable mobility and the ability to tackle challenging conditions. The FJ brings that heritage into a smaller footprint. Toyota describes it as a “Core” Land Cruiser, returning to the fundamental idea behind the original FJ40 while creating a vehicle that can adapt to increasingly diverse lifestyles. “Our goal was to create a vehicle that continues to be trusted to support the lives of a diverse range
of customers by returning to the original idea of ‘FJ40 = CORE,’ while inspiring people to enjoy life even more,” says Masaya Uchiyama, Toyota Motor Corporation Chief Engineer of Land Cruiser. That philosophy is reflected in the FJ’s straightforward design and functionality. Rather than loading the vehicle with complexity for its own sake, Toyota has focused on a platform that can serve as a practical starting point for different ways of living, travelling and exploring. Compact, But Capable Underneath its relatively compact dimensions is a traditional ladder-frame construction, maintaining one of the fundamental elements of the Land Cruiser formula. The shortened wheelbase measures 2,580 mm, making the FJ 270 mm shorter than the Land Cruiser Prado. Its minimum
turning radius of 5.5 metres is designed to make it easier to navigate urban streets, narrow trails and more technical off-road environments. The structure combines high-tensile steel with additional bracing and spot welding beneath the floor, helping increase frame rigidity, manage vibration and support ride comfort without compromising the stability and strength expected from a Land Cruiser. Power comes from a naturally aspirated 2.7litre petrol engine producing 163 PS and 246 Nm of torque. It is paired with a six-speed Super ECT automatic transmission and a part-time four-wheeldrive system. The suspension combines a high-mount doublewishbone setup at the front with a four-link rigidaxle configuration at the rear. Together, the systems are designed to provide wheel control and stability across everything from paved roads to demanding trails. When the terrain gets more challenging, Downhill Assist Control, Hill Start Assist Control and an electric rear differential lock provide additional support. These systems are designed to help maintain control on steep descents and inclines while improving traction when extra grip is required. Designed for Everyday Adventure Visually, the Land Cruiser FJ balances the functional heritage of its predecessors with a more playful contemporary identity. Its square cabin prioritises visibility, passenger space and cargo practicality, while chamfered edges and a distinctive diceinspired motif give the exterior a fresh personality. Measuring 4,575 mm long and 1,855 mm wide, the FJ maintains compact proportions that can be useful both in the city and beyond it. Its rectangular form and clearly defined corners are intended to give drivers greater confidence when negotiating tight spaces or positioning the vehicle on uneven terrain. U-shaped headlamps and matching rear combination lamps add to its distinctive identity, while a lower horizontal beltline improves visibility of the road around the vehicle. The Kuwait offering is available in two grades, Mid and High, with five monotone exterior finishes: White Pearl, Ash, Black, Bronze and Smoky Blue. The Mid grade features 17-inch alloy wheels, while the High grade moves to 18-inch wheels. Inside, practicality remains central. The fiveseat cabin offers 795 litres of luggage capacity with the rear seats in use. Fold those seats down and capacity increases to 1,607 litres, with cargo length extending to 1,480 mm. The result is a cabin designed to accommodate everything from everyday essentials to equipment for travel, leisure and outdoor pursuits. Confidence On and Off the Road Technology is also part of the FJ’s approach to everyday usability. On the High grade, Toyota Safety Sense includes the Pre-Collision Safety System
and Lane Departure Alert, while a Panoramic View Monitor and Blind Spot Monitor provide additional visibility and awareness when manoeuvring or changing lanes. Both grades feature a 12.3-inch display audio system integrated into the practical cockpit layout, keeping key multimedia functions accessible without compromising the straightforward functionality of the interior. Ultimately, the Land Cruiser FJ is less about reinventing what the Land Cruiser represents than
about making that character available in a different format. It takes the family’s established strengths, compresses them into a more manoeuvrable package and adds a sense of playfulness to the formula. For Toyota, the result is a Land Cruiser designed not only to go further, but to encourage its drivers to decide where “further” might actually be. For more information, visit toyota.com.kw and follow @toyotakw on Instagram. 59
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CAMP SNAP 110D CAMERA
APPLE IPHONE DUO
FOSi AUDIO DISC NANO CD PLAYER
Camp Snap’s 110D brings the charm of old-school point-and-shoot photography to the digital age. Inspired by pocket film cameras of the 1970s, this screenless camera features an 8-megapixel sensor, five built-in filters, and a tactile slider for switching between looks. With USB-C charging and a 4GB memory card, it keeps the experience deliberately simple.
Apple’s first foldable iPhone combines a 7.6-inch inner display with a 5.4-inch outer screen, blurring the line between phone and mini tablet. The Duo uses Apple’s A20 Pro chip, a 48-megapixel Dual Fusion camera system, and specialized software designed to make the most of its flexible form. It also introduces an under-display FaceTime camera for a seamless inner screen.
FiiO brings the CD player back in a decidedly modern form. The Disc Nano combines a rechargeable battery and Bluetooth with a striking half-exposed design that leaves the disc visible while it spins. A built-in MagSafe ring lets it attach to compatible smartphones, turning a nostalgic music format into a surprisingly contemporary portable player.
ROLAND FP-40 DIGITAL PIANO
JBL PULSE 6
FIIo CP11
Roland’s FP-40 makes learning piano more connected with built-in Wi-Fi and its new Piano Sphere app. The faster, more stable connection enables real-time feedback as you play, while the app provides access to songs and structured courses. It is a digital piano designed not just for playing, but for helping beginners actually progress.
The JBL Pulse 6 turns portable audio into a light show, with colorful LEDs wrapped around its integrated carry handle. It also gets upgraded sound through AI Sound Boost, a tougher IP68rated build, USB-C line-in, and Auracast support for linking compatible speakers. It is part speaker, part lantern, and designed to bring the party wherever you go.
FiiO gives the cassette tape player a modern makeover with the pocket-sized CP11. Built around an ultra-thin mechanism, improved magnetic head, brushless motor, and Bluetooth transmission, it combines the tactile appeal of tapes with contemporary convenience. Designed for music lovers who want to revisit their cassette collections without carrying around bulky vintage hardware.
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ed Limitod peri
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DIFFERENT BRANDS. DIFFERENT WAYS OF LIVING. From seamless connectivity and smarter home routines to performancefocused wearables and kitchen innovation, Xcite brings together technology brands designed around the many ways we live today. By bazaar Staff
Technology has become inseparable from the way we live, work, unwind and take care of ourselves. Yet with so many brands approaching innovation from different perspectives, choosing the right technology is increasingly about more than specifications. It is about finding products that fit naturally into your lifestyle. At Xcite, a collection of globally recognised brands offers different approaches to the everyday, each shaped by its own design philosophy, expertise and understanding of how technology can make life better.
Apple: Designed Around You From iPhone and Mac to Apple Watch and AirPods, Apple has created an ecosystem built around seamless integration. Its signature combination of clean design and intuitive experiences has shaped how we communicate, create, work and stay connected. Across its range, technology is designed to feel less like an added layer and more like a natural part of everyday life.
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Samsung: Innovation for Everyday Life Samsung brings innovation into almost every corner of the modern home. Its portfolio spans smartphones and wearables, alongside TVs and home appliances, with an emphasis on connected experiences. The result is technology designed to work across different aspects of daily life, bringing greater integration to the way we communicate, entertain ourselves and manage our homes.
Dyson: Engineering, Reimagined Dyson approaches familiar household products with an engineer’s mindset, questioning how everyday routines can be improved. From powerful cordless vacuums and advanced air treatment to hair styling tools, its products combine engineering, performance and distinctive design. The brand’s appeal lies in turning ordinary routines into opportunities for smarter, more considered technology.
Ninja: Made for the Way We Cook Today Ninja has made home cooking more versatile with appliances designed to simplify meal preparation without limiting creativity. Air fryers, grills, blenders and multifunctional kitchen systems offer different ways to prepare food, making it easier to experiment, save time and adapt cooking to the pace of modern life.
Lenovo and HP: Built for Getting Things Done For work, study, creativity or simply staying connected, Lenovo and HP offer technology designed around productivity. From lightweight laptops suited to life on the go to powerful devices built for more demanding tasks, both brands provide tools that can adapt to different working styles and everyday needs.
WHOOP: Understanding Your Performance WHOOP takes a more data-driven approach to wearable technology, focusing on understanding how the body responds to daily activity. Insights into sleep, recovery, strain and activity can help users develop a clearer picture of their performance and routines. Rather than simply tracking movement, WHOOP is designed to turn everyday data into a deeper understanding of how you move, train and recover.
One Destination, Different Possibilities There is no single way to live, work, cook, relax or stay connected, so there is no reason for technology to look the same for everyone. Whether the priority is seamless connectivity, smarter home routines, better performance, easier cooking or simply thoughtful design, Xcite brings together brands that approach technology in distinctly different ways. Together, they offer a range of possibilities for building a tech experience that feels personal to the way you live. Stay updated on the latest events, monthly promotions and offers by subscribing to the monthly newsletter on xcite.com, follow Xcite’s social media channels on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and Snapchat, @xcitealghanimor Facebook at XcitebyAlghanim and win prizes with contests or visit the online store at www.xcite.com. 63
bazaar Apps
SHARESHOT
OBSCURA V
Turn screenshots into polished, presentationready images with ShareShot. The app can automatically find images, add gradients and frames, and export at the resolution you need. Its latest update also introduces Privacy Redactions, which uses on-device processing to identify and hide sensitive information such as names, faces, QR codes, and financial details. iOS only
Obscura V gives iPhone photography a more deliberate, hands-on approach with powerful controls that go beyond Apple’s default Camera app. The latest version adds a dedicated Macro Mode, improved video, saved filters, and an upgraded interface. For photographers who want more control over their shots without sacrificing the convenience of shooting on an iPhone. iOS only
INDIGO
AMBRE
Indigo brings multiple social feeds together in one place, making it easier to keep up with different networks without constantly switching between apps. Its latest update introduces unified timelines, a carousel view for moving between feeds, and improved mentions. It is a streamlined option for anyone trying to make sense of an increasingly fragmented social landscape. iOS only
Ambre turns cooking into a personal archive, helping you keep track of recipes, dishes, ingredients, photos, and the memories attached to meals. Its latest update adds Cooking Circles, allowing friends and family to share recipe ideas, alongside Siri-powered assistance while you cook. It is part recipe journal, part digital scrapbook for the food you love. iOS only
DISCONNECT
DARK NOISE
If Screen Time limits are too easy to ignore, Disconnect takes a more hands-on approach to keeping distractions away. Choose between Soft, Medium, and Hard blocking, with the strongest option requiring another person to approve an unlock. It is designed for those moments when you need to focus but know you will be tempted to reach for the same distracting apps. iOS only
Create your own background soundscape with Dark Noise, a simple app designed to make focus, relaxation, or quiet time easier. Mix different ambient sounds, use widgets for quick access, and customize your listening experience. The latest update adds Siri support, a new Now Playing view, Magic Mix on Mac, and extra-large widgets. iOS only
play.google.com itunes.apple.com 64
EXOBOT: BOLD, EXTRAORDINARY, SAUDI CEER unveils its first flagship electric sedan and SUV, bringing together Saudi design, extreme performance and technology engineered specifically for the region. By bazaar staff
Saudi Arabia is stepping firmly into the future of mobility with the unveiling of EXOBOT, the first flagship vehicles from CEER, the Kingdom’s homegrown automotive brand. Revealed by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince, Prime Minister and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Public Investment Fund, the EXOBOT sedan and SUV mark the beginning of an ambitious portfolio that will eventually comprise seven models by 2030. Manufactured at the CEER Manufacturing Complex in King Abdullah Economic City, the vehicles have been designed and engineered locally, with the conditions of Saudi Arabia and the wider region firmly in mind. The result is an all-electric flagship that combines dramatic design with serious performance, advanced connectivity and a long list of technology designed around the realities of life in the Gulf. A distinctly Saudi design EXOBOT’s design is unapologetically bold. Both the sedan and SUV feature ultra-dynamic proportions and a distinctive wedge profile, combining sharp machined forms with smoother surfaces through the central occupant section. According to CEER, the resulting biomechanical aesthetic takes inspiration from the ancient architecture of Hegra, creating a visual language that connects the futuristic vehicle to the Kingdom’s heritage. The proportions are equally commanding. The EXOBOT sedan measures 5.26 metres long, 2.1 66
metres wide and 1.43 metres high, while the SUV measures 5.02 metres long, 2.1 metres wide and 1.69 metres high. Both sit firmly within the large passenger vehicle segment. One of the most distinctive elements is the 2.4-metre windshield, described by CEER as the largest ever produced. Set at a dramatic 15-degree inclination, the ultra-thin laminated glass is designed not only to enhance visibility and aerodynamics, but also to reduce solar heat absorption, an important consideration in the region. Even the lighting carries a piece of Saudi history. EXOBOT’s signature lighting incorporates 32 distinctive bars, referencing 1932, the year Saudi Arabia was unified as a kingdom. Its forged aluminium wheels feature a triangular motif inspired by Al-Lahuj-style openings found in traditional architecture across the Kingdom. An interior built around experience Inside, CEER takes the idea of a car as a personal
space seriously. The cockpit sweeps towards the driver, while a minimalist steering yoke places key controls within easy reach. The lower door glass can transition between tinted and opaque settings at the touch of a button, allowing occupants to choose between an open view and greater privacy. Then there are the doors. Named the Shahin Wing Doors after the graceful flight of the Shahin falcon, the almost three-metre-long doors open in a smooth 60-centimetre arc. They can be operated remotely using the key fob or activated through discreet controls mounted on the doors, creating an entrance designed as much for theatre as practicality. Technology is equally central to the cabin. A 48-inch, pillar-to-pillar curved Digital Horizon Display with 8K resolution sits alongside a 10.4inch central control screen and an 8-inch rear occupant display. The system is complemented by an AI-powered virtual voice assistant capable of communicating in both Arabic and English.
and systems, including a structural cell-to-pack battery architecture, seven airbags and enhanced aluminium casting and extrusion space-frame technology incorporated into the body and doors. EXOBOT also incorporates advanced driverassistance and autonomous capabilities. These include hands-free driving support, automated lane changes and point-to-point navigation-based autonomous driving on highways, positioning the technology as an additional layer of assistance behind the wheel. Even the sensory experience has been considered. SoundStage Audio uses exciters to turn surfaces within the cabin into part of the audio system, creating an immersive 360-degree sound environment. A personalised fragrance system adds another layer, with three scents available at a time.
The digital experience extends beyond the vehicle itself. Through the CEER App, owners can monitor charging, pre-condition the cabin and remotely park the car. A smartwatch-integrated digital key adds another layer of convenience, while over-the-air updates allow the vehicle’s software, features and performance to evolve without a workshop visit. Serious electric performance Underneath the striking design is a tri-motor, all-wheeldrive electric architecture. At its highest specification, EXOBOT produces 1,111 horsepower and 1,500 Nm of torque, with continuous torque vectoring and active chassis systems designed to deliver stability and control. The sedan can accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just 2.1 seconds, while the SUV takes 2.4 seconds. Their top speeds are 250 km/h and 210 km/h respectively.
But performance isn’t the only area where CEER says it has designed EXOBOT around the region. The vehicle’s Halo Cooling system is engineered for extreme heat, with the company stating that cabin temperatures can be reduced from 65°C to 32°C within 10 minutes. Special foils, triple silvercoated glass, optimised roof airflow and dual front and rear air-conditioning systems are intended to minimise solar heat gain and maintain consistent cooling throughout the cabin. The technology continues into the chassis. Steer-by-Wire eliminates the traditional steering column and reduces steering input from 400 degrees to 160 degrees, while rear-wheel steering is designed to improve manoeuvrability in urban environments and stability at higher speeds. Designed with safety and autonomy in mind Safety is integrated across the vehicle’s structure
The First Edition EXOBOT will launch with the limited-production First Edition before the arrival of EXOBOT PLUS. Available as both a sedan and SUV, the First Edition comes with an 850-horsepower tri-motor powertrain producing 1,000 Nm of torque. The sedan reaches 100 km/h in 2.6 seconds, while the SUV does so in 2.9 seconds. A 112 kWh battery offers a claimed range of up to 670 km for the sedan and 560 km for the SUV, while the 800V architecture enables 10-to-80percent charging in under 30 minutes. The limited edition is finished with red brake calipers, a Black Color Pack and black and red Nappa leather, alongside bespoke floor mats and a numbered plaque matching the vehicle’s VIN. Buyers can choose between Harrat Grey and White Musk exterior finishes. More than a new model, EXOBOT represents the opening chapter of CEER’s larger automotive ambition. With local manufacturing, regional engineering and a planned seven-model portfolio, the brand is positioning its first vehicles as a statement of what Saudi Arabia’s emerging automotive industry can produce: electric, highly connected and unmistakably rooted in the Kingdom. Visit ceermotors.com to learn more. 67
bazaar books
A MOTHER’S BRAIN
HOW TO MAKE A FRIEND
By Susana Carmona, Nonfiction
By Radha Agrawal, Nonfiction
Pregnancy does more than change a woman’s body. Neuroscientist Susana Carmona explores how it reshapes the brain, from hormonal and immune changes to shifts in neural structure and function. Drawing on her own research, she challenges the “mommy brain” stereotype and offers a fascinating look at matrescence, maternal wellbeing, and the profound biological transformation of becoming a mother.
HOW TO WIN
Friendship may feel like something that should happen naturally, but Radha Agrawal argues that meaningful connection is a skill we can practice. Drawing on research and years of building communities, she offers practical ways to make friends, deepen existing relationships, navigate awkwardness, repair connections, and create spaces where people feel they belong.
THE MOTHER-IN-LAW BOOK CLUB
By Arthur Benjamin, Nonfiction
By Kate Hash, Fiction
Soon-to-be-divorcée Andi expects little from her new life in Durham, but an unexpected invitation to a book club of feisty, opinionated women changes everything. As she helps the group navigate complicated relationships with their adult children, Andi finds friendship, romance, and a new sense of belonging. Until her past catches up with her, forcing her to reconsider what happiness really looks like.
What if math could help you win at games, solve puzzles, and make smarter bets? Mathematician Arthur Benjamin reveals the strategies hidden inside everything from Wordle and Sudoku to blackjack and Jeopardy!, showing how probability, logic, and patterns can turn luck into informed decisions. A playful exploration of mathematics that makes problem-solving feel surprisingly practical.
EVERY STORY IS A LOVE STORY
WONDROUS
By Imbolo Mbue, Fiction
By Heather Fawcett, Fantasy
Three years after his wife is killed in a tragic car accident, Wolo receives a letter from the woman who was behind the wheel. Despite his family’s warnings, he agrees to meet her, expecting little from the encounter. Instead, her remorse forces him to reconsider grief, anger, and forgiveness. A moving story about loss, regret, and the difficult path toward healing.
Source: Goodreads.com 68
Years after her first journey down the rabbit hole, Alice returns to Wonderland hoping to build a life of her own. But another girl claims to be the “true” Alice, and the Queen of Hearts declares that only one can save Wonderland from three terrifying dragons. With her future at stake, Alice must navigate rival Alices, strange allies, and a Wonderland in peril.
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bazaar movie night
AVENGERS: ENDGAME
HEART OF THE BEAST
DIGGER
Genre: Action, Adventure Cast: Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth, Robert Downey Jr., Scarlett Johansson Synopsis: Following the devastating events of Avengers: Infinity War, the universe has been left in ruins and the surviving Avengers face an impossible challenge. With the help of their remaining allies, the team reunites for one final mission to undo Thanos’ actions and restore balance. The fate of the universe rests on a desperate attempt to turn back the clock.
Genre: Action, Adventure, Thriller Cast: J.K. Simmons, Brad Pitt, Anna Lambe Synopsis: After a plane crash leaves Special Forces officer James Belmont and his combat dog, Odin, stranded in the Alaskan wilderness, the pair must rely on each other to survive. Facing brutal conditions and an unforgiving landscape, their fight for survival becomes a test of loyalty and resilience, highlighting the extraordinary bond between a soldier and his best friend.
Genre: Comedy, Drama Cast: Tom Cruise, Riz Ahmed Synopsis: The most powerful man in the world launches a frantic mission to prove that he can save humanity from an impending disaster. But as his desperate efforts unfold, the consequences of the catastrophe he helped unleash begin closing in. A darkly comic story of power, ambition, and one man’s increasingly desperate attempt to control the fate of the world.
SACRIFICE
WAKE
OTHER MOMMY
Genre: Action, Adventure Cast: Chris Evans, Anya Taylor-Joy Synopsis: A struggling movie star hoping to revive his career has his plans derailed when he is taken hostage at a charity event. The radical group behind the kidnapping believes he must be sacrificed in a volcano to prevent the end of the world. Trapped in an increasingly bizarre and dangerous situation, he must find a way to survive their apocalyptic demands.
Genre: Horror Cast: Fivel Stewart, Cody Sheldon Synopsis: Desperate to land the lead in a remake of a classic film, a struggling actress tracks down the star of the original, now living as a mysterious recluse. What begins as an attempt to learn from the actor quickly takes a disturbing turn as strange occurrences transform their meeting into a nightmare. Her dream role may come at a terrifying price.
Genre: Horror Cast: Jessica Chastain, Jay Duplass Synopsis: Eight-year-old Bela is already living with the tension of her parents’ troubled marriage when a sinister presence emerges from her closet. She calls the entity “Other Mommy,” but what begins as a frightening childhood encounter becomes increasingly threatening. As the presence grows more powerful, Bela and her family must confront something that may be far more dangerous than a child’s imagination.
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Source: cinescape.com.kw
bazaar scopes
ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 19) Relationships take priority in October, with partnerships offering opportunities for growth and understanding. Whether personal or professional, clear communication will help avoid unnecessary tension. Listen carefully to what others need while remaining honest about your own expectations. Stronger connections come from making space for both sides.
TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)
LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22)
It is your season, and October brings renewed attention to your relationships, priorities, and personal direction. You may feel ready to make a decision you have been weighing for some time. Trust your ability to find balance without keeping everyone else happy. Clear choices create room for fresh beginnings.
SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21) October invites you to slow down and focus on your wellbeing. Rest, reflection, and unfinished business deserve attention before you take on something new. A private realization may help you understand what has been draining your energy. Protect your boundaries and give yourself permission to step back when necessary.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21) Your social world becomes more active this month, bringing new people, ideas, and opportunities into your orbit. A friendship or collaboration could develop into something more meaningful. Stay open to unexpected connections, but be selective about where you invest your time. The right community can expand your perspective.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19) Career and ambition take center stage in October. Your recent efforts may begin attracting attention, creating an opportunity to demonstrate what you can do. Stay focused on your larger goals rather than getting distracted by short-term recognition. Consistency and preparation will help you make the most of what comes next.
AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)
Your focus turns toward routines, wellbeing, and the practical details of everyday life. October is a good time to simplify habits that have become unnecessarily complicated. Small changes can make your days feel more manageable and productive. Aim for consistency rather than perfection, and let sustainable progress guide you.
GEMINI (May 21 – Jun 20) Creativity and self-expression take the spotlight this month. October encourages you to spend more time on projects, hobbies, and ideas that genuinely excite you. Something you begin for fun could develop into a more meaningful opportunity. Follow your curiosity without worrying too much about where it will lead.
CANCER (Jun 21 – Jul 22) Home and family matters become increasingly important in October. You may feel motivated to make changes to your surroundings or strengthen an important personal connection. Creating a calmer foundation gives you more energy elsewhere. Focus on the people and spaces that make you feel secure, supported, and at ease.
LEO (Jul 23 – Aug 22) Communication moves quickly this month, bringing new conversations, invitations, and ideas your way. October rewards curiosity, but staying organized will help you avoid feeling scattered. A casual interaction could lead to an interesting opportunity, so pay attention to what crosses your path. Your words have more influence than you realize.
VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22) October shifts your attention toward finances, resources, and long-term security. A practical decision could help you feel more in control of an area that has been uncertain. Review your priorities and avoid impulsive commitments. Building steadily and making thoughtful choices now can create greater freedom and confidence in the months ahead.
October encourages you to look beyond your usual routines and consider a different perspective. Travel, learning, or an unexpected experience could challenge an assumption and open a new direction. Stay curious and resist the urge to dismiss what feels unfamiliar. Sometimes the biggest shifts begin with a simple change in viewpoint.
PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20) Deeper matters come into focus this month, particularly around trust, commitments, and shared responsibilities. October encourages you to address what has been left unresolved rather than allowing it to linger. An honest conversation may bring relief and clarity. Once you acknowledge what needs attention, moving forward becomes much easier.
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Source: wisehoroscope.org
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