Durrah Issue 54 - H by Durrah Luxury

VOLUME 14 ISSUE 02 WINTER 2021

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A fusion of life and ar t in exquisite forms. Al Mer ta’shah, an edgy tribute to the power ful sway of the dance of life. Where lightness and freedom are evoked by motion through delicate ar ticulation. Al Mer ta’shah is the epitome of feminine power, exuding energy like an enchanting melody.

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WELCOME

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First Impression

A word from the editor-in-chief

December 2021

Editorial Editor in Chief Khalid Ahmed Juman Deputy Editor in Chief Ahmed Khunji Art Director Ronald Fuentes Features Editor Tariq Khonji Editors Amy Vaya Mohammed Hassan Charlie Holding Marketing and Sales International Media Sales Director Hussain Al Zaimoor Production Production Support Venkatesan J. S IT support Digital Manager Hussain Al Anjawi

DURRAH LUXURY MAGAZINE PO Box 13990, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain T. +973 77077777 F. +973 17226555

We are back with another issue curated from the best in the world of luxury! First and foremost, I want to thank Bahrain’s frontliners for their incredible work over the past two years. It’s their dedication and selflessness that made it possible for things to be on the path back to normal life. Their contributions are especially appreciated as we celebrate our Kingdom’s 50th National Day, an occasion that is always near and dear to our hearts. To mark the occasion, we dedicate pages in our magazine to highlight the many national achievements that were made by the Kingdom’s leadership in the era of HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa. Their wisdom and guidance helped put our nation on a trajectory of success on a local, regional, and international level. Also in this issue, we put the luxury hospitality industry front and center as we interview some of the most senior executives at renowned hotels and resorts. Regional Vice-President and General Manager at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, Rami Sayess reveals what guests can expect at one of the Kingdom’s most popular hospitality destinations,

while Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain’s General Manager, Ricardo Vale reveals key features and attractions about Emaar Hospitality Group’s first Vida hotel outside of the UAE. We chat with Vice President of Luxury Brands Management and Marketing for Europe, Middle East and Africa, Candice D’Cruz, who highlights the qualities that set Marriott International apart from the competition. These are just some of the unique offerings in this issue. And as you have come to expect by now, every Durrah issue comes full to the brim with our recommendations of must-visit travel destinations, fine dining restaurants, high-end fashion brands, and lots of content catering to the discerning connoisseur. Where there’s luxury, there’s Durrah.

Enjoy your read!

COVER IMAGE A Tribute to Luxury DURRAH is a premium quarterly English-language luxury lifestyle magazine, covering topics including VIP interviews, fashion, yachting, architecture, art and culture, jewellery and travel, Durrah’s quality is unsurpassed. Durrah, in Arabic, translates to ‘Pearl’, and focuses on luxury that is based on substance and lifestyle with intellect, rather than excess. On contemporary living that evolves from deepset roots, rather than globalization, ensuring an inherently authentic flavour for a globally travelled audience. With a core focus on the colourful fusion of both traditional and modern elements that make up the Arabian identity, Durrah aims to promote and preserve all of the elements that make the Arabian Gulf so unique. Durrah adopts international standards, however also remains closely connected to Middle Eastern heritage, culture and achievements, all of which are prominently featured.

Khalid Ahmed Juman Editor in Chief

ISSN 2210-1322

DURRAHMAGAZINE

www.durrah.bh e.mail: info@durrah.bh

CONTENTS

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CONTENTS

December 2021

Volume 14 Issue 02 Winter 2021

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050 042

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Editor’s Letter

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IInterview with Marriott International Vice President of Luxury Brands Management and Marketing for Europe, Middle East and Africa, Candice D’Cruz

Celebrating the Kingdom of Bahrain’s 50th National Day

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First Impression Decades of Gold

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Dazzling Display

The Lights @ The Harbour Row

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Unique Experiences

Masters of Their Craft

Ammar Basheir Creative Studio, winner of the 2021 Designer of the Year Award by Architectural Digest Middle East

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Elegance and Sophistication Judith Leiber’s timeless evening bags and crystal minaudières

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Watchmaking Excellence

Interview with Vacheron Constantin Brand Director, Christophe Ramel

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The Golden Ratio

The Happy Sport watch from Chopard

Quality Business

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Hublot Big Bang Unico Arturo Fuente Ceramic watch

Interview with Regional Vice-President and General Manager at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, Rami Sayess

Interview with Bugatti Regional Director of Middle East & Asia, Kostas Psarris, and official Bugatti test driver and Le Mans winning ex-race car driver, Andy Wallace

Homage to a Nation

Pioneering Light Awal Women Society

Inimitable Experience

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The Ultimate in Luxury

Interview with Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain’s General Manager, Ricardo Vale

Interview with Mia Moon Group Founder and CEO, Marwa Ahmed Tawfiq

Dream Drive

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Inspired by Faith

The Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris presents ‘Cartier and Islamic Art: In Search of Modernity’

A Fine Tribute

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Hublot Classic Fusion Chronograph Concrete Sand

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Tag Heuer Carrera Middle East Limited Editiony Inspired by the green colors of the region

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Tag Heuer Tag Heuer Only Watch 2021

Sold for CHF290,000 at the Only Watch charity auction

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The Wildlife Artist

Interview with Spanish artist Fernando Garcia Herrera

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Perfumes for men

Louis Vuitton’s Cruise 2022 Collection

Fresh and Bold

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Alluring Fragrances Perfumes for women

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Beauty Trends

The latest in luxury cosmetics

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The Smart Way to Ryde Interview with Ryde Co-founder, Yousif Zaman

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Defining Celebration

Dressed to the Nines

Louis Vuitton Men’s Collection by Virgil Abloh Spring-Summer 2022

Lindberg

Moschino’s Fall/Winter 2021 Collection

Paris to Manama Fashion Week

Intercultural Showcase

‘Pearls of Bahrain’

Industry Pioneer

Early Hollywood Sophistication

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Oscar de la Renta’s Fall 2022 Bridal Collection

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A Literary Gem

Positive Harmony

Cultural Apparel

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A Ceremony of Couture

Dior’s Winter 2021-2022 Men’s Collection

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Moschino Baby Kid Teen Autumn/Winter 2021 collection

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Exquisite Style

The latest in ladies’ brand name bags

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Quality and Class

The latest in high-end men’s shoes

CONTENTS

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December 2021

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138 182 164

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142

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The latest in designer brand women’s shoes

Slayer coffee machines

Ferrari Portofino M

Stepping in Style

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The Visual Storyteller

Interview with artist Louise Duggan

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Experience Prestige

Modern Art Studio and Rolex boutique

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Boutique Experience

Luxurious shopping destinations

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A Bespoke Waterfront Diyar Al Muharraq’s Mozoon

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The New Capital of Luxury Discover Madrid

Brewing Innovation

Performance Perfect

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Warrior One Yoga Studio

A true work of art

Home of Zen

Ferrari 812 GTS

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186

Interview with Chef David Myers

Reviews of the latest luxury brands in the automotive industry

The Globe-trotting Chef

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Natural Talent

Interview with artist Hasan Amin AlKhaja

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Redefining Hospitality The best hotels in the world

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Serene Treatments The best spas in the world

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Refined Taste Top dining locations

Driving In Style

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Must Haves for Men Luxury items for men

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Must Haves for Women Luxury items for women

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The Real “Dana” Al Dana Amphitheater

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SPECIAL FEATURE

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December 2021

DECADES of Gold With the Kingdom of Bahrain celebrating its 50th National Day, Durrah looks at some of the most prominent accomplishments of our beloved nation. Under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and the guidance of the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Kingdom has added many unique achievements to its impressive tally, making us all proud to call ourselves Bahraini.

Each year, Bahrainis look forward to celebrating National Day. The annual occasion carries a lot of sentiment and pride, as it offers the opportunity for the entire nation to join in showing their love for their country and its leaders. HM the King himself reflected the importance of celebrating this day. Delivering a speech at Al Sakhir Palace, he said: “[The National Day] renews our feelings of pride in the authenticity of the Bahraini state, which emerged more than two centuries ago, and in which the tidings of prosperity and progress have continued ever since, thanks to Allah, and to the vision of its leaders and the loyalty of its people, who have proven themselves throughout history to be a true source of support to their leaders in serving their country in the best way.” HM added: “This is an auspicious occasion to express our thanks and appreciation to the generous people of Bahrain, men and women, for fulfilling their national and constitutional duties in their finest form, by their disciplined and responsible turnout

at ballot boxes to select their representatives in the Council of Representatives and municipal councils, to start a new phase of work towards our brighter future, with the guidance of Allah.” Women have also taken a central role in building the Kingdom during HM the King’s era, serving as partners to men in national development. In a recorded keynote speech addressing a ceremony marking the Bahraini Women’s Day, HM highlighted their numerous contributions, saying: “I express sincere congratulations and deepest gratitude to those women who contributed to nation-building endeavor and spared no efforts in their work throughout the national history.” HM added: “Woman illuminated, with the lights of science, our path to renaissance and cemented our unity with her independent will. Woman read, learned and participated, thus building the glory of her nation”. Bahrain also excelled in areas on an international level. With the world at the onset

of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, Bahrain showed true leadership by being one of the first countries in the world to take measures in curbing the spread and impact of the virus to protect its citizens and residents. Delivering a speech at the World Health Organization’s (WHO) World Health Assembly (WHA) Special Session, HRH the Crown Prince said: “It is imperative that we do not lull ourselves into complacency with the false belief that this pandemic is a once-in-a-century anomaly. Instead, we must seize upon this opportunity to enact real change; to approach global pandemic preparedness with the same determination we bring to geo-political threats to our collective safety and security. Only then will we be able to build a global health system that can one day serve as our first and most effective line of defense against the emergence of communicable diseases.” HRH added: “The Kingdom of Bahrain recognized, as the coronavirus was just beginning to gather steam and before it reached our shores, that preparedness

SPECIAL FEATURE

and collaboration would determine our ability to successfully navigate a crisis of this magnitude.” The Kingdom has also been vocal and active against the threats of climate change, with its forward-thinking vision aptly expressed in HRH the Crown Prince’s speech at the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26), held in Glasgow, Scotland: “For millennia, technological and economic development moved at a steady pace. That is until the advent of the Industrial Revolution, which set in motion profound changes for mankind, ushering in an era of change made on a previously unimaginable scale.” HRH added: “While the Kingdom of Bahrain is responsible for just 0.07 percent of global emissions, we recognize, not least as an island nation, that climate change is a global challenge that requires global solutions. Developing the kinds of technologies necessary to meaningfully address the climate crisis requires us to both act in concert, but also to lead by example.” HRH showcased the Kingdom’s foresight in securing a clean and sustainable future for all its citizens and residents: “I am pleased to announce that Bahrain is committed to reaching net zero by 2060 and has set a range of ambitious interim 03

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01, 02, 03 HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa 04, 05, 06 HM the King with the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa

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goals to ensure that we proceed without delay. By 2035, we will reduce emissions by 30 percent through decarbonization and efficiency initiatives and double our deployment of renewables from the targets we set at COP21.” HRH added: “A future net-zero economy capable of propelling humanity to new heights depends entirely on the ability of people to participate in it, both as producers and as consumers. We must therefore ensure that our work to curb emissions moves in lockstep with our work to improve livelihoods.” These are just some of the areas where the Kingdom’s leaders have proven themselves to be pioneers, leaders, and visionaries. With 50 years of accomplishments already decorating its rich history, Bahrain will surely remain committed to excelling in many more fields, as we look forward to celebrating its leaders and achievements for the next 50 years and beyond.

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December 2021

“Bahrain will surely remain committed to excelling in many

more fields, as we look forward to celebrating its leaders and achievements for the next 50 years and beyond.” 07

07, 08 HM the King and HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister

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Al Habtoor City, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 4 435 5544 ~ reservations.habtoorpalace@hiltonalhabtoorcity.com www. habtoorpalace.com ~ @habtoorpalace

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December 2021

Dazzling DISPLAY

Held under the patronage of Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, HE Zayed bin Rashid Alzayani, The Lights @ The Harbour Row is a festival that engages the senses with its creative light-themed art installations designed by local and international artists. Organized by GFH Financial Group and PICO, the festival coincides with the opening the Promenade, a 3km seafront walkway connecting the two major developments under GFH Properties, Harbour Row and Harbour Heights. Harbour Heights @The Harbor is the Kingdom of Bahrain’s most advanced and exclusive residential complex at Bahrain Financial Harbor. It will be a district of luxury, uniqueness, and distinctiveness that aims to serve the future vision of Bahrain and to be a new lifestyle expression. This event commemorates the opening of the project with activations that will attract people and encourage them to discover this new destination. The Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, HE Zayed bin Rashid Alzayani made a visit during the festival, where he was introduced to its various installations and offerings. In addition to several local installations, The Lights @ The Harbour Row festival will feature concept art by a number of international artists. Designed by British artist Gali May Lucas and executed by Berlin-based sculptor Karoline Hinz,

‘Absorbed by Light’ depicts three figures sitting next to each other on a bench. Displaying the typical characteristics of smartphone users, their heads are bent, fingers typing and swiping, and their faces lit up by their phone’s screens. While their bodies are physically present, their minds are elsewhere. Visitors can experience the way this affects others by taking a seat in between the figures of ‘Absorbed by Light’. Created by Squidsoup, a UK-based international group of artists, researchers, technologists, and designers, ‘Submergence’ is a large, immersive, walkthrough experience. It uses thousands of individual points of suspended light to create feelings of presence and movement within physical space, transforming it into a hybrid environment where virtual and physical worlds coincide. As you enter the installation, you are walking into a space occupied by both real

and virtual components, and you can affect both. In its entirety, an abstract narrative is formed with a gradual increase in tension, building to a final climax in which each movement has its own elements, atmosphere, and responsiveness. ‘Lightbattle III’, designed by Netherlandsbased artist group Venividimultiplex, lets you experience the Dutch cultural heritage of cycling in a completely different way. In three interactive arches of light, six bicycles face each other from opposite sides. Visitors are asked to sit in the installation and compete with the other contestants. Based on the speed with which the competitors are cycling, the light slowly intensifies the colors of the arch, and the strongest cycler will be rewarded with a flood of light color. harbourrow.com

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01 ‘Absorbed by Light’ 02, 05, 06 Various installments at the festival 03 ‘Lightbattle III’ 04 Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, HE Zayed bin Rashid Alzayani during a visit to the festival

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December 2021

Pioneering LIGHT 01

On the occasion of its 50th anniversary, Durrah had a tete-a-tete with Awal Women Society Member Aisha Matar to learn about the organization’s half-century of philanthropy, education, and community building activities. Awal Women Society (AWS) is one of the first non-governmental organizations in Kingdom of Bahrain. It is the first women’s society in Muharraq city and, the third of its kind in the country. The Society was founded in 1967 and, was officially recognized on 25 March 1970. Since then—and for the first time in the history of women-oriented efforts in Bahrain-it adopted goals that go beyond philanthropy to include defending women’s rights, raising their awareness, and looking for the best ways to improve their status. Aisha Matar, has been a member since the very beginning. She says, “One of the most noteworthy things about Awal Women’s Society is its willingness to constantly evolve with the times to ensure it is meeting Bahraini women’s needs, so I have seen many changes over the past 50 years, but what has remained constant is Society’s commitment to bettering our community.” The Golden Jubilee celebrations, which had been planned for five years, were derailed by the global covid-19 pandemic and were recently held at the Society’s premises in Arad under the patronage of Labour and Social Development Minister Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, with over 300 guests. Ms. Matar comments, “We made an effort to invite every single woman who had ever been a part of the society during its 50-year history, and it was a delight to see how many were able to join us.”

To mark the occasion, the Society produced a documentary film about its history, which was screened during the event. Three commemorative books were also produced: Awal Women Society: Half a Century of Giving and Achievements; We Love Awal, which was a picture book of the Society’s most important events; and Al-Naqda, which is about the traditional Bahraini embroidery promoted by AWS. Since its foundation, AWS has pioneered several development projects that improve the status of women. These include educational, awareness, training, and business programs. One of the Society’s foremost initiatives is Awal Kindergarten, which was inaugurated in May 1980 and aims to support working women to continue their jobs while their children are looked after in a safe environment. Another initiative, which has now been discontinued, was the adult education program for women who did not have the opportunity to continue their higher education. “As women, we realised that there are many factors which prevent women from being able to pursue higher education,” notes Ms. Matar. “One of these factors was a lack of childcare facilities, so we became the first organisation to offer evening kindergarten to take care of children while their mothers were studying. This boosted enrolment in our classes and helped many women achieve their dreams. We also waived

fees for children from low-income families to provide equal educational opportunities for all.” Beyond educational offerings, the Society also spearheaded an important vocational training program, Awal Hospitality Services (Awal LilDhiyafa), which trains women in hospitality skills and creates employment opportunities. Ms. Matar notes, “The program is a way for women to support themselves and their families while promoting our traditional Arabian hospitality. These services are highly sought after at weddings and other events, in Bahrain and even abroad, due to their cultural relevance.” Another vocational training that AWS is particularly proud of is Al-Naqda Embroidery, which trains young women in the traditional art of Bahraini embroidery. The exquisite pieces are sold at exhibitions, which helps the women earn an income while keeping this important tradition alive. The Society also assists with legal and family affairs. In 1988 AWS became the first organization in Bahrain to establish a hotline for women. “Women could call us and speak freely about their own and family issues and anything else that was causing them distress. We would offer advice and assistance, and eventually we established the Awal Center for Legal and Social Counseling, which is staffed with a social worker and two volunteer lawyers who help with the legal side,” explains Ms. Matar.

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01, 02, 03 Awal Women Society throughout the years

Through its Micro-Start Project, AWS, in cooperation with the Ministry of Labor and Social Development and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), aims to provide micro-loans to small entrepreneurs, especially women. In 2009 this was further developed into the Micro-Finance Project, which was launched in cooperation with the Ministry of Labor and Social Development, UNDP and Ahli United Bank. It provides relatively larger loans to entrepreneurs mainly women and youth. Both projects are administered by a team of qualified and trained female staff. “AWS has made great strides for women’s empowerment and independence over the past 50 years, and it is something we are very proud of,” notes Ms. Matar. “We have created a space where women can make friends, express themselves, and improve themselves through our various educational, economic, and development activities. We are always on the lookout for new members to join us, because we need fresh ideas on how we can work together to improve society for everyone. We are working on new initiatives all the time and we are excited about what the future will bring for AWS.” awalws.org

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

“Bahrain is truly a hidden gem, with so much to offer visitors.”

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Inimitable

EXPERIENCE Regional Vice-President and General Manager at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, Rami Sayess reveals what guests can expect at one of the Kingdom’s most popular hospitality destinations.

WHAT DOES THE HOTEL HAVE IN STORE FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON? Based on the high number of visitors we have received over the past four to five months, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay is gearing up for a very exciting festive season filled with new experiences and activities for not only adults to enjoy but also our young VIPs. We have a Winter Wonderland themed afternoon tea on offer at Bay View, along with special celebrations for the Bahraini National Day and Christmas. Guests who prefer to entertain at home can order a special turkey feast to make the occasion memorable. There are also a series of fun New Year’s Eve celebrations coming up such as the Black and Gold themed New Year’s Eve event that will be hosted at the Pool Deck overlooking Bahrain Bay and Manama. Our outdoor venues in particular are making the most of the pleasant weather and are already fully booked.

01 Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay is a soaring architectural statement set on its very own private island 02 Rami Sayess - Regional VicePresident and General Manager

WHAT CAN GUESTS LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2022? ARE THERE ANY PLANS OR PROMOTIONS YOU CAN SHARE WITH US? Our aim is to surprise and delight our guests every time they visit, which keeps us busy in staying innovative and planning for the many new projects in the pipeline. We have just opened up our Beach Club which caters to teens; this is part of our commitment to ensure that guests of all ages are well looked after here and enjoy their stay as much as possible. We straddle the space between an

urban resort and a business hotel, which means that people can effortlessly mix business and pleasure while staying with us. They can attend business meetings or conferences while the rest of the family takes advantage of all our recreational facilities such as the private beach, spa, and waterpark, as well as our award-winning dining offerings. We also have a new Italian executive chef who recently joined us from Four Seasons Hotel Prague and is creating a wonderful series of pop-up experiences for our guests to look forward to.

WHAT KIND OF EXPERIENCE CAN GUESTS LOOK FORWARD TO FOLLOWING THE RELAUNCH OF RE/ASIAN CUISINE? re/ASIAN Cuisine has a dedicated fanbase in Bahrain and beyond, and we have relaunched the restaurant with a brand-new seasonal menu which highlights the best and freshest produce available, locally sourced whenever possible. As part of the extensive renovations, a brand new Sushi Lounge was launched in re/ASIAN Cuisine which has proved very popular with our guests – both new and returning. For this coming season, the team will be using a local Bahraini fish, Hammam Arabi – a black spotted trevally, for the sushi bar menu. We have introduced new entertainment options such as an in-house DJ to set a vibrant ambiance. Blue Moon Lounge, which is adjacent to re/ASIAN Cuisine, will be newly launching a bespoke izakaya menu which will include their popular Korean bulgogi sliders.

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CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS PLANNED AT RE/ASIAN FOR 2022? The Chinese New Year celebrations, taking place on Thursday 3 February, will be different to previous years. Instead of live cooking stations, re/ ASIAN Cuisine will offer a dim sum style service as well as specials such as hot noodles with braised rabbit, yin and yang dumplings, ginger lobster, and Cantonese duck. There will also be a tea station, dessert station, and a drinks station, along with live entertainment in Cantonese by a talented singer.

HOW DID THE HOTEL OVERCOME THE CORONAVIRUS CHALLENGES? WHAT MEASURES DID IT TAKE? One of our first actions as a brand during the pandemic was to hire and work closely with expert medical advisors based in the U.S. who helped us navigate this extraordinary time safely and efficiently. Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts started a new health and safety program called ‘Lead With Care’, which was implemented across all properties worldwide. While we had to cut back on some of our activities and offerings, we were able to come up with creative solutions to engage with our guests in new ways. We were helped by the fact that the government response was so proactive and effective, which created a safe environment for everyone to operate in and helped us return to a green status much quicker than elsewhere. While we recognize we are still not fully out of the pandemic, we have begun to rebuild our team in anticipation of a very busy year ahead.

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE MOST IMPORTANT RECENT TREND IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY? 2022 will be the year of ‘revenge travel’, where people who have been unable to travel over the past 18 months will splurge on expensive getaways. There are multiple factors involved, such as the frustration of being cooped up at home for a long time, the fact that many people have savings built up due to reduced spending while they sheltered at home, and the feeling that life is too short and unpredictable to not make the most of the time we have. Consequently, we expect to see people seeking out luxury experiences as a treat to themselves, opting for room upgrades, spa treatments, and fun activities they might not otherwise have chosen.

WHAT IS THE OUTLOOK FOR TOURISM IN BAHRAIN? Bahrain is truly a hidden gem, with so much to offer visitors. We have a fantastic new airport, excellent connectivity, multiple cultural attractions, including UNESCO World Heritage sites, and above all, we have the wonderful Bahraini people. It is

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03 New teen’s Beach Club where laidback California surf shack meets gamers’ fantasy haven 04 Aerial view of the private beach and family pool 05 Private weddings and events hosted at The Lawn 06 Sushi Lounge at the newly renovated re/ASIAN Cuisine

time for us to be more vocal about what we have to offer, and with the hospitality industry working closely with the tourism authorities, we are looking forward to attracting many more visitors. Beyond our borders, there are exciting developments in Saudi Arabia, the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Qatar, a new shorter work week in the UAE, and the resumption of GCC-wide conferences and seminars, so we are expecting 2022 to be our best year yet.

THIS IS THE ONLY BAHRAIN HOTEL TO BE FEATURED IN CONDÉ NAST TRAVELLER MIDDLE EAST’S 2021 GOLD LIST. IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THAT HELPED THE HOTEL RECEIVE THIS RECOGNITION? I believe that we won this recognition on the strength of our people. We have an outstanding team who are dedicated to our guests’ wellbeing and are committed to excellence. From the time a guest is received at the airport to the time they leave they are treated to a superlative level of attention and service, and it is all these personal touches that set us apart. Another secret ingredient is that unlike many other countries in the region, there is a large proportion of Bahraini nationals working in hospitality as compared to expats. This means that our guests get the full taste of the traditional warm hospitality that Arabs are known for. Finally, the Four Seasons culture embraces our team members’ individuality and empowers them to make independent decisions, which allows themand us-to truly shine.

@fsbahrain fourseasons.com/bahrain

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

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December 2021

Alive and Inspiring Luxury Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain’s General Manager, Ricardo Vale reveals key features and attractions about Emaar Hospitality Group’s first Vida hotel outside of the UAE. 01

WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE BAHRAIN? Bahrain is an important touristic destination in the region and EMAAR Group sees great potential in the Kingdom. Being a stable and secure city draws many visitors from all around, and that gives us a unique opportunity to serve them well with a new luxury property and the first Vida hotel by EMAAR group, which is already known for their flagship brands. We are very excited to be here and to be the hottest destination on the paradise island.

WHAT CAN GUESTS EXPECT WHEN STAYING AT VIDA BEACH RESORT MARASSI AL BAHRAIN? From the moment the guests step into the Hotel, we want to make them feel at home with the inspiring yet understated environment. What will set us apart is the easy interactions that the team will provide, the atmosphere is enthusiastic and friendly, leaving the guests to feel free in their choices and to set the stage for the next big idea. It definitely also helps that we are facing crystal clear waters and the ambience reflects that perfectly!

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS THE MAIN FEATURE OR ATTRACTION OF THE HOTEL? There’s just too many to choose from! But if I had to pick one, it would be the fact that we are the only Hotel on the island with both direct beach and mall access. Our sandy beachfront is almost 2km

long, making it the longest promenade in Bahrain where you can stroll on white sandy beaches. Once the upcoming Marassi Galleria opens, it will be the largest mall in the Kingdom with a wide array of shops from ultra-luxury to family favorites.

DID YOU FACE ANY CHALLENGES BEFORE THE OPENING OF THE HOTEL? HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THEM? As a hotelier, there are no challenges, only opportunities to think out of the box, and do better. Everything that we design, we do it with our guests in mind and we aim to deliver only the best experience for our guests that will soon be checking us out.

CAN YOU TELL US A BIT MORE ABOUT THE F&B CONCEPTS IN THE HOTEL? The Hotel will have 2 restaurants facing the beautiful Marassi Beach. Origins will be an easygoing, lifestyle focused restaurant where you can gather with friends while enjoying the views and sea breeze. On the first floor, we have The Bistro by Origins – a French inspired brasserie which will feature a more elevated dining experience which is perfect for a night out. Guests can look forward to enjoying an intimate meal paired with cocktails and a curated wine list. These restaurants will be open from 15th December and we look forward to guests checking us out.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS THE LATEST HOSPITALITY TREND IN THE REGION? I think COVID-19 has shaped the way in which we live and travel. One of the biggest changes is the way which people work now, many are now working remotely or with greater flexibility. It is also with this in mind that we have designed the Hotel around, the spaces that will be featured allow for our guests to draw inspiration for their creations and work. At the same time, there will also be child-friendly facilities as we see an increasing trend in people traveling as a family and staying longer periods than they used to pre-pandemic.

FINALLY, CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE HOTEL’S OPENING AND WHAT GUESTS CAN LOOK FORWARD TO WHEN IT DOES? The Hotel will open officially on 15th December, marking a start to the festive weekend for the Bahrain National Day. There will be a myriad of activities happening at the Hotel and on the beachfront for everyone to enjoy. There will be a wide variety of food and drink options on offer, fun activities, Live entertainment, and we hear, even some electrifying fireworks! Do follow us on our Instagram @vidabahrain, so you can hear all about the news firsthand. vidahotels.com/en/resorts/vida-beach-resortmarassi-al-bahrain

“Bahrain is an important touristic destination in

the region and EMAAR Group sees great potential in the Kingdom.”

02 03 01 Ricardo Vale, General Manager Vida Bahrain 02 Vida Bahrain at sunset 03 2km of white sandy beach at Marassi Al Bahrain

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December 2021

Unique Experiences Exploring the qualities that set Marriott International apart from the competition with Vice President of Luxury Brands Management and Marketing for Europe, Middle East and Africa, Candice D’Cruz. 01 Marriott International Vice President of Luxury Brands Management and Marketing for Europe, Middle East and Africa, Candice D’Cruz 02 The hotel’s breathtaking exterior

THERE ARE SEVERAL ICONIC NAMES UNDER THE LUXURY BRANDS UMBRELLA. CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THOSE BRANDS AND THE VALUE THEY ADD TO THE MARKET? Spanning all corners of the world, Marriott International’s luxury portfolio offers a boundless network of more than 460 landmark hotels and resorts in 65+ countries through eight brands, including The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, EDITION, The Luxury Collection, JW Marriott and W Hotels. Through our unmatched portfolio of dynamic luxury brands, we are creating the real, rare, and enriching experiences the new luxury traveler craves. Across our luxury brands we are focused on elevating travel with highly contextualized, nuanced brand experiences that signal the future of luxury by allowing our guests to indulge their passions while sparking personal growth.

WHAT SETS MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL APART FROM ITS COMPETITORS? Our scale and breadth of distribution gives us a huge advantage over the competition, allowing us to quickly identify and respond to trends taking shape across travel, creating an incredible edge at a time when the current environment is forcing consumer habits, demands, and desires to change with unprecedented speed. We have the resources, including a global footprint, operational expertise, and

customer intelligence, to perfectly position us for the future. Our dynamic luxury portfolio creates a huge loyalty lure, but we know that affluent consumers value loyalty programs built on shared passions and interests rather than discounts and deals. Marriott International’s award-winning travel program and marketplace, Marriott Bonvoy, is more than a loyalty program, it is a travel program designed to bring to life our portfolio of global brands while also providing endless inspiration for members to keep traveling and pursuing their passions.

MARRIOTT ADOPTS THE ‘PEOPLE FIRST CULTURE’. WHAT DOES THAT MEAN TO YOU? Putting people first is at the heart of Marriott International’s company culture and the foundation for our continued success. This belief drives ‘TakeCare’, our holistic approach to associate wellbeing.  Since our founding as a small root beer stand in 1927, we have stayed true to our core value of putting people first and a simple philosophy: if we take care of our associates, they will take care of our customers, and our customers will come back. Our culture guides how we interact with people, how we do business every day, and how we respond to global challenges. This focus ensures that all of our key stakeholders - associates, customers, owners and suppliers -

experience opportunity, community and purpose throughout their engagement with Marriott. Creating opportunities for associates to grow and succeed is part of Marriott International’s DNA. Every associate plays an important role, and it is paramount for us to recognize and nurture their talent. For me, cultivating our culture begins with an open-door policy, forming transparent and supportive relationships, and a diverse and inclusive workplace. Our TakeCare culture and putting people first has never been as important as it is today and is the foundation of how we are navigating through the pandemic.

WHAT ARE THE LATEST TRENDS IN THE WORLD OF HOSPITALITY? DO LUXURY BRANDS FOLLOW THOSE TRENDS? We continue to see resort properties in beach, mountain, and desert locations doing very well, while guests are increasingly booking suites, villas, and residential options as personal space remains a priority. The modern luxury traveler is not refraining from spending on travel, they are instead redirecting their spending, perhaps pivoting from an exotic vacation to discovering a location that is more familiar or closer to home. One of the most interesting shifts we’re seeing is that the hotel has become the destination. Immersive experiences are now happening on property, serving as a gateway for exploring and discovering all

things local. Across our luxury portfolio, our hotels have responded by making creative adjustments on property, such as at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert creating additional programming like moonlight camel rides. Our hotels have also become hubs for local communities. With many people staying closer to home, whether it be for a staycation or a night out, people are turning to our trusted brands for a safe and comfortable experience. Our guests are more discerning than ever before. Both those who have continued to travel throughout the pandemic, as well as those that may be venturing out for the first time, are seeking a flawless execution of the basics in addition to an elevated experience. This is creating demand for a new level of bespoke service and a guest experience that is more personalized and curated. Even something that used to be as routine as housekeeping must now be customized to each guest.

DO YOU FEEL WOMEN ARE NOW RECEIVE EQUAL TREATMENT COMPARED TO MEN IN THE WORKPLACE? OR IS THERE MORE WORK THAT NEEDS TO BE DONE? In terms of supporting women, Marriott International is ahead of the curve with a focus on policies, programs and practices that help build a strong pipeline of women leaders, offering networking and mentoring, and supporting the ability to effectively manage work

and life. In fact, we were the first hospitality company to establish a Women’s Leadership Development Initiative over 20 years ago. Women hold some of the most significant policy-making positions in Marriott International’s headquarters in the US and here in the Dubai-based Continent office, including our President of Marriott International, a role that Stephanie Linnartz was promoted to in 2021. As a champion of female leadership development, nurturing local talent and mentorship, I do believe there is always work to be done.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A NOVICE EMBARKING ON A JOURNEY IN MARKETING? My mantra for myself and my advice to others is ‘don’t be afraid to fail’. Passion and hard work will never go unnoticed. Being brave, taking risks and putting your hand up for a project, even if it is not your strength is something we all need to do, without fear of failure. It’s important to define your ‘stretch goals’. Ask yourself how can I push myself, perhaps at the cost of feeling uncomfortable? That stretch is what ultimately propels you to move forward, accelerate, and thereby achieve excellence. Most importantly, don’t be afraid seek guidance along the way. Connecting with mentors within and outside of your workplace is incredibly useful, not only at the beginning of your career but throughout.

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ST. REGIS CAIRO: A NEW BENCHMARK OF LUXURY

03, 04, 05, 06, 07 Luxury is incorporated into every aspect of the hotel’s interiors.

The iconic St. Regis Cairo rises tall, overlooking the timeless River Nile and the bustling city of Cairo, comfortably set amidst a rich and storied past and a vibrant present. Bespoke luxury is combined with curated and immersive experiences accentuated with the signature St. Regis Butler Service. The St. Regis Cairo is the exquisite reflection of modern Egyptian grandeur with its extraordinary design by Michael Graves; an unsurmountable taste for those who are only inspired by the unexpected. The St. Regis Cairo pays homage to 233 lavishly appointed guest rooms, 50 exclusive suites and 79 luxury apartments recalling an exquisite style and local heritage with a modern sensibility. The elegant guest rooms and suites offer unparalleled views of the River Nile and authentic old Cairo, with an inviting array of preferences, ranging from Superior, Deluxe, Astor, Grand Deluxe rooms, Metropolitan, Astor, and St. Regis and Royal suites. A unique collection of sophisticated calming sanctuaries, extend sweeping views of the River Nile and old Cairo featuring two and three-bedroom apartments that include Capital Luxury, City Luxury, Sky Luxury, and St. Regis Luxury Apartments. Celebrating the modern connoisseur, The St. Regis Cairo places guests in an experience of an extraordinary legacy. Ideally situated on the border of the Nile in the center of Cairo, while overlooking the historic landmarks of Zamalek island, the hotel is within close walking distance to the Egyptian Museum,

art galleries, and various recognized attractions. With 2.,915 sqm of event space, the hotel’s 10 distinguished venues will set the stage for your most prestigious events. From daylight executive board meetings to grand conferences and exhibitions, the hotel pays homage to two ballrooms, six meeting rooms, and two boardrooms. With Marriott Bonvoy Events, earn points and Elite status for the meetings and events you plan. Thoughtfully crafted taste-making is offered at seven distinguished culinary destinations. Start your day with a flavorful St. Regis breakfast at La Zisa. Indulge in authentic Singaporean cuisine at Tianma over lunch or dinner and experience bursting flavors from China, India, and southeast Asia. After lunch, The St. Regis Bar is a favorite unwinding spot for business and leisure. An experiential dinner awaits at the signature J&G Steakhouse Cairo. The Astor Grand Ballroom is the city’s most alluring venue, accommodating up to 780 guests. The Nile Amethyst Ballroom offers scenic views of the Nile, ideally suited for intimate gatherings up to 150 guests. The Crystal Hall extends a stunning backdrop for your celebration; accentuated with a dramatic Swarovski chandelier and a beautiful grand crystal staircase, overlooking the River Nile. thestregiscairo.com thestregisalmasa.com

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Masters of

THEIR CRAFT A testament to the Kingdom’s impressive talents, Bahraini interior design firm Ammar Basheir Creative Studio won the 2021 Designer of the Year Award by Architectural Digest Middle East.

The region’s best and brightest design talents came together at the AD Design Awards 2021 ceremony in Dubai to honor MENA’s most inspiring projects, architects, interior designers, and product designers, chosen from a hotly contested shortlist. Against Dubai’s inspiring cityscape, the winners were revealed; and as the magazine’s Editor-in-Chief Talib Choudhry said in his remarks about Ammar, “The winner effortlessly spans commercial, cultural, and residential, projects, a bold vision, is gaining global recognition, and in their own country as well.” Honored, and delighted by the recognition, Ammar Basheir is humbled to be this year’s recipient of Designer of the Year Award, and is

grateful to his entire team for their continued dedication for over a decade to making every project a success. The multi-faceted Bahraini designer said, “We aspire to be the region’s first studio to use experimentation, materiality, and sustainability in our luxury interiors. We are committed to working with artisans and craftsmen in our projects and strive to keep these industries alive as they can enrich, uplift, and enhance our world for the better especially during these unprecedented times. We aim to create unique narratives in our spaces and experiences that blur the limits between the tangible and intangible.” ammarbasheir.com

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December 2021

Quality Business Mia Moon Group Founder and CEO, Marwa Ahmed Tawfiq reveals her tips for entrepreneurial success.

BAHRAIN IS CELEBRATING ITS 50TH NATIONAL DAY THIS YEAR. HOW DO YOU BELIEVE BEING BASED IN THE KINGDOM HELPED YOUR BUSINESS? The Government of Bahrain has always been a major supporter of local businesses. I launched my business 20 years ago, and a big part of what made it a success was that I had always received the backing as an entrepreneur. The Kingdom serves as a partner to the private sector, boosting its capabilities and unlocking its full potential. As we go forward, I’m sure it will continue to be a catalyst of success for many more businesses in the future.

WHAT ARE OTHER PROMINENT BRANDS UNDER THE MIA MOON GROUP UMBRELLA?

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO OPEN MIA MOON FASHION?

One thing that was a major obstacle for me was self-doubt. I made mistakes at the beginning, but over time, I learned to trust my instincts. Taking risks is crucial. Learning how to be decisive didn’t come naturally to me, I had to work hard at it. I kept taking those risks, knowing that there will be a big payoff at the end.

I launched Mia Moon Fashion in 2012 as an import/export trading company with staff specialized in fashion. It’s a family-owned business that supplies a wide range of premium products including watches from troopers, wallets, and more from internationally recognized brands, including Gaga Milano, Fred, Nixon, Edox, MCM, and Lamy. 02

02 Mia Moon Group Founder and CEO, Marwa Ahmed Tawfiq

appreciate beauty, in all its different forms. We also take part in a number of prestigious exhibitions and events, both in Bahrain and abroad.

CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE GROUP’S OTHER DIVISION, MIA MOON JEWELLERS? Mia Moon Jewellers operates out of two branches, one in Moda Mall and one in Al A’ali Mall. It’s a high-end jewellery business with a range of prestigious brands such as Melissa Kaye, Joseph Gad, Carlo Barberis, Verdi, David Webb, and Gismondi 1754. Our gemologists travel the world in search of the finest diamonds and gems, ensuring they source only those that meet the highest standards. Our designers and artisans create exquisite pieces inspired by happiness, reflecting a diamond’s mysterious and spectacular allure. We create pieces that bring joy to their owners and delight all who

Mia Noor is our fast-moving consumer goods arm. It’s the official Bahrain distributor of Fiji natural water, and the GCC distributor of Filicori Zecchini, a popular Italian coffee roasting brand.

WHAT WERE THE BIGGEST OBSTACLES FACING YOU WHEN YOU STARTED? AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THEM?

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO LOCAL ENTREPRENEURS LOOKING TO START THEIR OWN FASHION BUSINESS? Learn from your mistakes! Everybody makes mistakes at first. Use them as an opportunity to learn. Keep believing in yourself and stay motivated, especially when you are facing obstacles or setbacks.

WHAT’S THE NEXT GOAL FOR YOU? I feel I already achieved a lot, however, there is always room for more. There are so many opportunities out there, it’s up to you to take initiative and pursue them. I like setting ambitious new goals for myself. It keeps me motivated and allows me to unlock my full potential. miamoonjewellers.com

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“Our designers and artisans create exquisite

pieces inspired by happiness, reflecting a diamond’s mysterious and spectacular allure.”

01, 03, 04, 05, 06 Some of the jewellery on display at Mia Moon

SUSHI LOUNGE BY WOLFGANG PUCK Fine food, great conversation, and a buzzing ambience are simple pleasures that the world is relishing in a whole new way. Experience re/ASIAN Cuisine’s new Sushi Lounge, fuelled by the unique creativity of celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck.

Dine with us (+973) 1711 5046 | fourseasons.com/bahrain

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Dream DRIVE Durrah talks Bugatti, prestigious clientele, and the 1600hp Chiron with Bugatti’s Regional Director of Middle East & Asia, Kostas Psarris, and official Bugatti test driver and Le Mans winning ex-race car driver, Andy Wallace.

INTERVIEW WITH KOSTAS PSARRIS HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE BUGATTI’S SALES PERFORMANCE IN THE MIDDLE EAST REGION? There are different ways to measure performance. The obvious one is sales figures, and in that respect, the Middle East has always been one of the strongest markets for Bugatti. Since the introduction of the Veyron, which coined the term ‘hyper car’ as we understand it today, it has created an entirely new segment in the automotive world. The loyalty and excitement around Bugatti reached new strengths with the Chiron to the extent that today some of our most passionate and loyal customers globally are from the Middle East, true members of our family and proud brand ambassadors. Another way to measure performance is brand recognition and the perceptions associated with the brand. Again, Bugatti sits at the very top of the automotive world for our customers, enthusiasts and fans in the region and it is considered the undisputed pinnacle of everything related to automotive engineering, design, performance, and status. We are excited to see this relationship with the customers in the region growing and the passion with which new members join our very exclusive family.

WHAT ARE THE DEFINING QUALITIES OF THE BUGATTI BRAND? Bugatti has always been the epitome of technological advancement, innovation, and performance. At the same time, it stands for unparalleled luxury, ultimate comfort, and cuttingedge design, thus positioning Bugatti at the absolute pinnacle of the automotive world.

HOW IS BUGATTI POSITIONED IN THE MARKET? HOW DOES IT DISTINGUISH ITSELF FROM COMPETITORS? The values that define and differentiate Bugatti don’t differ to the ones globally. It stands for the best that one can find in every aspect of our customers’ expectations: technology, luxury, performance, design, emotion, history, heritage. If it is comparable, then it is no longer Bugatti!

HOW DO YOU SEE THE BUGATTI BRAND EVOLVING OVER THE NEXT FEW YEARS? Bugatti is repositioning itself for the future. On 2nd November 2021, the “Bugatti Rimac” joint company project was underway – only four months after the initial announcement. With it, Bugatti, Rimac and Porsche mark the beginning of a new chapter in automotive history. As shareholders, the

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Rimac Group holds 55 percent of the shares, while Porsche holds 45 percent. Mate Rimac, founder and CEO of Rimac Automobili, is now CEO of Bugatti Rimac, headquartered in Sveta Nedelja. Porsche AG became a strategic shareholder. Oliver Blume, chairman of Porsche AG, and Lutz Meschke, deputy chairman and CFO, are members of the supervisory board. The development of new cars takes years. We will announce any new cars when time is due – just the way we always have. Bugatti will continue selling the Chiron Pur Sport and Super Sport. In November 2021, we announced only 40 production slots for Chiron remain. We also recently announced the production of the Bolide, starting in 2024.

01 Bugatti Regional Director of Middle East & Asia, Kostas Psarris 02, 03, 05, 06, 07, 08 The impressive 1500 hp Bugatti Chiron

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INTERVIEW WITH ANDY WALLACE WAS AMH AFFECTED IN ANY WAY BY WHEN DID YOU DISCOVER YOUR PASSION FOR MOTORSPORTS? I remember when I was seven years old, going with my father to watch the races. That was the spark that started it for me. When I started going by myself, I rode my bicycle to the racetrack, which was 50km away from our home. That was 3 hours going there and 3 hours coming back, yet I loved every minute of it. From there, my passion grew into a career and finally, after many years of racing, I got my big break. To me, it’s a matter of being there at the right place and the right time.

WHAT DO CUSTOMERS NEED TO KNOW BEFORE GETTING BEHIND THE WHEEL OF A 1500-HP BUGATTI CHIRON? Quite often, we would get customers who are major car enthusiasts, which means they have been around their fair share of cars. In their mind, when they think about the Chiron, a 1600hp car, they sometimes assume it would be lumpy or uncomfortable like a racing car. But then they go in and discover that this is not the cast at all. It’s important to keep in mind that even though the Chiron is the fastest car in the world, it’s also a top luxury car. It’s comfortable, quiet, and easy to drive.

with people from all walks of life, whether they are media personalities or avid car aficionados. More importantly, I enjoy it because I truly believe in the Bugatti name. I have traveled more than 200,000km in the Chiron alone, and yet every time I get in, shut the door, and start the engine, it’s just as special as the first time. It truly is the most amazing car I’ve ever driven.

MOTORSPORTS CAN BE FULL OF LIFEOR-DEATH SITUATIONS. WAS THERE A TIME WHEN YOU HAD SECOND THOUGHTS ABOUT YOUR CAREER CHOICES? You simply can’t afford to have second thoughts if you want a career in motorsports. If you go in with anything less than 100%, you are liable to fail. Unfortunately, during my time as a race car driver, I had many friends who lost their lives because the cars were less safe than they are now. The tracks have also become safer, which is a good thing.

OF ALL YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS, WHICH ONE WOULD YOU SAY YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF?

CAN YOU DESCRIBE WHAT IT’S LIKE BEING A TEST DRIVER FOR BUGATTI? HOW ARE THE DAYS?

When it comes to races, you can a lot of them, but nothing quite measures up to winning the biggest ones. It builds your reputation within the sport and makes people remember you fondly. I would say winning the Le Mans 24 hours race in 1988 is my greatest achievement. That was over 30 years ago but I’ll forever be proud of it.

Every day is unique. This is something I truly appreciate about this job. I get to do test drives

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December 2021

07 08 04 Bugatti test driver and Le Mans winning ex-race car driver, Andy Wallace

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INSPIRED by Faith

The Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris presents ‘Cartier and Islamic Art: In Search of Modernity’, co-organized by the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Paris, and the Dallas Museum of Art, with the exceptional collaboration of the Musée du Louvre and the support of Cartier. Held from October 21st, 2021 to February 20th, 2022, the exhibition shows the influence of Islamic Art on the high jewellery Maison Cartier in its design of jewellery and precious objects from the beginning of the 20th century to the present day. More than 500 pieces including jewellery and objects from the Cartier Collection, private and public loans, masterpieces of Islamic art, drawings, books, photographs, and archival documents, trace the origins of the jeweler’s interest in Oriental motifs. The exhibition explores the origins of this influence through the Parisian cultural context and the figure of Louis and Jacques Cartier, two of the founder’s grandsons, who played a major role in creating a new aesthetic suffused with modernity. The American architectural firm DS+R (Diller Scofidio + Renfro) was commissioned to design the exhibition’s scenography. Founded in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier, the House of Cartier initially specialized in selling jewellery and works of art. His son, Alfred, took over the management of the business in 1874, and his eldest son, Louis, later joined him in 1898. By that time, Cartier was designing its own jewellery, while continuing to resell antique pieces. At the beginning of the 20th century, Louis Cartier sought new inspiration. At the time Paris was the epicenter

of the Islamic art trade and it was undoubtedly through major exhibitions organized at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris in 1903 and then in Munich in 1910, that Louis enthusiastically discovered these new shapes which were gradually spreading throughout French society. The exhibition is organized as a themed chronological tour divided into two parts, the first of which explores the origins of this interest in Islamic art and architecture through the cultural backdrop of Paris at the beginning of the 20th century and reviews the creative context among designers and studios as they searched for sources of inspiration. The second part illustrates the lexicon of forms inspired by Islamic art, from the start of the 20th century to the present day. The exhibition is organized as a themed chronological tour divided into two parts, the first of which explores the origins of this interest in Islamic art and architecture through the cultural backdrop of Paris at the beginning of the 20th century and reviews the creative context among designers and studios as they searched for sources of inspiration. The second part illustrates the lexicon of forms inspired by Islamic art, from the start of the 20th century to the present day. cartier.com

December 2021

01 Cartier Paris, special order, 1938, gold, platinum, turquoise, colored stones, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, diamonds, natural pearls, enamel 02 Bazuband upper arm bracelet, Cartier Paris for Cartier London, special order, 1922, platinum, diamonds. Sold to Sir Dhunjibhoy Bomandji

03 Cigarette Case, Cartier Paris, 1930. Gold, lapis lazuli, turquoise, diamond. Nils Hermann, Cartier Collection 04 Necklace, Cartier London, special order, 1932. Platinum, diamonds, emerald. Vincent Wulveryck, Cartier Collection

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05 Cartier Bracelet, Private Collection 06 Strap bracelet, Cartier Paris, special order, 1928, platinum, diamonds, sapphires 07 Tiara, Cartier Paris, special order, 1914, platinum, blackened steel, diamonds, rubies

December 2021

08 Tiara, Cartier London, 1937, platinum, round old-cut diamonds, oval and fancy-cut aquamarines 09 ‘Cartier and Islamic Art: In Search of Modernity’, Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris

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Elegance and Sophistication For more than 50 years, Judith Leiber’s evening bags and crystal minaudières have been recognized worldwide for their meticulous attention to detail and flawless handcraftsmanship. Minaudières from the collection are part of permanent design archives at global museums, and nearly every First Lady dating back to 1953 has carried Judith Leiber bags to Presidential Inauguration ceremonies. Judith Leiber born Judit Petö, was a HungarianAmerican fashion designer and businesswoman. Known for her phenomenal artistry, Judith Leiber’s iconic and legendary accessories have been celebrated worldwide for more than 50 years. Leiber studied cosmetic chemistry at King’s College, London after which she worked as a trainee at a handbag company learning the craft of making patterns, cutting and molding leather along with the art of stitching and framing bags. Leiber was the first woman that graduated from a trainee to a master craftswoman and went on to become the first woman ever to be admitted into the Hungarian Handbag Guild in Budapest. After leading a rather difficult life through the period of the Second World War, Leiber married a sergeant in the US Army and soon moved to New York, where she finally laid the foundation for her business. Judith Leiber Couture is a pioneer in the world of luxury bags. Labelled as ‘The Bag Lady of Park Avenue’, the Leiber legacy is now being carried forward by creative director, Jana Matheson. Using whimsical and unconventional silhouettes, the eye-catching minaudieres feature the same crystal finish that is signature to the brand. Leiber’s one-of-a-kind designs mostly gravitated towards a recurring theme of animals and food items such

as dogs, pigs, peacock, fish, popcorn, watermelon, cupcakes, etc. to name a few, with some of her most expensive purses of the collection exceeding price tags of $7,000. Judith Leiber became one of the most accredited and sought-after designers for her unique handbags. Her designs are sold at exclusive boutiques all around the world and hold the value of several thousands of dollars. People also view her bags as a status symbol, and several influential individuals, including former First Ladies Hillary Clinton, Barbara Bush and Mamie Eisenhower, along with celebrity fashionistas like Katy Perry, Olivia Wilde can be seen flaunting pieces. Additionally, several wealthier women, namely Bernice Norman an arts patron, owned close to 300 Leiber bags and valued them as invaluable collectibles. With over 5000 unique designs, the designer has set the benchmark for impeccably crafted evening bags. Each individual piece takes up to 2 years from ideation to creation, using the finest materials and employing the most experienced technicians and skilled artisans. The designs feature nothing short of the best quality Australian leather, Austrian crystal, raw brass, sterling silver and 24 carat gold. judithleiber.com

“Judith Leiber’s iconic and legendary accessories have been celebrated worldwide for more than 50 years”

01 Butterfly Monarch 02 Carousel Jane’s 03 Cake Gala 04 Castle Once Upon 05 Hamburger

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December 2021

Watchmaking

Excellence Exploring the rich history of Vacheron Constantin and its timeless connection to women with Brand Director, Christophe Ramel.

CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR PARTICIPATION IN THE 29TH EDITION OF JEWELLERY ARABIA? We are incredibly pleased to be participating at the exhibition this year, as we believe the best way to experience the world of Vacheron Constantin and our timepieces is to see them in person. We also have our watchmaker in the booth, interacting with watch enthusiasts and helping them discover the craftsmanship behind our timepieces. We are eager to further connect with our Bahraini collectors and invite them to visit our boutique in Moda Mall after the exhibition is over.

THE CENTERPIECES OF YOUR BOOTH THIS YEAR EMPLOY FEMININE DESIGNS. CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT THE HISTORY OF THE MAISON AND WOMEN? Over the years, Vacheron Constantin has always devoted great importance to meeting women’s expectations by remaining fully attuned to aesthetic sensibilities and trends. Custom-made at the turn of the 18th century and throughout the 19th century, they were issued in small limited editions during the 20th century. Whether sporty, elegant or jewellery models, the ladies’ watches created ever since by the Maison illustrate its desire to continue accompanying women through a

blend of style and precision. Exactly like the Égérie collection launched in 2020, which epitomizes the new face of watchmaking femininity according to Vacheron Constantin.

WHO DO YOU SEE AS THE VACHERON CONSTANTIN WOMAN? The Vacheron Constantin woman is inspiring, charismatic, and independent. She embodies our Maison’s motto: “Do better if possible, and that is always possible.” We have had highly esteemed women in our history, including Queen Elizabeth, Lady Diana, the Princess of Wales, and Princess Grace of Monaco, whose values go hand in hand with our Maison.

YOU RECENTLY RELEASED THE VACHERON TRADITIONNELLE COMPLETE CALENDAR IN WHITE GOLD. CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT ITS FEATURES? This is one of my favorite pieces of this year’s collection. It illustrates the spirit of traditional 18th century fine watchmaking and features a complete calendar, which means you have the day, date, month, and the precision moon phase all on one display. Time is indicated by bi-facetted Dauphine-style hands and baton-type hour markers, with a railway minute track making it a very original yet easily readable watch.

CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE ÉGÉRIE COLLECTION?

THIS YEAR, THE MAISON REVEALED ITS WATCHES & WONDERS THEME TO BE “CLASSIC WITH A TWIST”, WHY WAS THIS THEME CHOSEN?

The Égérie collection is dedicated to feminine elegance. It is considered an essential milestone in Vacheron Constantin’s history because we adopted a very creative path in its design. Imagined for women, the collection is born from the meeting of two worlds, Haute Horlogerie and Haute Couture. A pleated motif reminiscent of Haute Couture craft, 18K gold figures scalloped like fine lace, diamonds recalling precious embroidery and an off-centre aesthetic inspired by the heritage of Vacheron Constantin.

vacheron-constantin.com

Classic with a twist has always been a theme that resonates with the Maison. Vacheron Constantin is recognized for its creative pieces, but you will invariably find one familiar element within that creativity. For example, our new Historiques American 1921 watch is traditional in essence because of its likeliness to the original model that was launched in 1921. We strive for the balance between what is timelessness and conventional, yet creative and innovative.

01 Christophe Ramel, Regional Director of Vacheron Constantin 02 Égérie self-winding diamondpavé

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03 Vacheron Constantin Booth, Jewellery Arabia 04 Traditionnelle complete calendar 05 Historiques American 1921 – white gold 36.5 mm Historiques American 1921 – white gold 40 mm

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“The collection is born from the meeting

of two worlds, haute horlogerie and haute couture.”

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01, 02 The Happy Sport 33m watch from Chopard

December 2021

The Golden Ratio

For the first time, the Happy Sport watch is appearing in an optimally comfortable 33 mmdiameter case inspired by the ‘golden ratio’ principles of aesthetic harmony.

Seven new references are joining the collection in a rich variety of models: four two-tone featuring a Lucent Steel A223 case embellished with ethical 18-carat rose gold, and three entirely crafted from ethical 18-carat rose gold, available on a leather strap or metal bracelet. An eighth version in ethical 18-carat white gold is entirely set with diamonds. All of them beat to the rhythm of the Chopard Manufacture 09.01-C movement with automatic winding and each dial is graced with the legendary dancing diamonds. Feminine and playful, technical and precious, timeless and modern: through the diversity of its qualities, the icon of the Maison Chopard is a quintessential watchmaking success story. Pursuing its commitment to a constant quest for harmony, Chopard is endowing its icon with unique stature through a daintier size. By using the golden ratio in direct relation to the diameter of the Chopard 09.01-C movement with automatic winding powering its ladies’ watch collections, the case of the Happy Sport has been redesigned in a 33 mm diameter that is particularly well suited to the female wrist.

A sense of proportion is of paramount importance to the Maison. Designed to accompany women in all their day-to-day activities, the Happy Sport is a watch that must above all feel as pleasant to wear as a second skin, in every situation. This quest for the ideal has now been achieved by using the golden ratio. Since antiquity, this mathematical balance has been found in science as well as in art and architecture, reproducing the harmony prevailing in Nature. Chopard’s Artisans are thus introducing a series of models adorned with a silver-toned dial graced with a central guilloché motif and five dancing diamonds. With a case in Lucent Steel A223, ethical 18-carat rose gold or a two-tone version, teamed with a leather strap or metal bracelet and adorned with a diamondset or polished bezel, they are available in a variety of colors to suit every taste. Stemming from four years of research and development, Lucent Steel A223 is an anti-allergenic alloy that is brighter and sturdier than ordinary steel. Finally, it testifies to Chopard’s commitment to

sustainable luxury: Lucent Steel A223 is 70% made from recycled materials, in a state-of-theart workshop located in Austria, thereby limiting the carbon footprint relating to shipping materials to Chopard’s Swiss workshops. To round out the collection, a jewellery version is also available in ethical 18-carat white gold, entirely set with diamonds and featuring a mother-of-pearl dial. With their five freedom-loving dancing diamonds set between the two sapphire crystals topping the dial, Happy Sport models epitomize the noble legacy of casual chic style. Invented by Chopard in 1976, the dancing diamonds adorning the Happy Sport watch collection have revolutionized women’s relationship with time: they no longer simply read the time, but instead contemplate the ever-changing choreography of the diamonds whirling around the watch. This is a technical feat that only a few choreography Artisans can achieve, ensuring that each diamond in its spinning- top capsule is arranged in such a way that its dance is never hindered. chopard.com

WATCHES

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03, 05, 06 The watch is available in leather strap or metal bracelet 04 The watch features 09.01-C caliber movement 07 Actress Durra Zarrouk wearing Chopard

04 03 07

December 2021

BOUNDLESS BY DESIGN. GENESIS GV80

First Motors W.L.L. www.genesisbahrain.com/preowned-cars T: 17 121 121

WATCHES

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December 2021

A fine TRIBUTE Hublot and cigar brand Arturo Fuente y Compañia have once again joined forces to present the Big Bang Unico Arturo Fuente Ceramic watch, in tribute to Carlos A. Fuente Sr., a giant in the cigar industry, a trendsetter, and father and patriarch of the Fuente family.

El Maestro! Carlos A. Fuente Sr. was born in 1935 in Ybor City, a Cuban émigré neighborhood in Tampa, Florida. While still in primary school, Carlos Sr. began working in his father Arturo’s small cigar business. Even as very young children, part of the household duties was to first make 50 cigars a day before they could start their homework. Impassioned by his family and the craftsmanship of making cigars, Carlos Sr. worked alongside his father Arturo until his father’s retirement. Taking over the reins of the family business in 1956, Carlos Sr. was ambitious and sought to expand the business, first in other parts of Florida before setting his sights on New York City. Carlos Sr. successfully enabled the company to flourish in the 1960s. Unfortunately, the United States embargo against Cuba forced the Fuentes to move their cigar production to Nicaragua. The family suffered further misfortune when, in 1978, their factory was burned down by Sandinista revolutionaries. Once again, the Fuentes were forced into exile and moved their operations to Honduras. And the adage that ‘things always seem to go in threes’ came true when, in 1980, the new factory also

burned down. Despite this run of bad luck, Don Carlos did not give up the fight, and he opened a new factory in the Dominican Republic. Since then, Arturo Fuente cigars have become one of the most highly renowned and most sought-after brands in the world. The Big Bang Unico Arturo Fuente Ceramic watch pays tribute to the remarkable saga of Carlos A. Fuente Sr. His vast knowledge of his field, along with his dedication and his vision for his brand, made him a shining light to those who knew him and a reference for the cigar industry. With the help of Manny Iriarte, the Fuente family’s designer, the teams at Hublot have infused the iconic Big Bang with all the codes which are so dear to the Dominican cigar company. This starts with its 44mm diameter case, whose black engraved ceramic picks up the pattern of the tobacco leaf, dancing to the rhythm of the mountain breeze, which is one of the key elements for the Fuente family. The case houses the famous UNICO caliber HUB1242 manufacture movement, a flyback chronograph offering a 72-hour power reserve. The Roman numerals favored by the Fuente add a remarkable note of authenticity to the timepiece.

These numerals are taken from the clock which has historically appeared on the family crest. This is in reference to the Fuente motto: “We will never rush the hands of time.” Another emblem, that of a crowned lion, appears at 9 o’clock in recognition that the brand supplied cigars to the Spanish court and in honor of its great patriarch. The back of the watch is engraved with “Big Bang Limited Edition” along with the number of the piece in the limited edition run of 100 pieces. Fuente’s historic logo appears in the center, and its current initials “AF” (for Arturo Fuente) have here been replaced with “CF”, in reference to Carlos Fuente Sr., along with the words “Edición de homenaje” (which is Spanish for “edition in homage”). In quotation marks, the dedication by Carlito Fuente Jr. reads: “Our Father, Our Friend, Our Hero.” Available in a limited edition of 100 pieces, the Big Bang Unico Arturo Fuente Ceramic comes in a spectacular lacquered wooden gift box which serves as a presentation case for the watch as well as a cigar humidor. hublot.com

“We will never rush the hands of time.”

01, 02, 06 The Big Bang Unico Arturo Fuente Ceramic

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03 Groundbreaking of the Cigar Family Art Academy 04 Chateau de la Fuente 05 Arturo Fuente Chairman, Carlito Fuente (left) and Hublot CEO, Ricardo Guadalupe

WATCHES

Homage to a Nation Hublot and Ahmed Seddiqi & sons celebrate the UAE’s golden jubilee by launching the classic fusion chronograph concrete sand.

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“A testament to the country’s vast

deserts, the dial features actual sand from the UAE” As the UAE contemplates its significant journey over the past 50 years and begins preparing for the next 50, Swiss luxury watch Manufacture Hublot praises the country for its remarkable achievements and reaffirms their shared values: linking tradition and innovation, bringing the past to the future. To honor that, Hublot and its UAE partner Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons are proud to launch a new embodiment of the Art of Fusion: the Classic Fusion Chronograph Concrete Sand. Hublot, like the UAE, is constantly first and different in what it imagines and produces. Bringing historic materials sand and camel leather and an essential material of the city concrete to the watch is a way to highlight the county’s inspirational urban development and progressive vision, without ignoring its history and culture.

Designed and produced at the Hublot Manufacture in Switzerland, the Classic Fusion Chronograph Concrete Sand is housed in a 45mm case with a matching bezel, both cut out of fine concrete, with minute detailing evoking UAE cities’ edges and structure. As an industrious material, concrete is noteworthy for its strength and endurance. A testament to the country’s vast deserts, the dial features actual sand from the UAE, making each piece unique. The straps are made of highquality camel leather and complement the watch’s captivating color scheme. This homage to the history of the UAE and the innovative spirit of the luxury Swiss watchmaker is limited to 100 pieces. hublot.com

WATCHES

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December 2021

TAG Heuer Carrera Middle East Limited Edition TAG Heuer announces the launch of the new TAG Heuer Carrera Middle East Limited Edition, which is inspired by the green colors of the region.

The Swiss luxury watchmaker TAG Heuer is pleased to announce the launch of the new TAG Heuer Carrera Middle East Limited Edition timepiece. Inspired by the different tones of Middle Eastern green, the new TAG Heuer Carrera Middle East Limited Edition features a vibrant emerald-green dial, for a fresh and vivid interpretation of the signature design. This limited edition is only available in 150 pieces. It will be launched in stores from December. The TAG Heuer Carrera Middle East Limited Edition combines elegance and performance in a striking look, from the lines of the case to the finish on the green dial and the green oscillating mass, visible through the sapphire case back. The stunning 42 mm TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph is accented by unique Indian numerals and a date window at 6 o’clock. The emerald-green dial features Arabic numeral indexes and date display at 6 o’clock. It also boasts a green opaline permanent second indicator at 6 o’clock and two chronograph counters at 3 and 9 o’clock. Powered

by the Calibre Heuer 02 Automatic movement, which is visible through the sapphire caseback, this chronograph has a power reserve of 80 hours. This timeless piece maintains its chronograph functionality with two push buttons and is presented on an H-shaped stainless-steel bracelet. It also comes with a premium brown leather strap, making it both timeless and versatile. The TAG Heuer Carrera line has always featured the most advanced watchmaking technology developed by the brand. This limited-edition timepiece is powered by the Calibre Heuer 02 manufacture movement, a sophisticated, inhouse innovation which is entirely Swiss-made in TAG Heuer’s Chevenez manufacture workshop. It comprises 168 components, including a column wheel and a vertical clutch signatures of improved chronograph timekeeping and high-quality manufacture movements. This launch is an opportunity for TAG Heuer to show its commitment to watch lovers by developing

01 TAG Heuer Carrera Middle East Limited Edition - profile picture 02 TAG Heuer Carrera Middle East Limited Edition - lifestyle picture 03 Dial focus on Indian numerals 04 Backcase focus on the engraving 05 TAG Heuer Carrera Middle East Limited Edition - limited to 150 pieces only

a special Middle East Limited Edition that pays tribute to the Middle Eastern identity and highlights both the Arabic culture and the colors of the region. Moreover, it celebrates TAG Heuer’s long- standing, trusted partnerships with retailers in the region, who share the same passion for precision engineering and high performance. This limited-edition timepiece embodies various facets of TAG Heuer’s avant-garde spirit and strengthens its reputation as a prestigious, innovative watch manufacturer. tagheuer.com

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WATCHES

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TAG Heuer Only Watch 2021 The TAG Heuer Only Watch Carbon Monaco, especially created by the Swiss luxury watch manufacture achieves CHF290,000 at the Only Watch charity auction. TAG Heuer is proud to announce the exceptional result achieved by the Only Watch Carbon Monaco. The unique piece has been sold for the price of CHF290,000, almost six times its low estimate, at the Only Watch 2021 edition in Geneva, with all proceeds to benefit research into the Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The sum represents the highest sum ever paid publicly for a contemporary TAG Heuer timepiece. This spectacular timepiece embodies the spirit of the ultra-rare Monaco “Dark Lord” from the 1970s with a one-off, high-end, carbon-cased version of the inimitable square-cased chronograph. The TAG Heuer Only Watch Carbon Monaco, lot 48 of the sale, was one of the stars of the auction which took place on the 6th of November in Geneva during the biennial auction of one-off luxury timepieces by the finest watch manufacturers for the research into Duchenne muscular dystrophy. “We are delighted that our watch proved such a success during the Only Watch auction, but above all, we are very proud that proceeds will be used to help further research into Duchenne muscular dystrophy disease.” Said Frédéric Arnault, TAG Heuer

Chief Executive Officer. “We would also like to warmly thank all of the bidders who showed interest in the Only Watch Carbon Monaco and allowed it to achieve such an exceptional result for this important cause. We hope that the winner will enjoy wearing one of the most spectacular, imaginative wristwatches we have ever created, that truly embodies the spirit and values of TAG Heuer.” The TAG Heuer Only Watch Carbon Monaco has been produced in a unique example and features extensive use of carbon throughout, including, the case, dial, and hairspring. A true watchmaking tour de force, playing on more than half a century of TAG Heuer heritage around the Monaco, the watch also embraces the best of the company’s 21st century savoir-faire and innovation. From the extensive hand-finished movement to the open-worked dial, and the hand-painted oscillating mass, the Only Watch Carbon Monaco perfectly encapsulates the duality of TAG Heuer, with its respect for traditional watchmaking techniques, complemented by cutting edge materials and avantgarde design.

December 2021

The TAG Heuer Only Watch Carbon Monaco is powered by TAG Heuer’s in-house Heuer 02 automatic chronograph, a Swiss-made movement with an 80-hour power reserve. This is a unique expression of the Heuer 02, created exclusively for the occasion. Not only has the movement been beautifully decorated by hand, it also carries TAG Heuer’s groundbreaking in-house carbon hairspring, developed by the company’s celebrated TAG Heuer Institute. Appearing in the Heuer 02, and therefore a Monaco for the very first time, the carbon hairspring delivers exceptional levels of anti-magnetism, shock resistance, stability across temperature ranges and refined geometry for excellent chronometric performance movement, while ensuring the watch remained water-resistant. tagheuer.com

MASTERPIECE

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December 2021

The Wildlife Artist Bringing reality to the canvas in a conceptual and contemporary way, Spanish artist Fernando Garcia Herrera’s works are characterized by simplicity. His pen draws on textured backgrounds and atmospheres full of mystery, a flavorful fusion of old printmaking and contemporary art.

01 Bailamos and Artist Fernando Garcia Herrera

YOUR ART FOCUSES ON ANIMAL THEMES. WHAT MAKES YOU CHOOSE THAT DIRECTION? Nature, and the fauna that live in it, is a gift. We have this gift every day and yet we don’t always appreciate it. I want to leave a legacy of that fauna on my canvases. Perhaps, one day, it will serve as a memorial to what once existed.

WHY DO YOU PREFER TO USE OIL AND PEN AS THE MAIN MEDIUM FOR YOUR PAINTINGS? WHAT DOES IT BRING TO YOUR ART? Over the years, my passion for drawing and dry point engraving led me to learn how to transfer that engraving style to the canvas and play with backgrounds that would integrate and unite the two techniques. I use the ballpoint pen as if it were a burin in engraving. The lines mark a meticulous drawing, in harmony with the background. Oil is something circumstantial and it brings that touch of color to the work. The result makes my technique well-defined and quickly

recognizable. It provides a conceptual image of the merger of three completely different arts or techniques.

WHAT TECHNIQUE IS YOUR FAVORITE WHEN MAKING YOUR WORKS? BECAUSE? 80% of my work is done with my technique contemporary realism. That is, the fusion of a precise drawing on a background of textures and stains to make it absolutely contemporary. I often, but not always, finish it with soft touches of oil.

WHICH OF YOUR WORKS WOULD YOU SAY ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? There are always preferences for one or the other, but they all have something special. This is determined not only by the work itself, but also by the moment in which it was painted and what I’m going through in my life at that moment. Hence, every work for me has that special connection. In most cases, the viewer doesn’t know what that might be, yet I find rewarding on a personal level. All my works are important to me.

WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF AN ARTIST? The challenge, every day, is living in an increasingly fast and consumerist society with a quick pace of life. This makes it very stressful as you can’t simply relax. There are months when it becomes extremely stressful on many occasions for artists. It’s no longer just about painting, it’s really about running a company like any other. You must network on a daily basis. Marketing is essential for your work to reach anywhere in the world. I have to manage my social networks, sharing each process and elaborating on my daily work.

IS THERE A SPECIAL PROJECT THAT YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO DO? For many years now, I’ve had in mind the idea to make a work representing Noah’s Ark. It would be a work of at least 5x3 meters. Though, I don’t think it would be my last great work. I probably still have to give it more time in mind before it comes true. arteherrera.es

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02 The Black Gold process 03 A Spanish Horse 04 The Gyrfalcon

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05 Glacial Tiger 06 The Polo horse 07 Homo Homini Lupus

BOOK REVIEW

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A Literary GEM

December 2021

Full of rare historical information and beautifully illustrated with photos capturing a golden era for the Kingdom, ‘Pearls of Bahrain’ sheds light on the pearl industry as a resource of Bahrain’s economy.

“Bahraini pearls have long been famous, and were

mentioned in Assyrian texts dating back to 2000 B.C.” The book starts with a quick history of Bahrain, which for over 5000 years, has been a host to several prominent civilizations such as Delmon, Tylos, and Awal: “Bahraini pearls have long been famous, and were mentioned in Assyrian texts dating back to 2000 B.C., which refer to them with the Dilmunian phrase for ‘fish eyes’. Tylos, one of the names given to ancient Bahrain, was renowned for the copious amounts of pearls found in its seabeds. After founding its commercial fleet in the 1780s, Bahrain had a major influence on the pearl industry in the entire Gulf region. The pearl industry remained the primary provider of income and jobs for people in Bahrain, until the collapse of the industry which coincided with the escalating global economic crisis, and the increasing interest in Japanese cultured pearl farming.” The book goes on to elaborate on how the discovery of oil shifted the dynamics of Bahrain’s economy: “The discovery of oil in 1932 provided a new source of revenues, creating new job opportunities in the oil sector for those who sat idle following the collapse of the antiquated pearling industry. According to the Bahraini magazine ‘Watheeqa’, pearls were considered one of the most valuable exports of Bahrain, and constituted no less than 90% of total exports in the modern era before the discovery of oil. With the exception of Oman’s coastline, the pearl fisheries in Bahrain are often cited as the most important pearl fisheries in the Gulf region.” It also highlights just how renowned Bahrain’s pearls were: “In her book “Bahrain 1782 – 1973”, Dr. Amal Alzayani says that the reference to pearls in Arabs’ history dates back to the 19th century by the famous Arab explorer Sulaiman Alshahid when he spoke of Bahraini pearls in his recounts of the Arabian Peninsula. The diving method was recounted by another Arab called Abu Hassan in the 10th century. Interestingly, ‘pearl fishing’, as he described it, has not changed since then. Another notable Arab geographer who referred to the pearls of Bahrain was Alidrisi, and later Abul-Fida in the 14th century, and Ibn Battuta in his 1485 voyage.”

There are plenty of pages with black and white photographs depicting the divers, the ships, their journeys, and the lifestyle back then. Each section is interspersed with sea chants that the old Bahraini divers would sing while they were away on their ships. There are also plenty of color images showcasing the unrivaled beauty of Bahraini pearls on necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and other dazzling jewelry. The book also includes bios of Bahrain’s most prominent pearl merchants such as Al Mannai, Al Fardan, Al Zain and others, offering a recap of their history and how their

journeys and success aligned with that of the Kingdom’s pearl industry. The book ends with a detailed section on the story of pearl diving and several aspects of the divers’ lives, including explanations of the terms that were commonly used among them. Published by Miracle, ‘Pearls of Bahrain’ is a must-have for avid historians and everyone interested in learning more about one of Bahrain’s history of pearl diving. bahrainbooks.com

BOOK REVIEW

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December 2021

SPECIAL FEATURE

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Industry PIONEER

December 2021

The world’s first wearable eyewear was invented in the late 13th century. Since then, eyewear products have continued to revolutionize to this day. One such revolution is the impeccable craftsmanship of LINDBERG Precious, the world’s most luxurious and exclusive eyewear collection combining Jewellery and eyewear all in one. Exclusive frames made of 18 karat gold, platinum, buffalo horn and beautiful diamonds, The LINDBERG Precious collection features some of nature’s most luxurious natural materials. LINDBERG is known for its Danish design heritage in its titanium eyewear collections; however, the Precious collection is deeply rooted in their history. Solid gold originally formed the very first prototypes of LINDBERG’s iconic designs. LINDBERG Precious is one of the very few collections in the world today that offer solid gold frames that are distinctively crafted with supreme technicality and quality. LINDBERG precious stands as a testament to the brand through revolutionary artistry within handcrafted, refined, and technical design. The exclusive LINDBERG Precious frames are made from 18 karat gold. The gold is processed into thin wires and plates with a special hardening process developed in-house by LINDBERG. This process offers LINDBERG Precious frames the right degree of flexibility and elasticity without compromising their resilience or strength. LINDBERG’s in-house designers and goldsmiths apply innovative internal solutions to achieve the

perfect balance of comfort and luxury, allowing LINDBERG Precious designs to possess an elegant aesthetic and lightweight feel. Each Precious frame is designed and handcrafted by a specialized team of craft masters with great experience in both optometry, jewellery and gemology ensuring the highest degree of care to detail to ensure optimum quality and finish, achieving an authentic piece of Danish design. Individually numbered and emphasizing the rarity and exclusiveness of the individual 18 karat gold designs, the frames are produced in a strictly limited quantity for connoisseurs looking to indulge and impeccable eyewear and design. The LINDBERG Precious collection features a selection of pieces inlaid with individually set diamonds for those who prefer ornamental details of elegance. All diamonds are selected from the highest quality sourced and hand-picked by the LINDBERG design team. Beautiful in clarity and color, a range of diamonds are available from pink, blue, green, yellow, to black and uncut rough diamonds – all pure and unique in their own form. A special part of LINDBERG Precious design includes natural horn front crafted with temples in

18 karat gold. Suitable for individuals who prefer a more expressive style, the natural water buffalo horn material boasts unique variations in color and nuances. These beautiful designs are some of the most exclusive creations within the LINDBERG collection. LINDBERG is committed to only obtaining materials including gold, buffalo horn and diamonds that are ethically sourced. The LINDBERG design DNA is evident in the Precious collection through its subtle, exclusive designs and elegant details. The collection features the signature elements that define a LINDBERG frame; minimalistic and functional design with discrete details, tailor-made adjustment, patented screwless hinges, and quality materials. In line with the LINDBERG DNA, the precious frames are flexible and lightweight, making them well suited for natural precious materials. In addition, the gold maintains both color and shine through LINDBERG’s innovative solutions. These elements offer LINDBERG Precious an indescribable level of comfort, making this collection the lightest solid gold eyewear in the world. Furthermore, the pieces can be enhanced with sophisticated ornamentation, like high-quality diamonds and

01 LINDBERG-p-pt935burnedclean-2012-bossinadeopteik 02

02 LINDBERG-horn-handcrafted

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03 LINDBERG-Diamonds 04 LINDBERG-p-pf2397-b-sunriseextended 05 LINDBERG-p-pm2422

exquisite buffalo horn. LINDBERG Precious is luxury in material, comfort, and style. With this collection, LINDBERG designers and goldsmiths have transcended conventional eyewear design. The LINDBERG Precious collection is internationally recognized and has won numerous prestigious design awards, including the “Silmo d’Or” prize in the luxury frame category and the “Red Dot Award” given for excellence in design. In the Middle East, LINDBERG offers customized luxury eyewear with a truly personal touch. Located at LINDBERG by Al Jaber in the prestigious Fashion Avenue in Dubai Mall and across the region, LINDBERG eyewear showcases hallmarks of elegant, understated and contemporary Scandinavian design that has been revered and worn by some of the world’s most internationally recognized public figures and celebrated personalities. From distinguished heads of state such as Queen Elizabeth II to popular Hollywood icons including Brad Pitt, LINDBERG has been respected and admired for its commitment to an experimental and fashion-forward ethos, whilst continuously retaining its brand DNA and core principles for uncompromised excellence and awardwinning craftsmanship. lindberg.com

06 LINDBERG-p-pu019pinkdiamonds

SPECIAL FEATURE

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December 2021

THE SMART WAY TO RYDE Yousif Zaman, co-founder of Ryde, the first smart performance center in Bahrain, chats with Durrah about the growing popularity of indoor cycling and the benefits of training in a smart environment. 01 01 Ryde Co-founder, Yousif Zaman

WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO LAUNCH RYDE? Ryde is the first smart performance center in Bahrain and brings you the beauty of cycling, running, and training in a smart environment. My partner Abdulla Faqihi and I established Ryde because there aren’t many cycling tracks in Bahrain and accidents are common on public roads. We wanted to provide a safe space for people to socialize, exercise, and train for events. Many cyclists in Bahrain also have difficulty finding the time to engage in this hobby during the day and must resort to early mornings or after they finish work. Ryde is open from 10am to 9pm on weekdays and from 7am to 8pm on weekends, which means members can come and train at a time that suits them.

WHAT MAKES RYDE UNIQUE? We use Zwift, an online, interactive training and racing platform program that enables users to ride, train, and compete in a virtual world. It makes cycling indoors much more exciting and gives users the option to ‘visit’ popular locations around the world, including London, New York, and Tokyo. Pedaling on a trainer moves your avatar around a virtual course. The harder you pedal, the faster you go. This platform also features a range of gaming elements that encourage you to ride longer and harder, with the goal of increasing your fitness.

RYDE OFFICIALLY OPENED IN JULY 2021. HAS IT ATTRACTED ANY NOTABLE MEMBERS SO FAR AND WHO IS YOUR TARGET AUDIENCE? Ryde is an inclusive environment. We welcome people of all nationalities, ages, fitness levels, and abilities. We have classes for young athletes, summer camps for kids, and slots specifically for beginners. So far, we have approximately 80 members, including Bahraini cyclist Ahmed Madan, who currently rides for UCI WorldTeam Team Bahrain Victorious. He is the first cyclist from Bahrain to ride at World Tour level.

BESIDES TRAINING, DOES RYDE ORGANIZE ANY OUTDOOR EVENTS OR RACES? Bahrain Cycling Association has a league with around 17 races every season. We have our own 12-member team and regularly compete. Every Friday, we organize a ride from our premises in Hamala to Zallaq and back, which is around 40km. This is a fun social activity and gives members the chance to better develop their riding technique. In April we organized the first indoor cycling race in the GCC, in collaboration with the Bahrain Cycling Association. More than 30 people took part in the month-long event and there were three winners.

WHAT MAKES CYCLING SUCH A GREAT FORM OF EXERCISE? The best thing about cycling is that it’s gentle on the joints, causing less strain than other forms of exercise. Cycling increases stamina, strength, and cardio fitness, working key muscle groups as you pedal. You can also go at a pace you’re comfortable with and gradually increase the intensity. Cycling is one of the most popular sports in the world and demand for racing bikes in Bahrain is soaring. In fact, demand is so high that many people face waiting for up to six months for their bikes to be delivered!

WHY DO YOU THINK CYCLING IS SO POPULAR IN BAHRAIN? Gyms across the Kingdom closed as a precaution during the pandemic, leaving many people without access to fitness equipment. At this time, people began spending more time exercising outdoors and took up cycling as a way of maintaining their fitness levels. Even after gyms opened again, people who bought bikes continued to enjoy the new hobby. The growing popularity of iron man races and triathlons is another important factor. Bahrain has one of the best iron man events in the region and cycling is a key part of it. ryde.center

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02, 03, 04, 05, 06 Ryde, the first smart performance center in Bahrain

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E AT. S L E E P. B E A C H . R E P E AT

NOW OPEN @VIDABAHRAIN

FRAGRANCES - MEN

FRESH and Bold An eclectic mix of stimulating fragrances and intoxicating aromas guaranteed to make a statement. For men.

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December 2020

Givenchy DÉSINVOLTE This Eau de Parfum is a generous bouquet composed of a sublime trio of white flower Absolutes. In pride of place, majestic Indian Tuberose releases its characterful fragrance, balanced by radiant notes of Jasmine Grandiflorum and Orange Blossom. Delicately hand-picked, the white corollas are harvested at first light to preserve every fresh drop of their scent. Exceptional floral sensuality contrasted with the woody elegance of Haitian Vetiver. givenchybeauty.com

Bvlgari Man Terrae Essence Eau De Parfum Bvlgari Man Terrae Essence enriches the Bvlgari Man collection, dedicated to the power of the natural elements. After fire, wood and air, Bvlgari Man explores the Earth. Bvlgari Man Terrae Essence pays tribute to the power of the Earth, its authentic richness and diverse fertility. An abundance impeccably translated through a contemporary and original vetiver interpretation, combined with an exclusive masculine smoky Terrae accord. bulgari.com

Dolce&Gabbana The One For Men Gold The One For Men Gold celebrates a man who has a natural but unmistakable magnetism. A true gentleman, he exudes confidence with his innate elegance and unique style. The One For Men Gold is the olfactory embodiment of this masculine charisma – a sophisticated Eau de Parfum Intense that is as powerfully alluring as the man who wears it. Crafted by a trio of celebrated perfumers – Rodrigo Flores-Roux, Michel Girard and Olivier Pescheux – the scent is a sublime fusion of juicy citrus, spicy ginger and rich patchouli. dolcegabbanabeauty.com

Gucci The Voice of the Snake Gucci’s first Haute Perfumery line, The Alchemist’s Garden unfolds within an imagined laboratory filled with curious jars and mesmerizing scents. Blended by master perfumer Alberto Morillas under Alessandro Michele’s creative direction, the customizable collection made up of eaux de parfum, perfumed oils and acque profumate (“scented waters”) is inspired by the art of alchemy and fragrance-making, formulated to be layered and blended together to create a unique, personalized fragrance combination. gucci.com

Maison Margiela Replica Jazz Club Eau De Toilette Replica Jazz Club evokes the exhilarating atmosphere of a private club where the jazz music and scent of cocktails permeate late into the night. On entering the basement bar, the spicy and woody smell entices you the animating and intimate ambiance. The Jazz Club fragrance by Maison Margiela captures the elegant bouquet of premium cigars in a mix of tobacco leaf absolute and pink pepper. The heady eau de toilette recreates the exquisite and rich aromas of cocktails with notes of Vanilla Beans and Rum absolute. maisonmargiela-fragrances.eu

Viktor Rolf Spicebomb Eau De Toilette Spicebomb is an explosion of Spices, a sensory detonation of masculinity. A blaze of fiery spicy notes; Dutch cinnamon, saffron, pimento berries and pink pepper all of which create a captivating experience. The bottle is a powerful grenade. A weapon of mass seduction. Spicebomb is an instant olfactory detonation. An overturning convention which reveals a fragrance that makes no concessions. An explosive concentrate of masculine sensuality. viktor-rolf.com

FRAGRANCES - WOMEN

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Alluring Fragrances

December 2021

An eclectic mix of stimulating fragrances and intoxicating aromas guaranteed to make a statement. For women.

Giorgio Armani My Way Intense The essence of MY WAY INTENSE is its new, intense tuberose heart absolute from India, which boasts a floral, rich, and opulent quality. This note enhances and amplifies the modern, natural, and solar effect of the original tuberose absolute captured in the MY WAY Eau de Parfum. Taking the bright, white floral bouquet of Indian tuberose and jasmine that is MY WAY’s beating heart, MY WAY INTENSE’s heightened florality makes this captivating heartbeat even faster. armani.com

Dolce&Gabbana The One Gold The One Gold celebrates a woman who radiates elegance in all that she does. Independent and charming, her luminosity is generous, spreading light over others and never overshadowing them. She is uniquely herself, and her joy and charisma shine from within. The One Gold is an Eau de Parfum Intense that represents this powerful modern femininity in olfactory form. Crafted by master perfumer Violaine Collas, the fruity floral scent combines the sweet succulence of juicy gold plum and the fresh blooms of rose superessence with mysterious patchouli and seductive white musks. dolcegabbanabeauty.com

Dior J’adore Eau De Parfum An iconic fragrance, J’adore Eau de Parfum is the grand feminine floral by the House of Dior. Finely crafted down to the last detail, like a custom-made flower, J’adore is a bouquet of the most beautiful flowers from around the world. Essence of YlangYlang with its floral and fruity notes and essence of Damascus Rose from Turkey blend with a rare duo of Jasmine Grandiflorum from Grasse and Indian Jasmine Sambac, with fruity and voluptuous sensuality. dior.com

Penhaligon’s Constantinople The steady tides of the Bosphorus, like the constant ebb and flow of time, anchor the Queen of cities at a unique crossroads between Europe and Asia, between the Black and the Aegean blue seas. Two worlds, touched. A distinguished melting pot, cradling high-culture, chaos and contradictions. Constantinople is a city that has never stood still. The center of expansive Empires and defensive walls, tales of treachery and devotion. penhaligons.com

Christian Louboutin Loubiworld EDP Intense 2021 And the journey continues! Take a seat and enjoy the ride into Christian Louboutin’s creative spirit, a universe of fantastic perfumes inspired by his dreams and faraway travels. The experience began in 2020 with a collection of seven unisex fragrances. Led by the shining desert sun, the odyssey carries on today with three new eaux de parfum intenses, full of fascinating symbols. This time, the glass bottle is lacquered with a deep burgundy, illuminated by the orange-gold rays of three sophisticated caps. christianlouboutin.com

Guerlain Shalimar Millésime Vanilla Planifolia The Guerlain Perfumers have always shared a singular love for vanilla. The captivating aroma of its pods, both tender and sensual, enveloping and seductive, is essential to the House’s fragrance signature, the famous “Guerlinade” that distinguishes its creations. The cornerstone of Shalimar’s revolutionary fragrance trail, vanilla has now inspired an extraordinary Vintage edition. Guerlain’s loving tribute to an icon in its palette, in unexpected forms: natural vanilla extract, ethyl vanillin, and the House’s Madagascan vanilla tincture. guerlain.com

Guerlain Mitsouko Absolu 17 By Jeanne Briand Unexpected. Innovative. Futuristic. It is the kind of match that only the House of Guerlain could orchestrate. A myth of modern perfumery, Mitsouko, reinvented for the 21st century by a young French avant-garde artist. For Guerlain, the love of perfume and the love of art have always gone hand in hand. And ever since it was founded in 1828, the House has constantly sought out new talents to bring forth original creations. In 2021, it is to the avant-garde artist Jeanne Briand that Guerlain has given carte blanche. A rising star of the emerging art scene in France, she has offered the House a bold, radical piece, as groundbreaking as so many of Guerlain’s olfactory creations. geurlain.com

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BEAUTY TRENDS The latest cosmetics from the most luxurious brands for that perfect look.

Minus 417 Aromatic Refreshing Body Lotion This amazing vegan lotion nourishes your skin into a perfectly moisturized sensation of soft, silky and smooth. Best body lotion for dry skin. Use this fully vegan lotion to nourish your skin into a perfectly moisturized sensation of soft, silky and smooth. Best body lotion for winter time. Rehydrate your skin anytime throughout the day by replenishing the lost moisture that the sun, wind and elements removed. Experience the sensation of feeling comfortable in your own skin as you feel reinvigorated. minus417.com

Chanel Holiday 2021 Collection

Augustinus Bader The Bader Ritual

CHANEL’s Makeup Creation Studio was inspired by the style codes of N°5 for its HOLIDAY 2021 collection, which celebrates the golden amber color of the fragrance and combines it with shades of black, white, and red, the color of life. Now, wearing N°5 not only means enjoying the sensuous experience of applying fragrance, but also wearing warm, luminous makeup, complete with an intense red lip. Emblematic of this approach is the Les 4 Ombres eye palette, which has been reinvented as a N°5-themed, limited-edition release, with shades inspired by the colors of the perfume bottle.

Cleanse, revitalize, nourish and renew in just three steps - for the ultimate science-backed glow. Explore The Cream Cleansing Gel, our lightweight, refreshing gel-cleanser for a gentle yet thorough skin reset, The Essence, our 3-1 multi-tasking formula to exfoliate, tone, and hydrate, and The Face Oil, our restorative instant-nourisher - for a supple complexion and long-lasting radiance. Housed in a signature gift box. Free of gluten, GMOs, parabens, fragrance, SLS, SLES, DEA, heavy metals, talc and petrolatum/paraffin/mineral oil.

chanel.com

augustinusbader.com

Dolce&Gabbana Healthy Glow Cushion Foundation and Translucent Loose Setting Powder Dolce&Gabbana Beauty enriches the Solar Glow franchise with two novelties that bring the signature look of radiant Mediterranean glow with new lightweight, complexionenhancing textures. The Healthy Glow Cushion Foundation is a unifying weightless foundation, setting a new standard of caring hydration and protection, with SPF50 PA+++. The Translucent Loose Setting Powder is the ultimate ultra-thin veil for skin, perfecting and setting make-up all day long with a matte finish. dolcegabbana.com

Flormar Color Master Lipstick Flormar’s Color Master Lipstick is the latest addition to their trendy world of colors and textures which complement and represent all types of beauty and styles. Versatile and affordable, the Color Master comes in 16 different colors, and tones perfect for every beautiful face out there. The lipsticks are formulated with Vitamin E and Shea Butter to moisturize and soften the lips, giving them a smooth appearance and high coverage. Creating the statement bold lip with the Flormar Color Master lipstick’s creamy texture and matte finish is an absolute dream, and their rich pigments reveal glamorous beauty in a single application. flormar.com

Dior Diorific Vernis - The Atelier of Dreams Limited Edition For the holidays, wear the signature manicure of a sophisticated and festive look with two new* shades of Diorific Vernis nail lacquer in a limited edition. Poppy, a dense and seductive red lacquer, and Corolle, a contemporary red-black lacquer, echo the shades of Diorific lipstick. With the elegant curves of its iconic bottle topped with a golden cap, the Diorific Vernis nail lacquer is steeped in the Dior tradition of refinement and elegance. In a limited edition this year, Diorific Vernis is worn on its own or heightened with a coat of the Bouton d’Or shade of Diorific Vernis top coat. dior.com

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Filorga Time-Filler Intensive The Time-Filler Intensive is a one-of-a-kind serum that contains a set of active ingredients to smoothen most types of wrinkles. Inspired by five recognized aesthetic medicine techniques such as Botox, filler injections, peels, revitalizing injections, and lifting threads, the Time-Filler Intensive simultaneously acts on four types of physiological wrinkles including expression wrinkles, deep wrinkles, surface wrinkles and dryness wrinkles. The results include relaxed features, filled-in wrinkles, smoother and plumper skin in seven days. filorga.com

Givenchy Prisme Libre Loose Powder Travel Size A mat-finish and enhanced radiance loose powder, Prisme Libre’s primary color quartet - Mousseline Pastel - has been pre-blended to create a light-infused one suits all shade. A dusting of the ultra-fine loose powder gives a luminous matte finish. Texture is refined, imperfections are diminished and your skin is bright and soft. Prisme Libre’s long-hold radiant perfection in a practical and ‘petit’ couture jar. givenchybeauty.com

Givenchy Le Soin Noir Exceptional Beauty-Renewal skincare. A gem formulated from one of the sea’s most precious biological treasures, an amazing fusion of two exceptional algae that have survived since time immemorial. Selected for their resistance and their life force, the quintessence of their blended black sap and gold sap are now isolated in a marvelously age-defying complex: the Supreme Alliance of Life Algae. givenchybeauty.com

December 2021

Herbal Essentials Refreshing Toner with Cucumber Extract & Rose Water Instantly hydrate your skin after cleansing with this refreshing and hydrating toner containing Cucumber Extract & Rose Water. This toner has brilliant natural emollient properties which help to moisturize dry skin and provide long-lasting hydration. Suitable for all skin types. herbal-essentials.com

Guerlain Orchidée Impériale Foundation Concentrate In 2006, Guerlain launched the Orchidée Impériale Cream, the first product of its exceptional, complete skincare range. Since then, Guerlain Research has continuously explored the countless facets of the iconic flower contained within. In 2021, Guerlain presents the Orchidée Impériale Foundation Concentrate. Luxuriously creamy and velvety, this concentration of innovation simultaneously combines age-defying power, exceptional light, intense hydration and flawless 10-hour wear. guerlain.com

Dolce&Gabbana Holiday Collection Dolce&Gabbana beauty introduces a new limited edition make up collection, inspired by the glittering splendor of the holiday season. Two new makeup treasures for eyes and lips bring rich, dazzling color and jewel-like shine to create royal holiday looks in packaging adorned with the iconic Dolce&Gabbana crown. dolcegabbana.com

Lancome Hypnôse L’Absolu de Noir For 17 years, Hypnôse mascara has been dressing millions of lashes all around the world. Long, short, thin or straight: having been tested on more than 1,500 women of different lash types and different ages, it is proven to deliver madeto-measure volume and a multitude of powerful looks, as unique as women themselves. Iconic, unforgettable, our original, Hypnôse reveals the multiple facets of every woman, giving her the confidence she needs. This year, the icon returns with a new formula, a new pack and a new, next-level lash intensity. Hypnôse L’Absolu de Noir is extra black for bolder than ever lashes unafraid to push the limits. More intense than ever, Hypnôse L’Absolu de Noir strengthens the look. lancome-me.com

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December 2021

Intercultural SHOWCASE The French Embassy in Bahrain, in partnership with the Royal University for Women (RUW) organized the closing ceremony of the 1st edition of the Paris to Manama Fashion Week on Saturday 30th October, concluding a week rich in events.

01 Paris to Manama Fashion Week

Open to the public, this 1st edition allowed young Bahraini female designers and creators with a passion for fashion to be showcased. Various events took place throughout the week, including exhibitions, conferences, competitions, and film screening. Inspirational Bahraini designers including Nada Al Alawi (Annada), Noof Shekar (NS by Noof) Aisha Abdel Malek (Aisha Jewels), Azhar Hubail (AH Makeup) and Shereen Fekri (The Undressed Co) were joined directly from Paris by experts and consultants in the fashion industry including Valériane Van Der Noorda, expert in Sustainability in the world of luxury and fashion and Ines Jourde, casting manager and Fashion Consultant. This provided students and participants with a rich insight into many aspects of the global fashion world. The event resulted in a truly intercultural exchange, where France and Bahrain were able to openly contribute to the expression of their experiences and heritage. The intersection of the French and Arb cultures was the focus of a lecture by the French researcher Khémaïs Ben Lakdar on “the influence of the Arab world in Parisian haute couture”. This fashion week was also made possible thanks to the participation of many sponsors who contributed in multiple ways (Annada, NS by Noof,

Aisha Jewels, Saks Fifth Avenue, Dessange, Adara, Jashanmal, Al Hawaj, L’Occitane en Provence, Sofitel, Danat, AH makeup artist, Durrah, The Undressed Company, FCCIB, Floward, Swissbelhotel, Institut Français). The closing ceremony was marked by an impressive fashion show that showcased three collections designed by RUW Fashion Design students and alumna in front of hundreds of people gathered for the occasion, dozens of models, both amateur and professional, came to RUW to parade. The collection highlighted the garments and accessories of Bahraini traditional roots with global fashion aesthetics. The collections and preparations were under the supervision of a group of instructors and professors from the Fashion Design department at RUW. The French Ambassador to Bahrain H.E Jérôme Cauchard hailed the success of this 1st edition. For the Ambassador, this week allowed us to “honor the strong links between France and the Arab world by looking back at the history and heritage of France and Bahrain in contemporary fashion” before saluting the efforts made by all the actors involved and underlining “the first largescale cooperation between France and the Royal University for Women”. Professor Yusra Mouzughi, President of Royal

University for Women, was also delighted with the success of this first edition, she said “this event is a documentation of Bahraini artistic artwork with its global mark through partnerships and art concepts, we made sure to visualize that through the Fashion Week series of events under the title “Paris to Manama” that was launched at the Pearling Path Visitor Center in the ancient city of Muharraq. We conducted the launching event there to highlight the ancient history of Bahraini pearls and its symbolism as well as Bahrain’s position as a global trade center.” Professor Mouzughi added that Royal University for Women seeks, as a higher education institution dedicated to women advancement through higher education, to document this artistic movement through artistic events and continues working on shaping the artistic future that women can lead, through many degrees offered by the university, including the fashion design degree, which RUW is unique in offering to students in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Thus, the 1st edition of the fashion week exceeded expectations and there is no doubt that a second edition will follow. All eyes are now turned to the future edition of Paris to Manama Fashion Week. ruw.edu.bh

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02, 03, 04, 05, 06 Participants and attendees at the fashion show

04 05

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BENTLEY BAHRAIN

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Cultural APPAREL Louis Vuitton Men’s Collection by Virgil Abloh Spring-Summer 2022 zooms in and out on archetypes and subcultures.

The Amen Break is characteristic of a discourse central to the work of Virgil Abloh. The Men’s Artistic Director known to us all, highlights at once cultural context and collective re-contextualization. A chapter in the Black Canon’s preservation and teaching of Black art history on par with that of Europe, the Amen Break exemplifies the arts’ instinct to sample and resample a core design. Applied to fashion, where the staples of suits, tracksuits, shirts, and t-shirts are re-interpreted on a never-ending loop, the Amen Break becomes a metaphor for the myth of ownership in contemporary creativity. louisvuitton.com

December 2021

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A Ceremony of Couture Dior’s Winter 2021-2022 Men’s Collection draws inspiration from the masculine extravagance of ceremonial garb.

Like haute couture, it connects the now with then: a window into history and heritage. Alongside heritage, the contemporary: with this collection, Kim Jones and Dior debut a collaboration with the Scottish-born, Trinidad-based artist Peter Doig. For Winter 2021-2022, uniforms with embroidery and embellishment – notably inspired by the Académie des Beaux-Arts – offer a masculine interpretation of couture. Decorations and motifs from the Dior archives are reinvented. Covered buttons are those of the iconic Bar jacket; the gilded embroidery of Rosella, a haute couture evening gown designed by Marc Bohan in the Sixties. dior.com

December 2021

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POSITIVE HARMONY Louis Vuitton’s Cruise 2022 Collection traverses atmospheres to touch infinity. Axe Majeur, near Paris, transforms a promenade into fantastical reveries. A sculpture conceived like a beautiful utopia, by a humanist artist whose compassionate, peaceful works are scattered around the world. An architecture of reconciliation, where water, light, wind, sand, concrete, stone, and steel create a felicitous relationship between nature, space, and time. With the 2022 Cruise collection, Louis Vuitton steps into this singular geometry, from the “lie Astronomique” to “Le Douze Colonnes” and “Le Jardin des Droits de !’Homme,” culminating in “La Passerelle,” opening as many imaginary portals to traverse the atmosphere and - why not? - touch infinity. An optimistic company akin to luminous “marching bands” of joyful color. A collection of proud, positive looks that advance straight ahead, serenely. They are the picture of harmony in an environment that is so close and yet so far away, borderless, and open to adventure. One needs nothing more than the most beautiful of passports: creation. As ever, it is unlimited and free. louisvuitton.com

December 2021

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Early Hollywood Sophistication Moschino’s Fall/Winter 2021 Collection is an adventurous little voyage into fashion land.

The revered, ahead-of-its time 1939 George Cukor film The Women-in which no male character is seen or heard-influenced Scott. In particular, there is a Technicolor fashion show scene that struck a chord (here, too, this links to the meta observation of one vignette within another). The Women’s plot kicks off at an expensive Manhattan salon, where society ladies go to get the newest nail color: Jungle Red! Presented through a short film named for that same varnish hue, Fall hosts a panoply of items and ideas, ranging from reworked pinstripe suiting to an iconic-ironic prairie dress all-over printed with physical cows on the prairie. Scott also takes such mundanities as potato sacks and cuts them into bell-sleeves, poufs and bows, imbuing irreverence and confidence into something otherwise deemed largely ignorable. moschino.com

December 2021

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Defining Celebration Oscar de la Renta’s Fall 2022 Bridal Collection offers endless opportunities for the bride to make a spectacular entrance again and again.

Among a bride’s dreams of the perfect wedding is the desire to make a fashion statement overflowing with beauty, drama, and grandeur. These days, her moment in the spotlight is no longer limited to the ceremony, as more and more brides turn to Oscar de la Renta for their rehearsal dinner and reception looks. In response to this growing trend, the Bridal Fall - Winter 2022 collection is a focused capsule that pays enhanced attention to the pre- and after-party realms. The offerings feature refreshingly minimal floorlength gowns and au courant, thigh-skimming cocktail dresses. Together, they meet a diversity of personal preferences and event agendas. Cocktail-length options are perfectly suited to before and after festivities. Flowers fashioned of threadwork embroidery and metallics adorn edgy dresses reminiscent of those worn by Co-Creative Director Laura Kim and model/actress Kaia Gerber. A classic and sophisticated look in silk moiré faille highlights a strappy, fitted bodice contrasted by

a tiered, flirty skirt. The shorter hemline styles are rounded out by a faille dress with a nude tulle bodice embroidered with small leaves and blossoming into a bell skirt. Floor-length gowns are the ultimate in elegance and simplicity. Corseting and flowing layers of tulle reflect the Old Hollywood vibe of Billie Eilish’s striking Met Gala look, while a modified version of her after-party gown and cape conveys fluid splendor. The Cady gown is a scaleddown approach to an Oscar de la Renta wedding dress, making it the ideal choice for a reception. Lace makes a graceful appearance, finely applied to a ball gown and a sexy off-theshoulder, open-back gown with a stunningly embroidered veil. A delicate Chantilly lace gown with long sleeves features a Watteau back, with pleats and gathers that create a draping, lightly trailing effect. oscardelarenta.com

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Dressed to THE NINES Cheerfulness, color, and irony are the common threads running through all the pieces in the new Moschino Baby Kid Teen Autumn/Winter 2021 collection. For this new season the baby collection proposes soft, cozy dresses, romper suits and knitted sets, available either in classic pinks and blues, or in a range of new pastel shades. No collection would be complete without the iconic Teddy Bear, in all-over embroidery, prints or a faux-fur patch that adds a fun feel to organic cotton apparel for newborns. For little boys and girls, Teddy transforms into

a conjuror, for a truly magical look, depicted in embroidery or decorated with crystals and colored stones. The “Winter Time” theme sees the Moschino Teddy Bear dressed up to the nines for Christmas with a knitted hat and gloves, applied to romper suits, T-shirts and sweatshirts. The collection also includes knitwear and jacquard accessories. moschino.com

December 2021

BAGS

EXQUISITE STYLE Gorgeous designer hand bags to add a touch of class to your look.

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Carolina Herrera Bimba Bimba Bags are dressed in an infinite number of designs, handcrafted by artisans, including the House’s best leathers, in Soufflé quilt, in brocade and tweed, in silk or linen, decorated with pearls, beads, studs or sequins; embroidered with different motifs or reinterpretations of the brand’s icons such as the jasmine flower and polka dots. Its playful use of such decorations is fresh an unexpected, always surprising with that hint of rebellious elegance that makes it irresistible. A world of color and craftsmanship that makes its own mark and leaves nobody indifferent.

Dolce&Gabbana Calfskin 3.5 bag

carolinaherrera.com

The 3.5 line is getting a make-over with a new square shape. This calfskin top-handle bag features the new crossover DG logo in light gold-plated metal. Spacious and versatile, it comes with an adjustable, detachable strap, double zipper and slider with logo, top handle and detachable strap in calfskin, branded round stud appliqués, flat calfskin pocket on back, and calfskin lining with zipped pocket, flat pocket and a card slot. dolcegabbana.com

Jeffrey Levinson Elina Plus Wildflower Kiss A rainbow kiss of vibrant wildflowers printed on supple Italian calfskin, this clutch celebrates the return of life in all its glorious beauty. Exquisite when paired with white. Vibrant and fresh paired with bright colors and light pastels. Sleek and strong with a navy suit. It features seamless, no-hinge design, ceramic hard shell clear coat creates a beautiful and durable finish, light weight, strong aerospace aluminum body forms, and Hand-stitched Italian lambskin interior. jeffreylevinson.com

Gucci Small Top Handle Bag with Bamboo A material that speaks to the long-lasting traditions that come together to create Gucci’s heritage, this bag’s bamboo handles are expertly curved using a flame-a process originally conceived by Florentine artisans during the postwar period. The white leather style is enriched by a detachable Web strap that allows the accessory to be worn on the shoulder or as a top handle. Versatile designs appear throughout The Gucci Aria collection enriching styles with multiple ways to wear so that they can be worn again and again, creating timeless pieces. gucci.com

Laurus Elie Micro Bag With its sophisticated and functional design, featuring a contemporary style, the “Elie’ micro bag is perfect to accessorize a sophisticated day-to-night look. Although tiny, it’s the perfect size for tucking away the tiny essentials: lipstick, Air Pods, bank cards & keys. The best part of the Elie micro bag is its versatile wearability, so that it can be styled in an endless number of ways. Each Elie comes with a belt for waist or crossbody accessorizing, as well as an iconic Laurus goldtoned chain for a traditional shoulder carry. Both strap and chain are removable to carry the micro by the top handle. laurus-online.com

Louis Vuitton Speedy Bandoulière 25 Bag Dior Small Dior Bobby Bag The Dior Bobby bag is a Hobo style showcasing sophisticated lines and harmonious proportions. The pale yellow silhouette is crafted from box calfskin with a suede interior for added suppleness, and is enhanced by antique gold-finish metal hardware. Its removable and adjustable shoulder strap has a military-inspired buckle, and allows the small bag to be carried by hand, worn over the shoulder or crossbody. dior.com

Made from grained Monogram Empreinte leather with the embossed oversized Monogram pattern, the Speedy Bandoulière 25 bag radiates discreet style. Its unmistakable lines, Toron handles, engraved padlock and adjustable and detachable strap make this bag instantly recognizable. The generous capacity and body-friendly construction make it eminently practical. louisvuitton.com

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Tyler Ellis Jamie Doctor handbag The Jamie Doctor is a semi-structured metal-framed double handled handbag designed with our custom Slide-lock Closure and Pinecone feet. It fits the large iPhone, has interior pockets, an optional cross-body strap and is finished with our signature Thayer Blue lining. The metal tab can be engraved for an additional fee. tylerellis.com

Yves Saint Laurent Le Maillon Round Chain Bag In Lambskin Made in Italy, this round chain bag decorated with all-over carré-quilted overstitching, featuring two metallic tassels and a detachable chain strap. It features 100% lambskin, bronze-toned metal hardware, grosgrain lining, zip closure, an interior with two main compartments and one flat pocket. ysl.com

Prada Metallic leather mini-bag This mini-bag decorated with the enameled triangle logo and defined by its structured design comes in metallic leather featuring fine workmanship. A study of the triangle inspires new geometric shapes and unique interpretations of Prada’s historic code. The iconic shape is echoed in the motif that decorates the surface for a faceted and luminous effect. prada.com

Versace Virtus La Greca Signature Shoulder Bag Referencing the runway, this classic shoulder bag features the new La Greca Signature print. The iconic silhouette features central gold-tone metal Barocco V embellished by acanthus leaves taken from Versace’s signature motif. versace.com

SHOES - MEN

Quality and Class

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Complete your distinguished look with the latest in high-end men’s shoes.

A Ma Maniére A Ma Maniére x Air Jordan 1 The A Ma Maniére Air Jordan 1 is the latest sneaker collaboration with Jordan Brand, building on the tradition of classic, timeless luxury that anchors the A Ma Maniére brand. Featuring a fine cracked leather upper, snakeskin details and a quilted liner and collar now synonymous with the joining of the minds between A Ma Maniére and Jordan Brand design, this Air Jordan 1 is a piece to be celebrated and cherished for its special details and luxurious execution. a-ma-maniere.com

Fendi Black Leather Lace-Ups Made in Italy, these round-toed lace-ups feature a leather sole. They are made of black brushed leather with laserengraved FF motif on the upper and include details in smooth black leather. Founded in Rome in 1925, Fendi is known for its fur and fur accessories, and for its leather goods. fendi.com

Christian Louboutin Fever The Fever model is an ankle boot distinguished by a trapeze-shaped heel that expresses the creativity and savoir faire of Maison Christian Louboutin. It is entirely crafted in Vegas black crosta leather with an elegant vamp and square toe. This sophisticated model is elevated by discreet grosgrain finishes and features timeless urban elegance. christianlouboutin.com

Gucci Men’s Lace-Up Ankle Boot Gucci Aria is an ode to both the traditional and the contemporary nature of the House. Symbols that have defined different eras appear as recognizable logos, subtle references Gucci’s origins. Here, this pair of ankle boots are enriched by their smooth black leather and a petite Gucci Interlocking G detail at the back. gucci.com

Dolce&Gabbana Mixed-materials Daymaster sneakers Understated and light, these nylon Daymaster sneakers feature split leather and rubberized calfskin details. Perfect for everyday use, they are embellished by the new crossover DG logo and flaunt a superflex rubber sole. They feature Nylon upper with split leather details, contrasting branded heel cup, tubular laces with drawstring, leather footbed with branded label, and extra-light rubber bottom assembly. dolcegabbana.com

Dior B27 LOW-TOP SNEAKER The B27 low-top sneaker is already a House essential. Crafted in a cream, water-repellent nubuck calfskin that is very soft to the touch, the style is adorned with white Dior Oblique Galaxy leather inserts on the sides. The sneaker is enhanced with ‘CD Icon’ eyelets as well as numerous emblematic details on the two-tone rubber sole, tongue and back. The low-top sneaker will enhance any favorite outfit. dior.com

Lanvin Dbb1 Sneakers An iconic, timeless essential of the Lanvin men’s wardrobe, the DBB1 sneaker is reinvented each season. Classic yet casual, this sneaker offers a contemporary, modern look. Made in Portugal, they feature DBB1 Suede and rhinestone sneakers, exclusive black rubber sole, and come in indigo color. lanvin.com

SHOES - MEN

Prada Crystal-studded lace-ups A sea of precious crystals illuminates these shoes with elegant and refined allure. The classic artisan design of Prada shoes meets exquisite workmanship to create a unique line. They feature heatbonded crystals, rubber sole with 25 mm height, and a leather insole. prada.com

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Versace Trigreca Trainers A key member of Versace’s coveted trainer family, the Trigreca bring innovation to the brand’s ever-evolving aesthetic. Referencing Versace DNA, the Trigreca feature three prominent Greca executions: the midsole lateral, medial, and the bottom of the outsole. This combination creates the “Greca Cushioning System”. In a subtle nod to Milan, the upper has a discrete print of the city’s coordinates. versace.com

Off White Out Of Office “Ooo” Sneakers These low “Out of office” sneakers come in white with blue arrows at the sides. They feature the Off-White logo at back, blue and white rubber soles, and white lace-up closure. A lowtop silhouette with hybridized street, basketball and running influences, the “OUT OF OFFICE” sneaker features a contrasting outsole with translucent gel insets, classic perforated toe vamps, a ribbed heel and a recontextualized logo. off---white.com

Thom Browne White Canvas Mid Top Heritage Trainer Made in Spain, these mid top heritage trainers come in white canvas with ribbed tonal rubber sole. They feature lace up closure with flat white laces and white grommeted metal eyelets, tonal stitching, signature striped grosgrain loop tab at heel. The upper is made from 100% cotton and the soles are 100% rubber. thombrowne.com

SHOES - WOMEN

Stepping in Style

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Amina Muaddi Rosie Glass Pumps in PVC Amina Muaddi’s Rosie Glass Pump are a captivating exploration of contemporary shapes with a classical approach. Set upon a strikingly architectural heel, the pair is made from innovative PVC with a bejewelled bow placed above a sharply pointed toe. Showcase their modern and romantic design with a silk slip dress for a sophisticated evening edit. aminamuaddi.com

Add iconic style to your luxury collection with the latest and most sought-after designer women’s shoes.

Blondish Luxury Heels Introducing Blondish - a luxury footwear brand, founded in 2018 by Patricia Molina. Now based in Miami, the label offers a variety of footwear designs - which are handcrafted in Spain by women, for women. Whether you’re after timeless trainers for running errands, the best sandals to take you from beach to bar or new season ankle boots that will kickstart your autumn wardrobe, Blondish has everything you need. blondish.com

Dolce&Gabbana Patent Leather Pumps with Fusible Rhinestones The color black steals the scent in the new Hot Stuff line, polarizing the entire collection with its allure. The fusion between the iconic and the contemporary gives life to a strong, confident woman who won’t sacrifice her sensuality. Bold and feminine, these new Cardinale pumps come in patent leather with fusible rhinestone appliqués that embellish the toe and heel. dolcegabbana.com

SHOES - WOMEN

Cult Gaia Valeska Boot

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A thoughtful geometric heel meets a Mulberry boot shaft in the leather Valeska boot. The architectural lines of this boot were designed with thoughtful intention, while the gorgeous cut-out heel adds a feminine shape, Valeska is bold and strong, just like the Gaia goddess herself. The 4-inch heel gives long, flattering lines to any outfit. cultgaia.com

Kate 100 mm Pump The iconic Kate pump combines discretion and sophistication thanks to a clean urban design. It’s all red patent psychic calfskin features a sculpted upper that extends its low-cut lines, subtly revealing the foot. It sits easy atop a slender 100 mm heel to give you confidence, underlining the know-how and timeless elegance of Maison Christian Louboutin. christianlouboutin.com

Dior Attract Heeled Ankle Boot

Gucci Leather ankle boot with belt

The Dior Attract heeled ankle boot is a sophisticated and contemporary style. Crafted in black suede calfskin, Maria Grazia Chiuri pays homage to the House’s archives with the boot’s diamond toe and gold-finish ‘CD’ initials. The elegant style is completed by a 10 cm (4”) heel.

An unexpected play on the classic Chelsea boot, this ankle boot in shiny black leather is designed with a lug sole and elastic inserts on each side for a pull-on entry. Completed with a detachable ankle strap dotted with sparkling crystals encased within engraved trims, resembling vintage jewels. The emblematic Double G finishes the front.

dior.com

gucci.com

Fendi First White Nappa Leather High-Heel Boots Fendi First boots with rounded toe and side zip on the inside with Fendi O’Lock zip pull. Made of white nappa leather. Diagonal F-shaped sculpted heel in gold-coloured metal. fendi.com

Louis Vuitton Archlight Pumps The Archlight Pumps take inspiration from the LV Archlight trainers to reinterpret a classic, feminine style in a very modern spirit. The uppers come in technical satin, which also covers the sculptural heels. The rubber LV Circle signature on the side of the pumps subtly references the sporty design of Louis Vuitton’s cult trainers. louisvuitton.com

Prada Satin Sandals with Crystals

Faceted crystals create plays of light and iridescent reflections on a luxurious version of mid-heel slides. New variations of the brand’s iconic triangle logo turn it into a slightly padded leather detail. prada.com

Versace La Medusa Sling-Back Pumps Effortlessly elegant, these slingbacks are crafted from a smooth leather with metallic-gold finishing. The sleek pointed toe silhouette features a Medusa plaque – the iconic décor found on the doors of the brand’s first headquarters in Milan. versace.com

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The Visual Storyteller Deftly demonstrating the African aesthetic, artist Louise Duggan has an intuitive sense of creativity, distorting her subject matter while maintaining a balanced composition. Durrah talks to the Ophelia Art Consultancy Founder about her art and her creative work for Burj Al Arab.

WHAT IS IT ABOUT AFRICAN ART AND CULTURE THAT CAPTIVATES YOU? Having grown up in West and East Africa, my early visual reference points was the art I saw around me, from murals painted on the side of walls to carvings and artifacts being sold on the side of the road. The styles and subject matters vary as one travels around Africa, but what capitated me the most was the abstract representation of the subject rather than a realistic representation.

YOU WERE INVITED TO DEVELOP NINE ARTWORKS FOR BURJ AL ARAB. HOW WAS THAT EXPERIENCE? As with any new commission, the first feeling is fear! Thinking ‘will I really be able to do this?’ I was given a fantastic brief and so, once I found my direction and the feeling I wanted to convey, I began to feel the rhythm of the collection.

CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR ART CLASSES? WHAT CAN STUDENTS EXPECT? My art classes are all about abstract art, feeling your way with the use of color, balance, and intuition. I encourage the students to be mindful about what they are doing, and I share the more theoretical aspects while they are working on their

paintings so that we end up with a unique painting balanced in color and proportions.

WHAT WAS THE MOST DEMANDING PAINTING YOU’VE EVER DONE? In The Burj Al Arab collection, there is a 225cm x 110cm painting for the VIP Lounge. This is a huge canvas! This was the painting that had to bring all the four elements that run through the hotel together. The first attempt was a much safer version and then I took the brave move to have all the colors dripping down the canvas, running into each other.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE AMONG YOUR WORK? I recently finished “We will reach the top” I really did enjoy the process of painting this piece. I tried a new technique to create more texture onto the canvas, to illustrate the various terrains we navigate in our daily life.

WHO HAD THE BIGGEST INFLUENCE ON YOUR ART? ARE THERE ARTISTS WHOSE WORK INSPIRES YOU? I don’t know where to start! I love the modern artists of the early 20th Century who really focused on strong saturated color and wild brush strokes.

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02 Artist Louise Duggan

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01, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07 Images of The Burj Al Arab Artworks. All photos courtesy of Ben Preece

I loved art by Gauguin and the Fauves. This was followed later by Frida Khalo and her wonderful surreal storytelling, David Hockney, whose use of color is phenomenal, and Basquiat who created these huge fearless canvases with elements of street art and graffiti, while telling various stories.

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE BIGGEST TREND IN THE ART WORLD TODAY? The rise in NFTs. However, this is still an area that is very new to me. I will need to further explore it as a platform to sell my work.

WHAT IS YOUR DEFINITION OF SUCCESS AS AN ARTIST? WHEN WOULD YOU SAY YOU ACHIEVED THAT GOAL IN YOUR CAREER? My definition is my ability to tell a story, share a feeling, and to be lucky enough to dedicate so much time to working on my art. I am constantly trying new techniques, new materials, and pushing myself out of my comfort zone. I often start a painting without knowing where I will end up and that’s exciting as an artist. My goal is constantly evolving.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A NOVICE ARTIST? Find your unique voice and stay true. Don’t paint what you think will sell, paint to enjoy the experience. Practice each day and really work on those skills you studied and learned. louiseduggan.com

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Experience Prestige With over 800 watches in its extensive collection, the elegant Modern Art Studio and Rolex boutique promises a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors.

Every aspect of the boutique, located in City Centre Bahrain, was delicately designed using the highest quality material to reflect Arabian culture. The extensive Rolex collection is on display in gorgeous walnut showcases. From the moment customers step inside, they are met with the outstanding interior, developed in cooperation with Rolex Interior Design Specialists to reflect a perfectionist approach. The wall panels were manufactured in Switzerland, and the Murano chandelier in Italy, creating an atmosphere that illustrates the level of privacy Rolex offers,

especially in the exclusive VIP suite dedicated for private viewings. Professional staff, many of whom have been with Modern Art Studio for over 30 years, are ready to deliver valuable advice. The boutique is the largest Rolex Boutique in the Middle East and one of the largest in the world. Founded in 1936 by Naji Murad, Modern Art Studio’s original shop was located in Government Avenue, Manama, Bahrain. In 1940 Hans Wilsdorf, founder of Rolex Geneva, officially appointed Modern Art Studio as the first and only Rolex agent in the Gulf. Naji Murad promoted and

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01 The interior was developed in collaboration with Rolex Interior Design Specialists 02 The largest Rolex Boutique in the Middle East

03, 05 The atmosphere offers privacy and professionalism synonymous with the Rolex brand

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“The boutique is the largest Rolex Boutique

in the Middle East and one of the largest in the world.”

sold watches from his store in Bahrain and also to his sub agents in the Gulf. He later recommended them to Rolex to become official agents, many of whom are still distributors of Rolex today. Modern Art Studio’s new Rolex showroom was opened in 1978. The shop featured exclusive showcases which not only displayed the watches but were also cleverly designed into individual letters spelling the name ROLEX. Richard and David Murad, the sons of Naji Murad, have taken the reins of Modern Art Studio, which continues to trade as a wellestablished family business. Hans Wilsdorf founded Tudor watches in 1946 and the first Tudor Boutique in the Gulf was opened by Modern Art Studio in Manama Bahrain in December 2014. masbahrain.com

04 Modern Art Studio was appointed in 1940 as the first and only Rolex agent in the Gulf 06 The shop features an extensive Rolex collection of over 800 watches

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BOUTIQUE Experience

The most luxurious shopping destinations from around the world.

EURO MOTORS SITRA, BAHRAIN Euro Motors, the official Ferrari dealer in Bahrain, celebrated the inauguration of its newly renovated showroom this week. The showroom offers the Prancing Horse brand’s discerning clientele and prospective owners the opportunity to experience the famous brand in an immersive state-of-theart facility. The inauguration of the renovated showroom was enhanced with an impressive display of classic and special edition Ferraris including a Ferrari Enzo, 488 Aperta, and a Ferrari Monza SP2. The new Ferrari showroom located in Al Hamriya, Sitra, features a luxurious new customer lounge complete with interactive screens, surround sound, and beautiful Ferrari Poltrana Frau leather furniture, where clients can relax and enjoy an Italian-inspired coffee bar with a selection of refreshments. This spacious area is the ideal meeting place for Ferraristi in Bahrain to experience a warm community feel and share their passion for the Prancing Horse. Guests can take inspiration from the new heritage wall running throughout the showroom which features an array of classic Ferraris, while connecting to the present with a full TV wall projecting the latest Ferrari material, models, and events including the Formula 1 races. Customers can also create a Ferrari as unique as they are in the reimagined Atelier where their dream Ferrari can be configured and they can select from a broad array of modification options including colors, steering wheels and carbon fiber trims on display. ferrari.com

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HENRY JACQUES HAUTE PARFUMERIE ABU DHABI, UAE Henry Jacques has strengthened its presence in the Middle East with the opening of a boutique in The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi. Located on Level L1 of The Galleria Mall, the Maison’s third retail space in the region will showcase, in its characteristic homely, Parisian style, its entire range of exquisitely hand-crafted fragrances. Visitors to the boutique will be able to discover all of Henry Jacques’ creations, from the Les Classiques essences at its heart to its lighter Les Brumes splash and sprays, the Les Exceptions masterpieces – the rare Les Toupies and jewelleryinspired Renaissance flacons – and the newly reimagined bespoke or Sur-Mesure service where olfactory dreams are brought to life. Christophe Tollemer, the Maison’s Artistic Director, has once again tailored a space echoing an exceptional and classical 19th century French

apartment, with all components crafted and shipped from France to maintain the beauty of its craftsmanship. Like the perfumes themselves, the boutique’s décor combines both traditional and contemporary elements, resulting in timeless appeal. Upon entering the boutique, eyes are drawn to a striking perfume organ symbolizing the historic Henry Jacques laboratory in the South of France. Continuing through the space, one finds an exquisitely crafted alcove elegantly displaying the Maison’s essences. A signature illuminated Corian wall niche housing the fifty Les Classiques sits above the graceful and comfortable lounge area, inviting guests to discover the collections in a sanctuary where one can forget the passing of hours and dive into the boundless allurement of great perfumery. hastens.com

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“Continuing through the space, one finds an

exquisitely crafted alcove elegantly displaying the Maison’s essences.”

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MARLI NEW YORK DUBAI, UAE Handcrafted luxury jewelry brand MARLI New York opened its latest shop-in-shop in the Middle East. Located within Bloomingdale’s at The Dubai Mall, the world’s premiere shopping destination. The new space is a testament to the strong partnership both brands share. MARLI has a minimal, magnetic aesthetic that draws inspiration from the world’s most dynamic city and the amazing women who live in it. The new shop in shop will embody MARLI’s trademark design aesthetic with marble floors, brass fixtures, and custom furniture. MARLI has found strong enthusiasm worldwide for its modern, architectural jewelry design with clever implementation of colorful

precious stones, 18-karat gold and exquisitely set diamonds. Every element that makes up a MARLI piece is fabricated in its own workshop and handcrafted with a precise understanding of materials and proportion. Ultimately, MARLI craftsmanship is as much about emotion as it is technique - a quality that adds unique value and attitude to every piece. Popular among top celebrities and tastemakers, the MARLI brand and ever- expanding collection equip women with a sophisticated fashion sensibility to experiment with new ways to project confidence, power, and modern elegance. marlinewyork.com

SPECIAL FEATURE

01 Mozoon features a prime waterfront location with picturesque views overlooking the main canal

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A Bespoke Waterfront With its commitment to cater to a diverse range of living solutions, Mozoon is Diyar Al Muharraq’s answer to accessible yet luxurious home building. A freehold residential project available to all nationalities, Mozoon offers residential plots to those who want to enjoy an upscale lifestyle, with the benefits of residing in a fully integrated and modern city.

Built on the northern shores of the Muharraq island, on a vast area of reclaimed land, Diyar Al Muharraq spans across 12 Square kilometers and comprises a vast archipelago of 7 islands. Boasting over 40 kilometers of undisturbed seafront and sandy beaches, making it the most extensive seafront destination in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Upon completion of all its projects, Diyar Al Muharraq is set to emerge as a tourism hub and include all the essential elements that form an integrated society, such as schools and educational facilities, hospitals and medical centers, recreational facilities, commercial complexes, green parks, hotels as well as a marina. Nestled in the heart of the masterplan is Mozoon. The unique residential project is inspired by the word ‘Mozoon’, which in Arabic, means clouds that lead to rainfall, a nod to growth and new beginnings that follow rain. Mozoon, the luxurious residential project at Diyar Al Muharraq, is categorized by its prime waterfront location with picturesque views overlooking the main canal. The project offers residential plots, where future homeowners are afforded the opportunity to build the home of their dreams in one of the most sought-after addresses in the Kingdom. The residential plots project offers the best of the Diyar Al Muharraq masterplan, the calmness of seafront views, coupled with the conveniences and luxuries of modern life.

Mozoon, offered on a freehold basis, caters to a diverse spectrum of home builders seeking the laid-back waterfront lifestyle offered by Diyar Al Muharraq. The project offers future residents the option to customize their home on plots starting from 320 square meters, on the waterfront, or on inner residential plots, creating the home best suited to their needs. The residential haven boasts a privileged location at the North end of Diyar Al Muharraq, situated between the Al Naseem and Al Bareh luxury residential communities, and complimented by waterfront views unlike any other. The project is minutes away from the Al Naseem retail marina and promenade, giving future homeowners quick access to some of the Kingdom’s most diverse retail outlets against one of the most picturesque backdrops in Bahrain. Additionally, a stone’s throw away are the Kingdom’s leading up and coming shopping destinations, Dragon City Bahrain, ThaiMart, Souq Al Baraha, and Marassi Galleria; where residents will be able to enjoy unique immersive shopping experiences, as well as enjoy the rich culture and history of Bahrain, without ever having to leave the island’s parameters. Much like the masterplan’s design, the Mozoon neighborhood is planned to offer residents ultimate convenience, comprising facilities to accommodate everyday lifestyle needs as well

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02 The residential haven boasts a privileged location at the North end of Diyar Al Muharraq 03 The project offers future residents the option to customize their home on plots starting from 320 square meters 04 The residential plots project offers the calmness of seafront views coupled with the conveniences and luxuries of modern life

as luxurious recreational spaces, inclusive of a community retail area for everyday essentials. Additionally, the Mozoon community will include its own park, giving its inhabitants outdoor green spaces perfect for spending quality time outdoors, built with modern infrastructure of the highest standards, completing the healthy and laid-back lifestyle they envision at Diyar Al Muharraq. The project is in its preliminary stages of construction, with its secondary infrastructure works under way. The neighborhood’s paving, lighting and road works, electrical distribution cables, water and telecommunications networks, sewer and stormwater systems, irrigation networks, and electrical substations have commenced works, and are in their initial stages. Works on the residential plots project are expected to be finished in the coming year, ready for residents in the third quarter of 2022.

What makes the Mozoon experience truly one of a kind, are the intangible aspects of the project, designed for close-knit communities to flourish. Its freehold nature, and communal sensibility makes the neighborhood one where families can truly enjoy island life with modern city benefits. Each project within the development plays a key role in the grand scheme of the masterplan of a vibrant, thriving community, catering to every need essential to the ultimate waterfront lifestyle. Upon completion of all its projects, the fully integrated society of Diyar Al Muharraq will emerge a cosmopolitan lifestyle hub and inspiring city, welcoming residents, and visitors from all walks of life. diyar.bh

DESTINATION

01 Madrid, Spain cityscape at Calle de Alcala and Gran Via

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The New Capital OF LUXURY Diverse, tolerant, multicultural, creative, lively, innovative, sustainable, global. Many words could be used to describe Madrid, but one of the most prominent ones is ‘luxury’, as it is fast becoming one of the most ideal destinations for connoisseurs of the finest things in life.

Classic, modern, always cozy and serviced by professionals as one of their main values, Madrid’s hotels make you feel right at home. Their own gastronomy and cultural events as well as all the personalized experiences that can be enjoyed at many of them enhance the capital’s tourist attraction. Madrid has a network of hotels with a good quality/price ratio as leaders in quality and sustainability. 841 hotels, according to the 2019 Annual Tourism Report, with a total of 87,648 bed places. 30 are five-star hotels, 148 are four-star and 76, three-star. Tradition and modernity come together for a renewed offering that adapts to all types of guests from business tourists to those on romantic getaways. The number of hotels in the Spanish capital continues to grow as the city welcomes new establishments, some of which belong to top international chains like the Four Seasons Madrid and the Mandarin Oriental Ritz. Classic and modern like The Westin Palace, AC Santo Mauro and Eurostars Madrid Tower; urban with pools like Room Mate Oscar, Urban and the Wellington; palace hotels like AC Palacio del Retiro and Catalonia Las Cortes; and romantic options like Orfila, and ME Madrid Reina Victoria. The Plaza de España is also a genuine Hotel Plaza with the RIU and VP Plaza España Design. The city is also home to establishments belonging to the world’s greatest hotel brands, including the Four Seasons, Mandarin Oriental Ritz, and Rosewood Villa Magna. There are many to choose from. Even the Residencia de Estudiantes (Students’ Hall) has joined the hotel offering so

people can stay in the same place as Dalí, Buñuel and Le Corbusier once did. Madrid has become a strong forum of economic exchange and new trends as well as a convenient, safe and, above all, cozy setting which is ideal for doing business. Professionals from all over the world trust in Madrid to present their work and advance their careers while enjoying its unique lifestyle and participating in the city’s cultural life. Madrid is home to the headquarters of 90% of all large companies operating in Spain and is the third-largest European city as far as the presence of multinational companies (2000), so it’s quite the international showcase to present products and the perfect setting to make proposals. Madrid is full of shops for unique experiences. Quality, design and creativity are the identity marks of a broad retail offering featuring everything from top Spanish and international ready-to-wear brands to the most exclusive products created and artisan-made in Madrid. More than 46,000 shops, many of which are open 365 days a year, make Madrid the secondbest city in Europe to go shopping according to Globe Shopper Index. Madrid is a city with immense personality which welcomes visitors with open arms and offers them one of the best and most complete tourism offerings in the world. It’s a friendly city with a lot to enjoy where there’s always something going on and something new to discover, and it is set to make its mark on the world of luxury. esmadrid.com

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02 Low angle view of the Four Seasons Hotel in Canalejas against the bright blue sky 03 Changing of the guard at Madrid Royal Palace 04 Deessa, an unforgettable restaurant for Madrid’s most iconic hotel 05 New luxury residential building with continuous precast concrete terraces in the Mendez Alvaro area 06 Great panoramic view of the main façade of the Aranjuez palace on a cloudy day at dawn

“Madrid is a city with immense personality which welcomes

visitors with open arms and offers them one of the best and most complete tourism offerings in the world.”

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Brewing Innovation A Seattle-based boutique espresso equipment manufacturer, Slayer has been handcrafting coffee machines since 2007, driven by the constant pursuit to create the best coffee experience for baristas, technicians, and guests. 01

Slayer is the machine for the discerning coffee professional. Its beauty and craftsmanship command attention. Most importantly, coffee and bar flow are truly exceptional. Created by coffee lovers for coffee lovers, handcrafted with no compromises to quality. Slayer’s goal is to “make coffee better”. Distributed across 6 continents with a brand presence across 60 countries, Slayer offers 3 machine series: Espresso Line, Steam Line and the Slayer Espresso Single Group. Slayer is the recipient of “Best New Product” awards from the Specialty Coffee Association of America (Slayer Espresso Single Group) and World of Coffee (Slayer Steam), as well as “Best Pop Up” for the 2019 SCA Expo. Slayer is an official SCAA member with deep roots in coffee and continued efforts toward the advancement of the industry. Before starting Slayer Espresso, Jason Prefontaine was an espresso machine importer, technician, coffee roaster, and cafe owner. He encountered incredible coffees on the cupping table which simply didn’t translate to great espresso due to limitations of the available machines.

Unaware of the radical coffee market’s needs, the manufacturers at that time were unwilling to innovate and resistant to change. Jason knew espresso machines could make coffee better and was confident that if he made this machine, his peers would want it too. With years of experience as a field technician, Jason designed Slayer machines to have easy access to internal parts of the machine and body panels that are easily removed. Guests need to feel important, special, and well well-served. Slayer’s low low-profile design removes the barrier to service and enables genuine conversations. With consideration to repetitive motion, ease of navigation and streamlined bar flow, the Slayer machines were thoughtfully crafted and ergonomically inspired to aid the movement of the barista. Slayer’s high-volume machine makes coffee taste remarkable, enables your barista to enjoy their work, facilitates easy repairs, and an eye eyecatching design – far more than a coffee brewer, this machine brings a true value to its cafe. slayerespresso.com

01, 02 The Slayer Espresso Single Group

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“The Slayer machines were thoughtfully

crafted and ergonomically inspired to aid the movement of the barista”

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05 03, 04, 05 Beauty and craftsmanship

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D I S C OV E R R E A L I TA L I A N C O F F E E I N A L L I T S F O R M S

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01, 02 The Slayer Espresso Single Group 03, 04, 05 Beauty and craftsmanship

Home of ZEN

Born out of a culmination of Founder Sana Amin’s interests and hobbies, Warrior One Yoga Studio is a charming Bahrain-based business that incorporates her passion for yoga, love of baking, and appreciation for unique art pieces.

The foundation of the business is divided into three equally important elements: 1- a boutique yoga studio, 2- a juice bar and café, and 3- a curated retail area. All three aim to cater to the lifestyle of a man/woman who loves and appreciates beauty in all its forms, whether it be physical, mental, or spiritual. The yoga studio is small and intimate. It was Sana’s goal to make it a safe space for people to reconnect with their body, mind, and soul. Trying to recreate an experience and ambiance reminiscent of a spa, the studio aspires to be a place where people can leave their worries behind for 1 hour and learn to prioritize their wellbeing and happiness. Sana believes that in a world full of uncertainty and unpredictability, it is important to carve out some time for self-reflection and inner focus. Taught by qualified yoga instructors, classes range from being slow and mindful to fast-paced and powerful. Despite being taught in different

styles and practices, all the classes try to help achieve inner stillness and tranquility – transferable skills and qualities that help us deal with the stresses of everyday life. The juice bar boasts a number of healthy juices and smoothies, but Sana also believes that part of maintaining a balanced lifestyle includes indulging! From rich, chocolatey brownies to delicious date balls, vegan ice-cream, creamy carrot cakes, or hot coco that feels like a hug, the café has many different sweet treats to feed your soul. Warrior One is very proud to be a platform for Bahraini and regional businesses to showcase their products. The retail area is carefully curated with the utmost love and attention to detail. Whether it be trendy athletic wear, gym equipment, or lifestyle items such as candles and home décor, every item is specially handpicked to stand out. instagram.com/warrioronebh

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The Globe-trotting Chef Adrift Burger Bar Dubai’s recipes are the stuff of legend. Working with its operator and partner, Gates Hospitality, which caters to affluent lifestyles through a diverse portfolio, the restaurant serves exquisitely delectable creations. Durrah explores the culinary philosophy of Adrift with its founder, Michelin-starred Chef David Myers. WHAT IS IT ABOUT THE CULINARY ARTS THAT ATTRACTED YOU TO IT?

IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT MAKES ADRIFT UNIQUE?

I have always had a love for great food and quality ingredients, but it wasn’t until I was studying International Business that I found myself spending a lot more time with my nose buried in cookbooks instead of study books. I would experiment in the kitchen all day and then host these big feasts in the evenings for all my friends. Eventually, it just hit me: ‘man, this is what I want to do in life!’. Today, I have restaurants across three different continents, so I often joke and say that those semesters of studying International Business did at least pay off in the end.

What makes Adrift unique is the same thing that makes Adrift so diverse: at its core, it’s a collection of different culinary experiences inspired by my travels. Before the pandemic, I would spend 50 weeks a year on the road, often boarding a new flight every few days. Thanks to this somewhat nomadic lifestyle, I have been able to create these concepts with different international culinary identities, all of which share the same brand DNA. For example, we have previously launched Adrift in Tokyo, which is a celebration of my travels through Catalonia and the Basque Country. And I previously launched an Italian concept for which I travelled through Italy, drafting the core of the menu on a napkin on the train between Naples and Tuscany. I am also incredibly excited to be launching our first Japanese izakaya early next year, which is an ode to my favorite city in the world, Tokyo.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR CULINARY PHILOSOPHY? DO YOU PREFER CERTAIN INGREDIENTS? The philosophy behind my restaurant brand, Adrift, is that I cook for the wanderers, dreamers, and explorers. I want to create dishes that evoke a sense of travel and wanderlust, showcasing ingredients and techniques that are perhaps unexpected or unfamiliar. When I travel around the world, I am constantly immersing myself into different food cultures. I love that I can share these experiences with guests who dine at my restaurants.

WHAT IS THE SIGNATURE DISH AT ADRIFT? AND WHAT WOULD YOU RECOMMEND TO A FIRST-TIME PATRON? For those visiting my latest restaurant, Adrift Burger Bar, I would of course recommend our most iconic burger, the DM Burger. This is a burger that

was inspired by my mom’s 1940’s recipe, which I tweaked a bit. I first launched the DM Burger at one of my restaurants in LA years ago, and it was a huge hit - so much so that the New York Times went on to call it ‘the perfect burger’. I went on to feature a burger at my restaurants in both Asia and the Middle East before finally launching Adrift Burger Bar in Venice Beach in 2020. Less than a year later, we opened our second global location at Expo 2020 Dubai. It’s been incredible to see the public’s reactions to it so far. The DM Burger does have a couple of secret recipe components but, essentially, it is our signature US beef patty topped with a lettuce and onion slaw, aged cheddar, and our secret sauce, served on a soft, lightly toasted brioche bun.

HOW DO YOU SOURCE THE INGREDIENTS FOR ADRIFT? I have opened restaurants in LA, Tokyo, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Dubai. Each city is different from the next. In LA, we have access to all these incredible ingredients from across California, so I like to use as much local and regional produce as possible. When I opened Adrift in Singapore, we had this pristine seafood from nearby Japan and Bali, as well as beef from Japan. For our vegetables, we

wanted to also look at how we could source great quality produce with reduced emissions, so we grew herbs in our own garden and imported potatoes from nearby Indonesia as opposed to from afar. When I first arrived in Dubai in 2017, I was amazed to see the many quality ingredients that are grown by local farmers in the desert. Today, at Adrift Burger Bar, we work with a range of different suppliers provided by Expo 2020, who deliver both locally grown and some imported produce. For our burger patties, we use exclusively 100% US beef. We have created a special blend of just the right amount of fat to meat ratio that results in the most incredible flavor.

WHO HAS HAD THE BIGGEST INFLUENCE ON YOUR CAREER? Charlie Trotter was and always will be my mentor and a great inspiration of mine. His book was the first thing I bought when I first dived into the culinary world. When I then got a job working at his eponymous restaurant in Chicago, it was simply a dream come true! He eventually arranged for me to travel to Reims, France, and work for Chef Gerard Boyer in his three Michelin-starred Les Crayeres. I also have a lot of respect for Nori Sugie, who worked with me at Trotter’s.

WHAT MAKES A CHEF SUCCESSFUL? A great palate will give you a good start in your career, but what it ultimately comes down to is whether or not you have the discipline, grit, and willingness to work hard on honing your skill in the kitchen. But besides the investment of hard work, I find that it is a chef’s eagerness to continue to grow that will truly bring them success. I never stop learning from my experiences, from my travels, and from the people I encounter along the journey. I also have a huge respect for Japanese chefs who spend years learning to master just one dish or method, such as how to perfectly cook rice, until they are the true master of that one single technique. That is the ultimate showcase of discipline, dedication, and skill.

WHAT IS THE NEXT STEP FOR ADRIFT? ANY PLANS OR ANNOUNCEMENTS YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE? We have such an exciting year ahead of us. Besides continuing to grow the Adrift Burger Bar brand, we will be opening two new signature restaurants in Doha early next year, as well as our first Japanese restaurant in New Delhi. We also have a couple of other exciting projects on the horizon which you’ll read more about soon. adriftburgerla.com/dubai

BON APPÉTIT

Lobster Roll with Saffron Aioli INGREDIENTS

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Foam • • • • • • • • • •

2 live Maine lobsters 1 shallots 4 gr saffron 250 gr cherry tomato 1 organic egg 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 cup olive oil 1 clove garlic 1 lemon Salt and pepper Charcoal brioche bread roll Fleur de sel

1 Potato 1 Ts Butter 1/2 Cup of Milk Water Salt 500ml Soda sifón 1 Soda charge 1 Poached egg 50g Asparagus 50g Bunapi mushrooms

Method 1. Poach the lobster in an aromatic broth. 2. Collect all the lobster flesh out of its shell and dice it. 3. For the aioli, start an emulsion with the mustard and egg yolk. Add in the olive oil while whisking continuously. 4. Season the aioli with crushed garlic, salt, pepper, saffron, and a squeeze of lemon. 1. For this dish I use a home-made charcoal brioche bread roll. At home, you can replace it with traditional brioche bread from your favorite bakery. 5. Slice open the roll, and warm it. 6. Toss the lobster in aioli with chopped shallots, chives, and diced cherry tomato petals. 7. Fill the roll with the lobster mixture and finish with a spoon of saffron aioli on the top, and a pinch of fleur de sel.

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December 2021

Pain Perdu INGREDIENTS

• 1 Loaf of pain de miel, sliced 1/2 inch thick and left uncovered for one day • 6 Tahitian vanilla beans (the better quality beans you use, the better the mixture) • 8 large whole free range eggs • 2 cups heavy cream • 2 cups whole milk • 8oz. of light brown sugar • 8oz. of unsalted butter • Pure Vermont maple syrup, to taste • Powdered sugar and berries to serve

Method 1. Combine vanilla, eggs, milk and cream. Pour mixture over bread and refrigerate until cold. 2. Remove bread from mixture and set aside. 3. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add sugar and heat until it is forms a “soft ball”. Turn off heat and add butter. Stir with a wooden spoon until you have a nice caramel. Pour mixture in the bottom of a clean casserole dish. 4. While still warm, place soaked slices of bread onto caramel. Cool. Cover and chill. 5. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a sauté pan. When butter starts to foam, add slices of bread to pan, caramel side down. Cook for 2-3 minutes and put in a 350 for 5 minutes or until warm in the center. 6. Place slices of pain perdu on a plate, caramel side up. Serve with maple syrup and dusted with powdered sugar. Top with berries or fruit of your liking!

BON APPÉTIT

Cheesecake INGREDIENTS

• 440g cream cheese at room temperature • 140g sour cream • 200g mascarpone • 150g granulated sugar • 1 vanilla bean pod • 4 eggs • 20g corn starch • Crème fraiche, raspberry coulis, and lemon zest for garnish

Method 1. Prepare a cake tin with parchment paper. Set the oven to 170c 2. In the mixer with paddle attached, add cream cheese, sour cream, and mascarpone, mix until smooth 3. Add sugar and vanilla bean to the mixer, mix. When the sugar melts in the cheese, change the paddle to whisk attachment 4. Slowly add the eggs 5. Add corn starch and mix until it’s no longer powdery. 6. Pour the cheesecake mix into the cake tin and place inside an oven tray water bath in the pre-heated oven for 45-50 min 7. Rest the cake overnight in the fridge uncovered before taking out from the cake pan 8. Serve with a dollop of crème fraiche, a drizzling of raspberry coulis and a pinch of lemon zest.

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December 2021

MASTERPIECE

01 The Arabian horse, a recurring theme in AlKhaja’s works

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December 2021

Natural TALENT Coming from a family of renowned artists who have had an impact on the art scene in the GCC and the world, the passion for creativity is embedded in the genetic DNA of Bahraini artist Hasan Amin AlKhaja. His paintings are a vivid reflection of his thoughts and emotions, where he delves deeper into the subject matter, patiently perfecting his vision into natural paintings that capture Arabian horses, Bahrain’s heritage, and more.

WHAT MADE YOU PURSUE A CAREER IN ARTS? WHEN DID YOU DISCOVER THIS PASSION?

IS THERE A PARTICULAR WORK OF YOURS THAT IS THE CLOSEST TO YOUR HEART?

I was interested in becoming an artist even from a young age. I studied the arts in the UK. I come from a family of artists, so it was always my destiny to follow in this path. Many of them are internationally renowned and some even have their own galleries where they exhibit their artworks.

I have been focusing on horses for quite some time now, particularly the Arabian horse. There is something so majestic about it. I try to capture the essence of that as much as possible. I find myself spending more and more times on those, as I try to perfectly transfer their uniqueness to the canvas.

WHAT KIND OF THEMES DO YOU EXPLORE IN YOUR ART? I prefer to do classic natural paintings using acrylic. I always choose themes or subject matters that I can delve deeper into, as I prefer that the viewers get a crystal-clear picture of what the painting is about. I want them to not only understand it, but make a connection with it. One of my favorite themes is Bahraini heritage. I love capturing the beauty of our traditions with vivid colors and sharing that beauty with the world.

WHICH ONE OF YOUR PAINTINGS WAS THE MOST DEMANDING? There were times when I have spent months working on a single painting. I tend to take my time with each one, making sure that they are at their peak quality by the time I’m done. Some of these paintings measure 6x7 meters. That is a big canvas and requires an adequate amount of time, love, and attention.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CHALLENGES FACING ARTISTS THESE DAYS? The art world needs appreciation and encouragement. Without the proper motivation, artists will struggle to produce. They also need to have channels where their work can be highlighted and promoted. Having that level of encouragement will build their self-confidence, pushing them to work harder and achieve more. They need to be able to make a sale with their art, otherwise they might feel discouraged to create it in the first place.

WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON NOW? I’m planning on finishing more paintings about Bahrain’s heritage. That will always be my favorite theme to capture on the canvas. I plan on delving deeper into that subject matter and creating more art that represents our Kingdom’s rich history and cherished traditions.

MASTERPIECE

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“I love capturing the beauty of our traditions with vivid colors and sharing that beauty with the world.” 03

02, 04, 05 Exceptional attention to detail 03 Artist Hasan Amin AlKha

HOTELS

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Palatial JEWELS

December 2021

01 Habtoor Palace Dubai is part of Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection

As they step through Habtoor Palace Dubai’s temple-sized doors, guests are elevated to a world of elegance where exclusivity regains its true meaning. Designed with the utmost attention to detail, it is home to some of Dubai’s finest suites, including 2 legacy suites that are unique masterpieces in the region.

The namesake Palace is also the embodiment of the Al Habtoor family and their journey around the world. Public areas, restaurants and lounges of the hotel are ornamented with arts and memorabilia subtly giving its character and residential feel to the place. Complementing the grandiose is the hotel’s private helipad. Fittingly designed to meet the discerning eye of well-traveled guests, the impressive threebedroom Sir Winston Churchill Suite houses a collection of rare art pieces from the Churchill archives. Perched on the highest floors, the twostory sprawling suite is bigger than the hotel’s 800-square-metre ballroom. It features a vast living room, a formal 12-seater dining room, an elegant study, relaxing lounge area and a majlis that is ideal for meetings. The master bedroom is connected to a spacious bathroom with an exquisite bathtub and adjoining male and female dressing rooms. Two additional bedrooms feature king and twin beds. The suite is centered around a majestic staircase that leads into the central dome of the hotel, where a rooftop plunge reveals panoramic views of the landscape gardens. The Bentley Suite combines the refined style associated with the experience of a Bentley with the elegance of the Habtoor Palace brand, and inspired by the bespoke craftsmanship of the

pinnacle Bentley Mulsanne. This custom-designed suite features a spacious entry foyer, a generous living room and a dining area that seats 10, with floor-to-ceiling windows, a walk-in wardrobe and a dedicated dressing area. The study masterfully interprets the Bentley’s signature concept of concealing-to-reveal, while gracefully embodying Bentley’s Mulliner room with veneer walls, a silk carpet, and a luxurious porpoise sofa. The master bedroom features stitched leather walls and bedside tables inspired by the Mulsanne Speed wing emblem in Burr walnut. In the dressing room, Bentley’s signature diamond detailing is etched into the frame of the mirror. The signature Butler Service of Habtoor Palace offers guests discreet and personalized attention throughout their stay. From a forgotten travel item to a perfectly pressed suit ready for an important meeting, or a thoughtful, last-minute gift for a loved one, no request is too small or unattainable - no matter the hour of the day. While always on hand to assist with each guest’s need during their stay, there are five signature services offered with compliments - unpacking and packing, beverage service, pressing of two garments per day, service desk and e-butler. Available 24 hours, the butler service is available to all guests enjoying any room types. Anticipatory attention, the hallmark of Habtoor Palace Butler

Service, ensures all guests’ unique preferences are known and understood in every detail. While always on hand to assist, guests can avail of our five signature butler services - unpacking and packing, beverage service, pressing of two garments per day, service desk, and the eButler. A luxurious retreat located on the banks of the Dubai Water Canal, Habtoor Palace is Dubai’s first ever integrated urban resort. A city escape within the city, Habtoor Palace Dubai sits alongside two other hotels, three high-rise residential towers, as well as the city’s first amphitheater water show La Perle by Dragone. Guests are spoiled for choice with access to more than 30 restaurants, bars and lounges, three rooftop pools, two spas, 24-hour fitness facilities and an indoor tennis academy. An enviable location, the hotel is simply a 20-minute drive from Dubai International Airport, and minutes away from city’s key attractions, locales of Downtown & Uptown Dubai, business districts of Business Bay and Dubai International Financial Centre. Habtoor Palace Dubai will be honored to elevate every guest’s experience thanks to its Bentley chauffeured signature fleet, available upon request and for all their transportation needs before, during and after their stay. alhabtoorcity.com

HOTELS

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December 2021

02 The majestic staircase of Sir Winston Churchill Suite leads guests to their own plunge pool 03 Master Bedroom of the Bentley Suite 04 An entirely custom-designed Bentley Suite 05 The grand lobby of Habtoor Palace Dubai

HOTELS

Redefining Hospitality Discover the true meaning of hospitality and experience the ultimate in luxury at these global destinations.

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01 The luxurious Ultima Courchevel Belvédèr

December 2021

02, 04, 05 Cozy and refined interior 03 Wellness is at the heart of Ultima Courchevel Belvédère

ULTIMA COURCHEVEL BELVÉDÈRE, FRANCE Ultima Collection invites guests to take their skiing to new heights in its luxurious ski and wellness resort, Ultima Courchevel Belvédère. The fourth Alpine property in the Collection, the resort offers the experience of an ultra-luxury 5-star hotel within the privacy of a chalet. The property includes 13 privatized four and five-bedroom chalets, categorized into three types, Grand, Prestige and Signature, based on their size and service level. Ultima guests can choose between the two levels of service offered: completely selfcatered experience - which is not without its access to Ultima’s luxury concierge - or the full Ultima experience, complete with a dedicated ski butler, massage therapists, transfers to Courchevel 1850, and famously extravagant breakfasts. Exquisitely situated on the Belvédère slopes, sitting between Courchevel 1850 and La Rosière forest, each chalet features an expansive living space, fully equipped kitchen, lift and access

to an in-house designer ski store, whilst every bedroom boasts an ensuite bathroom, dressing room and balcony or direct outdoor access. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow swathes of natural interior light and breathtaking views across the picturesque snow-blanketed valley; natural beauty is not in short supply. As expected with an Ultima Collection property, wellness is at the heart of its offering. The spa area features treatment rooms, an indoor and outdoor pool, state-of-the-art hammam, Jacuzzi and sauna, fitness room and beauty salon. Bespoke treatments and programmes with leading wellness experts are available upon request, accompanied by the latest innovative products from leading Swiss wellness brand, Swiss Perfection. Ultima Courchevel Belvédère also welcomes a new restaurant and terrace to the Courchevel dining scene, serving gourmet cuisine to guests.

Located at the heart of Europe’s largest ski region, Les Trois Vallées, over 600 kilometers of maintained pistes lie on the doorstep of the chalets. It’s a short 7-minute transfer journey to the city’s bars and restaurants for when the hours turn dark. Plus, Ultima ski guides and instructors are at the ready to lead excursions to the hidden gems of The Three Valleys, and beyond. Non-skiers can take to the town of Courchevel to explore the refined boutiques, dining, and entertainment on offer, with the Ultima team on call to curate unique and authentic experiences featuring the region’s finest offerings at any time. Private jet and helicopter transfers can easily be arranged to Courchevel Altiport and Chambéry Aerodrome. Ultima Courchevel can also be reached comfortably by car, or luxury pre-booked transfers from Geneva and Lyon international airports. ultimacollection.com

SPAS

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December 2021

SERENE TREATMENTS Take your body and mind on a journey of relaxation with these worldwide destinations of tranquility. CHEVAL BLANC PARIS DIOR SPA FRANCE Located in the heart of the capital, a world of gracious well-being awaits guests of Dior Spa at Cheval Blanc Paris. Designed by the architect Peter Marino, this oasis of 1000 m2 is a place where luxury, calm, and pleasure reign supreme. The layout is designed with rare marble, precious woods, handcrafted mosaics, metallic patinas, and subdued light lending to a sensation of intimacy. The spa serves as a vibrant tribute to Christian Dior’s life and offer local Parisians and visitors can all find their own pace. For a tailormade experience, the choice between abandoning one’s cares or release one’s inhibitions completely. Dior Spa is a haven for care-free relaxation and genuine pleasure. A place of freshness, relaxation, and why not, an ideal spot for a rendezvous around the impressive 30-metre swimming pool, bordered by spacious relaxation beds, discretely sheltered from public view for a half-hour of muscular rejuvenation. Options are varied with a wellness area for guests to purify in a sauna, hammam and invigorating snow shower; the expansive fitness room where you can attain your top form thanks to state-of-the-art equipment and avant-garde technology; and the training room for sessions scheduled from morning to night by four expert coaches. The possibilities include activities such as boxing, Pilates, yoga, CrossFit across multiple genres such as hip hop, afro, and jazz. The spacious changing rooms are designed to give you the most privacy. Or, even more discrete, try in-room training, providing the option to reserve a bike and a weight bench for a workout in your room. 01

chevalblanc.com

01 Designed for calm and peace 02, 03, 04 The ultimate in wellness

02 03

SPAS

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05, 07 Exquisitely luxurious interiors 06, 08, 09 Holistic treatments

December 2021

THE SPA AT MANDARIN ORIENTAL, DOHA, QATAR The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Doha takes a holistic approach to helping guests find wellness of the body and mind. Guests are immersed in a seamless journey with holistic treatments based on the orient’s aged old philosophy of Zen and balance. Signature programs and treatments are tailor-made to the individual, thereby providing a completely bespoke experience for every guest. Spread over 3,030 square meters, the nine treatment rooms include one couples suite and two exclusive VIP suites. The spa also features male and female indoor pools as well as extensive heat and water experiences for guests to enjoy before and/ or after their treatments. The spa indoor pools are open to guests aged 18 years or above. The multi-award-winning Spas at Mandarin Oriental are havens for contemplation and discovery. Guided by the Group’s oriental heritage but influenced by local cultural diversity, Mandarin Oriental has created distinctive concepts with highly sophisticated spa offerings. Each Spa at Mandarin Oriental is designed to offer a complete holistic experience that goes well beyond simply delivering massages to tired bodies. Highly trained therapists are thoroughly educated to the Group’s own exacting standards, and all take pride in delivering a bespoke service to meet guests’ personal wellness needs. mandarinoriental.com/doha

SPAS

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10, 11 Soothing ambiance and treatments 12, 13 Unique wellness experience

December 2021

CIEL SPA DUBAI, UAE Ciel Spa, a leading spa brand within the Accor group, is an intimate wellness haven within SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences, offering world-class services and customized treatments carried out by a team of expert aestheticians and therapists. From relaxing massages, nourishing body wraps, complexion-enhancing facials to a variety of treatment rooms and amenities, Ciel Spa will surely provide guests with the ultimate luxurious pampering experience. Beyond its targeted and results-driven massages, Ciel Spa places an emphasis on skincare and wellness innovation, presenting the exclusively available clinical HydraFacial, a skincare treatment that instantly brightens the skin without any irritation, discomfort, or recovery time. The popular, deep-cleansing, and comprehensive treatment is designed to improve skin glow and hydration while diminishing imperfections, leaving your skin feeling smooth, uplifted, and radiant. And you don’t have to reconnect, reset, and

renew alone. Ciel Spa’s extensive spa menu includes the aptly named Cloud Nine, a heavenly couple’s treatment that exudes the sensation of being in the clouds with a unique bubble exfoliating body foam followed by a warm candle massage. Sophisticated yet minimalist, Ciel Spa’s serene space has plenty of natural lighting with floor-toceiling windows and unobstructed views of the Burj Khalifa. With Bishop Design at its helm, Ciel Spa is designed with the unerring eye for luxury, comfort and state-of the-art technology. The holistic wellness experience is further complemented by a fitness center, beauty and salon services, steam rooms, jacuzzies, ice fountains and experience showers. The warm, near-silent atmosphere makes Ciel Spa a veritable tranquil escape from the urban sprawl of the city, where you’ll recharge your inner spirit and enhance your physical well-being. sbe.com

DINING

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REFINED TASTE Experience a culinary journey with awardwinning and critically acclaimed restaurants from around the world.

re/ASIAN CUISINE BAHRAIN BAY, BAHRAIN Fine food, great conversation, and a buzzing ambience are simple pleasures that the world is relishing in a whole new way. With its finger ever on the pulse, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay opened its reimagined re/ASIAN Cuisine restaurant as part of a new 50th floor dining concept complete with Japanese-inspired Sushi Lounge. Fuelled by the unique creativity of celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck, re/ASIAN Cuisine’s reputation has been built on its refreshingly modern take on traditional Asian cuisine. Continuing this legacy, the new Sushi Lounge – flowing directly into re/’s original restaurant – offers a levelled-up Asian dining experience with views and vibe to match. Playing to a neutral palette of warm earthy tones, the setting reflects the minimalist Japanese aesthetic and allows the true stars to shine: the expert chefs behind the raw-edge wooden sushi counter creating vibrant box-pressed oshizushi

sushi to order. Simple furniture and statement pieces translate the understated beauty of Nippon design while light airy interiors are punctuated by the dark sultry tones of Asian macassar ebony columns and walls clad in vertical Japanese-style oak timber slats. Comfy sofa seating, handcrafted cocktails and trendy beats complete the high-rise, high-energy appeal. The restaurant’s revamped menu promises a range of tantalising dishes for guests to experience including Sichuan spinach with sesame brittle and chili oil; and tare glazed eggplant salad with Japanese pickles and citrus vinaigrette. Other new taste sensations include the introduction of Los Angeles’ popular vegetable-based sushi, while returning guests will also be pleased to revisit some old favourites beyond the Sushi Lounge. @reasiancuisine

December 2021

DINING

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December 2021

SUBLIMOTION DUBAI, UAE Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai is hosting Ibiza’s famed Sublimotion for a multi-sensory dining pop-up until 4th February 2022. Sublimotion opened to instant renown in Ibiza in 2014 and has been at the top of the world’s culinary rankings ever since. The experience is the brainchild of Paco Roncero, chef and owner of two-Michelin-starred Paco Roncero Restaurante in Madrid, and creative director Eduardo Gonzales, of Vega Factory. This unique haute-cuisine experience features 10 whimsical courses that transform with every scene, prepared with the finest ingredients and paired with incomparable performances. The theatrical show includes 360-degree screens with imagery projected onto every surface, from the walls to the table, turning the dining room into a stage, the team into actors and just 12 lucky diners into stars. Guests can enjoy this one-of-kind experience at AED 5,000 per seat or combine it with everything else the luxurious beachfront resort has to offer by booking the Ultimate Sublimotion Experience suite package, priced from AED 19,000 per night. mandarinoriental.com/dubai

DINING

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December 2021

SUSHI HISAYOSHI HARBOUR CITY, HONG KONG Led by sushi master Hisayoshi Iwa and his protege Tsukasa Kaneko, Sushi Hisayoshi is now open in Harbour City. As with his Michelin-starred venue in Ginza, Sushi Hisayoshi Chef Iwa and his teamshowcase the best seafood from all around Japan, with four omakase menus available for Hong Kong diners to experience high-quality ingredients prepared with expert techniques. Inspired by renowned Chef Sensei Shinji Kanesakasan and Senpai Takashi Saito-san, Chef Iwa is a celebrated sushi master who spent over a decade training at a number of Ginza’s best sushi restaurants. In 2012, he opened his own restaurant, Ginza Iwa, which was promptly bestowed with a coveted Michelin star. In addition to his culinary nous, ChefIwa ensures that the kitchens he oversees use only the highest quality ingredients available. Fresh fish is purchased from trusted suppliers in Tsukiji, Kyushu, Shikoku and Hokkaido every day, and is then freshly airfreighted to Hong Kong to ensure that Chef Iwa’s quality standards are consistently maintained. Menus at Sushi Hisayoshi will feature eight signature dishes of Chef Iwa, with each representing the refined qualityof Japanese dining. One must-try masterpiece is the Fermented Oo-toro. Reminiscing Japanese preservation techniques from the times before refrigerator was invented, the marinated Oo-toro is aged for two weeks in a custom-made maturation cabinet from Japan to make the umami more prominent. Lightly seared over charcoal, the resulting Ootoro is an umami-laden delight with a subtle char flavour rounding out the salty marinated fish. sushihisayoshi.com

DINING

176

December 2021

UOHARU PACIFIC PLACE, HONG KONG Celebrated Tokyo seafood-centred izakaya Uoharu boasts a series of exclusive menu items - including nigiri sushi and plant-based delicacies - and delights diners with engaging performances. The speakeasy-style Uoharu Pacific Place showcases a contemporary, redefined Japanese izakaya experience. and is set to be a new go-to spot for casual gatherings and happy hour get-togethers in the area. Uoharu Pacific Place recreates the distinctly relaxing ambiance of a kaizen izakaya and aims to convey the understated yet tasteful atmosphere of an authentic neighbourhood restaurant in Japan. Guests are welcomed with a small Japanese-style

entrance which requires all who enter to duck their heads, thus creating a space in which all who enter are equal. The muted tones of the interior are illuminated by softly glowing and carefully placed lights, while the central features of a robatayaki counter and sashimi bar allows chefs to display both their culinary prowess and the fresh ingredients they use. The intimate bar area is designed for guests to gather with a cup of sake or happy hour cocktail after a long day of work, allowing for a more relaxing atmosphere in which to enjoy hearty Japanese fare. instagram.com/uoharuhk

DINING

178

URLA DUBAI, UAE URLA is now open and is set to bring high-octane energy, glamour, and unmistakable flavors to the heart of Dubai. Located on the Fountain Level at the Address Downtown Dubai Hotel, URLA invites guests to discover a piece of Aegean paradise, capturing the feeling of summer and sunsets, across the coastal routes of Spain, Greece, and the West of Turkey. With up-close and intimate views of the dazzling Burj Khalifa and unparalleled sights of the Dubai Fountains, watch as the sun sinks in the sky and the fountains dance into life. Named after the town of URLA, a gastronomical corner on the West Coast of Turkey, URLA’s culinary roots celebrate flavor and vibrant storytelling, encompassing the best of Aegean cuisine, drawing influence from surrounding landscapes a well as Greece and Spain. Discover a menu bursting with fresh produce from both land and sea, all of which are exclusive to the beautiful Aegean coasts, offering a fresh take on traditional dishes. URLA’s menu presents contemporary and cosmopolitan

dining with an artisanal twist, focusing on sharing dishes that are divided into ‘Share the Sea’ and ‘Share the Mountain’. Settle into the evening with an exquisite platter of fresh Oysters or savor a Seabass Ceviche, served with crispy sweet potato, cancha corns and tiger’s milk. For Caviar lovers, enjoy a slice of toasted, buttery brioche topped with the world’s leading caviar. Moving through the menu to the main sea-inspired dishes, guests can indulge in a gourmet Lobster Confit with sautéed greens and baby potatoes as well as the Monkfish Skewer, complemented with Padròn peppers and garlic chips. As the sun sinks in the sky and early evening gives way to the night, the indoor dining area will transition into an unforgettable evening venue, bringing high energy and glamour to Downtown. One of the most stylish spots in Dubai, expect the unexpected at URLA. URLArestaurant.com

December 2021

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D-EXPERIENCE

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December 2021

Performance PERFECT Considered the evolution of the Prancing Horse’s 2+ GT spider, the Ferrari Portofino, the Ferrari Portofino M bursts with innovations that enhance its superb versatility and the pleasure of en plein air driving. We take the Portofino M for a drive around the beautiful streets of Dubai.

From the very first glance, the Portofino M is a sight to behold. The gorgeous exterior was made for Dubai’s dazzling lights and scenery, fitting in with the glamor and lifestyle of this city. The Portofino M is the (re)starting point for Prancing Horse’s pursuit of innovation while fully respecting its heritage, passion, and constant search for perfection. In fact, the ‘M’ in its moniker stands for ‘Modificata’, which in Ferrari nomenclature refers to cars that have undergone an evolution that has significantly boosted their performance. Driving the Portofino M was a sheer joy due to its innovative features and dynamic qualities. There is no shortage of technical innovation in the stunning new evolution of the Ferrari Portofino, the most notable being its redesigned powertrain, a brand-new eight-speed gearbox and the five-position Manettino that includes a Race mode, an absolute first for a Maranello GT spider. As a consequence of these and many other new features, the Portofino M guarantees an unprecedented combination of authentic GT performance, driving pleasure, agility and exceptional versatility in everyday driving contexts.

This latest design and engineering masterpiece from the Prancing Horse is the perfect evolution of the Ferrari Portofino. Sportier in character than its predecessor, it also delivers superior handling whilst not only maintaining but enhancing onboard comfort, courtesy of specific new optional features, such as ADAS, and ventilated and heated seats. The Ferrari Portofino M thus retains the Ferrari Portofino’s twin soul and is the only car on the market that can rightfully be described as an authentic coupé with its top closed and a genuine spider when it is open. This is thanks, of course, to the Retractable Hard Top (RHT), the signature feature of all the Prancing Horse’s convertibles. Wherever we went in Dubai, the Portofino M felt and looked right at home. It formed a special bond with its landmarks and locations, which reflected on us making the connection as well. With its unparalleled versatility and on-board comfort, it truly is an impressive addition from the Maranello marque. ferrari.com

01 A design and engineering masterpiece 02, 03, 04 The exquisite Ferrari Portofino M

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D-EXPERIENCE

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December 2021

Ferrari 812 GTS Giving it the Durrah treatment, we took out the impressive Ferrari 812 GTS around the streets of Bahrain. A true work of art, the 812 GTS comes from a long line of iconic models. The Ferrari V12 spider story features many iconic models and began in 1948 with the 166 MM, an authentic thoroughbred competition GT that won the two most prestigious endurance races in the world in 1949: the Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The last in that long lineage was the 1969 365 GTS4, also known as the Daytona Spider because of Ferrari’s legendary victory in the 1967 24 Hours of Daytona when two works 330 P4s and the NART-entered 412 P took the chequered flag side-by-side to occupy the top three places. The front-mounted V12 architecture has not been used in a Ferrari series-production spider since the 365 GTS4. That said, four special series limited editions have been launched: the 550 Barchetta Pininfarina in 2000, the Superamerica in 2005, the SA Aperta in 2010 and, most recently, the F60 America of which just 10 were built to celebrate Ferrari’s 60th year on the American market in 2014.

The 812 GTS was absolutely breathtaking as we cruised down the highway, a marvel of performance, engineering, and comfort. But there’s no surprise there. Like its historic predecessors, the 812 GTS set a new benchmark in terms of performance and exclusivity. Sporting Ferrari’s majestic 800 cv V12, it is not merely the most powerful production spider on the market, but also the most versatile, thanks to its retractable hard top, a unique feature in this segment which also guarantees a larger boot capacity. The retractable hard top (RHT), which opens in just 14 seconds at speeds of up to 45 km/h, does not impinge upon the interior dimensions, thus maintaining the donor car’s roomy cockpit. The electric rear screen, which acts as a wind-stop, makes the car truly useable with the top down while, with the top up, it can be left open to allow occupants to continue to luxuriate in the naturally-aspirated V12’s unique soundtrack. The 812 GTS is the spider version of the 812 Superfast, from which it takes both its specifications and performance, most notably the power unit which, thanks to its ability to unleash a

massive 800 cv at 8500 rpm, is the most powerful engine in its class. 718 Nm of torque guarantees impressive acceleration virtually on a par with that of the 812 Superfast while the heady 8900 rpm rev limit means that sporty driving is undiminished. Parking at Bahrain Bay, the 812 GTS looked absolutely stunning with the iconic skyline behind it. Ferrari never disappoints when it comes to style, and the 812 GTS one lives up to that tradition. Designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre and based on the 812 Superfast, the 812 GTS echoes the formal language and proportions of Ferrari’s front-engined V12 without altering either its exterior dimensions or interior space and comfort, so it represents the perfect marriage of sportiness and elegance. An ode to the marriage between performance and beauty, words can never do the 812 GTS justice. It is another phenomenal addition from the Maranello marque, one that must be experienced first-hand to be truly appreciated. ferrari.com

04 01 The breathtaking Ferrari 812 GTS 02, 03 The perfect marriage of sportiness and elegance 04 03

It unleashes a massive 800 cv at 8500 rpm, the most powerful engine in its class

AUTOMOTIVE

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Elevating STANDARDS Fun, powerful, and safe, the Cadillac Escalade introduces new levels of road confidence. We take the beloved luxury SUV for a fun spin around the streets of Dubai to get the full Durrah experience.

Ever since its launch, the newest-generation Cadillac Escalade has set a new benchmark for luxury SUVs with several segment-first technologies and features paralleled with show-stopping design and commanding road presence. However, the Escalade packs so much more than what meets the eye. This world-beating luxury SUV brings plenty of entertainment and fun to the drive. Through advanced infotainment, this luxury SUV elevates the driving experience to a new level, while offering second-to-none safety for complete peace of mind. Going at a brisk speed on Shaikh Zayed Highway, we could feel the power of the Escalade at our disposal. With no exaggeration, confidence-inspiring performance is one of the most distinguishable traits of the lavish Escalade. Powered by a new 6.2L V-8 engine, the Escalade naturally commands the road delivering 420 horsepower and a stellar 624Nm of torque. The powerful and extremely refined engine is matched with a 10-speed automatic transmission with electronic shift control, which easily changes between gears and allows drivers to maximize the performance and efficiency of the V-8, in any driving situation. This powerful, yet smooth performance gives drivers a sense of control like no other. Cadillac’s signature magnetic ride control reads the road 1,000 times per second, which means the vehicle is reading every inch of the road at almost 100 km/h, ensuring drive comfort and responsiveness at all times. The Magnetic ride control is combined with a new air adaptive suspension. Composed of electronically controlled air springs, it is precision-crafted to help elevate the

isolation, making the ride even smoother for drivers and passengers alike. On top of its gorgeous design and thrilling performance, the Escalade clearly still believes that with great power comes great responsibility. Packed with advanced safety features, drivers and passengers can rest assured that there are no compromises when it comes to safety. In fact, this luxury road-companion is uniquely able to command nearly any situation no matter how big the stage or how bright the lights, thanks to its intuitive driver-assistance systems and safety features such as Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning and Night Vision. The biggest revelation of our time with the Escalade is how all aspects of what makes a perfect ride simply aligned together, creating a focus on the journey and not the destination. The three-rows SUV gives drivers and passengers multiple options to take the ride up a notch, from personalized comfort to mind-altering sound. In fact, the driver and front seat passengers can treat themselves to a massage session on the go. Those seats can also be heated or ventilated, depending on the weather, to maximize comfort and enjoyment. With a powerful confidence-boosting performance that dominates the roads, paralleled with fun features and uncompromising safety aspects, the newest generation Escalade raises its own standards, elevating the extraordinary and pushing the journey forward with innovations that completely revolutionize the driving experience. cadillacarabia.com

01, 02 Luxury interior 03, 04 Powered by a new 6.2L V-8 engine, the Escalade commands the road

December 2021

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Maserati Levante Hybrid Euro Motors, the official importer of Maserati in the Kingdom, has announced the arrival of the new Maserati Levante Hybrid in Bahrain. With the Brand’s first electrified SUV, Maserati takes a major step forward in its strategy for electrification, which began last year with the Ghibli Hybrid. Levante Hybrid is faster than a diesel, more sustainable than diesel or gasoline, and unique in its specific characteristics. Levante Hybrid combines the 4-cylinder, 2-liter engine with a 48-volt Hybrid system to recover energy during deceleration and braking. With a maximum power output of 330 hp and torque of 450 Nm delivered from just 2,250 rpm, the performance data of the new Levante Hybrid, only

available with all-wheel drive, is impressive: a top speed of over 240 km/h and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 6 seconds. On the exterior, blue characterizes the three iconic side air ducts, the brake calipers and the C-pillar logo. The same blue shade reappears inside the car, specifically on the embroidered seams of the seats. The blue color was chosen by Maserati to identify hybrid cars and it already used by on the Ghibli Hybrid. The Levante Hybrid is on display at the Maserati Bahrain Showroom, located in Sitra, starting from 12th of December. euromotors.com.bh

December 2021

07 08

05 The Levante Hybrid is Maserati’s first electrified SUV 06, 08 Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 6 seconds 07 The new Maserati Levante Hybrid

AUTOMOTIVE

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December 2021

JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE L 2022 We took the brand-new Jeep Grand Cherokee L for a ride around Dubai’s streets. Needless to say, it was endless fun on four wheels. This SUV just looks ruggedly handsome. The highly versatile Grand Cherokee L offers three available 4x4 systems and a host of capability features designed for off-road trails, city streets and everything in between. A new sculpted exterior with a tapered roof optimizes aerodynamic performance without sacrificing space. The front view has been refreshed but remains reminiscent of its Grand Cherokee lineage. A full suite of available premium LED lighting completes the picture. This all-new design has more than just curb appeal; it is a revelation in both form and function. Nothing exemplifies this more than the Summit model, which was named the Most Luxurious Vehicle in its Class. The front silhouette design was inspired by past full-size Jeep® Brand luxury vehicles while also incorporating forward-thinking design cues. Driving down Shaikh Zayed Highway, it becomes clear how the Jeep Grand Cherokee L pairs impressive off-road capability with on-road refinement. It has plenty of luxury features, yet still retaining that trademark Jeep look. The Most Awarded SUV Ever now comes with three rows that seat seven passengers and achieves Best-in-Class second-row legroom. New features like available 16-way adjustable power front seats with memory and massage help keep you comfortable while the available Quad-Zone Automatic Temperature Control makes for a cozier cabin for all. The second row features a Best-in-Class 1000.76 mm of 11

09, 12 A new sculpted exterior 10, 11 The highly versatile Grand Cherokee L

legroom, creating a thoughtfully designed interior so every passenger can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. Grand Cherokee L has the interior space to let you bring more people along for the journey. With multiple seating configurations available, you can pick the cabin that best suits your crew. The available multicolor Ambient LED Lighting with settings for both day and night, add an aura of sophistication to any journey. With the Most Available Safety and Security Features in its Class, the All-New Grand Cherokee L watches your back, front and sides. Drive confidently with over 110 standard and available safety and security features including Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Forward Collision Warning, Active Lane Management, Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path Detection and Automatic Emergency Braking. Jeep Connect services offer a new world of high-tech capabilities. Plus, the All-New Uconnect® 5 with an available 256.54-mm touchscreen is a pioneer in personalization with up to five user profiles and simultaneous dualphone connectivity for passengers. Along with the available Head-Up Display and a new available McIntosh® MX950 Entertainment System with 19 speakers, the Grand Cherokee L makes a true leap forward from its groundbreaking predecessors. The time we spent with the Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a joy. The ride was simply composed and smooth, making for a thoroughly enjoyable drive. jeep.com

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December 2021

Mini Cooper JCW 3-Door Hatch A new exterior design language now puts the unmistakable appearance of the MINI in a decidedly purist light. Above all, the enhanced aesthetics ensure that the central design features of the MINI become even more apparent and modern by means of reduction. The combustion engine of the MINI JCW 3-door delivers the power to the front wheels via an 8-speed Steptronic transmission with double clutch. Also, the new Multitone Roof for the MINI is not only the most expressive form of contrast paint to date, it also takes the brand’s hallmark ex works customization options to a new level. In terms of performance, the MINI JCW 3-Door Hatch packs a powerful punch with a system output of 170

kW/231 hp, completing the sprint from 0 – 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds. The MINI JCW 3-Door Hatch has many features, including a purist look thanks to new front design, LED headlights that now come as standard equipment, characteristic side scuttles in a new design, and a redesigned rear apron with LED rear lights in Union Jack design now standard. Other highlights include the Multitone Roof innovation, new body colors and light alloy wheels, newly-designed interior surfaces and air outlets, redesigned steering wheels, and a multifunctional instrument display with 5-inch color display. The central instrument cluster features a new Piano Black high-gloss surround,

8.8-inch display, and modern graphics display as standard. The sports seats come in new Light Chequered color, and there’s a new Ambient Light option with extended features. The adaptive chassis now features frequencyselective damping, and electric parking brake is available for the first time. Other notable features include an Active Cruise Control now with Stop & Go function, greater safety thanks to new lane departure warning and bad weather light, Piano Black exterior with extended features, and new equipment packages that allow for targeted individualization. mini-bahrain.com

13 The Mini Cooper JCW 3-Door Hatch 14, 15, 16 New exterior design language

MUST HAVE - MEN

My Wish List The latest and most exclusive luxury items for men

MB&F Legacy Machine Perpetual Evo Although the 44mm diameter is unchanged from its 2015 iteration, the new EVO case design features a no-bezel construction, with the domed sapphire crystal fused directly to the case. The increased openness of this design highlights the equilibrium between the legibility of LM Perpetual EVO’s calendar indications and the cinematic play of the engine components — surmounted by the iconic MB&F hovering balance wheel. mbandf.com

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December 2021

Thom Browne Brown Pebble Grain Leather Football Backpack Made in Italy from 10% calf leather, this football-shaped backpack comes in brown pebble grain leather and features 2-way zip top closure with leather pulls, leather top handle and backpack straps, striped lining, and brass hardware. Its measurements are 46.5cm x 35cm x 15cm. thombrowne.com

Diptyque Paris 34 Boulevard Saint Germain Hourglass Diffuser 2.0 The diptyque hourglass reinvents perfume for the home. Simply turn it over for a perfumed sensory experience: the diptyque hour. The scent of the historic store at 34 boulevard saint germain: unusual green accords, mosses, blackcurrant leaves and sun-dried fig leaves. diptyqueparis.com

Bowers Wilkins Zeppelin Beautiful design meets best-in-class sound with The Zeppelin, a wireless smart speaker reimagined for the streaming age. Its elegant form combines high-resolution stereo sound with a comprehensive range of smart, connected features and services. bowerswilkins.com

Fornasetti Wall clock Tema e Variazioni n.145 The design for this Fornasetti wall clock comes from the iconic Tema e Variazioni series, which was inspired by Lina Cavalieri’s enigmatic face. Her endless, surprising metamorphoses transform the Fornasetti wall clocks into collectors’ items for art lovers. Each Fornasetti wall clock is unique and any minor discrepancies between similar pieces are the result of artisan craftsmanship. fornasetti.com

MUST HAVE - MEN

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December 2021

Gearbox Records Gearbox Automatic Turntable MkII Improving on the original Gearbox Automatic design, the MkII model features an upgraded belt drive with aluminum pulley to ensure better speed stability. The electronics have also been uprated for better all-round performance, while the Gearbox Automatic app is now slicker and easier to use than ever. gearboxrecords.com

Jacob & Co. Bugatti Chiron Green Sapphire Crystal Timepiece An achievement of clarity and color, The Bugatti Chiron Green Sapphire Crystal timepiece is a continuation of a collection that combines the DNA of both the hyper sports car manufacturer and the luxury jewelry and watch brand. The idea of creating a sapphire case for the watch was to provide a full view of all the 578 hand-decorated and hand-assembled components of the JCAM37 manual wound caliber. jacobandco.com

Onewheel GT Electric Board The GT features a Hypercore 750w hub motor making three horsepower, pushing the hybrid scooter/skateboard to a 20 MPH top speed. A new NMC battery pack increases range to 32 miles on a full charge, and a redesigned tire improves cornering. A treaded tire is also available for off-road riding along with a concave board profile and better grip tape. onewheel.com

Master & Dynamic/Automobili Lamborghini MW65 Active Noise-Cancelling Wireless Headphones Master & Dynamic has partnered with Automobili for the MW65 Active Noise-Cancelling Wireless Headphones. They feature custom 40mm Beryllium drivers, up to 24 hours of battery life (with an optional cable to extend your listening time), and 2 modes of Active Noise-Cancelling technology to produce an exceptional acoustic experience in any environment. masterdynamic.eu

Montblanc Great Characters Enzo Ferrari Limited Edition 1898 Rollerball Pen Made from metal and processed to appear like the structure of a “Ferrari 125 S” engine, this writing instrument pays homage to the meticulous construction skills of the Ferrari workshops. The cap top is crowned with a Montblanc emblem in resin resembling frosted glass and embedded in a metal grid. The back of the cap shows the prancing horse, the famous emblem of Ferrari cars. montblanc.com

Rimowa Cabin Moon The Original Cabin Moon is a limited-edition take on one of the most iconic luggage designs of all time. With only 750 numbered models produced to mark the 750,000 km round trip journey between the brand’s headquarters in Köln and the moon, this exclusive design promises to become a collector’s item. Includes a complimentary leather luggage tag and sticker set. rimowa.com

MUST HAVE - MEN

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December 2021

Yves Saint Laurent Super73-S2 Electric Bike Saint Laurent has draped the entire bike, from the frame to every last bolt, in matte black, with their understated logo on the “tank” and Saint Laurent-branded fat tires. The bike itself has a 2,000-watt peak twist-throttle controlled power output that can hit 28 MPH. The bike features a lightweight aircraft-alloy frame, disc brakes, and around 40 miles of range. ysl.com

Ulysse Nardin Only Watch UFO The Ulysse Nardin futurist ovoid table clock called UFO gets a suntan for the Only Watch biennial. Its pop details remind us that the orange color is stimulating and full of joy. A call to the nonchalance of sunny days. As if illuminated, energized and sunlit, the UFO sways in the most refined way. So, with this orange version, this is a golden opportunity to acquire a unique original of this art object. ulysse-nardin.com

Gucci Xbox X Gucci Series X Console Gucci brings their trademark ultra-lux style to gaming with the bespoke Gucci Xbox Series X console. The console itself is wrapped in a laser-engraved case with the letters “GG” with two Gucci-branded controllers. All this fits in a hard Gucci suitcase with matching “GG” pattern and “Good Game” printed on the back that makes sure one arrives at the LAN party in style. gucci.com

Kross Studio Star Wars Tie Advanced X1 Watch Winder Kross Studio sets its watch winder apart as a fully operational art object, integrating its winding engine into a solid aluminum sculpture which is directly inspired by the TIE Advanced x1 starfighter, piloted by Lord Darth Vader himself in the film Star Wars: A New Hope. The Bluetooth-enabled watch is made of solid black anodized aluminum, fully machined, handfinished and assembled in-house. kross.studio

MUST HAVE - WOMEN

My Wish List The latest and most exclusive luxury items for women

MB&F x BULGARI Legacy Machine Flying T Allegra Radical in terms of its architecture and construction, while exquisitely precious in terms of its opulent ornamentation, this creation was intended as a tribute to femininity. In its name FlyingT, the T stands for the initial of Max Büsser’s wife, Tiffany, as well as for flying Tourbillon. In an ultimate refined touch embodying this sophisticated approach, the movement is designed in such a way that only its owner can read the time. mbandf.com

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December 2021

Aroma Tierra Collection of Luxury Holiday Gifts

Dolce&Gabbana Porcelain Soup Plates

With over 150 premium, natural and organic oils to choose from, including a range of tasteful and eco-friendly aroma diffusers and nebulizers, you can never go wrong. Aroma Tierra’s festive assortment aims to make shopping simple, allowing you to find the perfect way to show your loved ones that you care with a touch of nature, while igniting the senses for a complete wellbeing experience.

This set of porcelain soup plates, with a decorative motif based on an archival foulard print, echoes the Carretto Sicilano: a folkloric element from a place of traditions, artistic craftsmanship, landscapes and unique colours which have always been at the heart of Dolce&Gabbana’s aesthetics.

aromatierra.com dolcegabbana.com

Givenchy Accord Particulier Perfumed Candle Crafted into black glass adorned with a radically sober label, the Accord Particulier scented candle combines four notes inextricably linked to the Maison’s olfactory DNA: Damascena Rose, with its subtle honeysweet facets, strong and aromatic Haitian Vetiver, deep and warm Ambrox, as well as textured and exhilarating Patchouli Essence. givenchybeauty.com

Fendi Bottle Holder Made in collaboration with 24Bottles, it features a flask with a customized lid and flask holder with clips and an adjustable, detachable shoulder strap. The flask is made of brushed stainless steel. The flask holder is made of split leather printed with the FF motif in brown and tobacco. Finished with black leather details. Gold-finish metalware. Made in Italy. fendi.com

MUST HAVE - WOMEN

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December 2021

Fornasetti Candle Cocktail - Otto scent Created in the 1950s, the Cocktail pattern on this scented candle fully represents Fornasetti’s passion for repeating subjects and variations on a theme. The ceramic container holds natural wax with the sophisticated scent of the fragrance Otto, a blend of Mediterranean herbs, woods, and incense. Any minor discrepancies between similar creations are the result of craftsmanship and attest to the uniqueness of each product. fornasetti.com

Louis Vuitton Porcelain Vase Petite Boite Chapeau The new Porcelain Vase from the Home Decorating Collection presents a striking showcase for flowers. This standout piece takes the shape of the classic Louis Vuitton hat bag. It is crafted with great attention to detail, from the embossed Monogram pattern to the distinctive handle and name tag. louisvuitton.com

Henry Jacques Clic-Clac Henry Jacques’ all-new solid perfume is brought to life in an exceptional patented case, a sophisticated and technical cult object that echoes the brand’s desire to push the limits of creativity. With Clic-Clac, Henry Jacques breathes new life into solid perfumes; each of its 50 most-loved Classiques are offered in this balm-like format, and a trilogy of its most loved scents is born: essences, mists, now solids. parfumshenryjacques.com

Gucci Coloring Pencil Set with Double G Inspired by school stationery from the past, this set of twenty coloring pencils is presented in a roll case crafted from the House’s monogram canvas. Deepening the style’s logo feel, the design is completed by the emblematic Double G hardware and the green and red Web stripe. Both symbols are a reference to Gucci’s origins and deepen the style’s vintage appeal. gucci.com

Hermes Theoreme Round and Round box The Round and round design by Nigel Peake is inspired by Hermès’ saddle-making heritage, taking us into the heart of a horse race. The design’s movement is inspired by an aerial view of famous French racecourses, the likes of Tremblay or Saint-Cloud. The graphic motifs are inspired by the jerseys worn by jockeys. Handpainted on lacquer, this design decorates Theoreme boxes and Atrium trays. hermes.com

LOEWE Limited Edition Gift Sets Of Complementary Scented Candles The pattern evokes the cheerful, escapist atmosphere of a fantasy herbarium. It’s a lyrical expression of the eclectic LOEWE holiday gifts fragrance collection: Gift Sets of full-size scent from LOEWE’s Botanical Rainbow paired with matching fragrant accessories, and two pairs of LOEWE Home Scents Scented Candles: ‘Tomato Leaves and Luscious Pea’ and ‘Honeysuckle and Ivy’. loewe.com

MUST HAVE - WOMEN

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December 2021

Diptyque Paris Black Bronze Candle Holder M An object exclusively imagined for diptyque by artist bronze smith Osanna Visconti; this stunning piece in gold bronze is simply exceptional. Handcrafted by reputed artisans of an Italian Art Foundry, according to a molding technique known as lost-wax casting. For use with 190g candles. Available in 3 models. Ultra-limited series of only 10 originals per model. diptyqueparis.com

Miu Miu Snowboard The Miu Miu snowboard, inspired by freestyle designs and made with eco-sustainable materials, is easy to handle, even in the most technical jibbing maneuvers. This light, versatile board can tackle all kinds of conditions and was designed for people who want something new, whether they’re beginners or experts.

Thom Browne Black Pebble Grain Leather Reindeer Hector Bag Made in Italy from 100% Calf Leather, this Reindeer Hector bag comes in black pebble grain leather with red nose. Rounded leather double top handles. Zippered top closure. Brass bone charm at neck. Leather luggage tag with gold foil printed logo. Striped lining. Signature striped grosgrain loop tab at neck. thombrowne.com

miumiu.com

Louis Vuitton Afternoon Tea Box In the timeless tradition of Louis Vuitton to create lifestyle trunks to accompany stylish travelers, several trunks for picnic use can be found in the archives of the house. To continue this tradition and create a new companion, the Afternoon Tea trunk will accompany 4 guests to share this gourmet moment wherever they travel. louisvuitton.com

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The Real “Dana” Revealed In line with the vision of the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Al Dana Amphitheater is set to bolster Bahrain’s campaign to become a world-class entertainment destination and a viable tour stop for international acts. Carved from the rock of the spectacular Sakhir desert, Al Dana Amphitheatre is Bahrain’s newest and most exciting live entertainment destination. Driven by a vision to create globally recognized entertainment experiences in the Kingdom of Bahrain, this extraordinary venue merges the desert landscape with state-ofthe-art technology. A place where imagination comes to life, it offers four dynamic event spaces - the breath-taking open-air Amphitheatre, the extraordinary Quarry Lounge, the refreshing Desert Garden, and the spacious open-air Plaza. Catering for everything from iconic star-studded concerts to special indoor celebrations, it seeks to ignite the imaginations of guests and artists alike, creating magical and unforgettable moments in a one-of-a-kind setting. Al Dana Amphitheatre has the ability to delight and inspire audiences with its dramatic and complex design. Featuring an impressive 10,000 seat amphitheater, construction of this remarkable venue first began in December 2018. Completed in June 2020, it took less than 2 years to bring our vision to life – an extraordinary feat!

Sustainability lies at the heart of Al Dana Amphitheatre, which has been designed and constructed to use the lowest energy possible with recycled materials used throughout. It includes raw materials such as concrete and recycled rubber flooring, corporate boxes that are recycled shipping containers, and a substantial amount of the rock quarried from the site was recycled into key design elements, recycled and re-appropriated materials used in bathrooms and the Quarry Lounge, as well as the use of LED lighting throughout, materials and technologies chosen to complement the landscape-focused design theme, and the rock’s acoustic qualities allow sound to disperse cleanly and predictably from the stage, giving a distinct, highly-quality sound. Al Dana Amphitheatre was built with the community in mind and has a long-term vision to support and promote home-grown talent. As well as hosting incredible international concerts with chart-topping artists and private events in Bahrain, this venue can be used by the whole community. Built on a long-standing cultural tradition of music appreciation, it has the power to bring people together, help them connect with one another, and bring joy and vibrancy to a community. Look out for exciting and upcoming community events, as well as fun volunteering opportunities. aldana.com.bh

December 2021

‫اﻟﻤﺮﺗﻌﺸﺔ‬ A L M E RTA’ S H A H