VACHERON CONSTANTIN CELEBRATES 270 YEARS OF SEEKING EXCELLENCE WITH A SERIES OF LIMITED EDITIONS.
EACH INDIVIDUALLY NUMBERED TIMEPIECE FEATURES
THE 270TH ANNIVERSARY SIGNATURE, A FINE DIAL DECOR INSPIRED BY THE MALTESE CROSS AND DEDICATED CALIBRE FINISHING.
Editorial
Welcome to another captivating edition of Durrah magazine, where we continue to bring you compelling stories of ambition, innovation, and cultural brilliance from the world of luxury.
In this issue, we highlight Bahrain’s growing influence across diplomacy and design. From the Arab Summit in Baghdad, we reflect on the Kingdom’s pivotal role under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the notable contributions of Dr. Abdullatif Al Zayani, who reaffirmed Bahrain’s commitment to regional unity and resilience.
Our focus on craftsmanship continues with indepth conversations across the luxury landscape. A. Lange & Söhne’s Tino Bobe discusses the brand’s pursuit of perfection, revealing how training, heritage, and innovation converge in every timepiece. George Ciz, CMO of TAG Heuer, shares how the brand blends its Formula 1 legacy with bold digital storytelling to connect with new generations of watch enthusiasts.
We hear from Jan Hanak and Stephanie Aboujaoude of Radisson Hotel Group, who speak on reshaping hospitality through technology, inclusivity, and local authenticity. Their insights reflect the future of travel, one rooted in personalized experiences and purpose-driven innovation.
Durrah also takes pride in spotlighting regional creativity. In Bahrain, Qannati Lab is emerging as a new epicenter for horology and innovation. Founder Mahmood Qannati, Swiss master watchmaker Pierre
Christe, and Bahrain Polytechnic’s CEO Dr. Ciarán Ó. Catháin unveil how the lab fuses Swiss precision with Gulf heritage, offering students a platform to craft wearable narratives grounded in history and engineering.
From the world of art, we explore the emotional resonance and cultural layers within the works of Dhuha Alkhdhairi and Qassim Hamza Farhood. Alkhdhairi, an Iraqi-Austrian artist, paints architecture, memory, and nostalgia with vibrant optimism. Farhood, a master ceramicist, channels Mesopotamian heritage into modern expressions of Iraqi identity, reminding us that craftsmanship, at its core, is a form of storytelling.
As always, Durrah brings you curated luxury, from inspiring destinations and elevated gastronomy to the finest in style and design. Every page is crafted to inspire, inform, and immerse you in a world where tradition meets forward-thinking elegance.
Enjoy your read!
Deputy
Art Director
Features Editor Tariq Khonji
Editors Amy Vaya
Mohammed
Marketing
Production
Production
Khalid Ahmed Juman Editor in Chief
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First Impression
Editor’s Letter
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Guiding Arab Future
The Arab Summit
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Cultural Architecture
Interview with Manhal Al Habbobi 024
Elegant Forms
Interview with renowned Iraqi calligrapher, Wissam Shawkat
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Art & Identity
Interview with Iraqi-Austrian artist Dhuha Alkhdhairi
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The Future of Hospitality
Interview with Jan Hanak, Managing Director, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Egypt and Bahrain at Radisson Hotels Group 036
Jewellery with Soul
Interview with Milka Karaağaçlı İnce, Founder and Creative Director of Kismet by Milka
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Heritage & Precision
Interview with TAG Heuer CMO, George Ciz 044
Crafting Timeless Precision
Interview with Tino Bobe, Director of Manufacturing at A. Lange & Söhne
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Horology & Heritage
Interviews with Mahmood Qannati, Swiss master watchmaker Pierre Christe, and Bahrain Polytechnic CEO Ciarán Ó. Catháin
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Cinematic Milestone
Bahraini director Zaid Sater, first Bahraini filmmaker to be featured at the Chicago International Film Festival
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Legacy of Craftsmanship
Interview with artist Qassim Hamza
060
Pinnacle of Beauty
The new Graff collection
062
A New Icon
BijouQ’s Art Deco Collection
064
Opulence of Luxury
Devji Aurum’ new boutique stores in the Middle East
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Tropical Prestige
Banyan Group’s developments in Phukets
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A Fitting Tribute
Vacheron Constantin’s 270th anniversary collection, Les Cabinotiers – Tribute to the Tour de l’Île 074
Singularity of an Icon
Hublot’s 20th anniversary collection, the Big Bang 076
Elegant Timekeeping
Watches for Women
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Haute Horlogerie
Watches for Men 084
Traditional Yet Modern
The Fendi Fall/Winter 2025 collection 086
Dream Silhouettes
Elie Saab’s Haute Couture SS25 collection
Mediterranean Ease
Dolce & Gabbana Men’s SS25 collection 090
Global Allure
Louis Vuitton’s Men’s SS25 Collection
Reimagining Calligraphy
Interview with Neda Matian 096
Exquisite Style
The latest in ladies’ brand name bags
The latest in luxury cosmetics
Stepping in
The
in
The
Perfumes for Women
Perfumes for Men
The Arab Summit held in Baghdad marks a pivotal moment for the Arab world, serving as a platform for regional unity, cooperation, and collective progress. From Bahrain’s perspective, the summit is especially significant, building on the momentum generated by last year’s successful gathering when His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa had the honor of chairing the League of Arab States.
Under Bahrain’s stewardship, last year’s summit was notable for its focus on pressing regional issues, including economic development, security cooperation, and the promotion of peace amidst complex geopolitical challenges. Bahrain’s delegation emphasized the importance of dialogue, diplomacy, and multilateral efforts to resolve conflicts and foster stability. The success of the proceedings was evident in the reinforced unity among member states and the adoption of pragmatic resolutions aimed at addressing the immediate needs of the Arab world.
His Majesty the King’s leadership during the summit showcased Bahrain’s commitment to Arab
solidarity and its capacity to serve as a mediating force. The Kingdom’s efforts in promoting peace and development have garnered recognition across the region, further solidifying its role as a key player in Arab affairs.
As the summit convenes in Baghdad this year, Bahrain is optimistic about another fruitful session centered around the theme of regional resilience and cooperation. Iraq’s hosting of the summit signifies a significant step towards national reconciliation and regional stability, reflecting Iraq’s evolving political landscape and its growing role in Arab diplomacy.
In his opening address, Iraqi Prime Minister
Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani acknowledged the achievements of the Manama summit and praised Bahrain’s leadership in promoting Arab consensus. He commended Bahrain’s constructive approach and expressed appreciation for the Kingdom’s efforts in fostering dialogue and upholding regional cohesion. Al-Sudani also outlined Iraq’s vision for stronger joint Arab action, proposing initiatives aimed at unifying efforts on economic development, humanitarian support, and conflict resolution.
A notable highlight of this year’s summit is the opening speech delivered by Bahrain’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, HE Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al
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The 34th Arab League Summit meeting brought together heads of state and senior government officials to discuss regional issues, economic development, security cooperation, and the promotion of peace amidst complex geopolitical challenges
Zayani. In his remarks, Dr. Al Zayani underscored the importance of unity, resilience, and shared destiny among Arab nations. He praised Iraq’s efforts in hosting the summit and emphasized Bahrain’s continued commitment to supporting processes that promote peace and development.
Dr. Al Zayani also highlighted Bahrain’s recent strides in diplomacy and regional cooperation, reaffirming the Kingdom’s role as a proactive contributor to Arab collective interests. His words set a tone of optimism and determination, inspiring member states to work together towards a prosperous and stable Arab region.
The Arab Summit in Baghdad exemplifies the enduring spirit of solidarity among Arab nations. From Bahrain’s perspective, the previous year’s success under King Hamad’s leadership has laid a strong foundation for future achievements. As Iraq opens a new chapter in hosting this important gathering, Bahrain remains committed to fostering cooperation, dialogue, and unity, paving the way for
a brighter future for the Arab world.
Bahrain’s vision for the future is rooted in sustainable partnerships and forward-looking initiatives that uplift Arab societies as a whole. The Kingdom continues to advocate for practical solutions that address emerging challenges, including digital transformation, youth empowerment, and climate resilience. These priorities reflect Bahrain’s belief that strategic leadership must be matched with innovation and adaptability to secure long-term prosperity for the region.
Through the Summit, Bahrain reaffirms its unwavering dedication to collective Arab action and shared responsibility. Guided by the wisdom of His Majesty the King and supported by a robust diplomatic corps, the Kingdom remains a steadfast advocate for unity, peace, and inclusive development, principles that will continue to shape the Arab world’s path forward. summit.iq
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The Government Palace in Baghdad, the venue that hosted the 34th Arab League Summit
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Iraqi Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia’ AlSudani acknowledged the achievements of the Manama summit and praised Bahrain’s leadership in promoting Arab consensus
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Bahrain’s delegation attending the 34th Arab League Summit hosted by the Republic of Iraq
“ The Arab Summit in Baghdad exemplifies the enduring spirit of solidarity among Arab nations. ”
a New Generation of Visionary Architects for a More Humane Urban Future.
CAN YOU WALK US THROUGH YOUR PERSONAL JOURNEY INTO ARCHITECTURE, HIGHLIGHTING KEY MOMENTS THAT SHAPED YOUR DESIGN PHILOSOPHY AND YOUR UNDERSTANDING OF IRAQ’S UNIQUE ARCHITECTURAL IDENTITY?
My passion for architecture began at an early age. I was always fascinated by the deep connection between place and memory. My journey passed through multiple milestones that profoundly shaped my architectural vision, starting with my academic studies at the Department of Architecture at the University of Baghdad, where I had the privilege of learning under some of Iraq’s most distinguished architects. This was followed by professional experiences across diverse environments, both within Iraq and internationally. Over time, I came to firmly believe that architecture is not merely a technical practice, but a profound cultural expression of the human condition, history, and surroundings. This belief became the foundation of my design philosophy.
IN YOUR EXPERIENCE, HOW DOES IRAQI CULTURAL HERITAGE INFLUENCE YOUR APPROACH TO CONTEMPORARY ARCHITECTURE, AND WHAT ELEMENTS DO YOU BELIEVE SHOULD BE PRESERVED OR REINTERPRETED IN MODERN DESIGNS?
Iraqi cultural heritage, to me, is not merely a collection of historical forms or decorative motifs-it is an intangible reservoir of meanings, symbols, and worldviews shaped over thousands of years. What inspires me most are not the physical remnants, but the silent wisdom embedded within them: the way space was perceived, how the sacred and the ordinary were woven together, how the built environment mirrored a deeper civilizational consciousness. In my architectural approach, I
engage with this heritage not as a source of forms to be imitated, but as a profound cultural memory to be reawakened and reinterpreted. I seek to translate these intangible legacies into contemporary expressions-ones that speak to the present without severing ties with the past. Architecture, in this sense, becomes a dialogue across time: critically aware, emotionally rooted, and spiritually resonant.
CONSIDERING IRAQ’S COMPLEX HISTORY AND DIVERSE CULTURAL LANDSCAPE, HOW DO YOU NAVIGATE INTEGRATING TRADITIONAL ARCHITECTURAL FEATURES WITH MODERN CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES AND MATERIALS IN YOUR PROJECTS?
I see the fusion of traditional elements and modern technologies not as a challenge, but as an opportunity to create an architectural language that is both contemporary and rooted in its local context. In my work, I employ modern materials and advanced technologies to achieve efficiency and performance without compromising the local spirit. For example, I have reimagined the use of brick-deeply embedded in Iraq’s architectural heritage-as a modern facade element. This is done through careful manipulation of light and shadow, thoughtful proportionality, and the revival of traditional craft detailing within contemporary construction systems. In doing so, architecture becomes a dialogue between past and present, not merely imitation or rupture.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MOST SIGNIFICANT PROJECTS YOU’VE WORKED ON WITHIN IRAQ, AND COULD YOU SHARE THE CHALLENGES YOU FACED DURING THEIR DEVELOPMENT, PARTICULARLY IN TERMS OF LOGISTICAL, POLITICAL, OR SOCIETAL FACTORS?
I’ve had the honour of contributing to several transformative projects across Iraq, including the design of the General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers building, the terminal building of Karbala International Airport, and the American University in Baghdad. I also led the urban design for AlRafeel District and am currently working on the new economic capital adjacent to Baghdad-an ambitious step toward sustainable urban development. The challenges are considerable: from infrastructural fragility and bureaucratic complexity to financial uncertainty. Yet what sustains this work is a deep conviction that architecture can be a catalyst for change, and a commitment to resilience in the face of adversity.
SUSTAINABILITY HAS BECOME A GLOBAL PRIORITY-HOW DO YOU INCORPORATE SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES AND ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY SOLUTIONS INTO YOUR DESIGNS, ESPECIALLY GIVEN THE SPECIFIC CLIMATIC AND RESOURCE CONDITIONS IN IRAQ?
Sustainability, in my work, is not optional-it’s foundational. Given Iraq’s extreme climate and limited resources, designing in harmony with the environment is a necessity. I prioritize passive strategies such as optimal orientation, natural ventilation, and the use of thermally efficient local materials like Iraqi brick. But the real challenge lies not in the design itself, but in implementing sustainability on the ground. The higher initial costs of sustainable technologies and materials often clash with short-term budget mindsets and fragmented project delivery systems. Despite this, I remain committed to embedding sustainability from the earliest design stages-because in Iraq, the cost of inaction will always be far greater than the cost of doing it right.
INNOVATION OFTEN INVOLVES PUSHING BOUNDARIES-CAN YOU DISCUSS A PROJECT WHERE YOU EXPERIMENTED WITH NEW ARCHITECTURAL IDEAS OR TECHNOLOGIES, AND WHAT IMPACT YOU HOPE IT WILL HAVE ON THE IRAQI ARCHITECTURAL SCENE?
Innovation, to me, means rethinking the fundamentals-especially in a place like Iraq, where urban growth often follows outdated patterns. One of the most significant conceptual breakthroughs in my work is what I call The Third Urban Fabric, developed as part of the masterplan for Baghdad’s new economic metropolis. This concept reimagines the relationship between the city and nature by introducing a hybrid fabric-neither purely rural nor strictly urban. It offers an alternative to traditional urban sprawl, which has long fragmented Iraq’s cities and landscapes. Instead, we propose a new typology where green meadows, productive land, and human-scale urbanity are seamlessly interwoven to create a resilient, sustainable, and emotionally enriching environment. I believe this approach could mark a turning point in Iraqi urbanism-shifting the focus from expansion to integration, and from form to meaning.
THE ARCHITECTURAL INDUSTRY IN IRAQ HAS FACED NUMEROUS OBSTACLES OVER RECENT DECADES-WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE MAIN BARRIERS TO PROGRESS, AND HOW DO YOU BELIEVE YOUNG ARCHITECTS CAN OVERCOME THEM?
Architecture in Iraq faces a range of structural challenges, foremost among them being the absence of a clear national vision for urban development, lack of institutional coordination, and outdated legislation governing the profession. Added to this are deteriorating infrastructuresparticularly road and transport networks-and a complex bureaucratic environment that hinders workflow and slows progress. Despite these hurdles, I firmly believe that Iraqi youth possess remarkable creative potential. With the right support systems and opportunities for experimentation, they can become key drivers of architectural and environmental transformation.
GIVEN THE RAPID URBANISATION AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT IN IRAQI CITIES, HOW DO YOU ENVISION THE FUTURE SKYLINE OF BAGHDAD AND OTHER MAJOR URBAN CENTERS EVOLVING IN THE COMING DECADES?
I envision more humane, flexible Iraqi cities that prioritize pedestrians and communities over cars, based on the “15-minute city” concept-where
all essential services like education, healthcare, retail, and leisure are accessible within a 15-minute walk or bike ride. The future of Iraq’s cities lies in integrated urban systems with smart, sustainable infrastructure that utilizes clean energy, efficient resource management, and inclusive public spaces. I place high value on vibrant public realms, urban gardens, and green corridors that foster cultural and social interaction within healthy, safe environments. Baghdad in particular, with its historical depth and cultural richness, can reclaim its urban brilliance through a comprehensive planning vision-one that respects its legacy, redistributes urban functions equitably, and reconnects its districts via effective public transportation and multifunctional urban hubs. Building future cities in Iraq requires an ambitious national vision, institutional synergy, and genuine partnerships between the public and private sectors to create contemporary urban environments centered on people and built for future generations.
TECHNOLOGY PLAYS A SIGNIFICANT ROLE IN MODERN ARCHITECTURE-HOW HAVE DIGITAL TOOLS, 3D MODELING, OR OTHER INNOVATIONS CHANGED YOUR WORKFLOW AND DESIGN PROCESS?
Technology has fundamentally transformed the way I work. Architecture is no longer confined to drawings or theoretical concepts-it has become a fully integrated process supported by advanced digital tools that enable spatial exploration, environmental performance analysis, and real-time design interaction.
I use software such as Revit, Rhino, Grasshopper, Enscape, and Lumion on a daily basis, along with environmental analysis tools like Ladybug and ClimateStudio. These tools allow precise design modeling and performance simulation for lighting, ventilation, and energy consumption-informing better decision-making. Modern construction techniquessuch as digital structural modeling, prefabrication, and 3D printing-have further enhanced precision, reduced material waste, and increased on-site efficiency. Moreover, I increasingly adopt eco-friendly materials such as advanced thermal insulation, low-emission concrete, and smart glass, aligning with the global shift toward green buildings. Most importantly, technology has become a vital medium for collaborationenabling interactive design reviews with teams and clients, streamlining communication, and reducing misunderstandings. It has evolved from a support tool to a core pillar of design and urban development.
CULTURAL AND SOCIETAL INFLUENCES ARE CENTRAL TO YOUR WORK-HOW DO YOU ENSURE THAT YOUR DESIGNS RESONATE WITH LOCAL COMMUNITIES AND PROMOTE A SENSE OF IDENTITY AND BELONGING?
Every project I undertake begins with a deep, holistic understanding of the local context-not just in spatial and urban terms, but in social, cultural, and economic dimensions. Whether in Iraq or abroad, I give great weight to everyday life patterns, social behaviors, and community dynamics. I translate these insights into design solutions that reflect local lifestyles, circulation patterns, and material choices. For me, architecture is not simply a response to functional needs-it is a means of expressing identity and fostering a sense of belonging. Successful architecture, in my view, is that which people recognize themselves in-it offers them dignity, comfort, and aligns with their aspirations while remaining grounded in their lived reality. It becomes both a reflection of its environment and a contributor to the richness of the urban and social fabric.
LOOKING FORWARD, WHAT ARE YOUR PERSONAL AMBITIONS AS AN ARCHITECT AND YOUR HOPES FOR THE IRAQI ARCHITECTURAL COMMUNITY AT LARGE? ARE THERE SPECIFIC PROJECTS OR INITIATIVES YOU AIM TO PURSUE?
Looking ahead, my greatest ambition is to help inspire a new generation of Iraqi architects. I believe deeply in the potential of our young talents, and I intend to dedicate part of my time to teaching and mentoring in architectural schools. It’s not only about sharing knowledge-it’s about nurturing a culture of critical thinking, creativity, and responsibility toward the built environment.
FINALLY, WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO ASPIRING IRAQI ARCHITECTS WHO WISH TO CONTRIBUTE MEANINGFULLY TO THEIR COUNTRY’S DEVELOPMENT AND LEAVE A LASTING LEGACY IN THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT?
My advice is to always seek meaning before form. Strive to understand the intellectual and human foundations of design rather than merely following stylistic trends. Great architecture is not built on imitation, but on independent critical thinking grounded in context, reality, and vision. Architecture is not just a profession-it is an ethical and cultural responsibility that requires awareness of the architect’s role in shaping lives and collective memory. Iraq today urgently needs a generation of thoughtful architects who can help rebuild not only its infrastructure, but also revive its civilizational values and cultural identity. To every ambitious architect I say: don’t wait for the opportunity-create it. Be the bridge between what we once were and what we can become.
manhal-habbobi.co.uk
Shawkat reflects on a lifelong journey shaped by conflict, creativity, and deep reverence for tradition. From childhood sketches in wartime Basra to international acclaim, his story traces the evolution of Arabic calligraphy into modern expression.
WHEN DID YOUR JOURNEY WITH ARABIC CALLIGRAPHY BEGIN?
I fell in love with calligraphy in 1984, during an art class at school. Our teacher, Mohammed Redha Suhail, decided one day to teach us calligraphy instead of drawing. I was 10 years old at the time. Most of us used to draw war scenes like tanks, planes, bombardments because we were living through the Iraq-Iran war. That day, he introduced the Ruqaa style, and I was immediately captivated. I found it amazing how even simple letterforms could be so elegant. That moment sparked my lifelong obsession. Later that same year, my father bought my older brother a calligraphy book by Hashim Mohammed Al-Khattat and a pen. My brother wasn’t interested, so he gave them to me. Around that time, the situation in Basra worsened, and we had to take shelter underground. I brought the book and pen with me and started practicing while we were in hiding. I couldn’t wait for things to calm down so I could go back and ask my teacher about the letters. In 1987, we moved to Mosul. I enrolled in a one-month calligraphy course and graduated with excellence. After the war ended in 1988, we returned to Basra. I kept practicing and even worked in a sign shop during the summer to gain handson experience and earn money for tools. I was involved in calligraphy and design throughout my teen years by lettering for friends and decorating my skateboard. I studied civil engineering later on, and my favorite subject was engineering drawing. I held two exhibitions during university. After graduating, I
joined the army, where I continued calligraphy work, often at the request of my superiors. In 1998, I was invited to the Baghdad International Calligraphy Festival. I won an award, and that changed everything. I had worked briefly as an engineer, but I didn’t enjoy it. That award affirmed my path. I chose to dedicate myself fully to calligraphy.
CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR EXHIBITIONS?
My first serious exhibition was in 1989. I was the only participant from my city in a local Iraqi show, and I traveled by train to Baghdad, where I won an award. In 1996, I took part in another exhibition in Basra and won a main prize. In 1999, I participated in an international show in Italy. That same year, I was invited to the Sharjah Art Museum’s annual show, and in 2002, they acquired one of my works. I moved to Dubai in 2002 and have been based here since. I’ve participated in almost every major calligraphy exhibition in Sharjah, Dubai, and the wider region. I’ve served as an organizer, exhibitor, and judge. In 2010, I held a show in Damascus where I introduced what became known as the Al Wissam style. Between 2003 and 2014, I was actively involved in the Dubai International Calligraphy Exhibition, which I co-founded. In 2011, I had a solo show in Manhattan titled Letters of Love, followed by Letters of Love II in 2022. In 2015, I showcased abstract work at Tashkeel, then followed up with Inside Outside (2017), Disciplined Insurgence (2019), Back to Basics (2021), Black and White
(2023), and Calligraphy ISM (2024). I’m currently preparing a new show for this year.
HOW HAS YOUR CALLIGRAPHY BACKGROUND INFLUENCED YOUR DESIGN WORK WITH MAJOR BRANDS?
I believe anyone working with Arabic letters, whether in typography or branding, needs a deep understanding of calligraphy. My training helped me offer authentic Arabic designs for brands like Chopard and Tiffany & Co., instead of just imitating Latin letters. When I moved to the UAE, Arabic logo design often involved modifying Latin letters to look Arabic, which stripped away the beauty and proportion of true Arabic script. I wanted to change that. That’s how the Wissam script began, initially for logo design, but it grew into something much bigger.
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON HOW ARABIC CALLIGRAPHY IS POSITIONED IN THE GLOBAL ART WORLD?
Arabic calligraphy is often left out of international art fairs, perhaps because some artists only reproduce historical styles. From the start, I wanted to introduce artistic expression into calligraphy. That drive led to my abstract work Calligraformism, which uses classical shapes with a contemporary aesthetic. International audiences connected with this style, especially when the language barrier was removed. Collaborating with brands like Rolex and Hermès has helped elevate Arabic calligraphy. These partnerships allow me to show its versatility while experimenting
with modern applications of the craft. I’ve tried experimenting with AI-generated calligraphy, but the results lack composition and soul. Calligraphy is deeply personal, and AI doesn’t yet understand the nuances of how Arabic letters connect and flow.
The future is bright. Technology has made tools, books, and global networks more accessible. More people are practicing now than ever before. While I’m not a fan of online learning for calligraphy, I recognize that tutorials and videos have helped spread awareness and education. I was deeply influenced by Iraqi masters who pushed the boundaries of the tradition. Although my work is considered modern, it’s always rooted in classical calligraphy. I believe that to break the rules, you must first master them. Over the past 23 years, I’ve taught calligraphy in various formats, privately, in workshops, and at institutions like Virginia Commonwealth University in Doha and NYU Abu Dhabi. I also gave workshops in Chicago and New York on my modern style, Calligraforms. It’s been rewarding to see how these sessions inspire others.
Patience is everything. Calligraphy isn’t something you master in a few months. It’s a lifelong process. Many people today rush to produce without discipline, but the true essence of calligraphy lies in refinement, commitment, and a deep respect for tradition. wissamshawkat.com
Alkhdhairi’s pieces reflect a unique fusion of past and present, tradition and innovation
Blending memory, architecture, and emotion, Iraqi-Austrian artist
Dhuha Alkhdhairi creates contemporary artworks that draw deeply from her cultural heritage and imaginative vision. Inspired by the intricate architecture of Iraq and the vibrant atmosphere of Vienna, her pieces reflect a unique fusion of past and present, tradition and innovation. Through her use of color, form, and symbolism, Alkhdhairi explores themes of identity, nostalgia, and belonging. Her work invites viewers into a world where history breathes through art, and where hope remains a central force. In this interview, she shares insights into her creative journey, influences, and artistic philosophy.
YOUR ART OFTEN FEATURES INTRICATE DEPICTIONS OF IRAQI ARCHITECTURE. HOW DO YOU APPROACH TRANSLATING THESE HISTORICAL STRUCTURES INTO YOUR VIBRANT, CONTEMPORARY COMPOSITIONS?
Iraqi architecture is the result of successive civilizations, carrying through time an accumulation of creativity and knowledge. From the Sumerian ziggurats to the Abbasid arches and the intricate decorations of Baghdadi houses, these rich historical phases have been a profound source of inspiration for me. Within them, I found enough beauty and strength to develop my own unique style, through which I express this ancient architecture in my contemporary artworks.
YOUR WORK IS DESCRIBED AS A BLEND OF FANTASY AND HOPE. COULD YOU ELABORATE ON HOW THESE THEMES MANIFEST IN YOUR ART AND WHAT THEY SIGNIFY FOR YOU PERSONALLY?
Imagination is the bridge between the viewer and the ideas that exist in my mind. It allows them to step into my personal world. Through this connection, I invite others to experience the realms I create in my art, which are often filled with light, color, and hope. Hope, to me, is the main driving force behind my work. It’s what keeps me moving
forward, especially in the face of difficulty. It is the energy that breathes life into my art and sustains my creative journey.
AS AN ARTIST RESIDING IN VIENNA WITH IRAQI ROOTS, HOW DO YOU NAVIGATE AND INTEGRATE THESE DUAL CULTURAL IDENTITIES WITHIN YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS?
As an Austrian Iraqi artist, I live a double cultural experience that continuously enriches my artistic vision. The deep cultural heritage of Iraq forms the foundation of my identity, while the vibrant creative atmosphere in Vienna offers me access to some of the world’s most influential artistic movements. This interaction between the two identities is not a conflict, but rather a source of inspiration. It allows me to merge authenticity with innovation, and tradition with contemporary perspectives in my work.
YOU’VE PARTICIPATED IN VARIOUS INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITIONS. HOW HAS GLOBAL EXPOSURE INFLUENCED YOUR ARTISTIC EVOLUTION AND THE RECEPTION OF YOUR WORK?
Participating in international exhibitions has allowed me to expand my artistic perspective and
engage with diverse audiences and cultures. This global exposure was not just a form of recognition. It became a strong motivation to deepen and refine my artistic voice. The fact that my work resonates beyond local boundaries affirmed to me that when art is honest, it can transcend borders and languages.
WHAT ROLE DOES COLOR PLAY IN YOUR PAINTINGS? HOW DO YOU SELECT YOUR PALETTE TO CONVEY SPECIFIC EMOTIONS OR NARRATIVES?
Colors play a fundamental role in my work. They are not merely a means of expression but an inseparable part of the painting’s identity and soul. I treat color as a tool to build emotion and create a visual atmosphere that touches memory and feelings. I draw inspiration from the environments I have lived in or been influenced by, from the diversity and stillness of nature to the intricate patterns of old cities and the rhythm of life within them, all the way to my childhood memories in Iraq, filled with rich sensory and symbolic colors.
YOUR ART OFTEN INCLUDES ELEMENTS OF TRADITIONAL FOLK ART. WHAT DRAWS YOU TO THESE MOTIFS, AND HOW DO YOU ADAPT THEM FOR A CONTEMPORARY AUDIENCE?
My imagination is greatly nourished by folk art, as it contains intricate and rich details that reflect
the everyday life of people in all its simplicity and complexity. Alongside this is the cultural heritage encompassing customs, traditions, and daily practices that form a deeply rooted collective memory. These elements serve as an inexhaustible source of inspiration for me, telling authentic stories of people’s lives and reflecting their strong connection to their roots and identity. By integrating these motifs and details into my work, I strive to create a balance between authenticity and innovation, allowing me to reintroduce heritage in a contemporary way that resonates with today’s audience and revives traditional aesthetics within a lively, new context.
WHAT MESSAGE OR EXPERIENCE DO YOU HOPE VIEWERS TAKE AWAY FROM ENGAGING WITH YOUR ARTWORK?
I aspire for my work to touch something deep within the viewer, opening a window to worlds and times that may seem distant but come alive through their unique artistic details and intricate geometric patterns reflecting the folk heritage and daily spirit of those ancient cities. I want viewers, regardless of their background, to feel warmth, hope, and perhaps a moment of comfort amid the noise of contemporary life. For me, art is a universal language that transcends borders, carrying a clear message: despite everything, beauty remains present, and the spirit is still capable of remembering and dreaming.
dhuhaalkhdhairi.com
Jan Hanak, Managing Director, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Egypt and Bahrain at Radisson Hotels Group, reveals Radisson Hotels’ approach to redefining hospitality in the UAE through tech-driven innovation, personalized guest experiences, and a forward-looking approach to blended travel and sustainable growth.
DUBAI AND ABU DHABI BOAST A HIGHLY COMPETITIVE HOSPITALITY MARKET. WHAT KEY STRATEGIES IS RADISSON EMPLOYING TO DIFFERENTIATE ITS PROPERTIES AND MAINTAIN A COMPETITIVE EDGE IN THIS LANDSCAPE? CAN YOU HIGHLIGHT ANY RECENT INNOVATIVE APPROACHES RADISSON HAS IMPLEMENTED IN THESE EMIRATES?
In highly competitive markets like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, standing out requires more than just great locations it requires meaningful innovation and a guest-first mindset. At Radisson Hotel Group, our strategy is centered around technology, personalization, and brand differentiation. Our app allows guests to manage their entire stay from booking to digital check-in, keyless room entry, and personalized offers all in one seamless platform. We’re also leveraging AI-driven solutions
such as immersive hotel tours, AI-powered avatars for meetings, and dynamic room selection tools, allowing guests to visualize and choose rooms based on layout and preferences. Operationally, we’ve implemented smart hotel systems that streamline repetitive tasks, enabling our team members to focus entirely on guest engagement. From a branding standpoint, we ensure our hotels cater to evolving guest expectations with elevated F&B concepts, dynamic social spaces, and curated lifestyle offerings. Each of our brands from the upbeat lifestyle Radisson RED to the luxury-lifestyle Radisson Collection has a clear identity and purpose, designed to resonate with specific guest segments in these urban hubs.
THE CONCEPT OF “BLENDED TRAVEL” –WHERE LEISURE AND BUSINESS TRAVEL INTERTWINE – IS GAINING TRACTION. HOW ARE RADISSON PROPERTIES IN
THE UAE CATERING TO THE NEEDS OF THESE BLENDED TRAVELERS, AND WHAT SPECIFIC AMENITIES OR SERVICES HAVE BEEN INTRODUCED TO ACCOMMODATE THIS SHIFT?
Blended travel – what many now call “bleisure” – has shifted from being a trend to becoming the norm, especially in key destinations like the UAE. Our properties are thoughtfully designed to meet the evolving needs of these travelers. We’ve introduced hybrid rooms that double as productive workspaces by day and restful sanctuaries by night. These rooms are equipped with video conferencing tools, ergonomic furniture, and highspeed connectivity to ensure seamless remote work experiences. We also offer flexible lobby concepts where guests can work, network, or relax without needing to purchase anything. We’ve combined traditional guest rooms with serviced apartments
to cater to longer stays. The bleisure guest also seeks quality downtime, so we’ve elevated our wellness facilities, curated leisure experiences, and transformed our F&B offerings to reflect both global culinary trends and local flavors. By doing so, we offer the balance that today’s travelers crave professional efficiency and meaningful leisure.
TECHNOLOGY PLAYS A CRUCIAL ROLE IN MODERN HOSPITALITY. CAN YOU DISCUSS ANY RECENT TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS RADISSON HAS IMPLEMENTED ACROSS ITS GCC AND EGYPT PROPERTIES TO ENHANCE GUEST EXPERIENCE, STREAMLINE OPERATIONS, OR DRIVE SUSTAINABILITY?
Technology is at the heart of our transformation strategy. Our Radisson Hotels App has redefined mobile guest journeys, offering everything from keyless room entry to personalized offers and loyalty point redemption. With over 1.9 million downloads, it has become a powerful touchpoint for guest engagement. We’ve also integrated AI into our operations through Smart Hotel Operations (SHO), enabling automation of repetitive tasks so our team can focus on what matters most: the guest experience. In the MICE segment, tools like the Radisson Meetings Dream Machine and Radisson Meetings Unbound use generative AI to help planners conceptualize and visualize their events, while our “Book It Easy” platform streamlines meeting bookings with real-time availability and immersive 3D content. On the sustainability front, innovations such as solar-powered hot water systems, like the one in Dubai Deira Creek, and in-house water bottling plants have been rolled out to reduce our environmental footprint. We view technology not just as a tool, but as an enabler of better, more responsible hospitality.
“ At Radisson, we achieve this through thoughtfully curated experiences and personalized service. ”
THE DEMAND FOR UNIQUE AND LOCALIZED EXPERIENCES IS GROWING. HOW DOES RADISSON ENSURE ITS PROPERTIES ACROSS THE GCC AND EGYPT OFFER AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES THAT REFLECT THE LOCAL CULTURE AND APPEAL TO BOTH INTERNATIONAL AND DOMESTIC GUESTS?
Delivering a sense of place is essential in today’s hospitality landscape. At Radisson, we achieve this through thoughtfully curated experiences and personalized service. Technology allows us to understand guest preferences more precisely than ever before, enabling our hotels to tailor offers from room amenities to local dining options in real time. We train our teams to be local ambassadors, not just hotel staff. Many of our hotels feature locally sourced products, art, and cuisine. For example, our properties in Oman and Egypt often collaborate with local artisans and chefs to bring authentic traditions into the guest journey. Ultimately, it’s about enabling guests to connect meaningfully with the destination whether that’s through a curated walking tour, a local dish, or a personalized cultural experience.
LOOKING AHEAD, WHAT ARE RADISSON’S KEY PRIORITIES AND GROWTH STRATEGIES FOR THE GCC AND EGYPT MARKETS IN
THE NEXT FIVE YEARS? ARE THERE ANY SPECIFIC AREAS OF INNOVATION OR EXPANSION YOU ARE PARTICULARLY EXCITED ABOUT?
Our strategy is rooted in thoughtful, sustainable growth. The GCC and Egypt remain priority markets for Radisson Hotel Group, with strong momentum and ambitious development plans. We’re expanding our portfolio across key destinations and entering new segments, including the launch of our lifestyle luxury brand art’otel in the region offering bold, design-forward experiences that resonate with the modern traveler. We’re also scaling our serviced apartments and resort offerings, driven by demand for longer stays and destination-led travel. Innovation will remain a core pillar from AI integration and immersive tech to smarter, greener operations. At the same time, we’ll continue strengthening our owner proposition through best-in-class GOP delivery, efficient systems, and the unmatched support of our commercial engine. We’re not just expanding our footprint we’re elevating the guest journey, empowering our teams, and futureproofing our operations for a more resilient, connected, and responsible hospitality future.
radissonhotels.com
“ I’m proud to work with over 70 incredible artisans who carry generations of skill and tradition. ”
Milka Karaagaçlı nce, Founder and Creative Director of Kismet by Milka,
discusses how Istanbul shapes her creative vision, the inspiration behind launching her brand, and how she balances tradition with innovation to create jewelry that speaks to individuality, empowerment, and global relevance.
HOW DOES ISTANBUL INFLUENCE YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS?
Istanbul isn’t just where I live-it’s where I grew up, where I learned to see beauty in contrast. This city has a soul. The layers of history, the clash of cultures, the raw energy-it all seeps into my work. I walk the same streets that have inspired artists for centuries, and yet they still surprise me. Istanbul teaches you to embrace duality-old and new, East and West, chaos and calm-and that blend is at the heart of every design I create.
WHAT GAP DID YOU SEE IN THE MARKET WHEN YOU LAUNCHED KISMET BY MILKA?
Back in 2009, fine jewelry felt too formal, too out of reach. It didn’t reflect the woman I was or the women around me-bold, independent, unapologetically themselves. I wanted to shake things up. I saw a space to create designs that felt personal and empowering-jewelry that spoke to identity, not just status. It was never just about making something beautiful; it was about creating a new language for self-expression.
HOW DO YOU ENSURE EACH DESIGN TELLS A UNIQUE STORY WHILE RESONATING GLOBALLY?
Jewelry is emotion cast in form. Every design starts with a feeling-a moment, a memory, a truth. I draw from my own experiences, but also from universal themes that connect us all. The goal is always to create something that feels intimate and deeply personal, but still has the power to speak across cultures. I want people to see a design and
feel like it was made just for them.
HOW DO YOU BALANCE TRADITIONAL TECHNIQUES WITH PUSHING CREATIVE BOUNDARIES?
We’re constantly walking that line. I’m proud to work with over 70 incredible artisans who carry generations of skill and tradition. Their hands bring precision, patience, and soul to every design. But we’re also not afraid to experiment-to take risks, challenge what jewelry can look like, and how it makes you feel. It’s about respecting where we come from while always looking forward.
WHAT KEY MOMENTS PROPELLED KISMET BY MILKA’S INTERNATIONAL SUCCESS?
Paris was a turning point-it was our introduction to the world. Then came partnerships with global pioneers of retail like Harrods and Bergdorf Goodman, which helped us expand our footprint. But honestly, it’s our commitment to authenticity that has opened the most doors. Our designs speak to people because they come from a real place. And yes, seeing names like Madonna and Meghan Markle wear our jewelry was surreal, but what matters most is that it resonates with women everywhere-famous or not.
HOW DO YOU TRANSLATE YOUR PHILOSOPHY OF UNIQUENESS INTO YOUR DESIGNS AND COMPANY CULTURE?
Kismet by Milka has always been about challenging the norm. From day one, we’ve believed jewelry should be about self-expression-not rules. That belief shapes every design, and it’s also how we work as a
team. We embrace individuality. We encourage bold ideas. We create space for people to show up as they are. Our goal isn’t just to follow trends-it’s to create designs that start conversations and push boundaries.
WHAT WERE SOME OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU FACED AS A FEMALE FOUNDER, AND WHAT DID THEY TEACH YOU?
Like many women building something in a male-dominated industry, I’ve faced moments where I wasn’t taken seriously. It’s a reality we don’t talk about enough-this isn’t just my story, it’s something most women experience in one form or another. But those challenges taught me to trust my instincts, to speak up even when it felt uncomfortable, and to never shrink myself to fit someone else’s expectations. That fight-against being underestimated-became the spirit of our brand.
LOOKING AHEAD, HOW DO YOU ENVISION THE EVOLUTION OF KISMET BY MILKA?
Fifteen years in, and I still feel like we’re just getting started. We’re dreaming bigger, designing bolder, and stepping into new territories-like our London flagship, which is such an exciting milestone. But at the heart of everything is connection. Whether it’s someone discovering Kismet by Milka for the first time or a longtime client finding a new favorite design, we want every design to feel meaningful. The journey ahead is full of possibilitiesand we’re moving forward with purpose.
kismetbymilka.com
02 Lion Necklace, 18k roslow gold, nickel-free and hypoallergenic, 0.78ct round cut white diamond, 0.13ct pear cut white diamond
03 Aisha Pinky Ring, 14k roslow gold, nickel-free and hypoallergenic, 0.98ct round cut white diamond
04 No.43 Necklace, 18k roslow gold, nickel-free and hypoallergenic, 2.10ct round cut white diamond, 2.10ct round cut champagne diamond
“ Jewelry is emotion cast in metal. Every design starts with a feeling-a moment, a memory, a truth. ”
From avant-garde campaigns to deep-rooted partnerships, TAG Heuer is redefining luxury through authenticity, cultural relevance, and innovation. In this interview, CMO George Ciz shares how the brand blends tradition with bold storytelling to engage the next generation.
TAG HEUER BALANCES A RICH HERITAGE WITH FORWARD-THINKING COLLABORATIONS LIKE PORSCHE AND NINTENDO. HOW DO YOU NAVIGATE THIS BLEND OF TRADITION AND CULTURAL INNOVATION?
Cultural relevance and authenticity are our guiding principles. We believe authenticity is the new currency of luxury. People want real, grounded stories, not marketing gimmicks. At TAG Heuer, we’re not chasing easy likes; we’re building narratives that emotionally resonate. Our Formula 1 partnership is a prime example. With over 60 years in the sport and 15 world champions wearing TAG Heuer, it’s a deeply authentic relationship. At the same time, F1 has evolved into a cultural phenomenon, which aligns perfectly with our goal of staying relevant while honoring our heritage.
THE ‘DESIGNED TO WIN’ CAMPAIGN MARKS A SIGNIFICANT CHAPTER FOR TAG HEUER. WHAT INSPIRED THIS NEW DIRECTION? AND HOW DOES IT REFLECT THE BRAND’S EVOLUTION?
‘Designed to Win’ distills the brand’s core values: mental strength, high-stakes performance, resilience, and discipline. It represents a new chapter in our communication strategy. It draws on elements from past campaigns, such as strong black and white visuals and a focus on critical moments
of performance, while reinforcing TAG Heuer’s position as a powerhouse of Swiss watchmaking and Official Timekeeper of Formula 1.
TAG HEUER’S PARTNERSHIPS, SUCH AS WITH RYAN GOSLING, PORSCHE, AND NINTENDO, ARE QUITE DISTINCTIVE. WHAT’S YOUR STRATEGY FOR SELECTING THESE COLLABORATORS, AND HOW DO YOU DEFINE THEIR SUCCESS?
We look for the right partners for the right project. Different horses for different courses. Ryan Gosling, for example, embodies creativity, reinvention, and a deep connection with the spirit of driving, which made him a perfect fit for the Carrera collection. With Nintendo, the aim was to introduce a playful, surprising side of TAG Heuer. Collaborations must have a strategic fit. Success isn’t just in sales. It’s in storytelling impact and how well the partner amplifies our brand values.
HOW DOES TAG HEUER REDEFINE ‘LUXURY’ FOR A GENERATION THAT VALUES EXPERIENCES ALONGSIDE CRAFTSMANSHIP, PARTICULARLY IN THE DIGITAL AGE?
Luxury today is about impact. If you don’t cut through the noise, you’re invisible. Every touchpoint, from our boutique experiences to the way we use screens and immersive content, tells a
story. Even the design of our booth at Watches & Wonders is built to engage. For us, it’s about using technology and storytelling to create memorable, emotional connections.
TAG HEUER EXCELS AT STORYTELLING, AS SEEN IN THE CARRERA RELAUNCH. HOW DO YOU ADAPT THESE NARRATIVES FOR DIGITAL PLATFORMS, ESPECIALLY FOR GEN Z, WHO MAY BE NEW TO MECHANICAL WATCHES?
Social media is a strength for us, and we tailor content to each platform. But the core remains the same: great storytelling. It must be engaging, entertaining, and high-quality. The goal is to make an impact. At Watches & Wonders, our booth content subtly teaches and immerses without overwhelming. People don’t even realize they’re learning. It’s seamless.
HAVING LED TEAMS IN MONACO, LONDON, AND SWITZERLAND, HOW DO YOU CULTIVATE A GLOBAL TEAM CULTURE THAT ALIGNS WITH TAG HEUER’S INNOVATIVE SPIRIT?
It’s about shared passion and commitment to each other, not just the brand. We celebrate wins, learn from each other, and have fun doing it. This fosters trust and inspiration. If you want to sell inspiration, you need to start by inspiring your team.
WITH TAG HEUER BACK AS THE OFFICIAL TIMEKEEPER OF FORMULA 1, HOW ARE YOU REIMAGINING THIS PARTNERSHIP? WHAT NEW TIMING TECHNOLOGIES OR FAN ENGAGEMENT STRATEGIES ARE YOU IMPLEMENTING?
F1 is central to our storytelling. It aligns with our values of precision, mental strength, and performance. We’re creating immersive fan activations at every Grand Prix, from simulators to boutique events to countdowns. We’re also collaborating with F1 on advanced timing technologies, potentially increasing timing precision. The engagement from events like our pop-ups in Shanghai and gala in Tokyo has been phenomenal.
ARE THERE ANY UPCOMING PRODUCT LAUNCHES, IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES, OR UNIQUE STORYTELLING INITIATIVES YOU CAN HINT AT?
We launched our “Design to Win” campaign at Watches & Wonders. It’s about pushing limits with mental strength and ambition. The novelties are exceptional, and our booth experience ties everything together with immersive storytelling, Formula 1 cars, and rotating content. It’s all designed to reflect the spirit of TAG Heuer and where we’re headed.
Tino Bobe, Director of Manufacturing at A. Lange & Söhne, reveal the iconic brand’s approach on preserving craftsmanship, mastering complexity, and combining innovation and tradition in the pursuit of perfection.
A. LANGE & SÖHNE IS RENOWNED FOR ITS ‘ZERO-DEFECT’ MANUFACTURING APPROACH. HOW DO YOU INSTILL THIS CULTURE OF PERFECTION ACROSS YOUR TEAM, AND WHAT METRICS DO YOU USE TO MEASURE IT?
You know, normally human beings make mistakes, we all know that. But we don’t want to move away from hand craftsmanship because it’s something fascinating for us and for our clients. That’s why we invest a lot of time in checks and self-control systems. To achieve this level of perfection, around 95% of our movement production is done in-house. That’s why we have our own in-house movement production, covering almost all components. We only purchase certain things, like rubies, some screws, and the mainspring. But even the hairspring, we can make it in-house. We do this to ensure the quality level we want. Of course, sometimes you think, “Why not go to a specialist who might make some components even better?” But consider this: we only produce about 4,800 watches a year –sometimes 5,000. Last year it was 5,500 but it depends on the complexity of the collection. These days, complexity is increasing because of the new timepieces we’re introducing. We have limited capacity. There’s no large market for watchmakers, so we’ve had our own watchmaking school since 1997. Every year, around 16 young people graduate. That’s our limit. We can only produce as many watches as our capacity allows. And we’re talking about 27 different calibers. The simplest one has
167 components, while the most complicated one, the miniature repeater, has 771. You can imagine how complex the process is and how small the lot sizes are. So, if you call a supplier and say, “I need 25 prototypes,” he might say, “No, that’s already your whole year’s production!” That’s why we have such deep industrial integration. It allows us to control quality from the first step, which is parts production, through to finishing, where everything is polished, and finally to the last stages of assembly.
YOUR MOVEMENTS COMBINE CENTURIES-OLD TECHNIQUES WITH CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY. CAN YOU SHARE AN EXAMPLE WHERE MODERN MANUFACTURING SOLUTIONS ENHANCED-RATHER THAN COMPROMISEDTRADITIONAL CRAFTSMANSHIP?
A beautiful example is how we manage the complexity I just described. We need to be very flexible with our manufacturing technologies, so we combine milling and electro-erosion. This allows us to program machines for very small lot sizes. Electro-erosion lets us pass several times over one component to create a beautifully smooth surface. Then, our finishing team only needs to do the final touch without modifying the geometry because that would affect functionality. So, this combination of traditional handwork and cutting-edge tech works very well for us.
With over 600 components in some watches, how do you maintain consistency when training
master watchmakers? What qualities do you look for in new artisans joining Lange’s workshops?
We’re happy to take skilled watchmakers from outside, but mostly we have to train our own people. We need to create our future. We need people who can sit at a table for eight hours, focused and concentrated. Some people are full of energy. They can’t sit still for more than five minutes. Even if they’re talented, if they’re not patient, it doesn’t work. We also need people with technical understanding. Not everyone can interpret drawings or visualize things in three dimensions. That limits how many people are suitable for this field. The apprenticeship takes three years. And even then, some students, after one or two years, might think they’re not talented enough for this and that’s okay.
GIVEN THE BRAND’S RELIANCE ON SPECIALIZED SUPPLIERS (E.G., GERMAN SILVER), HOW HAVE YOU ADAPTED YOUR SUPPLY CHAIN STRATEGY TO GLOBAL DISRUPTIONS WHILE PRESERVING QUALITY?
We have close collaborations with universities, research institutes, and a small company nearby, just 30 or 35 kilometers from us. It’s very important to have control over critical materials like German silver. Some components are tiny, like a spring that’s just 0.06 mm. If there’s any inconsistency or inhomogeneity in the material, the spring won’t function properly. Surface quality is also critical. If levers and other moving parts interact without
a perfect surface, they absorb too much energy, which affects things like power reserve and amplitude. It’s really a very complex matter.
THE THREE-QUARTER PLATE IS A SIGNATURE OF LANGE MOVEMENTS BUT NOTORIOUSLY DIFFICULT TO FINISH FLAWLESSLY. HOW HAS YOUR TEAM INNOVATED TO MASTER THIS COMPONENT AT SCALE?
It’s true. With multiple bridges, you can insert wheels individually. But with the three-quarter plate, everything must align perfectly on a single axis. It’s a lot harder. The answer is simple: training, training, and more training. Watchmaking, in my opinion, is an experience-based profession. That’s why our watchmakers start young in our school, at 14 or 15 years old, and stay with us for decades. Now we have people who are only 30 or 35 years old but have already been with us for 20 years. They’ve gained incredible experience and are now working in our complications department. That’s how you get true master watchmakers.
LANGE’S WATCHES ARE BUILT TO LAST GENERATIONS. HOW DOES YOUR MANUFACTURING PROCESS REFLECT SUSTAINABLE PRINCIPLES, FROM MATERIAL SOURCING TO ENERGY USE?
Sustainability begins with the design process. Our movement designers must ensure that even 50 years from now, a well-trained watchmaker will be able to service the watch by disassembling, cleaning, oiling, and reassembling it. That’s a core principle. We also invest in our own training programs to build the future of watchmaking. And from an environmental standpoint, we learned that we have the largest geothermal system in Saxony. We didn’t even know it until a delegation from the UAE visited and the Saxon government asked us to host them. So yes, we are actively using sustainable energy.
YOU’RE KNOWN TO OCCASIONALLY WORK AT THE BENCH ALONGSIDE YOUR TEAM. WHY IS THIS HANDS-ON LEADERSHIP IMPORTANT, AND WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM IT RECENTLY?
These beautiful timepieces aren’t created by one person. It’s always a team effort. As Manufacturing Director, my role is to orchestrate the whole process over the 14 months it takes to build a watch. You have to be more than just technically capable. You must inspire people with passion. Assembly can be tough. You assemble, then realize something’s off, so you disassemble, adjust, and assemble again. It takes motivation and pride to do that over and over. That’s why we make sure every new hire spends a full day, or even two, touring the
manufacture. They attend presentations, including one from me, where I talk about our history and our obsession with quality. We want them to understand why we do what we do.
AS GLASHÜTTE’S ONLY MANUFACTURER PRODUCING ALL MOVEMENT PARTS IN-HOUSE, WHAT TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS DO YOU FORESEE REVOLUTIONIZING LANGE’S PRODUCTION IN THE NEXT DECADE?
We currently use a combination of milling and wire-cutting electro-erosion. It’s a slow but incredibly precise method. Laser cutting would be faster, but right now, the surface finish from lasers isn’t good enough. The angles can also be slightly off. So, for now, we don’t use laser cutting in our production. We do use lasers in after-sales service. For example, to repair a deep scratch in a gold case without removing material. We fill the scratch with new gold and polish it. This helps preserve the integrity of the watch. But perhaps in the future, laser technology will improve enough to match the precision we need. If it does, it could make our processes faster and more efficient.
alange-soehne.com
WHAT WAS THE INITIAL VISION BEHIND ESTABLISHING QANNATI LAB HERE IN BAHRAIN AS A DEDICATED SPACE FOR HOROLOGY AND LUXURY PROTOTYPING IN THE GCC?
From the moment I began building Qannati Objet d’Art in 2018, I felt a contradiction: the Gulf
is one of the world’s most enthusiastic markets for fine mechanical watches, yet there was nowhere in the region where a curious young engineer could actually put a movement on a bench, disassemble it, and learn to re-assemble it to Swiss tolerances. Collectors here routinely fly their pieces to Switzerland for servicing, and aspiring watchmakers have had to leave the Middle East altogether to study. That gap bothered me because it quietly exports both our talent and the value-added jobs that go with it. The vision for Qannati Lab was to reverse that flow, to make Manama the place where Gulf creativity, Bahraini heritage, and Swiss precision meet under one roof. Bahrain Polytechnic proved the perfect academic partner. We agreed early on that this wouldn’t be a single elective tacked onto an engineering program, but a physical environment that feels like “Lausanne meets Silicon Valley”, rows of laser machines and staking tools on one side, high-resolution 3D printers and CNC micro-mills on the other, all tied together by an AI-assisted design studio. In our first intake, 120 students chased 24 evening seats that carried no academic credit and plenty of homework. Ninety-five percent stayed to the end. That commitment told us we had tapped a genuine hunger to build with one’s hands at a microscopic scale and to tell local stories through objects of lasting value. Today, Qannati Lab is the region’s first formal pathway where a Bahraini student can learn to pivot between micromechanics, generative-design algorithms, and luxury storytelling without boarding a flight to Europe. My longer-term ambition is to let the Lab serve as an anchor for a broader “modern artisanship” ecosystem in the Gulf: a place where precision craft,
digital fabrication, and business incubation feed each other. If Switzerland can build a CHF-25-billion export sector on the backs of small workshops, why shouldn’t Bahrain stake out its own niche at the intersection of heritage and innovation?
YOU’VE BROUGHT IN SWISS MASTER WATCHMAKER PIERRE CHRISTE FOR A RESIDENCY. WHAT SPECIFIC ADVANCEMENTS OR NEW PERSPECTIVES DO YOU HOPE HIS PRESENCE WILL BRING TO THE BURGEONING HOROLOGY SCENE IN THE REGION?
Pierre is more than a visiting instructor, he is living institutional memory of modern Swiss watchmaking. He spent decades at Bulgari, WOSTEP and later advised the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie on curriculum design. Inviting him to Bahrain is a deliberate transfer of standards rather than a one-off masterclass. During the first week of his residency he recalibrated every screwdriver, tweezed hairsprings under our Leica scopes, and rewrote our quality-control flow so that a student-built movement must now pass the same chronometric tests used in Neuchâtel. His engagement will lift our workshop from “good regional lab” to “meets Swiss spec.” The real magic, though, happens when he sits shoulder to shoulder with students during advanced complication sessions while students presenting their bold watch designs. That’s precisely the leap we need in the Gulf: not just learning the craft but daring to push it forward. Pierre is also mentoring me so that the entire faculty can carry the program without external help.
HOW DOES THE WORK DONE AT QANNATI LAB DIRECTLY INFLUENCE OR COMPLEMENT THE UNIQUE DESIGN PHILOSOPHY OF QANNATI OBJET D’ART, WHICH BLENDS HERITAGE WITH INNOVATION?
Qannati Objet d’Art stands for “wearable history, engineered for tomorrow.” Qannati Lab is the crucible where this philosophy is practiced. Every creation begins as a narrative, from the ancient Mesopotamian symbolism of the Flower of Life to Bahrain’s rich pearling history. In addition to teaching students at Polytechnic, the lab is an innovation hub for Qannati. It is a place to
translate inspirations into technical forms: through parametric modeling, generative AI, and micronprecision prototyping. The soul of the creations: their stories, geometry, and early prototypes, are forged in Bahrain. That Bahraini provenance is intrinsic, not decorative. It manifests in the form, structure, and symbolism of the final pieces. This transcontinental pipeline doesn’t dilute identity; it amplifies it. Our collectors understand that their objet d’art carries a narrative that started on the shores of Dilmun and was perfected across continents. It is a new model of luxury, rooted in cultural legitimacy and technical daring.
QANNATI OBJET D’ART IS GAINING INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION. HOW DOES THIS COLLABORATION WITH A RESPECTED FIGURE IN SWISS WATCHMAKING CONTRIBUTE TO BAHRAIN’S GROWING REPUTATION IN THE GLOBAL LUXURY MARKET?
Luxury is built on authenticity, and authenticity is validated by credibility. The regular collaboration with Swiss master watchmaker Pierre Christe sends a clear message: Bahrain is not emulating global standards. We are shaping our own while meeting the highest benchmarks. His periodic presence and technical supervision help assure the industry that what is being built in Bahrain meets global expectations. This credibility has garnered international attention. In April, The New York Times highlighted the Qannati Lab initiative, recognizing its pioneering role in establishing the first watch manufacturing facility in the GCC. In essence, this initiative does not only elevate Qannati, it elevates Bahrain as a new center of luxury and technical excellence in the Gulf.
BEYOND THE CREATION OF TIMEPIECES, WHAT ROLE DO YOU SEE QANNATI LAB PLAYING IN FOSTERING CULTURAL EXPRESSION AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF CREATIVE INDUSTRIES WITHIN THE REGION?
We believe a watch movement is the world’s smallest stage, and Qannati Lab is where culture, engineering, and entrepreneurship share that stage. The Lab draws students from diverse fields such as engineering, marketing, and human resources, creating a rich multidisciplinary environment. This cross-pollination of expertise fosters novel approaches to watchmaking, storytelling, and product innovation. Each semester culminates in a public showcase where finished prototypes are displayed alongside the cultural artifact or story that inspired them. It transforms intangible heritage into physical legacy, strengthening Bahrain’s soft power. Ultimately, at Qannati Lab we aim to train modern artisans who can straddle tradition and innovation, craft and code, local history and global luxury. We see it as the beginning of a movement, not just an institution.
INTERVIEW WITH PIERRE CHRISTE, SWISS MASTER INSTRUCTOR
HAVING SPENT OVER FOUR DECADES TRAINING PROFESSIONALS IN THE INTRICACIES OF SWISS WATCHMAKING, WHAT ARE YOUR EARLY OBSERVATIONS OF THE TALENT AND DEDICATION YOU’VE ENCOUNTERED AT QANNATI LAB IN BAHRAIN?
I’ve been genuinely impressed by the enthusiasm, passion, and attention to detail exhibited by the students at Qannati Lab. There’s a clear dedication to mastering the craftsmanship, and their eagerness to learn reflects a promising future for watchmaking talent in Bahrain and the wider Gulf region.
AS SOMEONE DEEPLY EXPERIENCED IN THE STANDARDS OF HAUTE HORLOGERIE, WHAT KEY SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE ARE YOU FOCUSED ON SHARING WITH THE STUDENTS DURING YOUR TIME HERE?
My primary focus during my residency at Qannati Lab revolves around instilling the fundamental principles of Haute Horlogerie:
precision, patience, attention to detail, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Specifically, I’m emphasizing the mastery of essential techniques such as assembly and disassembly of complex automatic movements, fine-tuning and calibration, and meticulous hand-finishing.
CONSIDERING YOUR EXTENSIVE EXPERIENCE WITH ESTABLISHED LUXURY GROUPS, WHAT UNIQUE OPPORTUNITIES AND POTENTIAL CHALLENGES DO YOU FORESEE IN CULTIVATING A NEW GENERATION OF SKILLED WATCHMAKERS IN THE GULF REGION?
Having worked extensively within established luxury groups, I see immense opportunity in the Gulf region, particularly due to its rich cultural heritage, economic strength, and enthusiasm for luxury craftsmanship. However, the primary challenge lies in establishing a robust educational infrastructure and ensuring continuous skill development to meet global luxury standards. Encouraging collaboration and exchange between regional talent and established Swiss institutions will be key.
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON
QANNATI OBJET D’ART’S APPROACH OF INTEGRATING FRENCH TECHNIQUES WITH THE RICH CULTURAL HISTORY OF MESOPOTAMIA IN THEIR WATCH DESIGNS?
Qannati Objet d’Art’s approach is genuinely inspiring. This fusion not only distinguishes their timepieces in the global luxury market but also contributes significantly to preserving and celebrating regional history and identity through meticulous artisanal craftsmanship.
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE, WHAT POTENTIAL DO YOU BELIEVE BAHRAIN HAS TO BECOME A NOTABLE CENTER FOR WATCHMAKING EXPERTISE AND INNOVATION?
Bahrain has considerable potential to emerge as a notable center for watchmaking expertise, particularly given its strategic location, cultural appreciation for artisanal luxury, and growing investment in vocational education. With initiatives like Qannati Lab paving the way, coupled with ongoing international collaboration, Bahrain could very well become a prominent hub for horological innovation and craftsmanship in the region.
“ Qannati Objet d’Art’s approach is genuinely inspiring. ”
HOW DOES THE ESTABLISHMENT OF QANNATI LAB AND THIS PARTNERSHIP WITH QANNATI OBJET D’ART ALIGN WITH BAHRAIN POLYTECHNIC’S CORE OBJECTIVES OF PREPARING STUDENTS FOR KEY INDUSTRIES AND SUPPORTING THE KINGDOM’S ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION EFFORTS?
Our partnership with Qannati Objet d’Art is fully aligned with Bahrain Polytechnic’s core mission of equipping students with the skills and knowledge required by key industries, particularly those that are innovation-driven and high-value. This collaboration opens unique opportunities for our students to gain hands-on experience in a niche and prestigious field, enhancing their employability and entrepreneurial potential. Moreover, it supports the Kingdom of Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030 by contributing to the diversification of the national economy, fostering growth in creative and non-oil sectors.
WHAT ARE THE PRIMARY ADVANTAGES FOR BAHRAIN POLYTECHNIC STUDENTS IN RECEIVING HANDS-ON INSTRUCTION FROM A HIGHLY EXPERIENCED SWISS MASTER WATCHMAKER LIKE PIERRE CHRISTE?
The opportunity for Bahrain Polytechnic students to receive hands-on instruction from Mr. Pierre Christe, a highly experienced Swiss master watchmaker, represents a significant advantage in their educational and professional development. Under Mr. Christe’s expert guidance, students gain unparalleled access to the meticulous craftsmanship and precision. This direct engagement not only deepens students’ technical
expertise but also bridges theoretical knowledge with practical application, fostering mastery in a highly specialized field.
THIS INITIATIVE SEEMS TO BRIDGE EDUCATION, CRAFTSMANSHIP, AND ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT. HOW IS THIS INTEGRATION BEING FOSTERED WITHIN THE POLYTECHNIC THROUGH THIS COLLABORATION?
This initiative truly exemplifies the integration of applied education, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial spirit, a core pillar of Bahrain Polytechnic’s approach to student development. Through our collaboration with Qannati Objet d’Art and the establishment of the Qannati Lab, we are creating a dynamic learning environment where students not only acquire technical skills but also cultivate creativity and innovation. Within the Bahrain Polytechnic, this integration is fostered by embedding practical, hands-on training alongside theoretical knowledge, allowing students to experiment, design, and refine their craft under expert guidance. Moreover, the partnership emphasizes entrepreneurship by encouraging students to explore business concepts related to luxury craftsmanship, market positioning, and product development.
IN WHAT WAYS DOES THE PRESENCE OF QANNATI LAB CONTRIBUTE TO BAHRAIN’S BROADER GOALS OF PROMOTING INNOVATION AND DEVELOPING TALENT IN EMERGING CREATIVE AND TECHNICAL FIELDS?
Through the establishment of a specialized facility on our campus in Isa Town, Bahrain
Polytechnic enables students to engage deeply with cutting-edge techniques and technologies, promoting a culture of continuous learning and innovation. The Qannati Lab offers practical, realworld experiences that equip Bahrain’s youth with the unique competencies and skills. It also inspires entrepreneurial initiatives, fostering innovative product design and business models in the luxury and creative sectors.
WHAT ARE YOUR LONG-TERM HOPES FOR THE IMPACT OF QANNATI LAB ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF A SKILLED BAHRAINI WORKFORCE WITHIN THE LUXURY GOODS?
By being the enablers of unique industry verticals such as luxury watch making, Bahrain polytechnic becomes a key player in shaping the future industries in the kingdom. We aim to provide applied learning opportunities and enhance industry standards through programs, training, and mentorship, making international best practices accessible to all in Bahrain. This initiative will help develop local talents capable of meeting global standards, thereby supporting Bahrain’s broader economic goals by creating new career pathways, fostering entrepreneurship, and attracting investment in knowledge-intensive, high-value industries. Ultimately, we hope that this approach will not only elevate individual capabilities but also contribute to building a vibrant ecosystem that nurtures creativity, drives economic diversification, and positions Bahrain as a regional hub for not only luxury craftsmanship rather in all innovative and technological arenas.
qannati.com
With a distinctive voice shaped by cultural nuance and bold storytelling, Bahraini director Zaid Sater is already emerging as a unique talent on the international stage. The 22-year-old became the first Bahraini filmmaker to be featured at the Chicago International Film Festival, an Academy Award-qualifying event and the longest-running competitive film festival in the U.S. His short film, Mixed Signals, premiered at the festival’s CineYouth Showcase, where it was featured as part of the ‘Far From Home’ program.
Written and directed by Zaid Sater, and cowritten and produced by Saudi-American filmmaker Ibrahim Fitaihi, Mixed Signals follows a married Arab immigrant in America who ventures into online dating, only to confront uncomfortable truths about his marriage-and himself-during an awkward, revealing date. Blending sharp humor with raw vulnerability, the film explores the tension between tradition, desire, and identity in a rapidly evolving world.
The film stars George Shakour (Aziz), Annalisa Plumb (Gossip Girl, Pillow Talk), Sarah Himadeh (The Last of Us, Ramy), and Galal Chater (Sweet Refuge), whose performances bring emotional depth to this poignant, character-driven story.
Mixed Signals is produced by Obscura Films, a brand dedicated to championing diasporic voices and bridging Middle Eastern and Western audiences through bold, resonant storytelling.
CineYouth is the Chicago International Film Festival’s yearly film festival that showcases short films made by filmmakers 22 years old and younger from around the world. CineYouth encourages the talent of young filmmakers and supports diverse youth voices by providing opportunities to have their work showcased, to learn about filmmaking from industry experts, and network with their peers.
zaid.sater
“ CineYouth is the Chicago International Film Festival’s yearly film festival that showcases short films made by filmmakers 22 years old and younger from around the world. ”
“ I believe ceramics has a promising future even with modern technology entering the field because its strength lies in its deep historical roots. ”
Iraqi art is an inseparable part of ancient civilizations, with artists seeking to reinterpret their heritage through contemporary, creative approaches. Among them stands out ceramic artist Qassim Hamza Farhood, who, through his craftsmanship and artistic experience, conveys the depth of national identity and builds bridges between heritage and modernity. Through his exhibitions Ma’oun and Tales of Clay and Fire, his art reflects a blend of history and culture, offering thought-provoking and visually rich scenes. In this interview, we explore the journey of this creative artist, discover the source of his distinctiveness, and discuss his future visions aimed at inspiring the new generation and strengthening the artistic identity of Iraq and the Arab world
HOW DID YOUR JOURNEY WITH CERAMIC ART BEGIN, AND WHAT DROVE YOU TO CHOOSE THIS PARTICULAR MEDIUM AS YOUR CREATIVE IDENTITY?
Since childhood, I was attached to drawing with pens and sketching on walls. I dreamt of becoming a painter during my primary school years. My participation in school exhibitions and winning several encouraging prizes motivated me to keep going. A fortunate coincidence was that my art teacher in high school was the renowned Iraqi artist Nu’man Hadi, now based in Belarus. He opened vast artistic worlds for me, including painting, sculpture, and exposure to key Iraqi and international art experiences. With his guidance, I was able to hold my first solo exhibition in 1972 while still a secondary school student. It included many drawings and sculptures and received significant public attention, marking the first exhibition in my hometown of Mahmoudiyah. This event had a lasting impact on me and led me to study art at the College of Fine Arts. Although I initially wanted to pursue painting, I was assigned to the ceramics department and ended up graduating with distinction.
CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH THE MA’OUN EXHIBITION, THE THEMES YOU WANTED TO CONVEY, AND HOW IT WAS RECEIVED BY AUDIENCES AND CRITICS?
Ma’oun was my second exhibition after my first at the Iraqi Ministry of Culture. It was a joint show with ceramicist and sculptor Mahmoud Ajami. Each of us presented 51 ceramic pieces, totaling 102 works under the title Tales of Clay and Fire, a name inspired by the ceramic-making process itself. While we both shared a focus on cultural heritage, each of us had our unique approach. Mahmoud Ajami presented unglazed pottery, while I later launched my solo Ma’oun exhibition, where the term “ma’oun” (meaning vessel) unified the collection. Most pieces were drawn from folk and civilizational heritage, also incorporating the aesthetics of Arabic calligraphy. The exhibition received strong engagement from the artistic and cultural communities, particularly from art critics.
YOUR THIRD EXHIBITION, TALES OF CLAY AND FIRE, SHOWED A SPECIAL TOUCH OF
INNOVATION. HOW DID YOU DEVELOP YOUR IDEAS AND METHODS FOR THIS ONE, AND WHAT SETS IT APART?
While most artists aim to exhibit in Baghdad, I made the deliberate decision to head south, specifically to Basra, for my third exhibition titled Tales of Clay and Fire. The exhibition was well-received at the provincial level, and its success extended to other Iraqi provinces, including Baghdad.
THROUGH YOUR WORK, HOW HAVE YOU COMBINED IRAQI HERITAGE WITH MODERN TECHNIQUES, AND WHAT HAS BEEN THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE IN DOING SO?
Traditional ceramics in Iraq were primarily functional, used in daily life. However, with my expertise and technical skill, I was able to transform this beautiful, versatile material into a cultural and artistic product. I took what was once a vessel for eating and turned it into an object that invites aesthetic appreciation, something to decorate walls and public spaces with deeper cultural meaning.
IN YOUR VIEW, HOW CAN CONTEMPORARY CERAMICISTS EXPRESS NATIONAL IDENTITY THROUGH THEIR WORK, AND WHAT IMPACT DOES THIS HAVE ON PRESERVING AUTHENTIC CULTURE IN TODAY’S WORLD?
When a ceramicist has a deep historical background and strong folk traditions to draw upon, they should use these elements to reinforce national identity. This is what gives their art an authentic character, even when expressed through modern approaches.
CAN YOU WALK US THROUGH YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS WHEN DESIGNING A CERAMIC PIECE, AND HOW DO INTELLECTUAL AND ARTISTIC ELEMENTS INTERSECT IN YOUR WORK?
Every creative process starts with an idea. Then, a design is developed based on the requirements of the commissioned project. The design must align with the environment and space where the artwork will be installed. I study this carefully to ensure that the work reflects elements consistent with its actual setting.
HOW DO YOU SEE CERAMIC ART CONTRIBUTING TO CULTURAL EXCHANGE AMONG ARAB NATIONS, CONSIDERING ITS DEEP HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL ROOTS?
To introduce this art to the Arab world, we need more ceramic art gatherings and exchange programs across the region. Iraq has had a good example through the establishment of craft centers and intergenerational workshops, where even foreign artisans have been invited to teach. Cultural weeks between Arab countries also play a vital role in enhancing this exchange.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR YOUNG ARAB ARTISTS WHO WISH TO MASTER CERAMICS, PARTICULARLY IN TERMS OF TECHNIQUE, IDENTITY, AND CREATIVE SUSTAINABILITY?
First and foremost, every Arab nation has its own rich cultural and civilizational heritage. Young artists should draw their inspiration from this heritage, as it’s the true source of our identity.
HOW DO YOU SEE THE FUTURE OF CERAMIC ART IN IRAQ AND THE ARAB WORLD, AND WHAT ARE THE OPPORTUNITIES AND THREATS IT MAY FACE?
I believe ceramics has a promising future even with modern technology entering the field because its strength lies in its deep historical roots.
DO YOU HAVE ANY UPCOMING PROJECTS OR INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP CERAMIC ART OR SUPPORT YOUNG ARTISTS, SUCH AS EXHIBITIONS, WORKSHOPS, OR EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS?
As a member of the Iraqi Artists Association’s administrative board, we’ve been able to organize an annual ceramics exhibition and invite Arab ceramicists to participate. For youth, we also launched a dedicated exhibition called the Ishtar Prize, which serves as both a motivational and financial support system for emerging artists.
HOW CAN GOVERNMENTS AND CULTURAL INSTITUTIONS SUPPORT THE CERAMICS INDUSTRY AND PROVIDE A NURTURING ENVIRONMENT FOR DEVELOPING SKILLS AND SUSTAINABLE ARTISTIC INNOVATION?
Iraq was a pioneer in supporting ceramic art by establishing vocational training centers, including ones focused on ceramics. Although we aspired to open branches across the country, the project was halted. However, we succeeded in opening the Institute of Folk Crafts and Arts, which remains a key incubator for developing skills and fostering sustainable creativity.
WHAT MESSAGE WOULD YOU LIKE TO LEAVE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF CERAMICISTS, TO HELP THEM PRESERVE ARTISTIC HERITAGE WHILE INNOVATING IN WAYS THAT EXPRESS THEIR IDENTITY AND ENRICH ARAB CULTURAL DIALOGUE?
I encourage them to value their civilization, preserve their folk heritage, and draw from it to safeguard their national and artistic identity with the aim of contributing meaningfully to Arab cultural interaction.
For 65 years, Graff has been the custodian of many of the most revered diamonds and gemstones ever discovered. These magnificent stones are hand-selected for their exceptional rarity and transformed into jewels of unfathomable beauty by highly skilled designers and master artisans of the Graff atelier. A bold new collection of high jewellery creations celebrate this ethos.
Curated by the Graff family, a striking selection of necklaces, earrings and bracelets exemplify the House’s expertise in transcending these rare and extraordinary stones to a higher realm of beauty and empowerment, harnessing the diamond and gemstone mastery for which Graff is renowned. Designed at crafted at Graff’s atelier, breathtaking jewellery pieces set with the rarest and most fabulous diamonds, emeralds, rubies and sapphires radiate an otherworldly elegance.
The collection features truly extraordinary pieces. Crafted in white and yellow gold, a necklace features 67.51 carats of diamonds set into a magnificent, voluminous curving line. The organic arrangement of snow-set pavé and oval stones, which appear as if in motion, flowing with luminosity and luster along the neckline, culminates in a crescendo of exceptional oval white diamonds with a single, striking 10 carat Fancy Intense Yellow pear shape diamond at the center. A pair of high jewellery earrings perfectly complements the necklace, set with 21.31 carats of oval and round pavé diamonds cascading from a pair of 3 carat Fancy Intense Yellow pear shape stones.
A pair of high jewellery earrings feature horizontal
rows of pear shape, oval and round brilliant diamonds, which drape downwards, leading the eye towards cascading swathes of pear shape diamonds with a total weight of 51.32 carats. Crafted in white gold, the design resembles a fine lace or embellished fabric, imbued with astonishing fluidity, with each stone artfully and invisibly joined to the next.
A pair of high jewellery earrings feature multidimensional oval and circular silhouettes are inlaid with 34.06 carats of custom-cut baguette cut diamonds, outlined with delicate halos of 84 round pavé emeralds. Suspended from single, perfectly matched 2.01 carat pear shape stones, as the design descends downwards, every element is further embellished with shimmering round brilliant and pear shape diamonds. Intricately articulated within a white gold framework, each jewellery creation radiates maximum expression and movement when worn.
A high jewellery bracelet reveals bold, layered lines of round pavé, oval, baguette cut and pear shape diamonds totaling 64.62 carats. Positioned within a white gold framework, many of the 1,351 diamonds included within the piece were customcut and polished by Graff’s artisans, allowing them
to be flawlessly matched to the next and ensuring a breathtaking loop of luminosity as the bracelet encircles the wrist. Two curved bands of snowset pavé diamonds embrace a horizontal row of oval diamonds, with these soft organic outlines contrasting beautifully with angular baguette cut stones, from which pear shape diamonds cascade down, emulating an elegant, draped fringe.
A joyful 5.78 carat Fancy Vivid Yellow emerald cut diamond is the striking focal point within an ornate high jewellery bangle. This central stone is suspended above three beautifully symmetrical lines of emerald cut white diamonds, totaling 47.61 carats. The upper edge of this diamond composition is a voluminous, curved line of snow-set round pavé diamonds, while in contrast, an angular line of fancy cut yellow diamonds radiantly underscores the geometric design. Set in white and yellow gold by Graff’s highly skilled master artisans, the exacting precision of each stone lends the illusion that the bangle exists without any settings; however, concealed beneath every gem is an intricate yet highly flexible framework designed and handcrafted over many hundreds of hours.
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Curated by the Graff family, this striking selection of necklaces, earrings and bracelets exemplify the House’s expertise in transcending these rare and extraordinary stones to a higher realm of beauty and empowerment
BijouQ, the luxury jewellery brand renowned for its blend of heritage and modern elegance, unveils a bold new masterpiece in its celebrated Art Deco Collection. Inspired by the grandeur of 1920s architecture and the precision of geometric form, the latest pendant captures the essence of timeless sophistication with its meticulously crafted fanlike motif.
Sculpted in 18K rose gold and accented with brilliant-cut diamonds and rich gemstone inlays, including mother of pearl, malachite, coral, and full diamond variations, the design showcases a seamless fusion of classic allure and contemporary craftsmanship. With its symmetry, edge, and luminous detail, this piece elevates everyday wear and stands poised to become a future heirloom.
From the gleam of rose gold to the hypnotic sparkle of hand-set diamonds, every element of this pendant has been executed with masterful precision. The clean geometry and refined palette evoke the iconic glamour of the Art Deco era while reinterpreting it for a new generation of collectors. Whether worn as a statement at a black-tie affair or cherished as a signature piece, it embodies BijouQ’s philosophy of storytelling through design, where every jewel is not just worn, but experienced.
With this launch, BijouQ continues to solidify its position among the most innovative fine jewellery houses, offering creations that resonate with beauty, strength, and legacy.
bijouq.com
“ With its symmetry, edge, and luminous detail, this piece elevates everyday wear and stands poised to become a future heirloom. ”
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Devji Aurum, a distinguished Bahrain-based jewellery brand, has been mesmerizing luxury jewellery aficionados across the Arab landscape for over seven decades. Staying true to the brand’s ever-evolving, ever-elevating philosophy, Devji Aurum announced the opening of their all-new, personalized, immersive boutique stores at three locations across the Middle East: UAE’s Dubai Mall, Bahrain City Center as well as in Qatar where its first shop-in-shop boutique opens at Doha Festival City’s Alfardan Boutique.
Drawing inspiration from its own design journey which celebrates the coming together of modern aesthetics and traditional heritage, these new concept boutiques take opulence to a whole new level. Offering an immersive experience in luxury, the store’s intimate design and tapestry are a tribute to the brand’s excellent craftsmanship and its legacy, creating a warm and inviting space that glimmers in an aura of a rich, golden ambience.
Their discerning clientele will especially appreciate Devji Aurum’s stunning collections ensconced in the luxury of its newly elevated private VIP spaces. To-be brides will be awed not just by the dazzle of the bridal masterpieces but will be swept away by the epitome of luxury with personalized style consultation by jewellery experts, making it a truly bespoke shopping experience.
The captivating displays at these plush stores redefine luxury and bring to life Devji Aurum’s
iconic collections whether they be the Bridal diamond and gold collections, the signature 21k Ruhi collections or even their more contemporary fashion lines which exudes versatility and understated elegance for the modern woman. The boutique will also showcase their most recent Ruhi Amber collection which is an homage to the beauty of this beautiful stone and complements the amber-like hues of the new stores.
Heralding a new chapter in Devji Aurum’s illustrious history, these new stores are a must-visit for every jewellery lover as they incorporate, in their luxe aesthetics, elements that tell the story of Devji Aurum, highlight their heritage, celebrate their craftsmanship, and reflect their design philosophy making it once again a name synonymous with illustriousness and timeless heritage.
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Offering an immersive experience in luxury, the store’s intimate design and tapestry are a tribute to the brand’s excellent craftsmanship and its legacy, creating a warm and inviting space that glimmers in an aura of a rich, golden ambience. ”
Experience unparalleled luxury at Al Habtoor Palace, ideally situated in Al Habtoor City beside the stunning Dubai Canal. This exquisite destination invites guests to indulge in opulence, from the magnificent marble-clad lobby with its grand staircases to the iconic Suites and the signature Sir Winston Churchill Suite. With attentive butler service dedicated to fulfilling your every wish, Al Habtoor Palace redefines hospitality, creating an extraordinary escape where each moment is tailored to perfection.
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“ Banyan Group’s developments in Phuket represent a harmonious blend of luxury, sustainability, and community living. ”
Banyan Group, renowned for its luxury resorts and residences, is making significant strides in Phuket’s real estate landscape. Their developments blend opulence with sustainability, offering a range of properties that cater to diverse lifestyles.
At the heart of their expansion is Laguna Lakelands, envisioned as Phuket’s largest private residential community. Spanning over one million square meters of botanical gardens, parks, rainforests, tranquil lagoons, and rolling hills, this eco-friendly enclave is designed for global citizens seeking a high-quality lifestyle balanced by nature.
Within Laguna Lakelands, Skypark Elara offers a new style of tropical living with 1, 2, and 3-bedroom condominiums. These residences are just a short walk from Bang Tao’s popular lifestyle, dining, and retail precincts, providing both convenience and luxury.
One of Asia’s premier integrated destinations, Laguna Phuket is set against the stunning backdrop of the Andaman Sea on a 3km stretch of pristine beach. It is home to six world-class
hotels, premium facilities and a branded residences and property division. Spanning over 1,000 acres of lush parkland and beachfront and located just a 25-minute drive from Phuket International Airport, Laguna Phuket offers an award-winning 18-hole golf course, luxury spas, exceptional dining options, and countless activities to create unforgettable experiences.
A notable development in Laguna Phuket is The Residences at Garrya Phuket, offering 2-bedroom apartments and penthouses with private rooftop pools. Inspired by nature, these units are uniquely designed to capture its beauty, with natural elements woven into the interiors. The low-rise condominium comprises four fourstory buildings housing only 38 units, ensuring privacy and exclusivity.
Property owners benefit from exclusive privileges through The Sanctuary Club, a private recognition program offering a host of benefits and discounts across the Banyan Group worldwide. This includes access to luxurious facilities, 24-hour concierge services, and special privileges at resorts, spas, golf courses, and retail galleries within the group.
Banyan Group’s developments in Phuket represent a harmonious blend of luxury, sustainability, and community living. Their diverse portfolio caters to various preferences, whether it’s beachfront villas, hillside retreats, or eco-friendly communities, all designed to offer an unparalleled living experience in one of the world’s most sought-after destinations.
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In the hallowed halls of haute horlogerie, where tradition intertwines with unparalleled innovation, Vacheron Constantin stands as a beacon of craftsmanship and artistic mastery. As the venerable Maison approached its monumental 270th anniversary, it commemorated this enduring legacy with the extraordinary Les Cabinotiers – Tribute
to the Tour de l’Île, a trio of single-piece editions that not only pay vibrant homage to the city of Geneva but also embody the very essence of Vacheron Constantin’s “Les Cabinotiers” philosophy.
The Tour de l’Île, a historic tower located at the confluence of Lake Geneva and the Rhône River, has long served as a symbol of Geneva – a city famed for its watchmaking prowess, intellectual vibrancy, and natural beauty. It is this iconic landmark, a silent witness to centuries of Genevan history and the very cradle of Swiss horology, that Vacheron Constantin chose as the central inspiration for this exceptional collection.
The “Les Cabinotiers” department at Vacheron Constantin is a realm of unparalleled creativity and bespoke craftsmanship. Named after the enlightened watchmakers who practiced their art in the attics of Geneva during the 18th century, “Les Cabinotiers” continues this tradition of creating unique, highly complex, and artistically significant timepieces. Each watch is a singular masterpiece, born from the client’s deepest desires and the Maison’s limitless expertise. The “Tribute to the Tour de l’Île” collection perfectly exemplifies this ethos, pushing the boundaries of horological complexity and artistic expression.
Each of the three unique pieces in this collection is a testament to Vacheron Constantin’s mastery of grand complications and métiers d’art. While specifics for each individual piece might vary in their intricate details, the underlying theme is a celebration of Geneva’s heritage and the Maison’s
own remarkable journey.
Imagine dials that become miniature canvases, depicting scenes of Geneva’s iconic cityscape, perhaps with the Jet d’Eau soaring or the historical architecture of the old town meticulously rendered. These aren’t merely decorative elements; they are integrated into the narrative of the timepiece, perhaps executed through the rare and demanding art of Grand Feu enamel, where vibrant colors are achieved through successive firings at intensely high temperatures, creating an enduring brilliance. Or perhaps intricate miniature painting, bringing the cityscape to life with breathtaking detail visible only to the keenest eye.
Beyond the exquisite aesthetics, these timepieces house a symphony of mechanical marvels. Vacheron Constantin is renowned for its command of complex movements, and a tribute of this magnitude demands nothing less. Expect complications that demonstrate the pinnacle of watchmaking artistry. Perhaps a minute repeater, chiming the time with crystal-clear precision, echoing the church bells of Geneva. A tourbillon, a mesmerizing rotating cage that counteracts the effects of gravity, a hallmark of high watchmaking. Complications indicating celestial phenomena, such as a perpetual calendar displaying the date, day, month, and leap year with no manual adjustment needed for
centuries, or even astronomical indications like a moon phase or sky chart, connecting the microcosm of the watch to the macrocosm above Geneva.
The cases themselves would likely be crafted from precious metals – perhaps platinum or rose gold, impeccably polished to a mirror finish, reflecting the refined elegance for which Vacheron Constantin is celebrated. The movements, visible through sapphire crystal casebacks, would be a visual feast, adorned with exquisite Côtes de Genève striping, hand-bevelling, and perlage, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail that extends to even the unseen components.
The “Les Cabinotiers – Tribute to the Tour de l’Île” collection is more than just a series of watches; it is a profound declaration of Vacheron Constantin’s identity. It is a celebration of its nearly three-centurylong journey rooted in the traditions of Geneva, yet constantly pushing the boundaries of horological art. For collectors and connoisseurs, these single-piece editions represent the ultimate expression of bespoke luxury, a wearable masterpiece that embodies history, artistry, and the relentless pursuit of perfection, paying a truly magnificent tribute to the city that shaped its legacy.
vacheron-constantin.com
“ Each of the three unique pieces in this collection is a testament to Vacheron Constantin’s mastery of grand complications and métiers d’art. ”
To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the manufacture’s most emblematic collection, the Big Bang, Hublot has revisited some of the most significant milestones in the collection’s history in a true act of fusion, combining the original Big Bang’s design with the current Big Bang Unico, resulting in five limited edition Big Bang models.
Each of the five editions combines the most emblematic details from the first Big Bang models and the later Big Bang Unico, making these 20th anniversary pieces commemorative by bridging the past, present and future of the Big Bang.
Titanium Ceramic & King Gold Ceramic
When the Big Bang entered the scene in 2005, it did so with two versions that would set the tone for the collection according to the philosophy of the “Art of fusion”, earning Hublot and the Big Bang world recognition. The combination of steel or gold, fibreglass, rubber and ceramic with a patterned dial recalling the woven look of carbon fibre and just a touch of red is immediately identifiable. For the Big Bang 20th Anniversary editions, limited to 500 pieces in titanium ceramic and 250 pieces in King Gold ceramic, Hublot has optimized every detail. The case features a new 43mm diameter, with slightly curved pinched lugs. The polished bezel brings back the knurled bezel edge that was a prominent feature of the earliest Big Bang models. It also marks the reappearance of the rubbertipped rectangular pushers found in the first Big Bang references, along with the textured lozenge patterned rubber strap, which is easily swappable thanks the One-Click system integrated in the case. The carbon-patterned dial has also been redesigned for an even more dramatic three-dimensional visual impact and more pronounced interplay of shadows and textures. Taking cues from the Big Bang Unico, the Arabic numerals and hour markers are filled with Super-LumiNova for optimal legibility in all situations. The red accents on the chronograph indicators further enhance the readability. Powered by the Unico automatic flyback chronograph manufacture calibre, the Big Bang 20th anniversary pieces feature a special gold oscillating weight, and a specially engraved crown with rubber insert features a special Hublot 20th anniversary logo.
Ceramic has always played an integral role in the genesis and evolution of the Big Bang. But what Hublot has done in the past years is truly pushing the envelope by producing ceramic in vivid colours that the world of watchmaking has never seen before. No small feat, coloured ceramic are extremely difficult to master. From selecting the right pigments to applying the right pressures and temperatures to maintain the material’s structural integrity and keep the colour homogenous, a lot of trial and error is required to get it just right as the process has to be adapted for each colour. The first of Hublot’s in-house developed and made coloured ceramics was red ceramic, first unveiled in 2018. To mark this important achievement as the first of many developments in which Hublot stands at the forefront of innovation, the Big Bang 20th Anniversary Red Magic edition of 100 pieces completes the quintet of commemorative pieces. The combination of bright red ceramic with a carbon-patterned dial is as evocative as it is boldly and proudly singular.
All Black
Few design codes have been as dramatic and gamechanging in contemporary watch design as Hublot’s All Black. A daring and unprecedented concept first unveiled in 2006 with the first Big Bang All Black limited edition, the watch broke all the norms that we had come to expect from a luxury timepiece. The focus wasn’t functionality or readability, but to a bold concept of “invisible visibility” whereby stripping away all colours and light offers a mesmerizing and stealthy allure where even the most miniscule
details shine under a different light. For the 20th anniversary of the Big Bang, Hublot is once again reinterpreting this defiant concept in the Big Bang 20th Anniversary All Black Edition. Crafted in matte & polished black ceramic, the 43mm case gives way to a black carbon-pattern dial, marking the first time such a combination has occurred in a Big Bang All Black model. A limited edition of 500 pieces, this commemorative edition is sure to please those who are nostalgic for the early Big Bang years or simply seeking a bold, individual expression.
One of Hublot’s first forays into the world of advanced materials, Magic Gold truly lives up to its name. Announced in 2011 as the world’s first and only scratch-resistant 18-karat gold alloy, Magic Gold represents all that the Hublot’s R&D department seeks to pursue: New solutions for creativity and alleviating the shortcomings of traditional materials and metals. Magic Gold combines the resilience of ceramic with shine and lustre of gold, resulting in a unique material that exhibits a golden hue with a slight green tent, and a hardness that makes it impervious to scratches and oxidation. Developed at the Hublot manufacture and produced within its own foundry, Magic Gold is the stuff of sciencefiction. A limited edition of 100 pieces, the Big Bang 20th Anniversary Magic Gold edition combines the unique 18-karat gold alloy with a carbon-patterned dial and gilt hands and markers for the perfect futuristic contrast of tones and textures.
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and sophisticated watches that suit your style.
The J12 Bleu 28 mm dazzles in a limited edition of 12, adorned with 196 baguette-cut blue sapphires and a brilliant-cut diamond. Crafted in matte blue ceramic and blackened steel, it blends haute horlogerie with playful brilliance. This mini timepiece is a radiant celebration of precision and style.
chanel.com
Cartier reimagines the iconic Panthère watch in semi-paved rose and yellow gold editions. Each piece showcases intricate animalinspired lacquer, brilliant-cut diamonds, and spessartites, celebrating the Maison’s mastery in jewellery watchmaking. Whether abstractly striped or delicately studded, the Panthère balances elegance with bold expression.
cartier.com
Chopard’s Alpine Eagle 33 combines Lucent Steel™ with ethical 18-carat yellow gold in a refined 33 mm silhouette. Featuring a Vals Grey dial, diamond-set bezel and markers, and a COSC-certified 09.01-C movement, it offers urban elegance with a nature-inspired spirit. The exhibition case-back reveals impeccable craftsmanship.
chopard.com
Girard-Perregaux presents the Laureato 38 mm in a luminous copper dial. Housed in 904L steel and powered by the GP03300 calibre, it combines elegance with sportiness. The Clous de Paris dial motif and integrated bracelet refine its aesthetics, echoing the maison’s iconic 1975 silhouette.
girard-perregaux.com
A surrealist masterpiece, this unique Chanel timepiece features miniature beauty icons sculpted in gold, enamel, and diamonds. With 176 diamonds, 86 sapphires, and 234 gold pearls, the 55 mm dial evokes Mademoiselle’s elegance. Created by Les Cadraniers de Genève, this is Chanel’s art of watchmaking at its most expressive.
chanel.com
The Big Bang Unico Summer 2025 by Hublot bursts in microblasted orange and sky-blue ceramic. Powered by the in-house Unico movement, it offers 72 hours of power and three interchangeable rubber straps. From beach to soirée, it embodies the bold, celebratory Hublot spirit.
hublot.com
The Cadenas watch epitomizes discreet elegance with its closed clasp silhouette and diagonal time-reading display. Reimagined with diamond-set curves, white mother-ofpearl dials, and gold cases, it reflects Van Cleef & Arpels’ refined jewellery savoir-faire and architectural design ethos.
vancleefarpels.com
Oris celebrates vibrant living with the Aquis Date “Taste of Summer” models in Cherry and Plum. Sized at 41.5 mm, both feature gradient dials, unidirectional bezels, and water resistance to 300 meters. A playful yet functional diver’s watch crafted for seasonal adventures.
oris.ch
Parmigiani’s Toric Quantième Perpétuel Rattrapante introduces a worldfirst: a split-seconds perpetual calendar with dual-time functionality. Elegant in platinum or rose gold, it offers to-the-minute dual-time reading via concentric hands and a single pusher. The 38 mm watch bridges timeless tradition with masterful complication.
parmigiani.com
The prize pool has been increased to BD 3 million for the grand prizes, including:
(BD 1,000,000 for each winner) for 10 winners (BD 100,000 for each winner)
In addition to other monthly prizes:
• BD 100,000 prize for one winner
• 50 prizes worth BD 500
And more... for two winners
• 50 prizes worth BD 200 for youth
• 1 prize of BD 1,000 for Danat Plus clients
Every BD 50 you invest in a Danat or Danat Plus account increases your
of
Take your pick from these watches that stand the test of time.
The 1815 from A. Lange & Söhne honors tradition with a newly developed manual calibre L152.1. Offered in white or pink gold with a discreet 34mm case and 72-hour power reserve, it features blue dials, railway-track scales, and engraved balance cocks, bridging historical elegance with contemporary refinement.
alange-soehne.com
Breitling launches the Navitimer B19 Chronograph 43 with perpetual calendar and moonphase. Featuring an ice-blue dial, platinum bezel, and COSC-certified Caliber B19 movement, it combines heritage aviation aesthetics with century-long precision. Available on alligator leather or stainless-steel bracelet, it’s a milestone for Breitling’s iconic flight watch.
breitling.com
The House of Breguet celebrates its 250th anniversary in 2025, with the unveiling of the Classique Souscription 2025 wristwatch. More than two centuries ago, it was presented through an advertising pamphlet, the likes of which had never been seen before. Today, the historic, groundbreaking Souscription pocket watch is reborn as a wristwatch.
breguet.ch
Biver’s Carillon Tourbillon Desert Rose is a unique piece blending mother-of-pearl, ruby markers, and guilloché detailing within an 18K rose gold case and bracelet. Featuring a carillon minute repeater and automatic tourbillon movement, it embodies neoclassical craftsmanship with modern vibrancy. A singular expression of horological artistry.
jcbiver.com
Jacob & Co. The World is Yours Dual Time Zone Tourbillon
Jacob & Co. presents The World is Yours Dual Time Zone Tourbillon, an 18K rose gold watch with a three-dimensional rotating globe dial and hand-painted continents. It features a double-axis tourbillon and dual time displays, celebrating ambition, travel, and legacy. A tribute to dreams made reality.
jacobandco.com
Cartier reimagines the Tank Louis Cartier in a larger format with automatic movement 1899 MC. Crafted in yellow or rose gold with semi-matte alligator straps and flinqué dials, it retains signature codes like Roman numerals and sword-shaped hands. The enduring design blends heritage elegance with contemporary mechanical mastery.
cartier.com
Zenith introduces the Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar in gold, a contemporary take on its iconic El Primero heritage. Featuring a sunray-patterned dial, moonphase complication, and the latest automatic El Primero movement, this model merges 1969 design cues with modern precision. Its elegant layout highlights Zenith’s mastery of balanced watchmaking.
zenith-watches.com
Jaquet Droz pays tribute to Japanese artistry with The Last Samurai, a unique timepiece featuring a Bushi warrior’s mask rendered in dual-gold applique, Murano glass beads, and fine engraving. This 42mm sapphire-cased watch includes a tourbillon and 8-day power reserve, symbolizing craftsmanship, strength, and aesthetic disruption.
jaquet-droz.com
Ulysse Nardin redefines the limits of dive watchmaking with the Diver [AIR], the lightest mechanical dive watch ever made. Combining high horology, high technology, and high performance, this groundbreaking timepiece represents a first in the industry. Engineered for extreme precision and durability, it embodies the brand’s spirit of innovation and boundary-pushing craftsmanship.
ulysse-nardin.com
E X P E R I E N C E T H E U N F O R G E T A B L E
CELEBRATE YOUR SPECIAL DAY WITH BESPOKE TOUCHES AND ELEGANT DETAILS
all thoughtfully prepared for lasting memories.
The Fendi Fall/Winter 2025 collection is a Roman rhapsody of elegance and evolution.
As the fashion world turns its gaze to the cooler climes, Fendi’s Fall/Winter 2025 Women’s collection, under the masterful direction of Silvia Venturini Fendi, offers a deeply personal and richly textured narrative. Celebrating the Maison’s impending 100th anniversary, this collection is not merely a reflection on the past but a bold vision for the future, rooted in Roman rigor and infused with an inherent sense of modern sophistication.
The FW25 collection serves as a poignant homage to Fendi’s enduring legacy, with Silvia Venturini Fendi drawing inspiration from personal memories and the foundational spirit of the house. The runway itself, a beautifully recreated vision of Fendi’s historic Via Borgognona salons, set a tone of intimate grandeur.
Key to the collection’s allure is its interplay of textures and forms. Expect to see a sophisticated palette of earthy browns, classic blacks, and deep merlots, punctuated by intriguing hints of pink and rich, autumnal yellows. The luxurious materiality synonymous with Fendi is reinterpreted through new lenses: sumptuous shearling and mohair take on the look of more traditional furs with intricate honeycomb intarsia and patchwork, showcasing the Maison’s unrivalled artisanal prowess. The collection champions elevated everyday wear, where practicality meets unparalleled luxury.
fendi.com
Elie Saab’s Haute Couture SS25 collection evokes fantasy through luminous detail.
In his Spring/Summer 2025 haute couture presentation, Elie Saab delivers a portrait of dreams: soft, glistening, and ethereal. Crafted for the grandest entrances, the collection is a procession of shimmering gowns, delicate embroideries, and storytelling silhouettes. Drenched in pastel hues and iridescent fabrics, each look captures a moment suspended between reality and reverie. Saab’s mastery lies in layering lace, sequins, and translucent textures in a way that feels both regal and weightless. Capes glide
like mist; bodices hug with gentle structure; and every gown reads as an ode to femininity at its most elevated.
Though rooted in tradition, the designs feel freshly cinematic, like costume sketches for a modern fairytale. Whether through crystal tracings or cascading tulle, the SS25 collection invites us into a world where imagination reigns, and elegance is eternal.
eliesaab.com
Dolce & Gabbana Men’s SS25 collection recalls 1950s Italy with effortless flair.
Echoing the laid-back glamour of the Italian Riviera, Dolce & Gabbana’s Spring/Summer 2025 menswear collection is a nostalgic tribute to sunsoaked elegance. Lightweight linens, tailored bermudas, and woven details conjure memories of vintage postcards and timeless vacation wardrobes.
Artisanal raffia weaves its way through jackets and polo shirts, marrying modern silhouettes with hand-finished craftsmanship. Maxi stripes and coral embroidery lend texture to the relaxed silhouettes, adding vibrancy to neutral tones like Black Sicily, beige, and forest green.
Accessories complete the story. Oversized weekend bags, bucket totes, and crocodile-embossed leather goods evoke the romance of travel. Worn with lace-up shoes and long belts, they reflect a lifestyle steeped in elegance and ease.
This is a collection designed not just for wearing, but for wandering, inviting men to carry a piece of Italy wherever they go.
dolcegabbana.com
Louis Vuitton’s Men’s SS25 by Pharrell Williams blends travel, culture, and tailored boldness.
Pharrell Williams reinvents the codes of Louis Vuitton menswear in a Spring-Summer 2025 collection that celebrates diversity and global perspective. Presented at La Maison de l’UNESCO, the show was as much a cultural gathering as a fashion statement, exploring archetypes of travel through bold silhouettes and refined accessories.
The collection channels Pharrell’s signature dandyism while introducing a modular approach to luxury. Bags and apparel become canvases for morphing motifs, emblems of identity,
reconfigured with rhythmic boldness. The message is one of motion and multiplicity: from Paris to the world, fashion becomes a passport to self-expression.
With a palette that shifts from earthy to electric, and tailoring that reimagines classic menswear with modern volume, the collection asserts its place on the global stage. Louis Vuitton under Pharrell is both streetwise and sublime, a testament to style with substance.
louisvuitton.com
CAN YOU SHARE WITH US THE INITIAL SPARK THAT IGNITED YOUR PASSION FOR CALLIGRAPHY, AND HOW THAT EARLY INTEREST HAS EVOLVED INTO THE STUNNING, BOLD-COLORED PIECES WE SEE TODAY?
From childhood, I’ve been sensitive to beauty, harmony, and order. These are qualities that I find beautifully intertwined in calligraphy. I believe all art forms share one essential foundation: structure, beauty, and balance. Creating gives me peace. Through calligraphy, I’ve created my own world, one that is colorful, expressive, and deeply feminine. Ever since I was a child, I imagined that every name or word had its own unique color. This wasn’t something I was taught. It was simply the way my mind visualized language. When I began practicing calligraphy, that same energy stayed with me. So, even though traditional calligraphy is often rendered in black or muted tones, I felt compelled to give letters and words a new kind of life, infusing them with vibrant color and emotional tone.
YOUR CALLIGRAPHY WORK INCORPORATES VIBRANT COLORS AND INTRICATE DESIGNS. HOW DO YOU CHOOSE YOUR COLOR PALETTE, AND WHAT EMOTIONS
From an early age, Neda Matian viewed the world through a lens of harmony and elegance. These sensibilities now define her signature approach to contemporary calligraphy. Fusing the poetic spirit of her heritage with bold and modern aesthetics, she transforms script into art, creating richly expressive pieces that speak to both emotion and design.
DO YOU AIM TO EVOKE THROUGH THESE STRIKING VISUAL CHOICES IN YOUR ART?
Ancient Iranians used color to express character and narrative. This is something that aligns closely with today’s color psychology. To me, color is more than just aesthetics; it’s a powerful medium of emotion and communication. Each color carries its own meaning and can stir different feelings in the viewer. My palettes are often inspired by nature. I find the colors of the sky, birds, and even the intricate tilework of historic architecture to be flawless and endlessly inspiring. These colors, rooted in our culture, always catch my eye. I believe an artist should be present in their work; their tastes, their nature, and the emotions they feel while creating.
CALLIGRAPHY IS OFTEN TIED TO CULTURAL HERITAGE. HOW DOES YOUR OWN BACKGROUND INFLUENCE THE THEMES AND STYLES YOU INCORPORATE INTO YOUR ARTWORK, AND HAVE YOU DRAWN INSPIRATION FROM OTHER CULTURES AS WELL?
Geography, climate, and environment shape culture. Culture deeply influences an artist’s vision. Art often reflects the values, beliefs, and lived
experiences of its surroundings. Someone raised in a desert landscape, surrounded by earthy tones and blue skies, will have a different worldview than someone raised among the lush, colorful forests of the north. I come from a culture where color has always held a sacred place in art. Iranian tilework, especially in religious and historic architecture, uses joyful, vivid colors to create a sense of beauty and spiritual depth. These colors, inspired by nature and tradition, breathe vitality into any space. It always spoke to me as both an artist and an Iranian.
AS AN ARTIST, HOW DO YOU BALANCE THE TRADITIONAL ASPECTS OF CALLIGRAPHY WITH CONTEMPORARY ARTISTIC EXPRESSIONS? DO YOU FEEL THERE’S A SPACE FOR INNOVATION WITHIN THIS ANCIENT ART FORM?
Traditional calligraphy, with its rules and foundations, has preserved its authenticity across centuries. But today’s artists aren’t content with repetition or confinement. They strive for innovation and challenge established norms. In recent years, we’ve seen more and more artists consciously breaking away from conventional styles, introducing new forms and expressions that resonate with a wider and more modern audience.
“
Ever since I was a child, I imagined that every name or word had its own unique color. ”
CAN YOU DESCRIBE THE EVOLUTION OF YOUR TECHNIQUES OVER THE YEARS? WHAT WERE SOME KEY TURNING POINTS IN YOUR ARTISTIC PRACTICE THAT LED YOU TO DEVELOP YOUR UNIQUE STYLE OF CALLIGRAPHY?
My journey began with oil painting and realism when I was just 11 years old. Over time, I explored various techniques and styles. One of the reasons I fell in love with art is the sense of freedom it gives. Those deliberate yet spontaneous movements. In traditional calligraphy, the strict structure and rules can sometimes limit personal expression. For me, this created a tension. I wanted to explore, to be bold and expressive. Eventually, I started viewing letters not just as symbols for words, but as visual elements. I began using them like shapes or forms, like other artistic elements in my compositions. This shift removed the limitations I felt and opened a new doorway into the world of calligraphy. One that was expressive, unbounded, and truly my own.
YOUR PIECES OFTEN CONVEY POWERFUL MESSAGES THROUGH SCRIPT AND COLOR. HOW DO YOU SELECT THE TEXTS OR QUOTES THAT RESONATE WITH YOU, AND WHY DO THESE PARTICULAR WORDS FEEL SIGNIFICANT TO YOUR ARTISTIC JOURNEY?
As Iranians, we are inherently poetic, narrativedriven, and auditory people. We don’t just like to see art. We like to hear its story. We love to narrate our experiences, even when it comes to visual forms like painting. Calligraphy itself is abstract by nature. It sits perfectly beside poetry, which is both lyrical and abstract in its own right. The poems I choose usually mirror what I’m feeling at that time. They carry meaning, memory, and emotion. They’re often phrases that stir something within me, and I believe they do the same for the viewer. When I pair poetry with calligraphy and then bring in colors and forms, it becomes a kind of visual storytelling, like a layered, emotional message that speaks to the heart as much as the eyes.
COLLABORATION OFTEN BRINGS NEW DIMENSIONS TO ART. HAVE YOU COLLABORATED WITH OTHER ARTISTS OR CREATORS IN YOUR WORK? IF SO, HOW DO THESE PARTNERSHIPS IMPACT YOUR APPROACH TO CALLIGRAPHY?
Absolutely. Like many art forms, calligraphy can move beyond the traditional canvas. It has functional and decorative potential too. Collaborating with other
creators has added new dimensions to my practice. For example, working with Laan Design, a home accessories brand, and Hunayn, a perfume brand, allowed me to bring calligraphy into the worlds of fashion and interior design. These collaborations show how calligraphy can blend with other disciplines by adding elegance, cultural identity, and emotion to everyday objects. It takes the art off the wall and into daily life.
IF YOU COULD IMPART ONE PIECE OF WISDOM OR INSIGHT TO ASPIRING CALLIGRAPHY ARTISTS LOOKING TO FOLLOW IN YOUR FOOTSTEPS, WHAT WOULD IT BE, AND HOW CAN THEY FIND THEIR OWN UNIQUE VOICE WITHIN THIS VIBRANT DISCIPLINE?
One of the qualities I’m most proud of is my persistence. I’ve never walked away from something I cared about halfway. I believe in seeing things through. To anyone beginning their artistic path, my advice is this: keep going. Practice, be patient, observe deeply, and get to know yourself. That’s where your true creativity lives.
nedamatian.com 04
Gorgeous designer hand bags to add a touch of class to your look.
Louis Vuitton’s Speedy Soft Bandoulière 30 from the LV x Takashi Murakami collection blends classic Monogram canvas with vibrant cherry motifs. Detailed with Toron handles, a removable strap in natural leather, and a bow-shaped keybell, it’s lined in denim for a modern twist, merging playful artistry with timeless luxury.
louisvuitton.com
The Panthère C de Cartier Bucket Bag reimagines elegance with a sculptural panther-headed buckle and saddle stitching. Inspired by Jeanne Toussaint’s creative legacy, it exudes luxury in a clean, graphic form. Wear it crossbody or on the shoulder with the adjustable strap. Available in black or salt white, in small or mini sizes.
cartier.com
The Small Andiamo from Bottega Veneta is a top-handle bag crafted in Intrecciato leather with a signature knot detail. Lined in lambskin, its interior features one zipped and one open pocket. With a magnetic closure and sliding crossbody strap, it offers practical elegance. This Italian-made piece is eligible for a Certificate of Craft.
bottegaveneta.com
Celine’s Teen Lulu Bag in grained calfskin offers understated elegance and everyday function. Measuring 21x24x5 cm, it features a suede lining, zip closure, and adjustable straps for hand, shoulder, or crossbody carry. Sleek yet practical, it includes one main compartment and refined detailing in classic Celine fashion.
celine.com
The Small Dior Caro Bucket Bag debuts for Fall 2025 in black Macrocannage lambskin. Featuring a drawstring main compartment and flap front pocket with gold-finish CD signature, it blends modern style with timeless elegance. Versatile in wear, it includes a removable top handle and adjustable strap for hand, shoulder, or crossbody use.
dior.com
Chloé’s Small Marcie Saddle Bag features raffia-effect fibers and calfskin accents, echoing a bohemian spirit with a structured finish. Its flap closure showcases iconic saddle stitching and leather tassels. With a leather strap for shoulder or crossbody wear, this artisanal piece blends relaxed charm with the Maison’s signature craftsmanship.
chloe.com
Dolce & Gabbana’s Small Sicily Handbag pays homage to Italian artistry with vibrant Majolica embroidery. This multi-colored piece includes leather handles, an adjustable strap, and a tuck-in closure with goldtone hardware. Compact yet elegant, it fits keys, a cardholder, and a phone, delivered in a logo bag and signature pre-assembled box.
dolcegabbana.com
Fendi’s Peekaboo ISeeU Small bag is crafted in blue calfskin with a Coral Bandana laser-cut motif. It features two compartments, a tone-on-tone partition, gold-finish hardware, and twist locks. Carry it by hand or wear it crossbody or on the shoulder via the adjustable strap, showcasing Fendi’s legacy of elegance and craftsmanship.
fendi.com
Goyard’s limited-edition 2025 Saïgon Tote Bag showcases Goyardine canvas in exclusive Iris and Fuchsia tones. Inspired by linen flowers and vintage herbariums, this elegant piece fuses practicality and artistry. Designed for styling flexibility, it can be worn in multiple ways while exuding timeless charm through its vibrant colors and unique floral interior.
goyard.com
Gucci’s GG Marmont Woven Medium Shoulder Bag blends raffia-effect viscose with brown leather trim for effortless summer elegance. The flap features Double G hardware and opens to reveal an interior zipper pocket. Convertible sliding chain straps offer styling versatility, while its compact design fits daily essentials like an iPhone, wallet, and lipstick.
gucci.com
Miu Miu’s leather handbag embodies refined summer elegance with its distinctive open basket-weave motif in soft nappa leather. Gold-tone hardware, a metal logo, and an adjustable leather strap highlight its delicate structure. Compact yet polished, it offers a balance of style and practicality, perfect for day-to-evening wear.
miumiu.com
Loewe’s Medium Ola Bag in smooth calfskin is a lightweight, versatile summer staple. Defined by a curved body, fluid flap, and iconic donut chain, it combines sculptural lines with soft structure. Featuring a detachable strap and internal pocket, it’s both functional and refined, emblazoned with gold embossed LOEWE branding and engraved Anagram.
loewe.com
Saint Laurent’s Jamie Shopping Bag in supple lambskin redefines casual elegance with signature Carré Rive Gauche topstitching and Cassandre detailing. This lightweight, spacious design features a chain strap, removable zip pouch, and cinchable sides for adjustable silhouettes. A versatile companion with elevated Parisian flair, it transitions seamlessly from day to evening.
ysl.com
Armani Beauty’s Vertigo Lift Mascara sculpts and lengthens lashes with clean, clump-free volume. Its Infinity Loop Brush ensures precise application and the Lash Extender Complex provides smooth, lightweight wear. With up to 24-hour impact and +70% longer lashes, this mascara brings Giorgio Armani’s cinematic vision to everyday beauty.
armanibeauty.com
The Smooth Blur Contour Stick is a lightweight, gel-cream contour with a skin-like, dewy finish. Available in four cool-toned shades, it sculpts and defines without streaking or settling. Enriched with Vitamin E, the non-comedogenic formula blends seamlessly on bare skin or makeup, making it ideal for all skin types and skill levels.
anastasiabeverlyhills.com
Asteri Beauty presents Big Fan Volumizing Mascara, engineered for bold lashes and extreme climates. Its cone-shaped brush creates a high-impact, fan-effect lift, while ingredients like Vitamin B5 and Sumac Fruit Wax nourish lashes. Vegan and smudge-proof, it delivers dramatic volume with desert-proof durability and an eye-catching, glossy black finish.
asteribeauty.com
Elemis elevates its cult-favorite cleanser with the Pro-Collagen Black Cherry Cleansing Balm. Infused with notes of black cherry, almond, and vanilla, this 3-in-1 formula melts away makeup while delivering hydration and nourishment. With a blend of essential oils and waxes, it strengthens the skin barrier and leaves it irresistibly soft.
elemis.com
The Rich Eye Cream is Augustinus Bader’s most luxurious formula, designed to deeply nourish, lift, and firm the eye contour. Infused with TFC8® technology, Wild Gentian Root Extract, and the Matrikine Anti-Wrinkle Complex, it reduces fine lines and wrinkles while providing intense hydration. Its reverse emulsion technology ensures a rich texture, and the cooling steel applicator helps de-puff and boost microcirculation. Perfect for daily use.
hourglasscosmetics.com
The N°1 De Chanel collection harnesses the longevity of the red camellia to preserve skin’s youthful vitality. With advanced research on skin cell senescence, Chanel developed potent formulas that boost radiance, elasticity, and hydration. Key ingredients include red camellia extract and oligopeptides, working at the cellular level. Featuring the Smoothing Serum, Plumping Cream, and innovative massage accessory, this collection offers a luxurious, effective skincare ritual.
chanel.com
Kosas DreamBeam Comfy Smooth Sunscreen offers SPF 40 protection with a silicone-free, mineral formula. Powered by non-nano zinc oxide, it shields skin while hydrating with ceramides and peptides. Lightweight and fragrance-free, it leaves a smooth, dewy finish that works perfectly under makeup or alone, enhancing both comfort and skin health.
kosas.com
CHANEL’s N°1 Serum-in-Mist fuses red camellia extract and lightweight mist technology in a portable antioxidant shield. The bi-phase formula soothes and revitalizes skin anytime, enhancing makeup and restoring radiance. Designed for on-the-go youth care, it boosts skin vitality and defense with each refreshing spritz. Use morning, night, or throughout the day.
chanel.com
K18’s AirWash™ redefines dry shampoo with its biotechpowered odorBIND™ technology. This non-aerosol formula eliminates odor, refreshes hair without white residue, and uses Mediterranean microalgae to promote scalp health. With smart-release performance that lasts up to three days, AirWash™ delivers clean, lightweight hair care rooted in cutting-edge science and clean innovation.
k18hair.com
Givenchy’s Prisme Libre Glow Serum Foundation blends makeup with skincare, offering 48-hour hydration and 24-hour wear. Infused with micro hyaluronic acid and ceramide yuzu extract, it blurs, evens tone, and brightens. Prismatic Light™ Technology ensures radiance, while 30 inclusive shades match Prisme Libre powders. Couture packaging completes this hybrid foundation innovation.
givenchybeauty.com
SHISEIDO’s fourth-generation Ultimune Power Infusing Serum redefines anti-aging with patented Power Fermented Camellia+™, inspired by Memory T cells. Clinically proven to improve radiance, firmness, elasticity, and hydration, it visibly reduces signs of aging. With 91% natural-origin ingredients and a refined refillable design, this serum supports long-term skin health and environmental mindfulness.
shiseido.com
Rare Beauty introduces Soft Pinch Matte Bouncy Blush, a cream-to-powder formula offering weightless texture and a soft, velvety matte finish. Waterproof and easy to blend, it suits all skin tones with seven shades. Infused with cocoa seed extract and nourishing oils, it hydrates while delivering buildable color for a naturally radiant, sculpted look.
rarebeauty.com
Summer Fridays introduces the Pink Guava Lip Butter Balm, a 100% vegan formula designed to hydrate and soothe dry lips. Delivering a sheer pop of bright pink color with a glossy finish, this balm also features a sweet guava flavor for an indulgent lip experience. It’s the perfect mix of care and color.
summerfridays.com
Saie’s Glowy Supergel in Starglow is a lightweight, multi-use luminizer that delivers a radiant, lit-from-within finish. This gel-based formula can be used alone, under foundation, or mixed with base products for a customizable glow. Hydrating and breathable, it gives skin a dewy sheen while enhancing its natural tone and texture.
saiehello.com
SIMIHAZE BEAUTY’s Color Glaze Lip & Cheek Pigment blends skincare and color for a sheer, radiant flush. Featuring the Mirror Polishing Complex and Hyper-Reflective Pearls, it delivers a dewy, mirror-like glow. Available in floral-inspired shades, this lightweight balm blends easily for customizable, long-lasting wear. Housed in a chic, eco-friendly acetate compact.
simihazebeauty.com
Add iconic style to your luxury collection with the latest and most sought-after designer women’s shoes.
Aquazzura’s Hibiscus Sandals are crafted in emerald green suede with padded leather insoles and long ankle ties. Inspired by tropical blooms, the bold silhouette rests on a stiletto heel and features signature logo detailing. Designed for standout style at special occasions.
aquazzura.com
Classic and contemporary, these 105mm heel Lollo pumps come in satin. Featuring the new metal heel, they boast the DG logo. Elegant in black and perfect for a night out, these pumps have a comfortable leather sole. They also come with a branded dust bag.
dolcegabbana.com
Chloé’s heeled Flower sandal, in Obscure Red patent calfskin, features a distinctive wavy sole, peep toe, and gold-toned heel insert engraved with the logo. Crafted using LWG-certified leather, this 9.5 cm heel combines sustainable practices with romantic design and confident femininity.
chloe.com
Gucci’s women’s platform sandal merges bold modernity with heritage. Made of luxurious light green suede and adorned with gold-toned Horsebit hardware, it features a sculpted wood platform and adjustable ankle buckle. Standing 5.2 inches tall, it evokes both retro flair and signature Italian craftsmanship. gucci.com
Dolce & Gabbana’s brocade mules shimmer with jewel-toned embroidery and Majolica print. Featuring the Keira shape, Eva heel, and DG metal logo, this 60 mm mule channels Sicilian flair and Italian craftsmanship. Embellished with stones, it arrives in an elegant black box and cotton dust bag.
dolcegabbana.com
Dior’s J’Adior Slingback Pump is embroidered with a nude and white Millefiori motif, inspired by delicate Asian blooms. The cotton upper is paired with a two-tone embroidered ribbon, flat bow, and 2.5-inch comma heel. Handcrafted in Italy, it’s a refined symbol of the Maison’s floral savoir-faire.
dior.com
Jimmy Choo’s iconic 72318 sandal, first seen in 1998, returns in lilac suede with delicately placed feathers. This slingback design sits atop a 100 mm stiletto heel and continues to define glamour with its ethereal silhouette, cementing its legacy in pop culture and red-carpet fashion.
jimmychoo.com
Christian Louboutin’s Miss Z Sandal du Desert captivates with architectural lines and a 100 mm stiletto. Crafted in Gaagal print crepe satin designed by Otis Hope Carey, it features ankle ribbon ties and an Everlasting Red sole. A bold expression of cultural storytelling and timeless craftsmanship.
christianlouboutin.com
Miu Miu’s Nappa leather slingback pumps feature contrasting piping and a printed bow, channeling seductive femininity through minimalist structure. Set on an 85 mm leathercovered heel, this design balances runway influence with casual versatility. Finished with a screen-printed logo and rubber heel tip for added durability.
miumiu.com
The 6AM Slingback Pump in Monogram denim is a chic update on a classic silhouette. With a pointed toe, kitten heel, and a natural cowhide strap secured by an engraved stud, this feminine design is completed with a gold-tone buckle at the heel. Elegant with just the right amount of edge.
louisvuitton.com
Sophia Webster’s Flo Copacabana sandal is a playful summer standout. In candy pink leather with strappy construction, it features a signature flamingo-shaped heel in matching color. A woven insole with padded leather patch ensures comfort from beach to bar. Bright, bold, and unapologetically fun.
sophiawebster.com
Stuart Weitzman’s Vinnie 100 D’Orsay Pump reinvents the pointedtoe classic with architectural elegance. Made in Spain, it features a sculptural 100 mm stiletto heel and cutout side detail for modern edge and wear-all-day comfort. Finished in glossy patent leather with leather lining and outsole.
stuartweitzman.com
Berluti’s Playoff sneaker draws from 1980s basketball design, reimagined in patinated Venezia leather. With layered cutouts, a colorful insert, and bold silhouette, it bridges heritage craftsmanship with contemporary athletic style. A rubber outsole ensures comfort in this distinctive Berluti update.
berluti.com
bottegaveneta.com Complete your distinguished look with the latest in
Armani’s dappled leather boat shoes merge nautical inspiration with urban functionality. Crafted in premium leather and featuring a rubber sneaker-style sole, they offer all-day comfort with refined detailing. A modern classic for seaside escapes or city strolls.
armani.com
The Astaire Loafer by Bottega Veneta is a minimal yet statement piece crafted in supple calfskin. Finished with the brand’s signature leather knot detail and leather sole, this loafer fuses understated elegance with luxurious craftsmanship. Perfect for elevated daily wear or formal occasions.
The Spectre sneaker from Givenchy combines bold utility with elevated streetwear. Crafted from synthetic leather with tone-ontone accents, it features 4G zip detailing, technical laces, and branded elements across the sole and insole. A lightweight, sculpted outsole rounds out this futuristic, performance-inspired design.
givenchy.com
Dior’s B27 Uptown sneaker showcases cognac and white grained calfskin paired with Dior Gravity leather, embossed with the Oblique motif. Iconic CD eyelets and hallmark signatures on the sole and tongue complete this low-top essential, marrying house savoir-faire with urban sophistication.
fendi.com
Dolce&Gabbana’s woven goatskin slippers embody formal refinement in eveningwear. Presented in classic black, the design features a woven upper, branded leather sole, and a sleek silhouette. Delivered with a dust bag, these Made in Italy slippers epitomize timeless elegance and artisanal technique.
dolcegabbana.com
Louis Vuitton’s Major Loafer is crafted from glazed calf leather and defined by its hand-stitched vamp and LV Initials accessory on the strap. Combining timeless appeal with modern practicality, it rests on a leather and rubber outsole designed for flexibility and traction. This perennial essential blends luxury detailing with versatile wearability.
louisvuitton.com
The Louis Junior Spikes sneakers reinterpret tennis aesthetics in Gaagal coated canvas, a motif by Otis Hope Carey. With Maison Louboutin’s signature white spikes, each pair is water-repellent and uniquely patterned. The multicolored artwork celebrates the ocean’s spirit, delivering sporty luxury rooted in artistic storytelling.
christianlouboutin.com
Gucci’s Re-Web sneaker reimagines house codes with bold heritage stripes across a modern profile. Made from gradient blue GG Supreme canvas, the pair features a green and red Web tongue and streamlined silhouette. This vibrant update of archival details exudes confident, contemporary cool.
gucci.com
Alexander McQueen’s Maker Shoe in black grainy calf leather balances edgy and elegant. With a round toe, white leather strap, silver-finished flat studs, and lasered logo, it fuses craftsmanship with rebellious character. The handmade leather-rubber sole and double-stitch detailing reflect McQueen’s signature precision.
alexandermcqueen.com
Jimmy Choo’s Malbon 2.0 Diamond M golf trainer fuses high fashion with athletic function. Featuring water-resistant leather, Diamond cleats, and Malbon’s “Buckets” mascot, it transitions effortlessly from course to clubhouse. A detachable fringed kiltie and graphic laces add versatility to this performance-driven yet stylish silhouette.
jimmychoo.com
Off-White™ redefines casual cool with its Black/Ivory Vulcanized sneakers. Featuring a low-top silhouette with a 100% leather upper, embroidered arrow logo, and the brand’s signature
“ZIP TIE” tag, they rest on a vulcanized rubber sole for streetready comfort. These skate-inspired shoes embody the label’s subversive design ethos.
off---white.com
An eclectic mix of stimulating fragrances and intoxicating aromas guaranteed to make a statement. For women.
Burberry Gold Eau de Parfum Intense deepens the warmth and richness of the original with a bold, smoky twist. At its heart is a unique blend of four vanillas, including a smoky vanilla wood that adds depth and complexity. This creamy sweetness is brightened by aromatic lavender and grounded by earthy patchouli, creating a sophisticated and lasting finish. The scent balances softness and strength, making it perfect for evening wear or special moments. Encased in an elegant square bottle with golden accents inspired by Burberry’s heritage, this fragrance offers a modern take on classic warmth and sensuality.
burberry.com
Very Good Girl Elixir is the most intense version yet of the iconic Good Girl fragrance. This concentrated scent opens with a sensuous burst of black cherry, followed by bold red rose and radiant vanilla. The ambery, fruity, and floral blend feels both addictive and powerful. Encased in a striking redto-black gradient stiletto bottle with gold accents, it perfectly captures the essence of temptation. Building on the success of the original Good Girl, known for its blend of jasmine, cocoa, almond, and coffee, this latest Elixir highlights the multifaceted nature of femininity. It’s a fragrance designed for women who embrace all sides of themselves.
carolinaherrera.com
Guerlain’s Ambre Samar captures the mood of a red moon eclipse in scent form. Part of the Absolus Allegoria collection, this amber-based fragrance blends rich warmth with soft gourmand touches. Frankincense and ambergris create a mineral, musky depth, while vanilla and a honey note add a smooth sweetness. Ambre Samar is a bold yet soft scent that lingers beautifully thanks to the rare and natural ambergris, which adds a unique, oceanic character
guerlain.com
Byredo’s Blanche Absolu de Parfum offers a richer, deeper take on the classic Blanche scent. It opens with sharp notes of black pepper and aldehydes, leading to a floral heart of rose, violet, and watery jasmine. The base blends musk, ambroxan, and warm cashmere woods, creating a lasting, textured finish. This version intensifies the original’s clean, intimate feel, balancing purity with warmth and subtle sensuality. The bottle redesign reflects craftsmanship with a tactile cap and sleek lines, combining raw and refined elements. Blanche Absolu is perfect for those who appreciate a scent that is both gentle and bold.
byredo.com
Dries Van Noten offers two fresh takes on the rose for women who appreciate bold, modern florals. Raving Rose is vibrant and spicy, opening with pink and black pepper before revealing a rich floral heart of rosa water and rose absolute. Warm notes of cashmeran and musk provide a sensual finish. In contrast, Rosa Carnivora embraces the rose’s wild, natural side. It combines bright pink pepper and fresh rose with an earthy vetiver heart and a grounding base of patchouli and cistus. Both fragrances are crafted with 90% naturally derived ingredients, blending freshness with depth. Together, they showcase the rose’s many facets in a contemporary, approachable way.
driesvannoten.com
CHANEL Chance Eau Splendide is a playful new addition to the Chance fragrance family. Designed for those who believe fortune favors the bold, it blends sparkling raspberry with crisp floral notes of rose geranium and violet, creating a fresh and captivating scent. The base features subtle cedar, white musk, and powdery iris, adding depth and elegance. Crafted by Olivier Polge, this fruity-floral fragrance captures a balance of lightness and mystery, with a joyful spirit and surprising complexity. Eau Splendide invites wearers to embrace life’s unexpected moments with confidence and charm.
chanel.com Initio Parfums PrivésPOWER SELF
Initio Parfums Privés POWER SELF is audacious new fragrance born from the forefront of innovation. Prepare for an exclusive unveiling of this scent, meticulously crafted with cutting-edge technology to embody and amplify your inner strength. Experience a bold olfactory journey designed to empower and define your truest self. initioparfums.com
Dior Rose Star, from Francis Kurkdjian’s La Collection Privée, unites two key symbols of the House: the centifolia rose and Dior’s iconic lucky star. This fragrance reveals the complexity of the rose through five facets. It begins with a fresh burst of zesty lemon peel, then unfolds into juicy notes of lychee, raspberry, and pear. Sichuan pepper adds a warm, spicy layer, while soft musky petals provide a gentle, comforting touch. The scent settles into a rich, honeyed sweetness that lingers, giving it depth and warmth. Rose Star honors Christian Dior’s lifelong love of roses and his belief in fate, blending heritage with a modern fragrance that feels fresh and elegant.
dior.com
Eau de Soleil Blanc captures the warmth and brightness of sunlit days. It opens with a lively mix of bergamot, lemon, and lime, enriched by a subtle pistachio and cardamom spice. The heart blends creamy tuberose, ylang ylang, and fresh orange blossom, creating a soft floral warmth. At its base, comforting notes of benzoin, tonka bean, and Tom Ford’s signature coco de mer add a gentle, inviting depth. Presented in a sleek frosted bottle with gold details, this fragrance balances freshness and warmth, perfect for both everyday wear and special moments.
tomford.com
Afrah is a perfume oil that invites you to a lasting sense of joy and calm. At its core is jasmine, radiant and comforting, surrounded by warm orange blossom and tender ylang-ylang. Bright bergamot adds a fresh, uplifting note, while soft musk grounds the scent with gentle warmth. Designed to feel familiar and soothing, Afrah captures quiet happiness that stays with you.
lightofsakina.com
Rasasi Perfumes, a trailblazer in the fragrance world, is excited to unveil two exceptional new scents in its renowned Hawas collection: Hawas Fire and Hawas Pink. Building on the success of its predecessors, Hawas Fire captures the intense power of fire while preserving the refreshing essence that has made the Hawas line a global favorite. Building on the success of Hawas Women, Hawas Pink is a bold, gourmand-inspired fragrance designed to captivate. Rasasi Perfumes takes the next bold step in fragrance innovation with these dynamic and captivating new creations.
rasasistore.com
These three new scents from Givenchy’s La Collection Particulière take inspiration from the gardens of Château du Jonchet, once owned by Hubert de Givenchy. Each fragrance reflects a bold personality. The Eaux de Parfum: L’Enfant Terrible, Tapageur, and Désobéissant are illustrations of the bold characters one might meet when strolling through the gardens. Wild elegance, singular character,and refreshing originality are what define these fragrances.
givenchy.com
The Palace by the Sea, Reimagined: The story of Four Seasons Hotel Rabat at Kasr Al Bahr
Originally built in the 18th century as a summer residence for Sultan Moulay Slimane, Kasr Al Bahr “the Palace by the Sea” has become an iconic landmark in Morocco’s capital city. From its perch overlooking the glittering Atlantic Ocean, the sprawling complex has played a vital role in Rabat’s rich history as a royal residence and a famed military hospital. Today, it’s home to the new Four Seasons Hotel Rabat at Kasr Al Bahr, ushering in a new era of modern luxury and glamour. Embark on a journey of discoveries in the history of this magnificent Palace.
www.fourseasons.com/rabat
This universal fragrance is inspired by the beauty of juxtaposition. Summer Mink embodies the unexpected, the indulgence of wearing mink in the summer, defying conventions of seasonality and gender while embracing bold sophistication. Continuing Drake’s longstanding collaboration with renowned perfumer Michael Carby, Summer Mink is inspired by a yin yang principle of fusing warm, creamy base notes with cold spices and sparkling citruses.
betterworldfragrancehouse.com
Exuberant Geranium is the latest limited-edition release from BOSS The Collection, a gender-neutral scent that blends style with bold character. Perfumer Benoist Lapouza reimagines geranium with a vibrant twist, layering it over a distinctive vegetal leather accord for a fougère-leathery profile that’s both fresh and intense. A warm base of Ambrofix adds depth and lasting richness. Inspired by the effortless elegance of a black silk shirt, it’s a fragrance that transitions seamlessly from day to night. Housed in a sleek black and gold bottle, Exuberant Geranium captures the spirit of modern sophistication and the unmistakable style of BOSS. hugoboss.com
Stronger With You Parfum is a warm, leathery fragrance that celebrates the power of togetherness. It blends spicy pink pepper and fresh mandarin with aromatic clary sage and lavandin from Provence. At its heart, a rich chestnut accord is deepened by smooth vanilla bourbon and a soft leather touch, creating a sophisticated, lasting scent. The amber-hued bottle reflects the fragrance’s intensity, while sustainable ingredients underline Armani’s commitment to the planet. This parfum captures a confident yet inviting energy, perfect for men seeking a bold but refined signature scent.
armani.com
Light Blue Pour Homme captures the spirit of the modern man with a fresh and vibrant scent inspired by the Mediterranean. Aromatic rosemary blends seamlessly with bright citrus notes, while sensual patchouli adds depth and warmth. The fragrance reflects adventure and dynamic energy, perfect for everyday wear. Its frosted bottle features smooth lines and refined silver details. The blue enameled cap, inspired by Amalfi Coast ceramics, is finished with the iconic DG monogram, making it a stylish choice that embodies Mediterranean charm.
dolcegabbana.com
Good Morning captures the beauty of dawn, blending musky and ozonic notes for a fresh, uplifting start. Crafted by perfumer Dominique Ropion with a 22% concentration, it evokes the sun’s first light touching mountain peaks, stirring intimate emotions and contemplative moments. This fragrance balances brightness and depth, reflecting the transition from darkness to light.
jusboxperfumes.com
Bad Boy Elixir by Carolina Herrera is a bold, luxurious evolution of the original rebel scent. Charged with aromatic sage, warm leather and smooth cedarwood, this fragrance captures the smoldering energy of a storm’s aftermath. A twist of mandarin and bergamot adds freshness, while lavandin, cocoa and incense bring depth and mystery. Designed in a deep brown lightning bolt bottle, Elixir pays tribute to the house’s craftsmanship in leather. It’s intense, stylish and unapologetically masculine, perfect for those who live with edge and elegance. A striking followup to Bad Boy and Bad Boy Cobalt, this scent balances power with refinement.
carolinaherrera.com
An ode to powerful masculinity, the bottle of Million Gold Elixir honors Million tradition, coming in the sleek, graphic shape of a the golden ingot. This new jewel in the Million crown features La Maison’s iconic XL Link: an unmistakable insignia that was inspired by the boat chains of Brittany. Since it first appeared in 2019, the XL Link has evolved; reimagining time and time again to capture the contemporary zeitgeist for each new generation. Crafted for the man who turns everything to gold, the Million Gold Elixir bottle is a monument to audacious masculine confidence for the man who’s got nothing to hide.
rabanne.com
Castley by Parfums de Marly is a bold and sophisticated fragrance for men who thrive on contrast. This woody spicy citrus scent opens with vibrant notes of ginger, bergamot and black pepper, leading into a heart of lemon petitgrain, neroli and the rare Timut pepper. The base unfolds with rich layers of Akigalawood, labdanum and benzoin, leaving a refined and lingering trail. Inspired by the fearless spirit of 18th-century explorers, Castley captures the balance between elegance and adventure, city and nature. It is a scent for the modern man who embraces movement, mystery ,and self-assurance.
parfums-de-marly.com
Le Male Elixir Absolu is a bold reinvention of an iconic fragrance, capturing the heat and passion of 2025. This scent opens with spicy plum and unfolds into a heart of lavender, heightened with sensual warmth. The base blends rich tonka bean with amber and balsamic notes, creating a magnetic and intense trail. Le Male Elixir Absolu is a journey of desire and intensity, designed for those who dare to surrender to its allure. Fully immersed in gold, the iconic tin can and the sculpted torso within are revealed in a striking new light.
jeanpaulgaultier.com
Infusion de Rhubarbe Eau de Parfum captures the playful personality of rhubarb in an unexpected floral fruity fragrance, pink and green, sweet and acidulous. It opens with vibrant notes of bergamot, Italian green mandarin, and bitter orange, leading into a heart of rhubarb and rose. The base brings a clean, comforting finish with white musks and ambrofix. Both sweet and sharp, this fragrance feels modern and effortless, wrapped in Prada’s signature style of contrast. The pink-tinted hue of the fragrance appears in a luxurious bottle with an iconic Saffiano leather cap in a bright shade of pink, a playful nod to the star ingredient within. prada.com
This season, Molton Brown introduces Bluebell & Wild Strawberry, their latest floral-fruity fragrance, alongside the 2025 gifting edit. At the heart of the new fragrance is the bluebell; subtly scented, it is rather a state of mind, a blue carpet in one’s imagination. It intertwines with top-note twists of wild strawberry, with warm amber accord and soft driftwood at the base, and a signature note of earthy violet leaf. This is a stride into the forest when the shoots are new, there’s dew in the air and the bluebell reigns supreme.
moltonbrown.com
This is a bold and intriguing scent that blends smooth leather with unexpected sweetness. It opens with warm cardamom and spicy black pepper, quickly giving way to a surprising heart of salted pistachio and violet. Underneath, notes of suede and patchouli bring depth and character, making it both refined and daring. Inspired by a groundskeeper with a flair for distraction and romance, this fragrance walks the line between charm and mischief. It is a playful yet polished scent that offers a contrast of soft florals and rich undertones.
penhaligons.com
Through sculpture and research, Rim Albahrani examines the emotional architecture of home, particularly for those shaped by displacement and cultural movement. Her work engages themes of memory, identity, and belonging, inviting viewers to reflect on what it means to arrive without returning.
COULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS?
My creative process is shaped by both memory and research. I begin with questions that are personal, emotional, and rooted in lived experience. Having grown up in many different places, I carry a layered perspective that influences how I see space and identity. My academic training in art history supports this reflection, while growing up in an artistic household has made intuition a core part of my work. I began with painting, but I was drawn to painting, bronze, ceramic, and silkscreen over time. Each material offers its way of holding presence, memory, and emotional weight.
WHO OR WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF THE MOST SIGNIFICANT INFLUENCES?
My upbringing is central to my work. Moving between countries shaped how I experience identity and belonging. These shifts made me question how a sense of home can be formed when geography keeps changing. Being Arab and growing up across different cultures gave me a layered understanding of space and self. That complexity continues to shape how I approach form, especially in the recurring use of the house in my work.
YOUR EXHIBITION “BUILT ELSEWHERE” CENTERS AROUND THE HOUSE FORM. WHY DOES THIS MOTIF RESONATE?
I return to the shape of a house not to recreate a place I have known but to understand what it holds. The house is not about architecture. It is a form that carries emotional meaning. It holds memory, loss, and imagination. It is a symbol and a site. A place we inherit, resist, and rebuild. For me, the house reflects how identity is shaped through movement and memory. It asks what home means when you have lived across places, when belonging becomes something you create rather than return to.
HOW DO THESE IDEAS MANIFEST IN YOUR SCULPTURES AND PRINTS?
Each sculpture in this exhibition is slightly off balance. That instability is intentional. It mirrors how it feels to exist between places. Some of the forms lean. Some stand tall. Some do not have bases at all. These physical gestures reflect emotional statesgrounded yet unsettled. The prints express the same feeling, but in a more subtle and quiet form. They are impressions rather than full images, like memory fragments that are incomplete but still real.
WHAT DOES “ARRIVAL” MEAN TO YOU IN THIS CONTEXT?
Arrival, for me, is not about returning to a place. It is about becoming present in your complexity. I no longer feel the need to search for a single definition of home. I am learning to live with the layers of memory, culture, and movement without needing to resolve them. I am not where I began, but I am still building. What I am shaping is not a return. It is a presence. A place to arrive, not to long for.
WHAT IS THE KEY TAKEAWAY FOR THE AUDIENCE?
I want people to feel that belonging does not have to be tied to a single place. Through the sculptures and prints, I was building a personal world shaped by memory and imagination. A world that reflects what home can mean when it is carried rather than inherited. I hope viewers feel there is space for their version of home within this work.
WHAT ROLE DOES ART PLAY IN SOCIETY?
Art carries memory. Even when language fades, art remains. It becomes a record of how we felt, how we imagined, and how we belonged. I believe art creates space for reflection. It holds presence and invites others to witness, to feel, and to ask their own questions.
rimalbahrani
“ I began painting. Painting was my first medium. From there, I started working with ceramic, bronze, and silkscreen. ”
The most luxurious shopping destinations from around the world.
Azza Fahmy Jewellery, renowned for its luxury handcrafted jewellery rooted in Egyptian heritage and artistry, announced the relocation of its London flagship boutique to a larger space within the historic Burlington Arcade. This move reflects the brand’s ongoing commitment to enhancing its presence in one of the world’s most prestigious retail destinations.
The new flagship will unveil the brand’s new design concept which fuses culture, heritage, and modern craftsmanship to create an inspiring retail experience. Key collaborations with regional designers brought unique touches to the boutique, each chosen to capture Azza Fahmy’s personal vision. Additionally, Customers will be immersed in an experience that delves into the world of Azza Fahmy’s High Jewellery-a curated selection of oneof-a-kind, handcrafted masterpieces that showcase the brand’s finest artisanal techniques and precious materials. Each piece in the collection tells a story of intricate craftsmanship, reflecting the legacy and artistry that define Azza Fahmy.
azzafahmy.com
Hublot, the Swiss luxury watchmaker, and partner Attar United, announced the opening of the first Hublot Flagship Boutique in Saudi Arabia, located in Solitaire Mall, Riyadh.
The new Boutique further solidifies the brand’s presence in the region, offering clients a unique journey in the world of Hublot.
The Boutique spans an impressive 246 m², and is designed to perfectly embody Hublot’s DNA, featuring a fusion of contemporary art, luxury craftsmanship, and innovation. Guests will be welcomed into a dynamic space that pays tribute to Hublot’s philosophy of merging tradition with innovation, which includes signature Hublot elements multiple watch towers, and a spacious lounge area designed for comfort and relaxation.
A highlight of this Boutique is the Experiential Room - debuted for the first time in the Middle East – where cutting-edge innovation and watchmaking expertise converge. Here, enthusiasts can engage in an interactive experience that offers an immersive exploration of Hublot’s pioneering materials-Rubber, Magic Gold, Ceramic, and Sapphire-all developed in-house.
hublot.com
TUMI, the leading international travel and lifestyle brand, announced the grand opening of its newest retail store at Marassi Galleria in Bahrain. This latest expansion highlights TUMI’s commitment to providing best-in-class travel and lifestyle essentials to dynamic travelers across the Middle East.
Strategically located on the second floor of Marassi Galleria, Bahrain’s premier shopping and lifestyle destination, the new TUMI store is designed to offer an immersive brand experience. The store spans 75 square meters, providing ample space to showcase the brand’s signature blend of innovation, craftsmanship, and cutting-edge design. It offers a seamless journey through TUMI’s extensive
product range, from premium travel essentials to sophisticated business and lifestyle accessories.
The store’s sleek, contemporary design perfectly complements the brand’s latest travel and lifestyle offerings for men and women. Featuring refined materials, dynamic lighting and compelling displays, the space invites guests to explore TUMI’s iconic styles and latest innovations, including the 19 Degree, Alpha Bravo, and Voyageur lines. Customers can also enjoy exclusive personalization services, such as complementary monogramming on select styles, to make their TUMI pieces uniquely theirs.
tumi.com
Villari recently opened a new boutique within Galeries Lafayette, Dubai. The iconic Italian luxury brand has been under Chalhoub Management as part of the Tanagra Division since 2021, when they first opened their standalone store in Dubai mall. This new boutique will hold the same timeless elegance, offering a curated selection of home decor, lighting, and ornamental pieces.
Renowned for its porcelain creations, Villari blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. Founded in 1967 by Cesare and Silvia Villari in Solagna, Italy, the brand has established a longstanding legacy as a trusted name in the world of porcelain design. Villari’s collections beautifully capture the flora and fauna of nature with blooming butterflies adorning delicate tea sets and trails of flowers on plates and vases alike.
The dedicated Villari space situated within Galeries Lafayette is located opposite the multi brand homeware collections. It has five striking chandeliers on display as well as exceptional showcases of latest collections including ‘Taormina’, ‘Amour’, and ‘Peacock’.
tanagra.me
Few cities in the world can claim a legacy as rich, layered, and enduring as Baghdad. Once the heart of the Islamic Golden Age and long regarded as a center of learning, trade, and art, the capital of Iraq stands today as a place where history and resilience shape every street corner, market stall, and monument.
One of the city’s most powerful symbols is Nasb al-Hurriyah, or the Freedom Monument. Standing prominently in Tahrir Square, this sculptural mural was designed in 1959 by renowned Iraqi artist Jawad Saleem and architect Rifat Chadirji. It depicts a narrative of struggle and liberation, beginning with scenes of oppression and culminating in victory and hope. Each bronze figure carved into the travertine facade represents the Iraqi people’s journey through monarchy, revolution, and independence. Beyond its artistic brilliance, the monument remains a gathering point for political expression and civic pride, an ever-relevant symbol in a city that continues to evolve.
Equally commanding is the Al-Shaheed Monument, or Martyr’s Monument, on the eastern bank of the Tigris River. Designed by sculptor Ismail Fatah al-Turk, the structure consists of a massive split turquoise dome, reminiscent of a traditional Islamic dome but rendered with a modernist abstraction. Erected in 1983, the monument honors the fallen Iraqi soldiers of
the Iran-Iraq War, yet over time it has come to represent broader themes of sacrifice and national mourning. Its powerful visual language, with an eternal flame and underground museum, provides a space for remembrance amidst the city’s shifting narrative.
Baghdad’s architectural wealth includes AlMustansiriya School, a rare surviving treasure from the Abbasid era. Founded in 1227 under Caliph Al-Mustansir, the madrasa was one of the world’s earliest universities, offering education in medicine, mathematics, literature, and theology. Nestled near the bustling Mutanabbi Street, the school’s courtyard and intricate brickwork transport visitors to a time when Baghdad was at the forefront of global knowledge. Its careful restoration and continued prominence underscore the city’s deep academic and cultural roots.
Just across the river lies another treasure of Islamic architecture: the Al-Kadhimiya Mosque, known for its majestic blue domes and golden minarets. The site is one of the most sacred for
Shia Muslims, housing the tombs of the 7th and 9th Imams, Musa al-Kadhim and Muhammad al-Jawad. The dome, covered in shimmering blue tiles and adorned with Kufic calligraphy and arabesque motifs, stands as both a place of devotion and a work of living art. Whether viewed in daylight or illuminated at night, it speaks to centuries of spiritual and artistic expression in Iraq.
While Baghdad’s grand structures command attention, its soul resides equally in its markets and crafts. Souk al-Safafeer, the Coppersmiths’ Market, is a sensory experience of sight, sound, and history. Rows of brass and copper trays, intricately handhammered with images of Mesopotamian ziggurats, ancient deities, and scenes from Iraq’s rich past, line the narrow pathways. This traditional market, dating back to the Abbasid period, continues to celebrate Baghdad’s artisanal heritage. Though the number of craftsmen has dwindled in recent decades, those who remain are guardians of a vanishing but vital aspect of the city’s identity.
“The Baghdad Clock Tower, located in the historic Qishla complex, was built during the Ottoman era in the 19th century.”
That identity is deeply rooted in antiquity. Iraq, known as Mesopotamia, is the birthplace of writing and reminders of this ancient legacy are preserved in museums and ruins throughout Baghdad. Cuneiform inscriptions, like the ones seen etched into clay tablets and stone slabs, are a direct connection to Sumerian and Akkadian civilizations that flourished thousands of years ago. These characters, among the first forms of written language, reflect an enduring human need to record, communicate, and remember. Baghdad, though founded in the 8th century, carries the weight of this far older heritage with pride.
The Baghdad Clock Tower, located in the historic Qishla complex, was built during the Ottoman era in the 19th century. The tower rises above the banks of the Tigris as a quiet sentinel to the past. Surrounded by palm trees and the remnants of old governmental buildings, it offers a glimpse into the city’s colonial and administrative past. Today, the tower and its surrounding gardens serve as a public space, blending leisure with legacy.
In every dome, tower, monument, and market, Baghdad calls us to look deeper into its history, its culture, and its spirit. For those who walk its streets and listen to its stories, the city offers something rare: not only a glimpse into the past, but a reminder that history lives on, shaped daily by the people who call this city home.
02 The 17th of Ramadan Mosque, located in central Baghdad, is a prominent religious and historical landmark known for its striking architecture
03
Founded in 1227 under Caliph Al-Mustansir, Al-Mustansiriya School was one of the world’s earliest universities, offering education in medicine, mathematics, literature, and theolog
04
Nasb al-Hurriyah, standing prominently in Tahrir Square, depicts a narrative of struggle and liberation, beginning with scenes of oppression and culminating in victory and hope
05
Cuneiform inscriptions, like the ones seen etched into clay tablets and stone slabs, are a direct connection to Sumerian and Akkadian civilizations that flourished thousands of years ago
06 Designed by sculptor Ismail Fatah al-Turk, Al-Shaheed Monument consists of a massive split turquoise dome, reminiscent of a traditional Islamic dome but rendered with a modernist abstraction
Maison Dali, the highly anticipated new concept from Culinary Arts Group, opened its doors at the iconic The Opus by Dame Zaha Hadid in Business Bay. Led by the three-Michelin-starred chef Tristin Farmer, Maison Dali offers a laid-back yet sophisticated Mediterranean-Japanese brasserie experience, packed with personality. It effortlessly blends dynamic dishes, quirky service and a vibrant atmosphere, all set within a surreal, Dali-inspired interior.
Years in the making, the globally acclaimed Tristin Farmer, Culinary Director and Partner at Culinary Arts Group, envisioned a dining experience that brings together Michelin-quality cuisine with a relaxed, inviting ambience. With expertise honed in some of the world’s finest kitchens, Tristin brings an artistic, contemporary approach to casual dining in Maison Dali. At its core lies the philosophy of simplicity, elevated - dishes that appear understated on the surface yet reveal intricate layers of flavor with every bite.
A concept born in Dubai, for Dubai, Maison Dali
intertwines Japanese ingredients and techniques with Mediterranean flavors. The menu tells a unique culinary story - from fermented ingredients and umami-forward profiles to open fire cooking and on-site dry aging - while reimagining classic brasserie favorites. Guests can expect inventive dishes like King Crab Ceviche - fermented pineapple, trout roe and tarragon; Smoked Lobster Donabe - sansho and black truffle; and Wood Fired Duck - hoisin sauce, plum kosho and waldorf. An interactive flambé trolley serves up Nishiawa A5 Tenderloin with sauce perigourdine and black truffle, and a Honey Toast
dessert, a nod to classic brasserie craft.
Maison Dali’s vegetarian menu takes a creative approach to plant-based dining featuring standout dishes including the likes of Potato Mochi - cacio pepe, black truffle and vacherin mont d’or, Smoked Shiitake - fermented kohlrabi, wild garlic and smoked butter, and the Cauliflower Milanese with a pico de gallo, Dali sriracha and ramson capers.
Curated by Beverage Director Vitor Hugo Lourenco, the beverage program is designed to pair seamlessly with every dish. Inspired by the seven global art disciplines-music, sculpture, performance, architecture,
literature, film and painting – the BARTENDER menu offers a sensory experience in every pour. Sip on the floral and elegant Symphony, the mellow and engaging Mist, or the smoky, mysterious Lunar from Act One of the cocktail program.
Maison Dali also takes pride in its innovative non-alcoholic beverage program, crafted to mirror the depth and complexity of wine and sake while perfectly complementing the menu. Divided into three categories – Clear - umami-forward and sake-inspired creations, Light - bright and fruit-forward, akin to white wine, and Dark - deep and rich, reminiscent of red wine – it offers a sophisticated zero-proof experience. Available by the glass or by carafe, guests can sip on the French Rose, a zesty da hong pao kombucha, White Grape derived from roasted milk bread and delicate jasmine, or Tomato, a mix of smoked cherry and Arabica coffee.
Beyond the plate, Maison Dali immerses guests into a surrealist world inspired by Salvador Dali, thoughtfully designed by YDesign. The space strikes a harmonious balance between whimsy and artistry, featuring eye-catching decor, mood-setting lighting and playful art elements that come together to create an interactive, highly photogenic dining experience.
An intimate outdoor terrace offers cityscape views, while a private dining room hosts up to 12 guests-ideal for exclusive events and intimate gatherings. Hidden within Maison Dali lies its late-night secret: the Dali Supper Club, set to be unveiled soon.
Inspired by Dubai’s rich blend of cultures, Maison Dali is a concept for those who believe in the transformative power of food, artistry and human connection, serving a dining experience like no other.
maisondalidubai.ae
Portrait Milano is an award-winning property among the best hotels in Milan, offering quintessentially Italian hospitality, a personal touch toward each guest and meticulous attention to detail. Its 73 lavish suites, family suites and rooms will give guests the opportunity to experience Milan at its most authentic amidst the elegance of a five-star luxury hotel. Housed in one of the oldest seminaries in Europe, Portrait Milano provides an oasis of intimacy, tranquility and timeless elegance just steps away from the most prestigious shopping addresses in town.
Step through the ornate Baroque gateway at Corso Venezia 11 and prepare to be amazed: Portrait Milano hotel overlooks the city’s newest see-andbe-seen destination, the Piazza, which – at 32,000 square feet – is the largest public square in the fashion district.
Within its historic colonnades, exclusive boutiques and gourmet experiences await guests; under the ancient vaults of the former seminary, the wellness area beckons – with its spa, gym and swimming pool – along with additional spaces for private events. And through the new walkway that connects vibrant Corso Venezia with fashionable Via Sant’Andrea, guests will also find a beautifully landscaped urban oasis.
True classic Italian design, meticulous attention to detail, sumptuous materials and the perfect interplay between texture and color palette. This is what inspired architect Michele Bönan to create these 73 romantic suites, family suites and spacious guestrooms. Harking back to the stately mansions of Milan’s past, Portrait Milano ushers in a new era of luxury hospitality in the heart of the legendary Quadrilatero della Moda.
The former Archiepiscopal Seminary, a masterpiece of Lombard Baroque from 1565, is among the oldest seminaries in Europe and the world. But it was more than that, home also to a library, a printing shop and a school for children. In more recent years, from 1980 to 1990, it even served as the creative workshop of internationally renowned Architect Mario Bellini.
After a meticulous renovations, Portrait Milano has reopened the doors of the former seminary to the city of Milan. The project has revitalized this historic structure with a decidedly contemporary look and feel, transforming it into a hub of hospitality, entertainment and culture in the very heart of Milan’s fashion district.
Whether it is for a romantic dinner, a business
lunch or soothing refreshments, Portrait Milano’s restaurants and bars offer immersive tasting experiences that combine the creativity of talented chefs in the unique setting of Piazza del Quadrilatero. Casual dining spot 10_11 (“Ten Eleven”) includes a bar, a restaurant, a splendid garden, and the colonnade facing the square. As the first Beefbar opening in Italy, Beefbar brings to Milano its famous modern luxury feel and complete dining experiences. Beefbar Milano enhances the world’s best meats through popular recipes and a cosmopolitan selection of street food, tiraditos, ceviche and tartare. “Rumore” is the perfect blend between an American Bar and exquisite Italian hospitality. Open from sunset, it is the place for an aperitif cocktail or a glass of champagne after dinner, accompanied by live music.
Portrait Milano is the first hotel in the world to host the spa of The Longevity Suite, the most advanced Biohacking & Antiage brand in Europe that accompanies guests toward the best version of themselves and to a perfect balance of health, conscious beauty and mental energy.
lungarnocollection.com/portrait-milano-hotel
Discover the true meaning of hospitality and experience the ultimate in luxury at these global destinations.
Le Royal Monceau Raffles Paris is a contemporary Palace infused with the French spirit. With its ideal location on the prestigious Avenue Hoche, just moments from the Champs Elysées and the Arc de Triomphe, the hotel is perfectly placed in the heart of Paris. Le Royal Monceau is 45 minutes from Roissy Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports, 15 to 20 minutes from Gare du Nord, and 30 minutes from Gare de Lyon.
Le Royal Monceau first opened its doors on August 1, 1928. Created by Pierre Bermond and André Junot, it embodied the uniquely vibrant spirit of the 1930s in Paris. Writers, artists and intellectuals gathered here to enjoy fine meals, appreciate art and culture, and engage in wide ranging conversations. International guests including Josephine Baker, Walt Disney, the Maharajahs of Indore and Kashmir, King Farouk of Egypt and the Aga Khan returned time and again.
In 2008, the hotel closed its doors for a full renovation. To mark the beginning of this transformation, a playful demolition party was held where guests arrived in workmen’s overalls, helmets and were handed mallets. In 2010, after two years of intense work, the hotel reopened as
Le Royal Monceau Raffles Paris. The redesign by Philippe Starck gave the hotel a new life, full of poetry, boldness and culture. It became a new oasis of art in Paris, complete with an art gallery, an art bookstore, a private cinema, a collection of more than 300 works and the dedicated Art Concierge.
The hotel offers a collection of inspired services that elevate the guest experience. The Art Concierge, led by cultural mediator Julie Eugène, designs cultural excursions and keeps guests up to date with the most exciting artistic events in Paris. The Art Gallery is a creative space and artistic platform for artists, collectors, patrons and art professionals. Librairie des Arts is a concept store focused on art. It offers books, including limited editions, and artist-made objects that reflect the hotel’s deep connection to creativity and contemporary culture.
Katara Cinema is the hotel’s 99 seat private theatre. It is managed by a team of screening and audio professionals and is available to hotel guests, film lovers and for private events. This cinema is one of the most exclusive in Paris, offering a unique setting for film screenings, premieres or corporate presentations. It represents a commitment to
entertainment that matches the hotel’s overall artistic philosophy.
The Raffles Spa and Wellness is described as a temple of tailor-made luxury, featuring bespoke treatments and world class facilities. It includes treatment rooms, a hammam, a laconium and a sauna. The hotel’s Spa Coaches, professionals in beauty, pool and body work, are available to support guests in reaching their personal wellness goals. This comprehensive wellness experience is tailored for relaxation, fitness and balance.
Event spaces at Le Royal Monceau are bright, modular and flexible. They are ideal for hosting large events, corporate functions, intimate meetings or private gatherings, offering the same level of excellence found throughout the hotel. Whether for a business occasion or a celebration, the service and surroundings leave a lasting impression.
Le Royal Monceau Raffles Paris has earned many international accolades, including the Gold List by Condé Nast Traveler, 2nd Best Italian Restaurant in the World by 50 Top Italy, and France’s Leading Luxury City Hotel by the World Travel Awards.
raffles.com/paris
Hawar Resort by Mantis welcomes guests to an extraordinary island escape set on Bahrain’s Hawar Islands. Located just 20 kilometers from Bahrain’s mainland, the resort is designed as a haven for eco-conscious travelers, blending luxury with sustainability that offers an unforgettable stay surrounded by pristine natural beauty and rich biodiversity.
Guests begin their journey at the Durrat Al Bahrain Pavilion, the resort’s dedicated arrival hub where they are welcomed with warm hospitality and a seamless check-in experience. This inviting space allows guests to relax and enjoy the anticipation of their journey while awaiting the boat that will transport them to Hawar Island. This thoughtfully designed pavilion sets the tone for the luxurious and tranquil retreat that awaits on the island.
Featuring 104 stylish accommodations, including rooms, beach villas, and overwater villas – many with private pools and direct access to the
beach – and two tented suites, the resort caters to a wide range of guest preferences, from families and couples to solo adventurers.
Guests can immerse themselves in a variety of land-based activities, such as camel and horseback riding, and watching the graceful Socotra cormorant birds in their natural habitat. For those with an interest in local culture, the resort also offers captivating falcon shows. Water sports enthusiasts will also be able to enjoy kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, paddle surfboarding, jet skiing, house reef snorkeling, and at a later stage scuba diving in the clear turquoise waters surrounding the island.
A highlight of the resort is the Bear Grylls Adventure Zone by Bear Grylls Survival Academy, offering survival courses and outdoor challenges designed by Bear Grylls and his team. Opening shortly after the resort’s launch, it promises unforgettable experiences for families and seasoned adventurers alike.
For a more relaxing experience, guests can unwind at the resort’s luxurious spa, offering an array of soothing therapies, or bask in the sunshine by the seafront pool. A state-of-the-art gym is available for those looking to maintain their fitness routines, while younger guests can enjoy the dedicated kids’ and teens’ clubs.
Dining at Hawar Resort by Mantis is a feast for the senses, with five distinctive outlets offering a wide range of flavors. Guests can savor culinary highlights of the region and freshly caught fish from the Gulf at the all-day dining restaurant Bahri, or enjoy refreshing cocktails at the Beach Lounge. The resort’s signature restaurant, C-Salt, showcases an innovative dining concept that promises seasonal pop-ups and celebrity chef appearances, ensuring that every visit offers something new and exciting.
hawarresort.com
Take your body and mind on a journey of relaxation with these worldwide destinations of tranquility.
In the heart of the Noonu Atoll, Cheval Blanc Randheli offers a rare blend of Maldivian serenity and French savoir-faire. Its Spa Island, accessible by traditional dhoni, features six overwater villas offering Guerlain treatments like the exclusive Sun Ritual. Beyond facials and massages, guests enjoy yoga, detox cuisine, and bespoke wellness journeys. Private villas with infinity pools and ocean views provide unmatched seclusion, while a personal Majordome ensures every need is met. The Art of Hospitality at Randheli extends to curated experiences, from meditation to sunset cruises, making wellness a holistic, artful retreat.
chevalblanc.com
The Hawar Spa by Mantis, located on Bahrain’s serene Hawar Island, offers a deeply restorative experience inspired by holistic wellness. From the moment guests arrive, calming scents and natureintegrated design set the tone for renewal. The Spa features personalized massages, hydrating facials, and ancient healing rituals designed to restore balance and tranquility. Highly skilled therapists tailor treatments to individual needs, while ocean views and ambient sounds enhance the sense of escape. More than just a spa, it’s a full-body sanctuary rooted in Mantis’s philosophy of unique, immersive luxury. Hawar Spa is where serenity finds its true shore.
hawarresort.com
Milaidhoo Maldives invites guests to embrace “slow living” through soulful, nature-based experiences. Set in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it features yoga nidra on a private sandbank, coral planting guided by a marine biologist, and a mindful island walk. Wellness flows into every detail, from fresh, nourishing cuisine to barefoot luxury and personalized health menus. Milaidhoo’s holistic philosophy encourages inner harmony and deep connection with nature. This tranquil, adults-only resort offers wellness as a way of life.
milaidhoo.com
Raffles Spa & Wellness at Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris unveils an elevated wellness experience through exclusive partnerships with 111SKIN, Dr. Barbara Sturm, and Nooance. This Parisian sanctuary blends science and serenity with cutting-edge treatments like the Royal Monceau Molecular Rejuvenation Ritual and the Black Diamond Ritual. Designed by Philippe Starck, the 1,500sqm spa pairs clinical precision with bespoke luxury, featuring LED technology, high-performance actives, and tranquil pool access. With every facial and massage tailored to individual needs, the Spa redefines well-being as an art form rooted in innovation, personalization, and refined relaxation.
raffles.com/paris
Raffles Spa in Dubai offers a serene retreat with over 1,200 square meters of wellness facilities, including six luxurious spa suites, with one designed for couples. The spa provides treatments inspired by Asian, Middle Eastern, and European traditions. Signature experiences such as the Essence of Arabia and Raffles Indulgence combine aromatherapy, massage, and skincare to promote relaxation and rejuvenation. Facilities include a 22-meter outdoor pool, state-of-the-art fitness center, sauna, steam rooms, and relaxation areas. The spa emphasizes holistic well-being through harmonious design and personalized treatments, offering a tranquil environment for guests seeking balance and renewal.
raffles.com/dubai
There’s a fresh new energy in Bahrain’s wellness scene. The Diplomat Health Club, a modern, beautifully designed space where fitness meets balance and self-care is truly celebrated, is now open at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence and Spa, Bahrain.
The Diplomat Health Club is a lifestyle destination created for people who want more from their wellness routine. It offers more variety, more comfort, and more inspiration. Whether you’re doing your weightlifting workout or having a quiet moment in the sauna, every corner of this new health club has been thoughtfully designed to help you feel your best. Expect state-of-the-art gym equipment, steam rooms, saunas, and contrast Jacuzzis that will have you floating out the door. Take a dip in the outdoor
temperature-controlled pool, or hit the courts for a game of basketball, squash, or the ever-popular padel. There’s something here for every mood and every member of the family.
A real standout is the ladies-only gym, a private, stylish space where women can work out in total comfort. It’s empowering, welcoming, and a reflection of how inclusive and considered the club’s approach to wellness really is.
The club is perfectly aligned with the hotel’s world-
class service and true hospitality. You’ll feel supported every step of the wellness journey, with expert staff and flexible membership options to suit your lifestyle.
The Diplomat Health Club is more than just a place to work out. It’s a space to recharge, reconnect, and prioritize yourself. Get ready to feel stronger, calmer, and more energized as you start your new wellness journey.
radissonhotels.com
Experience a culinary journey with awardwinning and critically acclaimed restaurants from around the world.
Get ready for a French affair like no other as Tête-à-Tête, the chic Monte Carlo–inspired restaurant at FIVE LUXE, JBR, unveils its newest weekend rendezvous - the Bisou Bisou Brunch.
Located at Level 9 of FIVE LUXE, Tête-à-Tête pairs the glamour of the French Riviera with breathtaking views of the Palm Jumeirah and Arabian Sea - now with an all-new decadent brunch experience on Saturdays. Swanky, seductive, and sun-drenched, this isn’t just brunch, chérie - it’s glamour, laughter, dance, and just the right amount of mischief! Curated by Chef Dan, a delectable three-course menu draws inspiration from the sun-kissed flavours of the South of France, perfectly paired with freeflowing drinks and music made up of timeless French classics with stylish remixes.
teteatetedxb.com
Jamavar is an exquisite fine dining concept with cuisine that draws on the rich and diverse culinary traditions of India. Originally created by the founding family of The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts in India. Taking its name from the intricate 16th century lace shawls of Kashmir, Jamavar first opened at The Leela Palace Bengaluru in 2001, where it became renowned for its luxurious pan-Indian cuisine. After its presence spread across five Indian cities, the Michelin-starred Jamavar London by LSL Capital was the first international outpost to open doors in 2016 followed by Jamavar Doha in 2021.
jamavarrestaurants.com
A new wave of contemporary Korean cuisine, HANU is a homegrown concept by Sunset Hospitality Group. The bold culinary destination reimagines contemporary Korean dining, promising an elevated experience where heritage is united with modernism while delivering vibrant, artfully crafted dishes that push the boundaries of tradition. HANU promises a multi-dimensional journey with its show-stopping Korean grill and Omakase experience. No place is complete without a bar and lounge that will offer diners to stay for drinks and indulge in a creative beverage menu that exhibits a modern take on Korean High Balls and other classics.
hanu-restaurant.com
Sekushi was created to bring sophisticated Sushi and Pan-Asian creations to be enjoyed in our contemporary dining space, where delicious food and drinks are shared with friends or from the comfort of your home. Meals are crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients. From delicate sashimi to bold signature rolls, each dish is designed to balance flavor, texture, and presentation. Highlights include the Sekushi Roll with spicy tuna, avocado, and crispy shallots, and a colorful selection of nigiri and sashimi. The menu also features warming ramen, bao buns, and indulgent small plates like popcorn shrimp and chicken gyoza.
sekushi.co.uk
As the Arab culinary landscape rises, Arabian Horizons captures its first light. This new collection of culinary events by Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay connects gastronomic enthusiasts with experiences from Arabian talents. Durrah had the privilege of attending the first volume, an extraordinary evening that brought together rich storytelling, refined technique, and authentic regional flavors.
From contemporary culinary expressions to timehonored techniques, each volume offered an optimal vantage point to immerse in the region’s evolving culinary landscape. An island for the most discerning palates, the hotel reveals Arabian Horizons - Curated Culinary Experiences by Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, rooted in heritage, shaped by curiosity, and inspired by the future.
Awe-inspiring and bold, the time-limited experiences offered more than a dinner-each event was a striking multi-sensory experience, available only for 30 seats through three days. The first volume came to life with Chef Karim Abdelrahman, the acknowledged Cairobased chef and owner of the Avec Karim brand.
The first volume of Arabian Horizons – Curated Culinary Experiences by Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay features Chef Karim Abdelrahman from Egypt-an acclaimed culinary artist and tastemaker from Cairo and the owner of Avec Karim brand. We enjoyed an unforgettable Avec Karim experience, where he opened the door to Egypt, blending the aromas of his homeland with refined flavors.
Renowned for his expertise, cultivated at the esteemed École Ducasse and through his time at a three-Michelin-starred restaurant in Paris, Chef Karim has returned to Egypt with a mission: to merge the country’s rich culinary identity with French technique. He is a visionary bridging tradition with the flavours of tomorrow.
Acknowledged as an official partner and ambassador of École Ducasse in Egypt, and with a well-established reputation in his home country, Chef Karim frequently
hosts exclusive gatherings for prominent guests and caters world-class events through his distinguished brand, Avec Karim. An explorer and adventurist at heart, he often travels across Egypt-spending days on the road and nights in the desert-driven by a passion to discover new herbs and ingredients in nature that elevate his dishes to new heights.
Remaining deeply rooted in Egypt’s culinary identityfrom Nile Valley herbs to Red Sea treasures-prepared with classical French cooking techniques, Chef Karim pays homage to Bahrain through delicate yet deliberate touches encrusted in the traditions of the host country. The experience celebrates the intersection of heritage and innovation, where time-honored Egyptian recipes meet Bahrain’s warm hospitality.
The curated culinary experience took place in the redecorated Royal Majlis of Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, a venue that set the perfect stage for the refined nature of this event. Chef Karim’s storytellers visited each table, telling the story of each unique dish to the guests, creating an interactive experience. An Avec Karim flagship experience Tableside, sourcing exquisite stories and researching and developing these ingredients, transforming them into story elements on plates that tie together to create a menu experience that evokes emotions and awakens the soul through a purposeful dining journey. Service also took centre stage, with some of the dishes and beverages prepared next to guests’ tables-a treat both for the eye and the palate.
Guests were also treated to an immersive, extended seven-course tasting menu designed to create a truly unique and unforgettable culinary experience, named
A Meaningful Journey by Chef Karim himself. Each course was thoughtfully crafted, incorporating seasonal ingredients and innovative techniques, complemented by storytelling to enhance the experience that will take guests on a journey and the Chef’s inspiration as he unfolds course after course.
Chef’s menu put Egyptian gastronomy on the map, with French cooking techniques and with hints and notes of Bahraini aromas as the undertone in honor of the hosts. The poetic flow of the menu, beginning with “A Humble Start” and continuing with “Expectations,” put Royal Red Shrimp and Caviar in the spotlight. As the story unfolded, “Purity and Purpose” brought the perfect combination of Zucchini, Lemon Balm and Curry, while “Connection in the Middle of Nowhere” elevated the experience with the aged Bahraini Hamour, Desert Truffle and Buckwheat. The dish brought two ingredients-the Hamour from the sea and the desert truffle from the land-creating a connection between the two ecosystems. “The Trigger” surprised the guests with Pigeon, Artichoke and Dukkah, while the sweet ending, “The Heart’s Oasis,” satisfied the most discerning palates. A feast for the eye and the palate, Chef Karim Abdelrahman’s menu is more than a dinner; it is a way to celebrate Egypt’s rich culinary heritage recreated with sophisticated French techniques.
From the setting to the service, every detail of this experience embodied the spirit of hospitality and culinary innovation, marking a memorable beginning to this ambitious new series.
fourseasons.com
“ Rolls-Royce has once again pushed the boundaries, delivering a vehicle that is as bold as it is audacious. ”
With its striking design, exceptional performance, and cutting-edge technology, the Rolls-Royce Black Badge Spectre redefines the grand touring experience. Durrah embarked on a drive experience in Barcelona, where we explored its capabilities on both the bustling urban streets and the scenic coastal roads.
The Black Badge Spectre is the most powerful Rolls-Royce ever made, designed for those who push boundaries. It boasts a commanding 659 hp and an extraordinary 1,075 Nm of torque. While its performance is engineered for intensity, it remains effortlessly composed, delivering seamless power with the signature Rolls-Royce refinement.
A standout feature of the Black Badge Spectre is its innovative Infinity Mode. With the push of a button, the car unlocks its full power, delivering an electrifying surge of acceleration. Rolls-Royce engineers drew inspiration from aviation history, particularly the Merlin engine’s power boost, once used in iconic aircraft like the Spitfire. The result is a driving experience that feels exhilarating yet controlled, perfectly suited for the most demanding drivers.
Additionally, Spirited Mode, inspired by the Merlin engine’s power boost, sharpens throttle response and steering, giving the car a more dynamic edge. This amplifies the torque temporarily, propelling the car from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds. Whether speeding along highways or tackling tight corners, the Spectre remains poised, offering precise handling and remarkable stability. The response was incredible, and it’s easy to understand why this model rightfully claims the title of the most powerful Rolls-Royce ever.
As we cruised through Barcelona’s streets, the Black Badge Spectre turned heads with its bold design. The illuminated Pantheon Grille,
combined with a Vapour Violet finish inspired by the neon lights of past decades, gives the car an unmistakable presence. The Black Badge aesthetic continues inside with illuminated treadplates, a Technical Fibre Illuminated Fascia, and intricate bespoke details that elevate the cabin to the level of art.
Inside, the Black Badge Spectre is a seamless blend of craftsmanship and innovation. The cabin envelops its occupants in quality materials with a focus on modern luxury. A balance of technology and traditional artisanship is evident in every detail. From the advanced digital interface to the subtle glow of the Starlight Headliner, every element contributes to an immersive, luxurious driving experience.
The Black Badge Spectre marks a shift in luxury motoring, combining electric performance with the brand’s signature elegance. Barcelona’s diverse terrain was the perfect setting to experience its full range of capabilities. Whether gliding along boulevards or navigating winding roads, the Spectre adapted with ease. The smooth power delivery and advanced suspension system ensured a driving experience that was both engaging and composed.
What sets this model apart is its extraordinary power, delivering a level of performance that surpasses anything we’ve seen from Rolls-Royce, all while maintaining the brand’s signature luxury and refinement. It expertly blends raw strength with elegance. It’s a car built for those who demand more than just performance; it’s an expression of
individuality and boldness. From the distinctive exterior colors to the meticulously crafted interior finishes, every detail reflects the personality and tastes of its owner.
Rolls-Royce’s focus on innovation is evident in the development of this model. By analyzing driving data from Black Badge owners around the world, engineers fine-tuned the car’s performance to better align with real-world driving habits. This thoughtful approach ensures that the Spectre not only meets, but exceeds, the expectations of its owners.
Owners of this model are eligible for the RollsRoyce Whispers App, available by invitation only. The app provides access to exclusive products, services, and experiences tailored to individual needs. Owners can manage their vehicle collection, receive special offers, connect with like-minded individuals, and access Rolls-Royce specialists for expert advice and personalized maintenance. It also offers streamlined access to high-end travel and dining, ensuring the owner’s lifestyle matches their vehicle’s luxury standards.
Ourdrive experience revealed everything that makes the Black Badge Spectre extraordinary. From its head-turning aesthetics to its remarkable performance, this car defines a new era of luxury motoring. Rolls-Royce has once again pushed the boundaries, delivering a vehicle that is as bold as it is audacious.
rolls-roycemotorcars.com
“ What sets this model apart is its rare ability to balance raw power with refined luxury. ”
Mercedes-Benz is refining the S-Class with updates for the 2025 model year. Conditionally automated driving is now available at higher speeds, new color tones and materials enhance customization options, and the infotainment system responds even more intelligently to its users. With these advancements, the S-Class continues to set the benchmark in its segment.
The current S-Class sets new benchmarks in conditionally automated driving for the luxury segment. On highways in Germany and the U.S., DRIVE PILOT can take over driving tasks under certain conditions. Previously, this was limited to speeds of up to 60 km/h in traffic congestion. Now, DRIVE PILOT can operate at speeds of up to 95 km/h in regular traffic flow, following a vehicle ahead in the right-hand lane on the German Autobahn. This allows customers to drive in conditionally automated mode more frequently and for extended periods, making better use of their time on the road. When DRIVE PILOT is active, drivers are legally permitted to engage in other activities such as watching movies, reading
newspapers, working, or simply relaxing while the S-Class drives conditionally automated.
Safety remains Mercedes-Benz’s top priority with this enhanced version of DRIVE PILOT. The system is designed with redundancy, meaning that critical functions such as electrical systems, steering, and braking have backup components. If necessary, the system is always capable of handing control back to the driver. Should the driver fail to respond, DRIVE PILOT will perform a safe, controlled emergency stop. Over 35 sensors are utilized, including cameras, radar, ultrasonic sensors, and LiDAR. These sensors operate on different physical principles, creating redundancies that ensure precise real-time environmental detection. At SAE-Level 3, Mercedes-Benz considers LiDAR essential for safe automated driving.
A unique positioning system, combined with highly detailed digital mapping, enables DRIVE PILOT to determine the exact lane the vehicle is in with accuracy down to just a few centimeters.
To provide additional transparency to other road users, Mercedes-Benz is currently testing special
turquoise-colored indicator lights in the U.S. and Germany, which signal the status of the conditionally automated driving system.
Mercedes-Benz enhances the digital experience in the S-Class with a suite of new digital features via over-the-air updates for the MBUX infotainment system. These updates refine navigation, expand the AI-powered voice assistant, and introduce additional digital functions, delivering an even more intelligent and intuitive driving experience.
A standout feature is the integration of ChatGPT into the voice assistant via Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service. This integration makes it even more natural and versatile. Navigation has also been enhanced with Google’s satellite view, which provides a high-resolution bird’s-eye perspective for better orientation, especially in complex environments. With the new S-Class Edition, Mercedes-Benz presents a refined expression of sporty elegance and exclusive design.
mercedes-benz-mena.com
The all-electric MINI Countryman ALL4 SE signals a bold new chapter in the brand’s journey toward full electrification by 2030. Offering a fully electric driving experience with a powerful 313 HP motor and an impressive torque of 494 Nm, the vehicle accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.6 seconds. With a maximum range of 433 kilometers and an energy content of 64.6 kWh, this compact SUV is engineered for both performance and efficiency.
Built for dynamic driving, the MINI Countryman ALL4 SE features a low center of gravity and optimized weight distribution, ensuring a stable and engaging ride. Its direct steering and signature Go Kart Mode enhance agility, while the ALL4 all-wheel drive system delivers optimal traction across all terrains. Advanced driving technologies like the optional Driving Assistant and Driving Assistant Plus provide warnings for blind spots, help maintain speed and lane discipline, and detect cross-traffic. For even greater support in congested environments, the Driving Assistant Professional offers comprehensive assistance.
Inside, the digital experience has been completely reimagined. The vehicle introduces the first ever round OLED display in an automobile, the MINI Interaction Unit, paired with the new MINI Operating System. The user interface and
sound design are custom built for the brand, and the car supports cloud-based navigation with intelligent eRouting, a Digital Key Plus, and full upgradeability. A voice activated personal assistant responds to “Hey MINI” or a push of the talk button, enabling a truly connected drive. Through Connected+ Unlimited, drivers enjoy access to apps, music streaming, in-car gaming, MINI 3D Navigation, and realistic traffic visualizations.
The interior is crafted for sophistication and tactile appeal. Featuring textile dash and door panels made from sustainable, easy to clean materials, the cabin is both luxurious and environmentally conscious. The centerpiece is a slim, 240mm central instrument display enhanced by MINI Experience Modes, which offer distinct lighting, design, and soundscapes tailored to different moods. A redesigned toggle bar provides intuitive access to key driving functions, while the traditional Go Kart steering wheel remains a nod to the MINI heritage.
On the outside, the MINI Countryman ALL4 SE presents a more robust and SUV inspired design, featuring an octagonal grille, power dome bonnet, and short overhangs. It is 13 centimeters longer and 8 centimeters taller than its predecessor, offering greater interior space. Aerodynamic
light-alloy wheels, Piano Black roof rails, and a grey shaded glass sunroof with an automatic wind deflector come standard. Customers can choose from four style trims, Essential, Classic, Favoured, and JCW, along with contrasting roof colors and a unique C Pillar design. Optional LED headlights provide three distinct daytime running light signatures and include welcome and goodbye light effects with logo projection from the side mirrors.
Charging is both flexible and efficient. The Countryman supports up to 130 kW DC fast charging, which takes the battery from 10 percent to 80 percent in just 29 minutes. Home and AC charging options include 11 kW for a full charge in 6 hours and 15 minutes, or an optional 22 kW for a faster 3 hour and 45 minute full charge. The MINI App helps drivers locate charging stations, manage charging settings, and monitor vehicle status remotely.
Despite its compact name, the MINI Countryman ALL4 SE delivers mega versatility. It offers 460 liters of cargo space with five seats, 1060 liters with three seats, and up to 1450 liters with two seats folded down. Standard roof rails further boost cargo capabilities for adventure seekers.
mini-bahrain.com
Louis Vuitton introduces the LV Golf Collection, blending elegance and sport in monogrammed accessories, apparel, and gear. Designed for both performance and sophistication, it includes logo-printed balls, tees, shoes, bags, and ready-to-wear. Infused with Maison codes, the line brings iconic craftsmanship to the green with contemporary flair.
louisvuitton.com CURV X Aston Martin AMR-C01-R Simulator
Developed with Aston Martin, the AMR-C01-R simulator by CURV features a carbon fiber monocoque inspired by the Valkyrie. Equipped with a Samsung G9 monitor, a 240Hz refresh rate, and F1-style steering, it offers immersive racing at home. Designed for thrill-seekers who want performance and elegance in a state-of-the-art simulation setup.
Byredo’s Scents to Savour brings olfactive storytelling into the home. The collection includes Summer Rain, Cotton Poplin, Burning Rose, and Bibliothèque, each offering distinct notes in a black smoked glass vessel. Evoking nostalgia, serenity, and sophistication, the candles turn everyday moments into scented rituals of emotion and memory.
byredo.com
Paying tribute to Cartier’s tradition of crafting fine objects, this solitaire board is rendered in luxurious materials including leather, lacquer, and metal. The iconic panther motif takes center stage, embodying the maison’s art de vivre. With timeless elegance and intricate craftsmanship, the piece elevates a classic game into collectible décor.
cartier.com
Unveiled at Salone del Mobile 2025, the Oriental Inks collection marks Armani/Casa’s 25th anniversary. Inspired by East Asian artistry, the line blends hand-embroidered velvets and satins with dragon and jungle motifs. With refined materials, rich textures, and curated home pieces, the display channels Giorgio Armani’s vision of couture-level design in interiors.
armanicasa.com
Poet Audio’s flagship speaker combines audiophile-grade performance with minimalist elegance. Crafted in lacquered wood and featuring a plug-andplay wireless system, it delivers 170 watts of room-filling sound. With options in black, white, or walnut, the speaker doubles as an art objectdiscreetly engineered in Austria for immersive music lovers.
poet-audio.com
Rolls-Royce unveils a bespoke chess set crafted with the same artisanal standards as its motor cars. Veneered boards in diamond patterns, high-gloss finishes, and custom leather options make this a collector’s piece. Every move feels ceremonial, echoing the drama and detail of Rolls-Royce interiors in a game of precision and elegance.
rolls-roycemotorcars.com
The Aero Pro by Parsec blends longboard feel with high-performance electric features. Built with T800 carbon fiber, it’s lightweight yet tough, offering smooth rides via a belt-driven system. Equipped with Molicel batteries, low deck height, and quick-replace belts, it’s designed for speed, portability, and intuitive riding.
rideparsec.com
The Flatten it vinyl record flattening machine revives warped records with precision-heated aluminum plates and low thermal hysteresis. Designed for all sizes, it restores fidelity by removing skips and distortion. Engineered for audiophiles, the European-made device ensures your collection plays as perfectly as it did on the first listen.
project-audio.com
Part of Gucci’s Spring Summer 2025 décor collection, this cotton jacquard cushion showcases a bold stripe pattern in bordeaux, yellow, and white. The design is elevated by embroidered Gucci script, highlighting the house’s playful yet refined aesthetic. The piece adds a vibrant accent to any living space with its distinctive color and texture.
gucci.com
The Elpis pen takes inspiration from the geometric quilting of Versace’s Spring-Summer 2025 bags. Swiss-made with a sleek silhouette, it features an embossed barrel, laser-etched logo, and the iconic Medusa head. With classic design codes and contemporary detailing, this luxury writing tool reflects the house’s commitment to refined craftsmanship.
versace.com
The LIND Electric Surfboard transforms any body of water into a wave-riding opportunity. Powered by a 27 hp double-motor waterjet and modular design, it reaches up to 40 mph. Made with EPS foam and epoxy resin, the shortboard and midlength boards offer high-performance and portability, complete with a safety-enabled wireless remote control.
lind.surf
This Dolce&Gabbana thermos balances design with sustainability. Made from 304 stainless steel, it keeps drinks warm for 12 hours or cool for 24. The advanced printing technique gives the DG Logo a tactile bas relief finish. Entirely BPA- and plastic-free, it reflects the brand’s identity and environmental consciousness.
dolcegabbana.com
L’Épée 1839 unveils a sculptural clock celebrating the 1783 hot air balloon ascent. The Imperial Balloon combines horological mastery and artistic enamel work. With an eight-day movement and cloisonné detailing, it functions as a desk or hanging clock. The flame-shaped hand displays time on rotating cylinders, blending innovation, symbolism, and French Enlightenment grandeur.
lepee1839.ch
Tivoli Audio teams up with Grammy-winning producer Sounwave to create 60 numbered editions of the SongBook MAX. Dressed in cream with chrome accents and wrapped in brown leather, this speaker delivers robust sound via multiple drivers. With Bluetooth, FM, and 10-hour battery life, it’s crafted for musicians seeking style and performance.
tivoliaudio.com
D I S C O V E R R E A L
I T A L I A N C O FF E E I N A L L I T S F O R M S
Chanel’s Diamonds Astroclock is a celestial masterpiece featuring a lion sculpture snow-set with over 5,000 diamonds. Time is marked by a comet hour hand and Leo constellation minute hand inside a glass sphere. With an 8-day power reserve, this horological marvel bridges art and astronomy.
chanel.com
The latest and most exclusive luxury items for women
Tiffany & Co. elevates traditional game night with this luxurious mahjong set. Housed in a Tiffany Blue® leather case with gray suede interior, the set includes scoring sticks, dice, and tiles crafted from sterling silver, walnut wood, and leather. It’s a modern heirloom that marries craftsmanship with play. tiffany.com
Armani/Casa’s Pegaso set includes four candles: Black Lacquer, Red Velvet, Green Marble, and Gold Leaf, each expressing Giorgio Armani’s refined aesthetic. From spicy to floral to woody accords, every scent offers a sensory journey through texture, color, and mood.
armani.com
Philipp Plein is ready to take the feminine universe by storm, introducing a timepiece that strikingly combines elegance with bold sophistication. The Plein Majesty is designed for the modern woman, featuring a 38mm case that ensures a perfect fit, embodying both style and comfort.
plein.com
Inspired by vintage Louis Vuitton trunks, the Home Mirror Trunk blends function and elegance. Studs, rivets, and iconic house codes adorn its compact, lightweight design. Ideal as a travel-friendly item or statement décor piece, it celebrates heritage craftsmanship with a contemporary twist, reflecting both legacy and luxury.
louisvuitton.com
Dolce&Gabbana’s stainless steel thermos is wrapped in a Carretto Siciliano-inspired foulard motif. Crafted from BPA-free 304 steel, it keeps drinks hot for 12 hours or cold for 24. With tactile bas relief design and signature branding, this thermos reflects where tradition meets innovation.
dolcegabbana.com
LOEWE unveils its 2025 Salone del Mobile collection; a commission of teapots by 25 internationally renowned artists, designers and architects. Each artist has taken a unique approach to the teapot. Together the works reimagine the vessel’s sculptural form, drawing on the varied and rich traditions of tea making and culture found around the world.
loewe.com
To mark its 50th anniversary, TUMI unveils the Gold Collection, a limited drop of just 250 units per silhouette. The radiant Bullion Gold versions of its iconic 19 Degree Aluminum luggage range include the Briefcase, Carry-On, Watch Case, and Minaudiere, all with signature aircraft-grade aluminum and story-numbered patches.
tumi.com
Daum collaborates with Hicham Lahlou on this striking amber incense burner, inspired by Moroccan artistry and celestial beauty. Its moucharabieh-style top casts captivating shadows, transforming rituals into moments of serenity. Celebrating earth and sky, it is an object of spiritual design and cultural homage.
daum.fr
gucci.com
Cartier’s Characters Coasters celebrate icons from the Maison’s heritage, including the ladybug, bellboy, and L’oiseau libéré. These miniature objets d’art bring whimsy and symbolism into everyday living, echoing the house’s storytelling through craftsmanship, playfulness, and design detail.
cartier.com
L’Epée 1839 introduces the Time Fast II Time Tales Edition, a kinetic sculpture clock shaped like a vintage race car. Crafted with aluminum and stainless steel, the 8-day movement is visible beneath the hood. Limited and collectable, it merges motorsport nostalgia with Swiss horology in motion.
lepee1839.ch
Piguet unveils an exquisite Fabergé desk clock from 1907, crafted in gold, blue enamel, silver, and pearls by Henrik Wigström. Once a gift during Tsar Nicholas II’s reign and later owned by Queen Astrid of Belgium, this piece showcases imperial artistry and impeccable provenance. It will debut at Piguet’s June 2025 Geneva auction.
piguet.com
Judith Leiber’s Eiffel Tower Bonne Nuit evening bag dazzles in champagne-hued flatback crystals, mimicking Paris by night. Its silhouette is detailed with metallicpainted lines and a quartz and rock crystal clasp. Every detail, from shimmer to structure, captures couture whimsy and elegance.
judithleiber.com
Slip introduces the High Tide collection, a limitededition spring series inspired by nautical escapes and sun-drenched serenity. Featuring silk pillowcases, scrunchies, sleep masks, and travel essentials, each item is crafted from pure slipsilk™ for anti-aging, anti-crease benefits. Pastel tones, scalloped trims, and breezy patterns define this elevated take on everyday comfort.
slip.com
More Than a Stay, It’s an Experience, Discover a Hidden Gem that Captures the Essence of Luxury.
The “Cultural Assets: Ibrahim Yousif Hassan Al Hassan Collection” exhibition at the Bahrain National Museum delves into a remarkable chapter of the distinguished Bahraini Al Hassan family’s history.
“Cultural Assets: Ibrahim Yousif Hassan Al Hassan Collection” is an exhibition that unveils a portion of the distinguished Bahraini Al Hassan family’s history. It chronicles their journey through pivotal periods and historical events in the Kingdom, brought to life by a collection of heritage artifacts and historical acquisitions spanning over a century. This exhibition is a direct result of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities’ initiative to enhance community involvement in preserving and promoting Bahrain’s cultural heritage. The Al Hassan family’s generous donation of this collection to the Bahrain National Museum now allows the public to engage directly with these invaluable pieces.
The exhibition specifically features rare artifacts tracing back to the esteemed pearl merchant, Al Tawash Hassan bin Ibrahim Ahmed Al Hassan (1887–1982). These items illuminate the family’s significant role in the historical pearl trade and their ongoing efforts to advance Muharraq’s cultural and civilizational infrastructure, including their key involvement in founding Al Hedaya Al Khalifiya School in 1919.
culture.gov.bh
Bahrain’s pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, titled “Connecting Seas: A Journey Through the Senses,” marks its fourth participation in a World Exposition and is located within the Empowering Lives zone. Curated by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, the pavilion explores the Kingdom’s maritime heritage, highlighting its transformation from ancient Dilmun to a modern trading nation. The multisensory experience includes exhibits on trade, pearling, crafts, ecology, and culture, offering visitors a deep insight into Bahrain’s historical and contemporary identity.
Designed by Lina Ghotmeh Architecture, the pavilion spans 995 square meters across four levels and reaches heights between 13 and 17 meters. Its structure is inspired by traditional Bahraini dhow boats and incorporates around 3,000 wooden elements assembled using artisanal joinery techniques that blend Bahraini boatbuilding with Japanese craftsmanship. The use of passive cooling, minimal foundations, and sustainable materials makes it one of the most environmentally conscious structures at the Expo.
The pavilion also features a café curated by award-winning chef Tala Bashmi, combining Bahraini and Japanese flavors. A dedicated business floor highlights Bahrain’s strategic role as a global trade hub. The pavilion celebrates cultural exchange, innovation, and sustainability on an international platform.
culture.gov.bh
