FACT Qatar August 2016

AUGUST 2016 VOL 3. ISSUE 3 QR10

Canvas, colour, Creativity

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ESCAPE THE HEAT...

Enjoy market fresh flavours only at our New Theme Nights.

Spicy Sunday, 18:30 - 23:00

Discover Doha’s secret indoor garden this summer.

QR199 - Indian Buffet & Soft Drinks QR 259 - Indian Buffet & Selected Beverages

Open daily from 19:00 - 23:00

Mexican Monday, 18:30 - 23:00

MEAT LOVERS SET MENU & 1 SIP: 245 QR A spectacular 3 course set menu for all meat lovers.

Not to be missed!

QR199 - Buffet & Soft Drinks QR 259 - Buffet & Selected Beverages

Claws & Shell Thursday, 18:30 - 23:00

QR 229 - Seafood Buffet & Soft Drinks QR 289 - Seafood Buffet & Selected Beverages

Arabic BBQ Brunch, Saturday, 12:30 - 15:00 QR 229 - Buffet & Soft Drinks QR 289 - Buffet & Selected Beverages

LEGINDARY SUNDAYS SET MENU & 1 SIP: 240 QR Indulge in a trio of the best cuts along with a selection of our crafted sips every Sunday.

WAGYU WEDNESDAYS: 250 QR Have a taste of all of our delicious Wagyu cuts while you sip on a complimentary welcome drink.

+974 4492 1555 2

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dining.doha@westin.com

@westindoha

2016 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Preferred Guest, SPG, Westin and their logos are the trademarks of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or its affiliates. For full terms & conditions, visit westin.com/doha

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ARTS & culture

local arts

Meet London-based, Moroccan artist Hassan Hajjaj and check out his unique and vibrant work, using the latest Huawei smartphone, the P9.

He left a legacy of hope through his time as a boxer and activist, now Qatar Museums is dedicating their new exhibition to the late Muhammad Ali.

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gcc summer

If you don’t want to travel too far from home but still want great entertainment on your hols, check out the programme for Abu Dhabi Summer Season 2016.

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fashion focus

Bright and beautiful with fresh colours and comfy attire, GAP’s summer ‘16 collection has caught our attention this month.

Here’s your style fix...

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venue review

It’s already grown to become one of Doha’s most-loved restaurants - we went to try the new foodie delights at Eggspectation restaurant. It was yum!

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THE EDITOR

Creativity Calling “The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls.” - Pablo Picasso

I

t’s not news that August is a bit of a dead month in the GCC. Why? Because temperatures soar above imagination and it’s just too hot to do anything fun during the day. It’s also the school holidays; so many local and expat families will go off on their summer vacation, leaving Doha to bask in a calmer atmosphere.

Personally, this time of the year is delightful. I love the emptier malls, the quieter roads and the summer soirees – you can be both active and lazy, all at your own pace! At FACT, we wanted to shine a spotlight on some of the best creative talents and stories, be it local, regional and beyond, to give you a flavour of what August looks like in other places.

Let’s begin with the cover. HOW cool are these colours? Meet London-based, Moroccan artist Hassan Hajjaj, who teamed up with Huawei Arabia to test the camera quality of the brand new Huawei P9 smartphone. Turn to p16 and just see what can happen when you marry the latest tech with renowned photography skills – it’s AMAZING. For those of you travelling to Paris on a summer break this month – you can go and view the images in person, currently exhibiting at the Colette Store.

Also under the spotlight is Emirati Artist Budoor Al Ali (p25), and a Bahraini hospitality destination (p31), both for their great artistic efforts. We’re also bringing you the calendar of events for Abu Dhabi Summer Season (p41) so any of you who want some entertainment but don’t want to go too far, check out these awesome happenings!

One of my favourite stories in this issue begins on p77.

Covering community, innovation and quality, IKEA shares two wonderful insights into some of the home brand’s behindthe-scenes talents, ahead of their new catalogue launch.

Now, put down the Pokemon Go and start reading.☺

Shabana Adam Editor-in-Chief shabana@fact-magazine.com 4

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FACT Magazine Qatar Edition August 2016 Volume 3, Issue 3

Chairman Khalifa Bin Mubarak Al Khalifa Chief Executive Officer Greg Hughes Publishing Director Edward Smith General Manager Hussein A. Zreik Editor-in-Chief Shabana Adam (shabana@fact-magazine.com) Group Regional Editor Tony Sidgwick (tony@fact-magazine.com) Creative Director Paula Leal Graphic Designers Jyoti Rawat Rashed Bin Daina Photography Abshar Kader Hebin Muradh Contributors Sofia Graniello Gareth Woods Production & Distribution Ajit Kumar Neil Mahmood Sales Manager Badir Bechara Office Admin Maritess M. Agapito ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Email: badir@fact-magazine.com PRINTED BY United Printing Press

All Rights Reser ved. Opinion expressed within does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publisher.

All efforts have been made to ensure accuracy of the information within this publication. However, FACT M.E. Publishing cannot accept legal responsibility for any erroneous content or omissions. FACT M.E. Bahrain Publishing W.L.L. Off ice 53, Building 872, Road 3618, Block 436, Seef.

European Friday À La Carte Brunch Indulge in a boutique contemporary European à la carte brunch selection in Aroma.

On offer is a variety of brunch classics, salads and starters, along with roasts and main courses, topped off with delicious sweet treats.

QAR 195 per person, food only.

Fridays, from 12pm to 4pm For more information, contact +974 4405 3325 | restaurants.doha@kempinski.com | kempinski.com/doha fact magazine

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SOCIAL MEDIA

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Combining all three editions of FACT in Abu Dhabi, Bahrain and Qatar, keep up with us on instagram for the best behind-the-scenes photos from food shoots, local events and all things awesome in the GCC, plus loads more from the FACT team.

AUGUST 2016 VOL 3. ISSUE 3 QR10

Your one-stop culture fix for life in Qatar| First for local talent, arts, fashion, dining and all the coolest events in the city | We’ve got tech, travel, motoring and exclusive interviews with all the industry and celebrityworld movers and shakers too | Get your copy of FACT Qatar in local supermarkets now!

Canvas, colour, Creativity

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FACT Qatar Issuu @issuu #Ramadan is almost over but this @FACTBahrain issue dedicated to the holy month is still a great read!

Issuu.com/factmagazine

10,832 likes Keep up with all things Qatar as the FACT team posts the latest competitions, happenings and everything we’re getting up to for the monthly magazine. Send us a message – we love to hear from our readers!

Torcuil De Fereneze @TorquilFereneze #RhymedSongTitles Killing Me Softly with his Kofte.

Our Fave Feature JULY 2016 VOL 3. ISSUE 2 QR10

Cece @ceciliaa_xii #GetMyAttentionIn4Words Let’s go get food

SUMMER SURVIVAL 2016

BRUNCHES, LUNCHES, SPA DAYS & MORE INDOOR FUN IN DOHA!

Chad Michael Jervis @chadmjervis It’s been 96 hours since I finished #OITNB and I’m still an emotional wreck.

Beth Soanes @bethsoanes19 Episodes 9 & 10 of season 6 GoT are quite possibly the best episodes of television I’ve ever seen #gameofthrones

issuu.com FACT Qatar

48,963 reads of the July issue If you need your FACT fix pronto, flick through our monthly online edition on issuu.com for all the best features, including local culture, arts, fashion, food, motoring, tech, travel and entertainment, in Qatar.

Follow us on twitter and maybe you’ll be here next month! @FACT_Qatar 6

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Smartphone Photography p16

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CHECK IT OUT

FACT FINDS

Merry-go-round QATAR MUSEUmS (QM) UNVEILED AN ICONIC CAROUSEL DESIGNED BY RENOWNED IRAqI ARTIST DIA AZZAWI AT THE MUSEUm OF ISLAmIC ART (MIA) PARK FOR VISITORS TO EXPERIENCE.

Dubbed Enchanted East, families in Doha can get a taste of funfair life with one of the most iconic rides, the carousel, available for the public to enjoy, at MIA park.

This latest installation forms part of QM’s growing public art offering and will join the expanding collection of world-class public artworks on show by QM, designed to enrich the lives of those living in and visiting Qatar.

Under the patronage of its Chairperson, Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the unique carousel features 40 beautifully designed animal “seats” that are inspired by MIA’s iconic permanent collection. Dia Azzawi was also inspired by Islamic arabesque, Arabic calligraphy and famous carpets from Islamic civilisation when creating this magnificent carousel.

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The carousel, which took five days in total to install, will now have a permanent home at MIA park, and is located between the children’s play area and the cafe.

Khalid Yousef Al Ibrahim, Consultant at Qatar Museums, said: “At Qatar Museums, we continue to deliver our promise of

THE ENCHANTED EAST CAROUSEL OPENING TIMES: Summer Operations (July – September) Sunday – Saturday: 6pm - midnight Tuesdays: Closed Normal Operations (October – May) Sunday – Saturday: 10.30 - 23.00 Tuesdays: Closed

creating cultural experiences outside of our museum walls for everyone to interact with and enjoy.

“Dia Azzawi is a significant, leading artistic figure and also a long standing friend of Qatar Museums, and we are proud to exhibit his works in Qatar, to continue to inspire a culture of creativity and innovation and to create cultural experiences that involve the widest possible audiences. Art is all around us. With this iconic carousel now permanently housed at MIA park, everyone in Qatar can interact with art and culture as they go about their daily lives.”

The installation comes ahead of a major retrospective exhibition of the work of Dia Azzawi, which will open simultaneously in Qatar at Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art and QM Gallery Al Riwaq in Doha, from October 16 to April 16, 2017. ✤

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Listen up

Starwood Strikes Twice

United Developers, the creative force behind Place Vendôme, has announced that Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. will operate two new hotels and a serviced apartments’ complex as part of the forthcoming multi-billion Qatari Riyal mixed-use development currently under construction in Lusail City.

The two hotels and serviced apartments’ complex will cater to travellers looking for a lavish hospitality experience in the heart of Qatar’s newest shopping and entertainment destination. Slated to open in 2018, the three mid-rise properties will add a total of 650 guest rooms to the luxury development.

This will comprise of a Luxury Collection 10

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Hotel that will embody classical Parisian elegance; it will feature 250 luxuriouslyappointed guest rooms, including two presidential suites. The Luxury Collection hotel will mark the entry of the brand into Qatar, offering global explorers a unique gateway to this visionary destination.

The second hotel, Le Méridien Lusail, will offer a more contemporary style that reflects culture and design from across France. It will offer 250 guest rooms, including a presidential suite in one wing, while the other wing will offer 150 serviced apartments with a range of options from studios to four-bedroom suites designed to cater for individuals or large family groups.

Le Méridien will offer signature features such as Le Méridien Hub, an innovative reinterpretation of the traditional hotel lobby.

Place Vendôme is a project of United Developers, a group of four Qatari investors who partnered to align their expertise in retail, real estate, construction and contracting. The development will be reminiscent of Rue de la Paix, the famous high-end shopping street in Paris, of which Place Vendôme is the starting point. The architecture is intended to radiate luxury, extravagance and European glamour, setting the tone for the entire leisure and shopping experience. ✤

AUGUST 2016 VOL 3. ISSUE 3 QR10

For the culture-savvy in Doha

Canvas, colour, Creativity

august Edition available now on issuu.com/factmagazine fact magazine

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Listen up

Summer is Better Together

For families who want a memorable break this summer, head to the Sharq Village & Spa for a fabulous time! Stay three nights and pay for two and enjoy complimentary accommodation and dining for children under 12-years-old, as well as significant savings on spa treatments and select dining experiences, along with complimentary WiFi. Set along Doha’s Gulf Bay, Sharq Village & Spa provides an alluring fusion of traditional Arabian architecture and contemporary experiences, including the Six Senses Spa, and a bucket-list must for parents seeking some respite. The luxury beachfront property is 15 minutes from the city centre. Modelled after a traditional 12

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This summer, families and young explorers may feed their imaginations at Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel, with the Better Together package that blends immersive Ritz Kids activities with inspiring experiences for all ages.

Qatari village, the 174-room resort blends authentic Arabian architecture with the very latest in modern comforts and amenities.

Services and facilities include restaurants and lounges serving Middle Eastern and Western cuisine; a 6,500 square meter Six Senses Spa with 23 treatment rooms,

private ladies’ areas, and two outdoor pools; and over 1,130sqm of conference space that includes two magnificent ballrooms, a boardroom and a grand reception foyer.

The Better Together package is available until September 17 at all Ritz-Carlton Hotels, Middle East and Africa. August is the perfect opportunity to treat your loved ones to a much-deserved break! ✤ GO: Call 4425 6666 or visit www. ritzcarlton.com/sharqvillage for reservations and more information.

LISTEN UP

Reconnect and Recharge This summer, retreat to the allure of Four Seasons Hotel Doha, an awardwinning oasis-like property well appointed in the heart of Doha’s cosmopolitan city, and experience an unforgettable staycation.

Ideally located along the Arabian Gulf, families are invited to reconnect and recharge over the summer holidays at Four Seasons Hotel Doha, featuring a selection of unique experiences and packages that enable more family-fun time.

The resort is positioned along an expansive 250-metre private beach and boasts eight grotto pools and nine distinct restaurants and lounges, as well as Doha’s awardwinning Spa and Wellness Centre, offering treatments and facilities that appeal to the entire family. In addition, the Hotel’s youngest guests will love the complimentary Kids For All Seasons programme, which

features daily educational activities such as art and crafts, movie nights, water polo and much more.

To celebrate the excitement of summer, Four Seasons Hotel Doha is currently offering the Doha Escape package; featuring a 20 per cent value with a starting room rate of QR1100 per night for two adults, with a minimum two-night stay. The package includes: luxurious accommodation, complimentary use of Kids for All Seasons, special welcome amenity, complimentary use of pool, beach and spa facilities, complimentary valet parking.

Additionally, the hotel is offering a Stay

Longer in a Suite – Third Night Free package, with an average rate beginning at QR1600 per night. The package includes: complimentary third night with every two consecutive paid nights in a sea view suite, complimentary internet access, luxurious accommodation, complimentary use of Kids for All Seasons, special welcome amenity and complimentary use of pool, beach and spa facilities.

Take your pick and have a great holiday! ✤ GO: Call 4494 8700 or visit reservations. doh@fourseasons.com for reservations and more information. fact magazine

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HAPPENINGS

Getting Out & About This Month in Qatar

Say goodbye to boredom this month and mark your diaries with these all-important dates. We’ve put together a calendar packed with happenings just for you! This is what FACT recommends (there’s more throughout the mag too!)

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SATURDAY

WEDNESDAY

CHAMPIONS SATURDAY Brunch at Marriott Marquis City Centre Doha

HAPPY HOURS at Orion & Shehrazad, Radisson Blu Hotel Doha

Catch all the action live on over 47 LCD TVs at the Saturday Brunch in Champions Sports Bar & Restaurant. There’s live entertainment by Virtuoso, unlimited house beverages and a selection of all-youcan-eat favourites. For QR225 from 12noon to 3pm.

One of the top hotels in town offers two awesome happy hours – at Orion enjoy eclectic music and creative cocktails with live entertainment from 6pm to 8pm (35% off regular drinks); at Shehrazad it’s laid back fun with sports and quiz nights, from 5pm to 7pm (20% off regular drinks).

Call 4419 5000 for more info.

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Call 4428 1428 for more info.

FRIDAY

MONDAY

THURSDAY

The Ritz-Carlton Doha

TRIO LUNCH at Sultan Brahim, The St. Regis Doha

Features a sumptuous selection of picnic delights served to your table including familystyle appetisers, grilled meats and seafood, refreshing pitchers and yummy desserts. With live music and games for children too. 12.30pm to 4pm. Prices start at QR249 for adults.

Tuck into a delicious lunch made up of delicious food, soft drinks and shisha for QR125, Monday to Thursday. Served from 12noon to 4.30pm, this stunning venue offers up mouthwatering delights to liven up your palate at a lunchtime meeting!

Indulge in a selection of your favourite food from the streets of India, South East Asia, Mexico and more. Let the sizzle and aroma of the live cooking stations entice your senses and fill your tummies! QR192 for the regular package, and QR268 with unlimited beverages.

PICNIC FRIDAYS AT Lagoon Restaurant,

Call 4484 8552 for more info.

Call 4446 0105 for more info.

STREET FOOD Summer Promotion at Doha Marriott Hotel

Call 4429 8444 for more info.

happenings

2023 26 2830 SATURDAY

TUESDAY

FRIDAY

SUNDAY

TUESDAY

Reunite with your family and experience an authentic Arabic traditional buffet lunch while your kids have fun with the many children’s activities available. QR240 per person inclusive of soft beverages. (Kids policy apply). Served from 12:30pm to 4pm.

Revel in mid-week pampering and enjoy a 60-min massage of your choice, followed by a 30-minute reflexology massage and a 30-min head massage. This is a complete head-to-toe package to leave you stress-free and revived.

QR700 for 120 mins.

Fresh tasting fish and rice creations make for a light and filling meal this summer. Knife-wielding culinary talents bring you Sushi, Sashimi, Maki Mono and Teriyaki black cod. Savour fresh oysters and grilled seafood too.

QR300 incl. luxury boat transfers (6.30pm to 10.30pm).

Sea, sun and sand! It’s summer time which means spending the day at the beach and by the pool. Top up your tan and enjoy lunch at Rocca restaurant – all for QR250 on weekdays and QR300 on weekends. Children aged four to 15-yearsold pay QR150.

Gracing the decks on Urban Night is Mr. Shef Codes, who’ll be mixing the best of RnB, HipHop and Old School.

Opening set by the Resident DJ from 10pm onwards. If you need a good night out to end the month – this is it!

Reservations and guest list only.

AL HUBARA ARABIC Family Lunch at Sheraton Grand Doha

Call 4485 3000 for more info.

FULL BODY MASSAGE at InterContinental Doha Spa

Call 4484 4444 for more info.

SUSHI NIGHTS AT AZRAQ Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara

Call 4040 5050 for more info.

LUNCH, POOL & BEACH at Jaula Club, Grand Hyatt Doha Hotel & Villas

Call 4448 1060 for more info.

EXCLUSIVE URBAN NIGHT at Crystal, W Doha Hotel & Residences

Call 4453 5135 for more info. fact magazine

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Smartphone

P h o t o graph y What happens when an internationally acclaimed artist swaps his SLR camera for the latest Huawei P9 smartphone? Meet pro-photographer Hassan Hajjaj who did exactly this and still managed to capture some of the most colourful and creative images that we’ve ever seen‌

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“As a person who typically doesn’t use a smartphone, to swap my SLR camera for the Huawei P9 was a whole new concept to me but the advanced photography features on the Huawei P9 camera were easy to use and the results were really incredible.”

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or all the smartphone-obsessed peeps, amateur photographers and anyone who likes taking a good selfie, a scenery shot or what’s on your plate for lunch, let us introduce you to the Huawei P9. Created in collaboration with Leica, the dual-lens P9 sets a new standard in smartphone photography – don’t believe us? Check out these awesome images taken by Londonbased, Moroccan-born artist Hassan Hajjaj, who accepted Huawei Arabia’s challenge of switching out his SLR camera for, simply, a smartphone. Simple, however, is what the P9 is not.

It’s the first mobile device to be co-engineered with the global iconic brand, Leica Camera AG. The P9’s dual-lens camera takes smartphone photography to the next level, allowing people to capture both vivid colours and striking black and white images.

Integrating the design values and engineering excellence of Huawei and Leica, the P9 brings together best-in-class hardware and software, from optical lenses, to sensors, and image processing algorithms, empowering users to capture the highest-quality images (your qinuoa and avocado salad will finally pop with energetic colour).

In the case of Huawei Arabia’s experiment with Hassan Hajjaj, the artist captured 21 compelling portraits true to his eclectic and vibrant style using the P9 only – seriously, how cool are these pics? It was in London, at his Larache Studio, that Hassan held a special workshop for Huawei Arabia and it was here that the images were taken. The photographs were then displayed for the public in a solo exhibition at the Colette store in Paris, during Paris Fashion Week Haute Couture.

Talking about his time using the P9, Hassan says: “It was truly an experience to remember! As a person who typically doesn’t use a smartphone, to swap my SLR camera for the Huawei P9 was a whole new concept to me but the advanced photography features on the Huawei P9 camera were easy to use and the results were really incredible.

“I was comfortable while moving around to capture shots from all different angles and really enjoyed using it,” he adds.

“Currently, I’m curiously learning about its video features.”

The diverse range of art and photography created by Hassan reflects his background and pop culture influences. When Hassan left Morocco for London at an early age, he was heavily influenced by both the hip-hop, and reggae scenes of England as well as his North African heritage which is evident in his creative portraiture, installations, fashion and design. The work commissioned by Huawei Arabia, on display at Colette, saw street style portraits of musicians, artists and friends draped in colourful, funky clothing and bold accessories.

So, what were some of the key features of the P9 that enabled Hassan to capture his desired image quality? “Perhaps, the feature I am the most fascinated by is the dual-lens camera co-engineered with Leica,” he tells us. “As a photographer, Leica is an iconic brand for me, and the dual-lenses work in a perfect tandem where one is capturing RGB and the other monochrome. ➻

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“My style sees colourful and engaging portraits combining the visual vocabulary of contemporary fashion photography and pop art, as well as the studio photography of African artists.”

01 Jen Stylin’ 02 Amine Stylin’ 03 Musty Hajjaj Stylin’ 04 Des’ Stylin’ 05 Donovan Stylin’ 06 Riffy Stylin’ 07 Andre Stylin’ 08 Chantal Stylin’

“The monochrome lens brings out details, and lets in more light than the RGB lens that takes care of colours. During the photo session, I also enjoyed playing around with the focus settings,” Hassan continues. “Just outside my studio in Shoreditch I captured the portraits using the automatic focus feature slightly adjusting depth and aperture.

“It was a rainy day but the P9 accurately captured the details and vibrant colours of the eclectic clothing and bold accessories that each model was wearing,” he says.

The P9 truly excels in lowlight conditions too, as the dual-camera design guarantees more light, which means that accurate detail can be snapped.

Each picture taken by on the smartphone carries the unique emotional resonance and timelessness that are the hallmarks of Leica, as users may choose between three film modes: Standard, Vivid Colours and Smooth Colours, depending on their personal preferences. With meticulous calibration of the phone’s camera parameters, each film mode faithfully renders the authentic colour and style of Leica. By selecting the monochrome mode, P9 users can use their devices as a true monochrome camera to capture powerful and evocative black and white images of superior quality.

Deploying Huawei’s Hybrid Focus technology, the P9 captures images with superior speed, accuracy and stability. The

device also supports camera focusing based on three methodologies – laser, depth calculation and contrast – and automatically selects the one that yields the best result in any given environment.

The wide-aperture photography feature allows users to experiment with innovative visual effects to create unique images and content. The P9 makes it easy to adjust the camera aperture to create bokeh and other depth-of-field effects, while keeping the main object in sharp focus.

We take this opportunity to learn a little bit more about Hassan’s photography style and artistic inspirations. He says: “I turned to photography in the late 80s, and I am a portraitist, taking studio portraits of friends, musicians, and artists, as well as strangers from the streets of Marrakech, often wearing clothes designed by myself.

“My style sees colourful and engaging portraits combining the visual vocabulary of contemporary fashion photography and pop art, as well as the studio photography of African artists,” he explains.

“I strive to offer an intelligent commentary on the influences of tradition in the interpretations of high and low branding and the effects of global capitalism.

“I am inspired by my surroundings whether its art, music, fashion, or food, including the people I meet,” Hassan says.

“Mostly, it’s the freedom and the choices that people make to follow their passions or their calls that make them the extraordinary people they are, and the passion that is put into creating. I am inspired by diversity in its broadest sense and how it mixes together so surprisingly.”

The fact that Hassan was able to produce images so bright, bold, and lively using just a smartphone, is a testament not only to his own photography skills and creative flair, but also to the thoughtful design and high quality features of the Huawei P9. ✤ GO: The Huawei P9 is available across the region. Visit www.consumer.huawei.com/en for more information. fact magazine

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Arabian Culture on Canvas FACT talks to Emirati artist Budour Al Ali about her passion for painting, as her yearlong exhibition at the prestigious Jannah Burj Al Sarab Hotel in Abu Dhabi continues‌

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ARTS INTERVIEW

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ARTS INTERVIEW

“My grandmother is a big influence behind my artistic journey; she always supported and nurtured the creative force that lived inside me from a young age.”

Budour Al Ali, an Emirati artist who is known for her portraits of the Abu Dhabi royal family, is to have her work on display at Jannah Burj Al Sarab. The artist’s year-long exhibition will be based in the lobby of the hotel located in the Al Zahiya/Mina area of the UAE Capital.

The exclusive art display will showcase the spirit of the UAE through four collections, updated in each quarter over the year.

This is a rare opportunity for guests, residents and tourists to discover the rich culture, heritage and folklore of the UAE through her artwork. The collection includes different elements of desert life, including falcons, Oryx and gazelles. The works will also give visitors a glimpse of cultural buildings and local handicraft.

Additionally, three sketches of the Abu Dhabi royal family, which have been specially commissioned by Jannah Burj Al Sarab management, will be housed permanently in the hotel’s lobby.

Here, Budour tells us more about her artistic tools, techniques and inspirations…

Tell us about your journey into art…

Before this path with canvas, colours and brushes began, I had jumbo crayons and scrap sheets of newspaper that my grandmother would collect for me to release my creativity. My grandmother is a big influence behind my artistic journey; she always supported and nurtured the creative force that lived inside me from a young age. It was later on that my loved ones saw that I viewed the world with a different perspective – that of an artist. Being creative and painting came naturally to me. ➻

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ARTS INTERVIEW

“I develop my style throughout my journey as an artist; it is everevolving. In addition to realist movements, I fell in love with the idea of naturalism and realism...”

It was my grandmother’s love that motivated and challenged me to continue improving; I always wanted to impress her with new paintings. She noticed how my interpretations of the world would trickle in every aspect of my life – from my bedroom to schoolbooks. From there, I continued to experiment with different mediums and forms of art.

GO: Prints, cards and accessories, such as bags and cushion covers, all featuring Budour’s art will be available for sale during the exhibition. The starting rate for the main artworks is AED1,700. Some of the proceeds will go to The Aounk Ya Yaman charity to support the health and education of poor and needy children in Yemen.

Call (0)2 652 6777 or 800-JANNAH (800-526624) for more information.

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Describe your artistic style for someone who views your work for the first time…

I develop my style throughout my journey as an artist; it is ever-evolving. In addition to realist movements, I fell in love with the idea of naturalism and realism as a depiction of ordinary, everyday subjects.

I have an identifiable and unique style which distinguishes my paintings from those of others, regardless of the subject of the painting. I’ve been told that this distinctive factor is the positive energy that my paintings exude. This can be immediately sensed in the colours I use, as well as the simplicity in my work.

Tell us about some of the tools and techniques that you use in your work and why?

I work with different mediums; I’ve even tried sculpting! Although I love it, I found it a bit difficult to continuously work on sculptures in the long term.

I’m more comfortable with canvas, brushes and paint, preferably oil and watercolours.

I can also work with other mediums like acrylic, ink and pencil.

What are some of your favourite pieces that you’ve produced and why are they particularly special to you?

Every painting has a piece of me, a part of

my soul, whether it has a sweet thought, feeling or memory behind it. My all-time favourites are the polo paintings as I admire the sport and horses. As one of the only artists in the UAE to have specialised in painting oryx and gazelles, those paintings are quite important to me as well.

ARTS INTERVIEW

I particularly cherish every painting I have worked on with the public as part of the art initiative, Be an Artist for a Minute, which I started in 2014.

“The best thing about being an artist is how I get to make a difference in people’s lives.

I’ve helped people bring a trail of optimism in the way they think.

Influencing people in a positive way has to be my favourite part...”

What’s the best and worst thing about being an artist?

I think the best and worst are the same in my case. As an established artist in the region, people always want to talk to me about my works, which takes up a lot of time. The best thing about being an artist is how I get to make a difference in people’s lives. I’ve helped people bring a trail of optimism in the way they think.

Influencing people in a positive way has to be my favourite part of being who I am.

What’s your advice for young budding artists?

Practice, practice, practice! Get out of your comfort zones and trust your intuition. Take every opportunity that comes your way; make the best out of it. Your hard work will pay off, even if it may be after several years. Don’t be shy to ask questions. To develop your skill and to grow as an artist, you need to explore, experiment and experience. ✤ fact magazine

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Roll Camera for Film Festival Fever

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Have a Haunted Halloween

OctOber 2014. VOL 1 ISSUe 5. AeD 10 front_filmfestival.indd 1

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An Artistic Celebration of Arabic Culture

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@FACTAbuDhabi | @FACTBahrain | @FACT_Qatar 30 3.

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8/31/14 11:13 AM

UNLOCK art

At LE Méridien BAHRAIN CITY CENTRE

Starwood Hotels & Resorts positions each of its properties as the hub to unlock the destination in which the hotel is located, through the discovery of local culture, the art scene, and inspired cuisine. Le Méridien Bahrain City Centre is a brand that’s all about stimulating the curiosity of its guests. FACT finds out exactly how the hotel does this through its connection with art... fact magazine

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ARTS spotlight

“The artist is a receptacle for emotions that come from all over the place: from the sky, from the earth, from a scrap of paper, from a passing shape, from a spider’s weB.” - Pablo Picasso

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t Le Méridien Bahrain City Centre you’ll find timeless design that pays homage to the brand’s Parisian heritage of locally inspired art, inviting the curious and open-minded to unlock a series of rewarding discoveries at the hotel about Bahrain and local culture. The initiative is dubbed Unlock Art - which gives unique access to an array of forward-thinking galleries and institutions for the culturally curious traveller, in partnership with Al Bareh Art Gallery. During a recent visit to the hotel, we discovered a number of the culturally-inspired artworks that take this hospitality brand above and beyond.

THE DHOW A beautiful, large Dhow sculpture by Syrian artist Lutfi Al Romhein takes prime position in the hotel lobby, by the entrance to the hotel’s Baharat restaurant.

Titled Sky Ship, and measuring 400 x 333 x 75cm, the artwork is inspired by the traditional dhows that have been used by the Bahraini population for fishing and pearling for hundreds of years. The dhow sculpture’s contours and curved areas are reminiscent of the mellowness of the sea and the excursion of the fish within. The illustration of this work’s element, “Inox”, was used to describe the boat taking the light around it, opposing to all directions, as if dancing with the lot around it, viewing it as fixed yet mobile. This creates movement within the work.

FOLLOW ME A 24-hour visual journey that takes guests through the lens of international photographers, designers and artists to experience their visions in the brand’s hotels. Located on the left side of the lobby, close to the lifts, a screen depicts images by 32

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the chosen photographer. Upon our visit, we viewed the world through the lens of Gray Malin. Inspired by the spontaneity of travel, Gray captures moments imbued with playful adventure. Embark on a voyage through the viewfinder with Follow Me, Gray Malin’s 24-hour visual journey, artfully synced with the day-tonight transition of Le Méridien Hub. This travel-obsessed photographer will also bring the voyage to life through a series of shoots through some of the worlds most alluring destination. ➻

arts spotlight

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ARTS spotlight

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ARTS spotlight

THE PEARL WORLD MAP You’ll see this stunning piece as you enter the lobby, located behind the check-in desks. It was produced by Thaer Hilal and is called The Silk Road. A staggering 40,000 acrylic pearls were used on canvas, on wood, for the piece to be complete.

The artwork, which measure 300 x 600cm, illustrates the abstract path of The Silk Road as a way to emphasise the importance of this historical path for the exchange of culture and trading.

It exhibits a pattern of the Silk path, from Far East Asia, all the way to “Delmon” Bahrain, where the world recognised this divine beauty. The white pearl refers to the harmony that covers the water area within the map, showing its purity and source of happiness and prosperity. The green pearl composes a semblance of the world’s fields as it refers to occupied areas, since human interactions underlay hidden secrets, with rich contradictions.

The red pearls represent the land silk road that cuts across ancient Persia, through Europe, heading towards the Eastern Mediterranean. The blue pearls refer to the Asian marine tracks, East to South India, and across the Arabian Gulf, Oman and Bahrain “Delmon”, then towards the South of Iraq, South of Yemen, the red sea and the coast of South Africa.

ART LINK MAPPING BAHRAIN Discover Bahrain in over 24 hours - the Art Link has been unveiled featuring 1440 series of time lapse photography of the island to ignite the curiosity of

what this destination is like as you walk through the hotel corridor. Artist Roberto Leopardo took the first photograph on the beach at sunrise, proceeding to capture a photography every minute, continuously, for a 24-hour period, moving through the country. A collection of 1,440 images are presented here in sequential order.

BURNING RIVERS Moroccan artist Mohamed El Baz’s creation, The Rivers are Burning, is intricate golden thread embroidery on velvet, with six artworks at 100 x100cm, depicting the Mississippi, Danube, Tigre & Euphrates, Amazon, Congo, and Indus rivers. The artist questions the notions of borders, territories, belonging and difference, as many labels that create barriers between individuals. By nature,

all streams are linked, El Baz makes these connections visible by giving us fragments of the global aquatic mapping. He then turns these pathways into abstract and precious lines through the artificial act of the golden embroidery, questioning the notion of cartographic convention created by humans. The embroidery reflects the Kurar Embroidery – an important cultural aspect of Bahrain’s heritage.

The hotel also has unique, handembroidered calligraphy art as well as the one-of-a-kind shadow art in guest bedrooms, with each piece depicting a Middle-Eastern scene. With so many creative and innovative artworks being championed at Le Méridien Bahrain City Centre, you’ve got more than one reason to visit for your next cultural fix! ✤

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LOCAL ARTS

Muhammad Ali Tribute to a Legend

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li, né Cassius Clay, home as part of the redeveloped Khalifa passed away on June International Stadium, featuring some of 3, aged 74. He was the exhibits from this show. a significant global The significant artefacts within the sporting figure, having exhibition include photography from been the first boxer Ali’s outdoor exhibition bout at the Doha to win the undisputed world heavyweight Stadium in 1971; and significantly his boxing title three times. Ali was also a momentous ‘draft exemption’ letter, which global cultural icon and prominent activist will be exhibited for the first time- on and campaigner loan - on the 50th throughout the anniversary of when Qatar Museums will open Muslim world, a 24-year-old Ali Muhammad Ali: Tribute having converted to first wrote it. In this Islam and changed to a Legend, a homage to letter, addressed to his name in 1964, boxing legend and activist the US Selective immediately after Service Directorate Muhammad Ali, in a unique on 23rd August defeating Sonny collection of artefacts Liston in his first 1966, Ali refused world heavyweight spanning the first 18 years his ‘draft call up’ title fight. In 1966 the US armed of his 21-year professional to he refused the draft forces to fight in boxing career, from 1960 to the US armed Vietnam. Arguably services on grounds it is a letter which until 1978. of conscientious changed history. objection (and as a minister of the Lost Other notable memorabilia on display span Found Nation of Islam), an act which saw Ali’s journey to the 1960 Rome Olympics him banned from boxing and stripped of (where he won a gold medal); Ali’s two his world title from 1966 to 1971, when world title winning bouts against Sonny his conviction was overturned on appeal. Liston in 1964; the ‘Rumble in the Jungle’ Having returned to boxing in 1970, he fight in Kinshasa, Zaire in 1974, where fought an exhibition bout in Doha in 1971. Ali regained his heavyweight crown from Muhammad Ali: Tribute to a Legend is the George Foreman; and his final world title first significant exhibition dedicated to winning fight against Leon Spinks in New Ali since his death. Organised under the Orleans, in 1978. ✤ patronage of Qatar Museums Chairperson, HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the exhibition brings together 22 artefacts that have been GO: Muhammad Ali: Tribute to a Legend is on collected and curated under the auspices of display in the Museum of Islamic Art’s fourth the 3-2-1 Olympic and Sports Museum. floor eastern gallery. Visit www.mia.org.qa for This museum will open in a permanent more information.

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LOCAL ARTS

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regional ARTS

Arts Corner Here are some awesome arts exhibitions to check out around the GCC this summer…

WHERE: ABU DHABI EXHIBITION: DEPARTURE BY XAVIER MASCARO LOCATION: WAREHOUSE421 Famed Spanish sculptor Xavier Mascaró made his UAE debut at Warehouse421 with the exhibition Departure that presents an installation of 27 iron and bronze boats. Hailed as one of the world’s leading Spanish contemporary sculptors, Mascaró is displaying boats made from rusted iron and oxidised bronze, with an 18-metre, life-size ship out at the front entrance and 26 boats in different sizes taking up the indoor gallery space. The works touch on ideals of Abu Dhabi’s traditional relationship as a historical port-city through the visual and textual components that refer to the sea, trade and histories - words which are significant and synonymous to the capital. In addition to the works on display, Warehouse421 aims to take visitors on a behind-the-scenes journey into Mascaró’s studio. The exhibition will include a selection of his drawings, models, and interviews that demonstrate the artist’s process of creation. As a tribute to the UAE’s ancestry of sailing, sea trade and maritime antiquity, Departure will also present traditional Emirati poetry and imagery about the sea, where excerpts will provide insight into the sailors’ emotions of travelling, the longing, reuniting, and the mystery of the unknown out at sea, to his community back home.

GO: Departure will be on display at Warehouse421 until September 4. Visit www.warehouse421.ae for more information.

WHERE: BAHRAIN EXHIBITION: SPITFIRE AT THE MUSEUM LOCATION: BAHRAIN NATIONAL MUSEUM This exhibition celebrates the strong civil and military aviation heritage between Bahrain and the UK. The centrepiece of the exhibition is the iconic Supermarine Spitfire, probably the most famous fighter aircraft in history, which first flew 80 years ago.

This is the aircraft that defended the skies during the Second World War, including the defence of Bahrain. This Spitfire is on loan to the Bahrain National Museum from the RAF Museum, in partnership with BAE Systems. A number of other aircraft are on display in the exhibition, including: The Anson, designed and built in the North West of England by Avro, was used to establish the Gulf Aviation Company in 1950 which today has become Gulf Air, the national airline of the Kingdom of Bahrain; The Vickers VC-10 was used for commercial flights into Bahrain by the British 38

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regionaL ARTS

Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC) from 1964 and by Gulf Air in the 1970s. More recently RAF VC-10s were based in Bahrain during the 1991 Gulf War; The Blackburn Buccaneer was based at RAF Muharraq. This aircraft was designed and build in Brough in the UK, a factory that would eventually build a fleet of Hawk training aircraft for the RBAF some 40 years later; and the Concorde, which in January celebrated the 40th anniversary of its inaugural flight into Bahrain on 21 January 1976 when the aircraft made the world’s first supersonic commercial flight, is an iconic symbol of progress, with the ability to fly at 22 miles a minute.

This milestone in aviation history only took Concorde three hours and 17 minutes to reach Bahrain from London Heathrow.

GO: Spitfire at the Museum is on display until October 23. Visit www.bahrain.com for more information.

WHERE: DUBAI EXHIBITION: MADE IN TASHKEEL 2016 LOCATION: TASHKEEL, NAD AL SHEBA The annual Made in Tashkeel exhibition showcases the works of Tashkeel members, workshop participants and recent exhibiting artists. The display of work celebrates the on-going practice of members that makes up the creative and communal atmosphere within the art organisation. Every year the Made in Tashkeel exhibition has presented the wide range of disciplines offered in the studios and through the workshop programme, the diversity of media used by artists and the energy, commitment and enthusiasm of our members. The exhibition provides a great opportunity for everyone at Tashkeel to reflect on the growth and development that has taken place during the previous year.

Throughout the past eight years, Tashkeel has increasingly established its role in the creative industry as an artistic community that facilitates dialogues between artists of different backgrounds in a supportive and productive environment. The works displayed at Made in Tashkeel are a cumulative result of those dialogues and convey the zeal and commitment that the members show towards their practice. The purpose of the exhibition is not only to celebrate the work of the members, workshop participants, or and exhibiting artists, but to also illustrate the variety of expressions and skills fostered in Tashkeel during the past year through residencies, projects, and studio support.

The 2016 summer exhibition includes: Afshan Daneshvar, Ammar Al Attar, Azim Al Ghussein, eL Seed, Eman AlHashemi, Emma Parthare, Gail Reid, Harshseet Thukral, Jeff Scofield, Judy Shinnick, Kathryn Wilson, Kay Li, Khalid Mezaina, Manal AlDowayan, Natalia Lasso, Saif Mhaisen, and Sham Enbashi. Varying from traditional to contemporary techniques, the exhibited works will range from digital photography, sculptures, installation, comic books, laser-cut fashion wear, to printmaking and painting. ✤ GO: Made in Tashkeel 2016 is on display until September 1. Visit www.tashkeel.org for more information. fact magazine

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SOCIETY

#Red #Bull #Kart #Fight #Qatar

Following a battle of wills, speed and reflex, Qatar’s first ever Red Bull Kart Fight took place last month, with an unexpected result of the 15-yearold winner, Omar Aswat, emerging in top place and clinching the title of Fastest Amateur Kart Racer in Qatar. The National Finals witnessed intense racing and competition much to the delight of enthusiastic spectators. The event attracted a high number of Qatari participants. Ahmad Fakhro came in second and Ahmad Shaheen Al Muhannadi came third. Conducted with the aim of nurturing and encouraging healthy and responsible racing, the event was conducted in a safe and confined environment, at the Doha Exhibition & Convention Centre.

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Fun For All

August not only happens to be one of the hottest months in the r e g i o n , b u t i t ’s also a month when our neighbouring nations are jam-packed with dazzling international p e r f o r m e r s , s t a rstudded concerts, awesome stage shows and plenty of promotions and offers across hotels, malls and attractions! Here, FA C T b r i n g s y o u the low down of fantastic events to check out during the emiratewide Abu Dhabi Summer Season (ADSS) 2016‌

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summer happenings

Dora Dora is an adventurous, bilingual, sevenyear-old Latina heroine who lives in a lush, tropical world. She is determined, positive, helpful, caring and always ready for an adventure! She’s bilingual, she learns lessons along the way and she loves overcoming obstacles on her quests. An extremely active kid, little ones will love watching Dora go on magical journeys to help friends and save the day!

SpongeBob SquarePants

FamilyFriendly Fun WHAT: FUN NATION WHERE: DU FORUM WHEN: JULY 14 to AUGUST 6; 10am to 10pm.

PRICE: TBC A medley of entertainment, including gaming, cooking, sports and fashion is all going to be available under one roof as MBC, one of the region’s largest broadcasters, will bring its host of character performances and interactive activities to du Forum. Get ready for celebrity appearances, workshops and engaging activities during the summer, at Fun Nation! You can learn, play, and experience different themed activities and events to make the most of summer!

Championsheep There are loads of fun games to play at the Championsheeps. You’ll get a reward card that’ll be stamped once you’ve taken part in each event taking place. You can then take your completed reward card to the Finale Podium to get a badge and have your photo taken. There are eight games to complete; Shirley’s Pie-athlon, Free Range, Farmyard Fling, Cabbage Keepie Uppie, Get Fit with the Flock, Bitzer’s Sack Race, Flock ‘n’ Roll and Sheep Shape. Enjoy!

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In the underwater world of Bikini Bottom, SpongeBob SquarePants can usually be found grilling up Krabby Patties at The Krusty Krab, the finest eating establishment ever established for eating. But when the world’s most dedicated fry cook isn’t at work, you’ll find him in his pineapple house with his pet snail, Gary. This is one character you need to watch for a positive burst of energy!

Shaun The Sheep This live, non-ticketed show is where you’ll meet Shuan, Bitzer, the farmer and, of course, the Flock! Go on a brand new dance adventure with Shaun and co. as the Farmer discovers an old dance mat and music machine and gets the whole gang hooked on trying out some new steps to groove to the beat. Perfect for the whole family!

Kitchen Mission Take the kids to meet their favourite Nickelodeon characters, cook with them and enjoy an interactive workshop of play, games and fun, in a relaxed atmosphere. All games and workshops will be entertaining yet educative.

Tasali Tassali is a live on air game on MBC3 that’s hosted by different MBC3 presenters on each day of the week. Viewers play against a computerised system live on air, competing in seven different games that are randomly selected by the computer. If the viewer wins, they’re entered into a prize draw.

Visit www.duforum.ae for more info.

‫للخــياطة الرجالــية‬

‫كـالسيـك‬

Classic Man for Tailoring

Tel. 4421 9357

Mob. 3377 2735 P.O. Box: 7346 Doha - Qatar fact magazine

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summer happenings

Music Magic WHAT: SHAAN LIVE IN CONCERT WHERE: EMIRATES PALACE WHEN: AUGUST 11 at 8pm PRICE: AED145 (BALCONY); AED195 (PEARL); AED245 (DIAMOND) Bollywood singing sensation, Shaan, will take to the stage for an evening filled with stunning music. Accompanied by top musicians and vocalists, Shaan, who is also the host of famous Indian TV shows Sa Re Ga Ma Pa and Star Voice of India, will perform his biggest hits covering genres of pop, jazz, ghazal, hip-hop, and soundtracks from Bollywood and Hollywood films, too.

Visit www.visitabudhabi.ae for more info.

WHAT: BOLLYWOOD IN THE CAPITAL – A MUSICAL EXTRAVAGANZA WHERE: DU FORUM & ABU DHABI ART HUB WHEN: AUGUST 12 and 13 PRICE: AED150 (GENERAL ADMISSION); AED200 (PREMIUM).

Bollywood music lovers are in for a night to remember as some of the industry’s top names come to our shores for a spectacular performance. Vishal Dadlani and Shekhar Ravjiani, the hugely popular lyricists, composers, and music directors, alongside Farhan Akhtar, a multitalented Indian film director, screenwriter, producer, actor, playback singer, lyricist and television host, will all be entertaining the crowds on August 12. Expect foottapping beats from past hits and new soundtracks to please the crowd!

On August 13, one of India’s most loved musical trios, the multi-talented maestros, Shankar Mahadevan, Ehsaan Noorani and Loy Mendonsa will be wowing the audience. They are skilled composers, savvy record producers, melodic musicians and multi-instrumentalists and they’ll be taking guests on a true musicfilled journey, in celebration of India’s Independence Day. Visit www.visitabudhabi.ae for more info.

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summer happenings

WHAT: CIRQUE ADRENALIN WHERE: AL RAHA BEACH THEATRE WHEN: AUGUST 18 AND 19 PRICE: TBC From the producers of The Illusionists and Le Noir comes this summer’s pulse-pounding performance, Cirque Adrenaline! Boasting a thrilling extravaganza of the world’s most dangerous and death-defying acts, Cirque Adrenaline is a new genre of show that blends traditional circus acts with high-octane feats of unbelievable skill. Flame-wielding fire spinners, astounding contortionists, trapeze artists and daredevil motorcyclists will amaze and astonish audiences with their complex aerial manoeuvres.

Stunts such as the Wheel of Death and the Sphere of Fear will keep the whole family on the edge of their seats!

Visit www.cirqueadrenalinelive.com for more info.

WHAT: THE DISTRICT WHERE: DU FORUM WHEN: AUGUST 18 to SEPTEMBER 17 PRICE: TBC A fantastic initiative for the youth of the city, The District is a month-long event to provide those aged between 14 and 22-years-old, an outlet to discover new skills and a platform for them to receive support and guidance in a variety of areas including innovation, entertainment, technology, fashion, digital media, health, science, nutrition and sustainability to name but a few of the focuses. It’s a safe and convenient destination where young people can spend their summer days, with plenty of activities, both educational and entertaining, to take part in.

Visit www.visitabudhabi.ae for more info.

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summer happenings

Comedy Circuit WHAT: THE KAPIL SHARMA COMEDY SHOW WHERE: AL RAHA BEACH THEATRE WHEN: AUGUST 12 PRICE: AED200 (BRONZE); AED350 (SILVER); AED450 (GOLD); AED550 (PLATINUM).

If you’re a true Indian TV follower, then you’ll be excited about this one!

This world-famous Stand Up Comedy Show will rock Abu Dhabi in August!

As a comedian, the comic stage presence of Kapil Sharma portrays his on-stage persona, which resonates with the audience of today. His quick simultaneous wit, and ability to find humour in any situation and under any circumstances has won the hearts of viewers all over the world. Audience members are guaranteed a show that will leave them laughing and rolling in tears with comical memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Visit www.visitabudhabi.ae for more info.

WHAT: THE WAYANS BROTHERS – MARLON WAYANS WHERE: EMIRATES PALACE WHEN: AUGUST 19 PRICE: AED145 (BALCONY); AED195 (PEARL); AED245 (DIAMOND).

When we think of the Wayans Brother, we think White Chicks, Little Man and more of the hilarious films they’ve been in! The duo has become Hollywood comedy royalty, and now one half of the team is on his way to Abu Dhabi.

Marlon Wayans will perform his 46

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sidesplitting one-man, stand-up show for the audience. Marlon has taken his time in creating — and learning to control — his distinctive form of comedy, and has grown up along the way. So, you’re in for a massive, laughter-filled treat!

Visit www.visitabudhabi.ae for more info.

WHAT: COMEDY SUPERSTAR WHERE: AL RAHA BEACH THEATRE WHEN: SEPTEMBER 9 PRICE: AED145 (BALCONY); AED195 (PEARL); AED245 (DIAMOND).

It’s bigger and better than ever; Comedy Superstar will see a crowdpleasing performance by a multitalented entertainer whose career

summer happenings

encompasses television, blockbuster films, sold-out standup comedy tours and late-night television. So if you are looking for a night full of laughter, watching your favourite celebrity comedian, stay tuned!

Visit www.visitabudhabi.ae for more info.

WHAT: ARAB COMEDY FESTIVAL WHERE: DU FORUM WHEN: SEPTEMBER 9 and 10 PRICE: AED145 (BALCONY); AED195 (PEARL); AED245 (DIAMOND).

The newly created Arab Comedy Festival will feature a stellar line up of comedians, kicking off two days of performances by some of the leading Arab comedians in the Middle East.

The first evening, hosted by the popular Emirati figure Bin Baz, will feature live stand-up comedy performances by the likes of the Saudi Trio - Fadi Al Shehri, Ibrahim Saleh and Ibrahim Khairallah.

Popular on all social media fronts and hosts of their own YouTube shows, all artists have developed a huge fan base locally and regionally, garnered millions of views online and continue to spread their contagious humor that will surely have you in tears from laughter. ] The second evening, hosted by the UAE’s own and one of the first Emirati women to establish an internet radio show, Taim Al Falasi will welcome audiences and present on stage Rajae Qawas, Darine Al Bayed and Fahad Al Butairi. Rajae is behind the success of the widely popular YouTube channel

Kharabeesh. Fahad is one of the leading Saudi comedians, creator of the La Yekthar YouTube show which has seen over 1 million avid subscribers to date. Please note that these are Arabic language events. ✤ Visit www.visitabudhabi.ae for more info.

Book your direct flight from Doha to

Abu Dhabi on www.qatarairways.com

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summer happenings

Sun-sational Experiences in Dubai Summer is nearly upon us, which means it’s time to bring out your flip-flops and get busy planning your leisure time - in Dubai. From curling your toes in the sand, to refreshing fun at two of the region’s best waterparks, from tasting the flavours of the world, to ski-tastic adventures in subzero environments – Dubai makes for a great weekend getaway this summer. Here, we shortlist a few of Dubai’s standout experiences to get your started on your sun-sational holiday!

MAKE A SPLASH Summer fun wouldn’t be complete without making a splash in a waterpark – and in Dubai, the options are innumerable. The newer of the city’s two parks, Aquaventure at Atlantis The Palm, offers a range of experiences for thrilllovers of all ages. Rides and attractions include The Tower of Posedion, The Tower of Neptune, Atlantean Flyer Zip Line, Crownose Ray Feeding, Shark Safari, Aquaventure Beach and an array of waterpark restaurants, to list but a few. Don’t forget to take a dip with the dolphins at Dolphin Bay Atlantis. If swimming with these friendly creatures is not quite your thing, simply stand in the shallow water to enjoy their company from afar. As a bonus treat, all interactions at Dolphin Bay Atlantis come with complimentary sameday access to Aquaventure and the waterpark’s beach.

Visit www.atlantisthepalm.com for more information.

Another fantastic option for watery fun in Dubai is Wild Wadi Waterpark overlooking the stunning Burj Al Arab.

Themed around the adventures of Sinbad the Sailor and Arabian folklore character Juha, the destination offers 30 adrenaline-pumping rides and attractions 48

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for all ages as well as five child-friendly restaurants for a day well spent.

Visit www.jumeirah.com for more information.

DISCOVER UNIQUE EXPERIENCES What better way to beat the summer heat than spending a day at Chill Out Ice Lounge – the Middle East’s first subzero lounge – while sipping their signature hot chocolate? A technological wonder in its own right, the Lounge combines ice, glass and steel to create awe-inspiring light effects in a magical setting of minus six degrees. Staying warm is easy thanks to thermal attire and a range of snacks and hot beverages on the menu.

Visit www.chilloutindubai.com for more information.

Why not also treat your little ones to a wild day out at Rainforest Café in The Dubai Mall, featuring a tropical rainforest setting brought to life with waterfalls, lush vegetation, jungle creatures and their roaring sounds! On the menu is a diverse choice ranging from steaks and burgers to pasta, salads and exotic desserts.

Visit www.rainforestcafeuae.com for more information.

summer happenings

A trip to the 6D cinema at Thrill Zone in Oasis Centre will make for another immersive experience for kids of all ages – even adventurous grown-ups. The four-seater cinema provides an intimate space for a small family while offering the thrills of an exhilarating experience powered by cutting-edge rain, wind and fog effects as well as chair movements.

Visit www.thrillzoneuae.com for more information.

MAKE MEMORIES OF A LIFETIME Gear up for IMG Worlds of Adventure, the world’s largest temperature-controlled indoor themed entertainment destination, set to open on August 15. It offers plenty of fun for adventure-seekers of all ages this summer, with its four dedicated zones, including Cartoon Network, MARVEL, IMG Boulevard and Lost Valley – Dinosaur Zone. Offering the chills of a spooktacular staycation, the destination also recently unveiled The Haunted Hotel.

Visit www.imgworlds.com for more information.

Stepping up summer excitement in Dubai will be the 19th edition of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS), one of the region’s most popular entertainment and shopping extravaganzas. Featuring a fun-filled calendar of events, musicals, concerts, live entertainment in malls, shopping promotions and discounts – DSS is perfect for shoppers. Among the many attractions will be Modhesh World – the ultimate indoor entertainment destination for kids and families.

Visit www.visitduabi.com for more information.

Those looking for an adrenaline-pumping experience that beats gravity can look forward to awesome bouncy action at the Middle East’s largest trampoline park Flip Out Dubai (www.flipout.ae), the first indoor trampoline playground in the city Bounce Dubai (www.bounce.ae) or Jump Boxx in Uptown Mirdiff (www.jumpboxx.com). ✤ fact magazine

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REVIEWs

Big Screen Suicide Squad What’s it about: U.S. intelligence officer Amanda Waller comes up with the idea to recruit imprisoned supervillains to execute dangerous black ops missions in exchange for clemency.

Once this dangerous group realises they weren’t picked to succeed but chosen for their patent culpability, will they resolve to die trying, or decide it’s every man for himself?

Director: David Ayer cast: Margot Robbie, Will Smith, Cara Delevinge

Highlights “It’s almost like an anti-hero film where the bad guys are shockingly bad, but together they’re doing good.”

Sausage Party What’s it about: An R-rated animation about one sausage and his food friends’ quest to discover the truth about their existence.

– Suicide Squad

Why it’s worth watching?

It’s been a crazy busy year for fans of superhero films and things aren’t slowing down anytime soon. Since Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice proved to be a disappointment for Warner Bros. Pictures at the box office, the studio is really banking on the success of Suicide Squad to help turn things around. And we think it’s absolutely possible! Here’s how it goes down; assemble a team of the world’s most dangerous, incarcerated super villains, provide them with the most powerful arsenal at the government’s disposal, and send them off on a mission to defeat an enigmatic, unbeatable entity. Errr, what’s not to love? It’s almost like an anti-hero film where the bad guys are shockingly bad, but together they’re doing good. Being huge fans of the growing DC movie universe, we can’t wait to see the beautiful Margot Robbie take on the role of Harley Quinn, and Jared Leto as The Joker – from early screening reactions, the hype is REAL. Let’s hope director David Ayer has created something that was worth the wait this summer.

“...Some will find it hilarious, others might say it’s moronic, either way, there’s never been anything like it before; raunchy, rowdy and nearly utterly insane. ” – Sausage Party

Director: Greg Tiernan and Conrad Vernon cast: Seth Rogen, Kristen Wiig, James Franco, Johan Hill, Salma Hayek Why it’s worth watching?

We’re going to be completely honest here; it’s rude, it’s crude, it plays on stereotypes and there’s an f-bomb dropped pretty much every few seconds. Some will find it hilarious, others might say it’s moronic, either way, there’s never been anything like it before; raunchy, rowdy and nearly utterly insane. As you might expect, the film traffics heavily in food-related puns – some amusing, and others eye-rolling. Sausage Party gamely tries to discuss at least one larger idea, introducing a theological debate about whether believing in something you can’t prove is sensible or stupid. We’ll let you give the verdict on this one!

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REVIEWs

on the record

Fully Booked

BIOGRAPHY/MEMOIR

In Order to Live

By Yeonmi Park

HIP-HOP/RAP INDIE/FOLK

And Then Like Lions

By Blind Pilot

These guys are one of our absolute favourite folk-pop bands. They’re charming, their sound is mellow and they like to take their time. It’s been almost five years since the Portland-based group released its second album, We Are The Tide, which gave them relatively great success in the charts but also helped them to gain the love and respect of music fans the world over.

And Then Like Lions gives a nod to having that feeling of the past not being finished with us yet. Tracks like Don’t Doubt and It Was Enough open up a conversation about different kinds of loss and the courage we find when we face loss honestly. The soft and dreamy opening track, Umpqua Rushing with its hazy, quiet melody that builds slowly but insistently, befitting the band’s long balanced rising star status. The song is about the Umpqua Forest in Oregon and the lost coast of Northern California, and how these places echo memories and stories back to the band, when they visit. It’s this kind of pure and original approach that keeps Blind Pilot at the top of their music game.

And The Anonymous Nobody

She was born in one of the world’s darkest, closed-off and most repressive countries, and Yeonmi Park was running for her life with her family to escape the wicked clutches of North Korea. This book is the story of Park’s struggle to survive on her way to freedom; a harrowing escape through China’s underworld of smugglers and human traffickers; and then her escape from China across the Gobi desert to Mongolia, with only the stars to guide her way, and from there to South Korea and at last to freedom; and finally her emergence as a leading human rights activist - all before her 21st birthday.

By De La Soul

Where do we begin with this trio? They’ve been on the scene since 1989 and even back then, De La Soul was hailed as the future of hip-hop and rightly so. In the chaos of the Kanye, Meek Mill and Tyga-types, you’ve got a hip-hop group with colourful, low-key, and very clever rhymes, mixed with a neo-psychedelic collage of samples and styles. Not only was And The Anonymous Nobody funded by a Kickstarter campaign (raising over $600,000), it also features an eclectic mix of special guests like Damon Albarn, Usher, Pete Rock, Jill Scott and Snoop Dogg to name but a few music heavy weights. We already adore the track Trainwreck, a funky tune about patience and perseverance, and we’re hoping that the album follows suit. If there’s a little bit of funk, soul, pop, jazz, reggae and psychedelia – we’ll be throwing our hands up in praise for the De La Soul that we know and love!

MODERN FICTION

My Name is Leon

By Kit De Waal

Leon is a nine-year-old boy and has a perfect baby brother called Jake. They have gone to live with Maureen, who has fuzzy red hair like a halo, and a belly like Father Christmas. But the adults are speaking in low voices, and wearing Pretend faces. They are threatening to give Jake to strangers. Since Jake is white and Leon is not. Evoking a Britain of the early eighties, this book is both heartbreaking and hopeful drawing on love, identity, the fierce bond between siblings and how - just when we least expect it we manage to find our way home.

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Pedal to the Metal The Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East is regarded as one of the realest forms of racing, with all drivers competing in identical fifth generation Porsche 911 GT3 cars. The unique one-make series consists of 12 races between November and March. FACT caught up with two young racing talents, Jeffery Schmidt and Zaid Ashkanani, of the regional favourites Al Nabooda Racing Team.

Both walked away with podium wins in the recent race - Schmidt as the winner and Ashkanani as runner up. Here’s what they had to say about their racing experiences‌ fact magazine

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motoring

Jeffery

Schmidt Swiss superstar Jeffrey was crowned the champion in his debut season at this year’s Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East.

The 21-year-old set the racing scene alight with an untouchable performance. As he now takes part in the Porsche Supercup and Porsche Carrera Cup in Europe, we talk to the young driver about his racing experience…

Q

: Hi Jeffery! When did your racing journey with the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge start?

A: The way I got into racing was through my father, he was a professional motocross driver, but he got injured at the young age of 24 and had to stop racing. My father introduced me to go-karting at the age of six and once I got into one I never wanted to get out, so that was the beginning of racing for me.

I started off as a training driver in Season 6 of the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge and thoroughly enjoyed my time on the tracks across the Middle East and the professional nature that the championship brings. The following season I was asked to come back and compete for the Al Nabooda Racing Team from Dubai, I knew the tracks already and was really excited to compete against some of the Arab drivers from the Middle East as they are very quick. I had a great team behind me and managed to win the championship in my first season, it was a great achievement for me.

Q: How has the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East prepared you for racing in Europe?

A: The Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East has definitely helped me prepare for driving in Europe. The car is exactly the same car as we use in the Porsche Supercup which helps a lot as I have had lots of time over the winter to get used to the car.

A lot of drivers from Europe do not get to compete at all over the winter so to be able to come out to the Middle East and test yourself over a period of 12 races is a huge benefit when preparing to race in the summer.

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The competition is definitely the most competitive and professional series in the Middle East, The Porsche brand is probably the biggest and most successful motorsport brand ever so to be able to compete under such a prestigious name and in these amazing cars is great for anyone’s racing career. It is a great transition to be able to drive these cars in a championship in the Middle East, then fly to Europe and compete in the exact same car but against different opposition, so in that sense it is a great platform for young drivers to get the experience they need before competing in Europe.

Q: How is racing in Europe different to racing in the Middle East?

A: Well, the heart of racing is in Europe, this is where the best drivers compete so the level is naturally going to be a lot higher.

The history of motorsport in Europe also goes back a lot further than the Middle East so there are a lot more fans of the sport coming to the races and wanting to be involved in the race days. The racing culture in the Middle East is growing and the enthusiasm for the sport is getting more intense, more and more drivers from Europe are hoping for the opportunity to come and compete in the Middle East over the winter and this will be great for the sport here.

Q: How would you describe your most memorable finish?

A: 2015 in Austria was my first Supercup race. I started the race in P6 and was up against some really tough competition, I drove really well and managed to finish the race in P2. For me this was one of my most successful races, the second place trophy was awarded to me by Mark Webber and that will always be a race that I will remember.

Q: What are your plans next?

A: There is a lot of racing coming up over the next few months with the Porsche Supercup and Porsche Carrera Cup. I have just finished my university exams so I can really focus on my racing now over the coming months which is great. Racing in the one-make series with Porsche has been amazing so far and I am hoping to progress into a works driver, that is the main goal for me moving forward.

Q: What advice would you give to a young budding racer?

A: The earlier you can start the better. You can start go-karting lessons from the age of five so I would advise getting any sort of driving experience as early as possible. Early competition is also very good, it is all well and good driving on an empty track but driving with a full grid with other drivers blocking your driving lines is when you can really test yourself. ✤

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motoring

Zaid

Ashkanani Kuwaiti superstar Zaid finished as the runner up in his debut season with the Al Nabooda team.

Currently competing in the Porsche Supercup in Europe, Zaid tells us more about his Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge experience…

Q

: Hi Zaid! How did your racing journey in the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge begin?

A: I’ve loved go-karting and cars from an early age. I never raced with go-karts but loved to drive them. My father and his friends were into motor racing and they used to go to Bahrain International Circuit just to drive their own cars on an open track day. One day my father said that I could drive around the track, and from that day on I have loved the sport and always wanted to race. The Porsche GT3 cars are amazing to drive, so to be able to combine this car in a racing environment is fantastic. It has got me to where I am today.

Q: How has the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East prepared you for racing in Europe and how has it helped with your driving career?

A: I think the GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East has helped me a lot. My first ever race was in a Porsche and I only started racing when I was 18, so three years ago. Once you learn how to drive the Porsche, you can drive any car - it is a very special car to drive and control. More drivers from Europe are flying over to compete in the GT3 Cup now and the Arab talent from around the region is getting stronger and stronger. I have learned a lot from racing here, I take everything on board from my racing team and the other drivers. The competition in the series gets tougher each year.

Q: Why do you think the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge is a good platform for young drivers in the Middle East?

A: The racing culture is still quite young here in the Middle East which means it is hard to find a series which is as competitive, professional and well respected as the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge. For young drivers like myself, in the Middle East, it is amazing to start off in a Porsche series which provides a potential career path as a Porsche works driver or moving into Europe with the Porsche Supercup or Carrera Cup. It is great to compete in an environment where if you perform well you know the right people are watching.

Q: How is racing in Europe different to racing in the Middle East?

A: The level of the drivers in Europe is very high and with teams flying in from all over the world to compete here it makes the competition extremely tough. The circuits are also a lot tighter than in the Middle East, some of the races leave very little room for error and a small mistake could cost you the entire race.

It would be difficult to come into these competitions with no driving practice over the winter, so being able to race in the Middle East prior to Europe really helps you to develop some form while still racing in a competitive environment.

Q: What is the scariest thing that’s ever happened to you out on the track?

A: My last race in Monaco was probably the scariest race for me and definitely the most difficult. The track is on the street so it is very tight and you really have to concentrate on making no mistakes. The weather was really bad and it was pouring down with rain. This was my first time ever racing in the rain, so this for me was one of my scariest moments.

Q: What advice would you give to a budding racer?

A: It is very important to have a passion for racing. Some kids race because their parents want them to race and this doesn’t ever get the best results. Another common element is kids that want to race from an early age but their parents don’t want them to, so if the parents don’t support them to race in a safe and controlled environment then a lot of the time you will see young kids racing on the streets and this is also not the best way to get into racing. Taking up karting is a great way to learn how to race in a safe environment and also gives you the opportunity to add the element of competition from a young age. The only other advice I would give is to never give up, that’s the most important thing. ✤ fact magazine

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PLUGGED-IN

The Evolution of

F ifty O n e E as t Q atar an d S o n y Mo b ile C o mmu n icatio n s u n v e ile d a n e w -lo o k Xp e r ia b r an d w ith th e fir s t “ X” s e r ie s s mar tp h o n e s an d a v is io n fo r th e fu tu r e o f co mmu n icatio n s, w ith amb ie n t co n n e cte d d e v ice s cap ab le o f ch an g in g th e w ay y o u in te r act w ith th e w o r ld .

T

he Xperia X series embodies Sony Mobile’s new brand vision through adding new layers of intelligent technology across popular and acclaimed Xperia features: camera, battery and design, to make every day smarter and simpler.

Predicting the unexpected is difficult, but not impossible - the next generation Xperia camera takes spontaneous capture to another level allowing you to shoot in sharp focus, even for spur-of-the-moment shots. The all-new Predictive Hybrid Autofocus in Xperia X is developed in close collaboration with Sony’s camera engineers, it lets you choose your subject and then predicts its motion, so you can capture the action in perfect focus, free from blur.

Advanced features require the battery stamina to match, and Xperia X series incorporates Sony’s smart battery management to deliver up to two days battery life1. Not only will it keep your phone running for longer from one charge, Xperia X series benefits from a battery lifespan that’s up to twice as long with Qnovo’s Adaptive Charging technology2 and Sony’s smart battery management system. Each phone is powered to make the most of their advanced capabilities, with Xperia X featuring the Qualcomm Snapdragon 650 processor.

As part of their unified design concept, Sony designers researched premium materials, texture and curvature for the most natural palm fit. Each X series smartphone brings a curved glass display within a

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rounded, continuous frame for a familiar form that feels comfortable in your hand. The unified design concept is also extended to Xperia XA, which features a stunning edge-to-edge display to integrate seamlessly into your life.

Xperia X and Xperia XA each have a range of matching Style Covers and will roll out in four elegant finishes; White, Graphite Black, Lime Gold and Rose Gold, from summer 2016. ✤

GO: The innovative “X” series smartphones, “Xperia X” and “Xperia XA” is now available at the Fifty One East store located in Al Maha Centre on Salwa Road in addition to all branches of Virgin Megastore as well as major retailers in Qatar.

plugged-in

App-licious I t ’ s been all the rage , A L L O V E R T H E C O U N T R Y. so, we ’ re dedicating this month ’ s app page to what the world has been talking about – P okemon G o …

N

ever has a game of catch been this addictive and popular than Pokemon Go. If you’ve already downloaded the app, or know somebody who has, the chances are that you’re all a little bit obsessed with chasing the little creatures as if they’re REALLY walking on the sidewalk, hiding in the trees, or sat on a park bench.

Pokemon Go is nothing like the Gameboy game you remember - it’s a free mobile game that lets you see Pokemon through the window of your phone as if they existed in the real world. Then, you can catch them. And it’s as simple as that. BTW, Pokemon is short for “pocket monster.” They’re tiny monsters that have been around for 20 years now, and growing in popularity more and more each day.

So let us break it down for you. The premise of Pokemon Go is that these cute-ish pocket monsters are hidden around the real world - literally. You need to go look for them; when they get close enough, they’ll appear on your in-game radar and then you can try to catch them. It’s a time-honored tradition that, to catch a Pokemon, you throw a ball at it. The ball slurps it up like a vacuum cleaner and that Pokemon now belongs to you. How do you move? You walk. Like, with your body. You walk around the mall, your office (preferably not in front of the boss), Souq Waqif, and everywhere else, until you find a Pokemon.

Then, you try to catch it.

It’s a completely interactive concept and will really keep you on your toes. The flaws? The game’s developer, Niantic, didn’t anticipate this much demand and have had some major issues with their internet servers. As a result, the game’s launch in certain countries is delayed until they can fix the problems. Plus, people have become so addicted, they’re playing the game whilst driving, riding a bike, or doing something that needs greater attention than a mobile phone game (read the safety rules, guys).

As far as augmented reality goes, Pokemon Go takes things to a whole new level – c’mon, what’s not cool about seeing tiny cartoon animals as if they’re in the real world? ✤ fact magazine

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GAP Summer ’16 Collection Gap, the classic American clothing brand welcomes summer with a burst of newness in fits and fabrics! fact magazine

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fashion focus

HER

Summer denim for women makes a statement with flares and ombre jeans that fade from blue to white. Boho tops capture the off-the-shoulder trend with eyelet and crochet embellishments, paired back to denim high-waist shorts in a number of new silhouettes. New trend accessories also include espadrilles slip-ons and lace-ups.

Soft, easy summer dresses are essential in various lengths, colours and seasonal prints.

Gap’s “White Tee Shop”, establishes the ultimate offering of essential t-shirts from Vintage Wash Crews to Linen Tanks - a nod to authentic, classic Gap! The GapFit women’s collection incorporates new geometric prints and bright, neon colours, with mesh and twist back details in tanks. ✤

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fashion focus

HIS

A range of “fade to white” denim for men focuses on stretch and lightness across core fits whilst shorts feature bright colours and bold stripes. Capsule tee collections showcase a variety of graphic styles from surf to national park tees featuring Smokey the Bear, Glacier National Park, and Yosemite. Adopt a laid back look this season with Gap’s range of colourful Vintage Sweats in lived-in textures and washes. Finish the summer look with must-have accessories which include flip-flops and salt-washed solid colour baseball caps. ✤ GO: Shop GAP’s Summer 2016 Collection at Landmark and Villaggio Malls.

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Shop the brand Here’s our wishlist from GAP’S SUMMER ‘16 collection for him

for her

This collection is AVAILABLE in the GCC AT ALL GAP STORES, NOW.

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For the Modern Middle-Eastern woman THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

OVER 65 LOOKS TO

OHLALA’S WOMEN OF THE YEAR

MAKE YOU FEEL PHENOMENAL

starring VICTORIA’S SECRET THE NEW LOVE IN HER LIFE

+

WINTER GLAMOUR THE MUST-BUY COCKTAIL DRESS

GAME CHANGING THE SHOES & BAGS YOU NEED NOW

BEST DRESSED

FASHION LIST 2014

THE ART OF

1

OHLALA! DECEMBER 2013

MEGAWATT FASHION DECEMBER 2013 OHLALA!

www.ohlala-magazine.com

WWW.OHLALA-MAGAZINE.COM JANUARY 2015 | ISSUE 122 BAHRAIN BD2. KSA SR20

WWW.OHLALA-MAGAZINE.COM

MAY 2014 | ISSUE 35

QATAR QR20

Available in Abu Dhabi, Bahrain & Qatar THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

MEDIEVAL

MEETS

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL

Hot for Winter

WITH SHOE DESIGNER LUCY CHOI

A FABULOUS GUIDE TO THE NEW SEASON’S TRENDS

THE MIDDLE EAST’S QUEEN OF SPADES

Colour Me Crazy

CATWALK TRENDS

GET RED

KATY PERRY

EXCLUSIVE

GLORIA ESTEFAN

CARPET READY

A SOIRÉE WITH THE STARS

SETS THE STANDARDS

AT BAHRAIN’S BEST

Haute Couture

DECEMBER 2013 OHLALA!

JANUARY 2014 | ISSUE 110

DINE IN

STYLE

A TALE OF EXTREMES

Basking in Royal Allure WWW.OHLALA-MAGAZINE.COM

MODERNITY

BAHRAIN BD2 | KSA SR20

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OHLALA! DECEMBER 2013

www.ohlala-magazine.com

WWW.OHLALA-MAGAZINE.COM MARCH 2015 | ISSUE 124 BAHRAIN BD2. KSA SR20

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BACK TO

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SCHOOL

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H

BACK TO SCHOOL

FACT’S BACK TO SCHOOL CHECKLIST

Cut out our list of must-have school items and take with you for an easy breezy shopping spree.

• Uniform Shoes

School Bag Lunch Box

Eco-Friendly Drink Bottle

Pencil Case

Pencil and Pens

Lunch Box Tips

Turn plain and boring meals into fun, child-friendly treats with these super cool lunch ideas:

Ruler

Eraser Glue

Marker Pens Crayons

Correction Fluid Compass and Protractor Stapler

Scissors

Paper Clips

Notebooks

Binder and Files Name Labels Calculator

Get them to happily eat veggies by cutting cucumbers and carrots into thin sticks and pairing them with your child’s favourite hummus or yogurt dip.

Use the previous night’s leftovers for delicious sandwich fillings. Mini meatballs, chicken mayo or even pasta salad can go straight from the fridge into the lunchbox.

Use tortilla wraps instead of regular bread to put a fun spin on plain old toasties. This also means that you can change up the fillings – maybe try fajitas as well!

Let your child have a say in the content of their lunch box if they are proud of their lunch, they will enjoy eating it in front of friends.

Children often leave food that takes a lot of effort to eat, so give your child pre-prepared (peeled and chopped) fruit and vegetables in a variety of colours for a more vibrant lunch!

Try to keep your child’s lunch box exciting and varied. Quick ideas such as filled pitta pockets, quiche and homemade pizza slices are simple and easy to prepare in advance. fact magazine

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B2S Fashion Get the kids a brand new wardrobe for the school year ahead!

Here are some of our favourite fashion picks for going back to school in style‌

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BACK TO SCHOOL

M&Co

Next

Debenhams

F&F F&F

MAX MAX

M&Co

Monsoon F&F F&F

F&F

MAX

Centrepoint

F&F fact magazine

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STYLE

American Eagle Oufitters

Topshop

New Look

Bershka

Next

Topshop

Matalan

Strawberries & Cream For a slice of summer sartorial inspiration, the dessert colours of strawberry and cream create elegant and striking day looks. Go for a sweet ensemble with girly scarlets, splashes of floral, patches of embroidery, lace, crochet and pleats. Structured dresses, playsuits and tees are beautiful in crisp whites and prominent reds.

While espadrilles, sliders, ghillie heels and comfy flats all add dimension to this fresh style.

Call It Spring Aldo River Island Quiz

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STYLE

Aldo Bershka

Matalan

Marks and Spencer

Debenhams River Island

Zara

Mens at Dune

Pure Beach Vibes Dress like there’s a tropical island with your name on it this summer. Make sure your beach attire ticks all the boxes with casual tees, vests and shorts adorned in exotic prints. Whether it’s sea blues to complement the horizon; leaf and mosaic designs for a coastal look and carnival twist – go all out for the summer. Straw fedoras, bright shades and sandy espadrilles will round off shipwrecked style.

Salsa

Next

M&Co fact magazine

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jois

Laque

Gel

Yo an ur m d pro fo ani for fes ev r na cur up sio n e ch er y il e d f to 1 al m er da nth ini 5 a ry y s , y b usi h e day nicu r a s ou ig st as re ca ht s s! y to of i at B n h n m tyle our ach ten om ak . s j e e Be ois ieve e c is th tw of , ol no e o f su een ers than ur w p nn th a ks an os 1 d s y se e p 2-s to a sh ible as as ha n in w on sio de ea e. ith rip nat ra sy Wit “L e, e ng na h a L fru red e o il r La aq ity s, f L ou La ue , a ey a tin qu Ge nd e- La e, e l� so cat que sim Gel fro ph ch G pl , B m ist ing el e t ou Bo ica p fo o a rjo ur te ink r th pp is jois d wi s, s e su ly fo mak - n t h u n m r e s o UV th -k me be th e s i s s r, g i e l i g n e h da ed to m ner pro t n o sh ra at s a fes ee in ng ch s si de gl y es wit wel ona d fu a h l a l n nd yo s co f u lo lirt r ur y s.

Bour

beauty box

grooming box

L’occitane C é drat C ollection

M

en can head into the summer feeling refreshed and energised with L’Occitane’s Cédrat collection. The range lives up to its name, with the hint of Cedar serving as an underlying tone for all the skincare products, each perfectly balancing freshness with bitterness. The organic Corsican Cédrat extract offers a fresh, delicate, citrus fragrance that is light, yet refined due to the rough skin of this citrus fruit that creates a woody undertone to the lemony pulp. Created to further enhance the range, the new products in the Cédrat collection are must-try essentials for a complete grooming ritual for men during the hot summer days.

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Beauty Checklist

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Take your beauty game to new heights in August with our pick of the best products for the ladies. It’s all about fresh vitality to beat the heat.

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Smashbox Insta-Matte Lipstick Transformer It’s a lipstick gel that transforms any cream lipstick into a velvety matte finish. Its portable design is perfect for giving your lips a makeover onthe-go. It’s simple to use with effective results - tap over the cream lipstick using your finger until a desired matte look is achieved – voila!

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Guerlain Les Delices de Bain A beautiful perfumed body lotion, just in time for the hot summer.

Scented with notes of bergamot, orange blossom, almond, white musk, vanilla, and wood – it’s a truly sensual smell. Make it part of your everyday body ritual to reveal a smooth and velvety texture that infuses the skin with hydration.

3

OPI Alice Through The Looking Glass Collection Whether it’s a beach day or a party night, try the glittering gold by OPI, from the latest collection “Alice through the looking glass”. A Mirror Escape is a frosty metallic gold with small white and holographic glitter. There are other lovely shades available too but we say, go gold or go home!

4

L’Occitane Handy Creams Soften and protect with this trio pack hand cream.

The lightly textured cream is non-greasy and contains shea butter to beautifully smooth and moisturise the skin. The hand cream leaves skin delicately perfumed too – bonus! If you’re worried about dry hands in the sun, this product will be your saviour.

5

Elizabeth Arden Nighttime Miracle Moisturiser If you’re slacking with the beauty regime by day, this cream will rejuvenate your skin during the night.

It delivers lightweight, intense hydration and seals in moisture. The ingredients include shea butter, vitamin E, and salicylic acid, perfect for restoring balance.

6

Sephora Mud Mask Purifying & Mattifying This mask absorbs excess sebum, eliminates impurities, unclogs pores and diminishes the look of imperfections without drying the skin.

It’s especially suited to combination/oily skin in search of purifying and mattifying action. Perfect for anyone whose skin gets extra oily and shiny!

grooming checklist

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G rooming Checklist August means hot and humid but fear not.

We’ve got all the essentials covered with this month’s best grooming buys for all the gents.

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Bottega Veneta Parco Palladiano Inspired by the Palladian gardens of the Veneto region of Italy, each scent is an ‘olfactory trompe l’oeil’, capturing different experiences in a Palladian garden. From magnolia to cypress leaves, pear tree and azalea flower, there’s a fresh scent for every desired smell this summer.

2

Clarins Men Line Control Balm The anti-ageing expert for the face and neck.

Minimises wrinkles, firms the skin and reduces heaviness in the lower part of the face. Immediately, skin is soothed, comfortable and more resistant to daily aggressions. Wrinkles are lifted and your skin will feel firmer too!

3

Shiseido Men Gift Set An expert grooming and skincare kit for men.

This sophisticated but simple to use skincare set contains all of the essentials he’ll need for a smoothed, deeply hydrated skin. Cleanse, revitalise and take care of the eyes with this musthave set that’s perfect for tackling humidity.

4

John Varvatos Artisan Blu This fragrance combines a revitalising blend of citrus and fresh herbs with woody accents for a refreshing crisp aroma, encompassing the crystal blue waters under the warm Mediterranean sun.

The limited edition scent adds an exhilarative edge to your summer days check it out!

5

Aesop Petitgrain Reviving Body Gel This lightweight, absorbing gel will hydrate the skin after sun exposure and is especially great for hot, dry climates. It has an uplifting citrus scent which is enhanced with Aloe Vera and Panthenol to soften and soothe, and extracts of Petitgrain, Grapefruit and Lemon to cool and refresh.

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Shu Umera Art of Hair Anti-Dandruff Soothing Cleanser Developed to deeply cleanse the hair whilst detoxifying and rebalancing the scalp, this cleanser is formulated with Shiso Extract, well known for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Get lusciously smooth locks and a dandruff free scalp! fact magazine

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Ideas

As IKEA’s new catalogue launches this month, we bring you an insight into two of the brand’s core values; Innovation and Community Development, and Quality. Check out what goes into making the world-famous home brand’s popular products… fact magazine

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Stubbornness is a Virtue Tell a small child not to smile, and it’s one of the surest ways to inspire a toothy grin. Tell an IKEA co-worker who studied weaving and textile technology that he’s not capable of weaving a rug on an old punja loom, and he’ll never stop trying to completely re-engineer it so he, and many others, easily can.

T

hat’s the extremely short version of what happened when Pankaj Date, a business developer at IKEA India, was asked to accompany the team to tour an IKEA supplier’s rug weaving centre. Curious about the unique type of hand-weaving done on the punja loom, he asked the weavers if he could take a seat and try it.

“I remember sitting on that loom trying to weave, and I couldn’t do it. It was odd. Within 10 minutes, I started sweating. I felt frustrated that I was unable to do even basic weaving despite having all the knowledge,” Pankaj said. “I blamed the loom for my failure – that the seating arrangement wasn’t right, or that I couldn’t move or that the seat height was not OK and gave me back pain.”

This experience, combined with a serious case of IKEA stubbornness, fueled a roughly two-year quest

by Pankaj to improve and modernise the loom. His work paralleled IKEA’s initiative to nurture India’s 300-year-old craft of hand-weaving by creating consolidated weaving centres with fair wages, good 78

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working conditions and stable work. Pankaj quickly realised that the two missions were dependent on each other – better wages could only come from more efficient production, which a redesigned loom could make possible. Add to that the fact that new workers were rather uninspired to work on the existing loom because it was difficult to operate, especially for women, and Pankaj felt there was only one course of action.

“The loom has to change,” he recalls thinking. But it was easier said than done. There is no large-scale, professional industry for manufacturing handlooms, he explained. They are manually operated contraptions often pieced together as makeshift framing by local contractors in rural India. ➻

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Today, nearly 600 of the new punja looms are being used in India and Bangladesh, enabling the weaving centres to hire more people, including a high percentage of women.

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Machine manufacturers weren’t interested in the project. So, to create a model himself, Pankaj travelled on bumpy, washed-out rural roads for hours visiting automobile repair shops for spare parts with the supplier’s civil and electrical engineers, often having to overcome language issues with different Indian dialects. On one visit, the local auto mechanic near the factory was unable to finish a task on time because he had no power for days.

“At every moment, I was on the verge of breaking down and thinking this wasn’t going to happen because of time constraints and resource scarcity,” he said. “But my manager told me, ‘Keep trying. I believe in you and your logic’.”

After many months, Pankaj, with support from fellow co-workers including manufacturing specialist Deep Saluja and quality developer Sabarinath P, created

four small-scale models. One of these was fabricated and made into three prototype machines that would be tested by weavers for two months.

Then his next hurdle: What if the weavers didn’t want to work on it? At first they didn’t, he said. They hesitated to try this strange new “machine.” But slowly the perception changed.

Weavers were happy to work on it and said they felt less tired at the end of the day. With higher comfort came a feeling of pride and prestige. The redesigned loom also doubled production.

Today, nearly 600 of the new punja looms are being used in India and Bangladesh, enabling the weaving centres to hire more people, including a high percentage of women. By 2017, 3,500 looms will be in operation and the benefits will be felt by many more weavers in more communities.

In fact, the impact could get even bigger – IKEA made the decision to not patent protect the loom so it would be available for others in the rug industry to use.

Pankaj feels a big sense of satisfaction that he played a role in preserving and developing the craft of hand-weaving, making a positive impact on people’s livelihoods, and creating a sustainable solution for IKEA… …and, that he is finally able to weave on a punja loom. ✤ fact magazine

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The Thing About Quality At IKEA, quality comes from the inside. The brand likes working with materials that are more sustainable, more affordable and more enjoyable to use. Well really, “likes” would be an understatement.

In fact, it LOVES to get down to the nitty-gritty of natural materials.

D

id you know that it takes about two years to assess a “new” material at IKEA? Together with WWF, IKEA perform a mapping of the material’s sustainability and availability. They never start using a material without doing a proper analysis of potential harm being done to the nature and living creatures around it. On this note, there’s really no one better to talk to about quality and material other than the material connoisseur himself. Jan Ahlsén, Material and Innovation Specialist, has been with IKEA for nearly 40 years and is nowhere near losing his wit and passion for natural materials. You could kind of say that it was love at first sight.

“Solid wood is where it all started. I was kind of an expert on that once upon a time, he says with a humble smile. It was by accident I made the switch to bamboo and other nature fibre materials. Now I challenge solid wood,” he says. A tree takes about 70 years to fully grow - light-years compared to the seven years it takes bamboo.

“I’ve always had a thing for natural materials. But, it was at IKEA that I really fell in love with materials that take people and planet into consideration,” Jan adds. “Many individuals here have influenced me. The values – making more from less – resonate with me, and the way I like working.”

Going from being a technician, to a purchaser, to just about a little bit of everything, he still describes his role as continuous growth and development. “It’s the same kind of feeling in my body, he smiles. It never stops being interesting to me.”

Do you have a favourite material?

There’s a long pause. He squints upwards and says, “I can’t say I have a specific one favourite, but when I choose materials for myself, it’s always linked to what I do here at IKEA. ➻

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I had a good learning experience together with Ilse Crawford, during the development of the SINNERLIG collection, about tactility and feeling – the relationship that we as humans have to material. And darn it, she’s quite good at that. I think many of our customers link their perception of quality at IKEA with the assembly of our products.

But I believe we all have this sense for materials.

Just go look at people shopping for clothes. The first thing they do - they’re touching the material. If it feels good, like what you expect it to feel like, then oh wow, it’s a different quality.” He chuckles, and talks about how he went to visit a store in Älmhult to observe peoples’ shopping habits.

What is quality to you?

“Quality is about form and function. It’s about fulfilling my expectations that the furniture works as I expect it to work when I use it. Quality is free.

Quality itself doesn’t cost anything. It’s the errors that cost IKEA and the consumer money.

When it’s incorrectly made, then it starts costing money. And back to function – if I should drive a car in the Sahara desert, and I have a choice between an ordinary SUV and a luxury car, which one do you think would fit best? A higher price doesn’t necessarily reinvent quality either.”

In terms of quality, what’s important for people to look for when purchasing furniture?

“It’s a lot about where you are in life. If I’m married and have small kids, then of course I would buy a table with a melamine surface. I think we should help the customer with this. We need to tell them if they have kids who sit and hammer with toys, and the breakfast is all over the place, then there, that’s the table for them. But it can also be twisted around. A couple of years back IKEA sold a dining table in pinewood, with no surface treatment on it.

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brand focus more? I can of course mention cork as well. We only “borrow” the bark, we never cut down the trees.”

“We’re also very aware of the waste that is being generated in the process, and have a lot of initiatives around this today. Going forward we’ll take care of bamboo waste by mixing it together with other natural materials. This turns into something that looks a lot like ceramic,” Jan points to his coffee cup on the table in front of us. “Technically it’s all there, now we just need to make it happen! I think there’s a lot of future there, even from a customer perspective, and IKEA is very much at the forefront of this.”

According to Jan, rattan and paper are two other materials to keep an eye on in the future. It’s great for storage because it allows items to breathe and, as Jan expresses: “It gives us a warmer feeling at home.”

What do you think future IKEA furniture will look like?

“I think we’ll try to incorporate nature fibres into our self-assembly products a lot more. This can be used in bookshelves, kitchens and bathrooms to give a warmer feeling. Of course, with the surface treatment remaining as is, because it serves as a good function. By having the nature fibres in there, it speaks to my heart.”

“For me, the future is about handicraft. You can go to IKEA and buy a rattan chair that’s handmade.

A human being has made it. That’s amazing! So actually – it’s a work of art. We might not think about it, but we have a lot of works of art at IKEA. That’s one thing I hope we will be able to tell the customer more about that. My dream is to have a tag on the product with a QR code that can show a short movie about the craftsperson that wove the chair. It’s about storytelling. It’s human.” ✤ looked terrible after a couple of weeks with marks and scratches everywhere. One year later it was beautiful. Every mark was like a memory. My table became my history book. This is of course if you’re prepared to do some maintenance over time.”

How is IKEA utilising natural materials in the near future?

“IKEA is a fantastic company because we dare to do things. If you look ahead to 2020, 2030, we know already now that we’ll use a lot more material. There’s a limit to some materials, but we’re also aware of materials that don’t have those same limitations. Bamboo for example, you plant it, seven years later you can harvest it, without having to replant it. The roots take care of that. Extremely sustainable material, right? So, why don’t we do

For me, the future is about handicraft. You can go to IKEA and buy a rattan chair that’s handmade.

A human being has made it. That’s amazing!

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HOME STYLE

The Power of Pattern

Cath Kidston

Concept-Me

Debenhams

Dotcomgiftshop

IKEA

M&Co

Marina Home

Marks & Spencer

Next

Zara Home

Marks & Spencer

Debenhams

From ethnic prints to Aztec designs, floral prints and psychedelic outlines, now is the time to add colour and dimension to your summer dĂŠcor and home accessories with our top interior picks for August.

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HOME STYLE

Keep Food Fresh It needn’t be a chore anymore when figuring out how best to store your fruit and vegetables to keep them fresher for longer. Lakeland has all the food storage tools to keep your greens greener and the flavours tastier, for much longer!

A. PRESERVING BAGS Keep your veg fresh for longer with these lined linen-look bags which reduce moisture and encourage good air circulation.

Onion (28 x 39cm) QR32 Garlic (25 x 36cm) QR30 Potato (28 x 39cm) QR32 Vegetable (28 x 39cm) QR32 B. FRUIT & VEGETABLE CUSHION Line your salad box to protect veg and fruit from mould and bruising.

QR40 C. BANANA BAG Bananas stay fresh for a fortnight when stored in the fridge using this special bag. QR45 D. LAKELAND BANANA TREE Hang bananas up so fruit in your bowl stays fresher. QR50 E. 20 STAYFRESH LONGER BAGS Veg stored in these special reusable bags lasts longer thanks to their unique formula. (Klippits sold separately).

(20 x 23cm) QR35 (25 x 38cm) QR45 (28 x 46cm) QR32 F. POTATO BAGS Stop spuds from sprouting with this breathable canvas bag. QR59 G. THE BREAD BAGS Loaves last longer in these special drawstring bags. 100% washable cotton with a durable polythene lining. QR65

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JULY 2016 VOL 3. ISSUE 2 QR10

Get your daily dose of FACT online now

SUMMER SURVIVAL 2016

BRUNCHES, LUNCHES, SPA DAYS & MORE INDOOR FUN IN DOHA!

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Beyond Eggs-pectation We love pleasant surprises! So it was great to find out that one of our favourite breakfast spots in Doha also offers superb options for both lunch and dinner.

Enter Eggspectation.

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O

k, we need to get this out of our system. Eggspectation has created an eggsceptional menu with eggsactly what you want to eggsperience.

Phew! Ok. Now that’s out of the way, let’s take a more serious look at what this charming, upmarket restaurant has to offer.

Already known for its eggstensive (sorry, not sorry) breakfast menu, with a huge variety of eggs benedict, omelettes, waffles, French toasts, pancakes and signature dishes, you’re spoilt for choice. In fact, you could order a different breakfast item, every day, for six weeks and still not have sampled all that is available! This comfortable location has however, proven itself to be so much more than a morning meal destination.

FACT was invited to sample selected items from the sizeable menu. Needless to say, we were more than impressed.

Starting with the Lobster Bisque, we were pleasantly satisfied by the creamy flavouring of this beautifully seasoned classic French offering.

The Goat Cheese Salad was to follow. This light and refreshing offering is packed with mouth tickling flavour, complete with fresh greens, the house vinaigrette, extravirgin olive-oil, lemon juice and of course, the soft and tangy goats cheese. Delicious!

We felt like healthier human beings just having eaten this dish.

Next up, the Yellowfin Tuna Steak.

Complete with fresh herbs, Mediterranean salsa and in-house quinoa, this substantial main course really hit the spot. A great fish cut, splendidly prepared and presented.

We finished off our meal with one of the restaurant’s signature dishes, Fried

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“With fresh i n g r e d i e n ts delivered from C a n a d a , h i g h ly a tt e n t i v e st a ff a n d

Chicken ‘N Waffles. At first we were a little dubious over the unlikely combination of ingredients - Belgium waffles, maple syrup sauce, arugula salad, chicken, light oliveoil and lemon juice vinaigrette. Well as we stated earlier, we love pleasant surprises and this winning combo was certainly that.

The unique pairings work perfectly and we felt our foodie palates widening through this new taste experience.

Originally created in Montreal Canada, this blossoming franchise has spread to the USA, India, Dubai and Doha. With fresh ingredients delivered from Canada, highly attentive staff and plenty of windows giving the space an open and light atmosphere, you would battle to find fault with this dining venue. There is also an outside patio waiting to be enjoyed in the cooler months.

Finally, there’s a private dining area/ function room, which can be closed off from the rest of the venue, without losing the open feel. Seating up to 30 people and having a large screen on offer, it’s perfect for business meetings, birthday parties, baby showers (the venue also has baby changing facilities) and any other social occasion. ✤

p l e n ty o f w i n d o ws g i v i n g t h e s pa c e an open and light a tm o s p h e r e , y o u w o u l d b a tt l e t o f i n d f a u lt w i t h this dining venue.”

GO: Visit Eggspectation at Madina Centrale 58, The Pearl-Qatar. Open daily from 8am to midnight. Call 5040 9900 for reservations and more information.

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Image by BamBah bambah.com

Never miss aN issue

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Hunters Corner

S ophisticated dining just got a whole lot better at H unters R oom & G rill . A hotspot not to be missed for the steak - lovers fact magazine

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nown to be The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa’s signature grill restaurant, it comes as no surprise that this sophisticated and chic venue with a minimal approach, is already a spot visited by many in the city.

Considered to be a game-changer on the culinary scene, this relaxed venue offers a contemporary spin on a traditional grill house, with a modern twist on grills, meat cuts and fish specialties.

The South African spot also features a masculine and minimalist décor, such as leather seats, dark wood tables and hardwood floors. But if you fancy yourself a bit of live cooking, the wonderful open kitchen is up for anyone who enjoys seeing the preparation of their dish, as the chefs prepare it live – for that immersive experience.

Eyeing the many choices the menu has to offer, we opted first, for a fresh and succulent duck salad. Served with fresh watermelon, grated ginger, cashew nuts and hoisin dressing, it was the perfect start 94

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to a journey of more meat. We also tried the soup of the day, a favourite of ours: tomato soup. It was a dense and rich soup that balanced the salad’s freshness offering our palate many flavours to savour. Want a break from the meat? Go for the gratin eggplant Parmesan. Deliciously baked with melted mozzarella cheese, fresh tomato and a perfect delivery of basil, it’s seriously yum.

And since we’re not ones to hold back, we went on to sample the restaurant’s most popular dish: Hunters signature dish. A “cote de boeuf ” prime black angus Tomahawk,

FOODIE CORNER served with three complimentary side dishes - perfect for sharing. For sides it had to be the mushrooms, asparagus and a delicious dish of vegetables to accompany our big meat feast!

It’s almost impossible for us to skip the next part – even if we are bursting at the seams, because it’s all about decadent desserts. Hunters is home to one of the most unique Tiramisu offerings in town – rich in flavour with so much coffee goodness.

It’s all well and good reading about our experience and possibly salivating a little, so head over to Hunters Room & Grill for an authentic grill experience with sinfully good desserts at the end! ✤

“Hunters is home to one of the most unique Tiramisu offerings in town – rich in flavour with so much coffee goodness.”

GO: Open for dining from 7pm to 11pm, call 4492 1555 for reservationa and more information.

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doha delights

Quick Bites’ New Menu

European Friday Brunch

Sawa Favourites

Savour the newest Quick Bites delicacies, as the café with delicious variety, located at Marriott Marquis City Centre Doha, just got better!

Choose your favourite breakfast classics like the Eggs Benedict, or try some of the chef’s new creations, like Ricotta Hotcakes or the Full Monty. If breakfast is too early then the extensive all-day dining menu is waiting for you! The QB Frekkah Fatoush and the Shrimp & Beef Chorizo brick oven flatbread are just a few of the chef’s recommendations. And don’t miss the Make-Your-Own special for your perfect combination! Open daily from 6am to 11pm.

Indulge in a boutique contemporary European a la carte brunch selection in Aroma at Kempinski Residences & Suites. On offer is a variety of brunch classics, salads and starters, along with roasts and main courses, topped off with delicious sweet treats. If you love good food and a relaxed atmosphere, this is the brunch for you! QR195 per person, food only; QR390 per person, including premium beverages. Served from 12noon to 4pm.

It’s Schnitzel Sundays at the Marsa Malaz Kempinski’s international outlet Sawa. There are five European variations to choose from, paired with a refreshing beverage, all for a cool QR140. Thai Tuesdays offers up an oriental three-course meal for QR95 per person, including a starter or soup, a choice between red or green curry with chicken, beef, prawns or vegetables, and a sweet finale with dessert or fruits. On Wednesdays it’s Burger Mania: QR100 for a tanatlising burger and a selected beverage – yummy! All served from 6pm to 10.30pm.

Call 4419 5000 for more information.

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Call 4405 3325 for more information.

Call 4035 5011 for more information.

Bar Squared Join in every Friday from 12:30pm to 4pm as the InterContinental Doha The City introduces the brand new Bar Squared Brunch concept - choose from the Candy bar, dessert bar, pasta bar, sushi bar, pizza bar, burger bar, salad bar, juice bar, surprise bar and beverage bar. There’s something for everyone!

QR255 - inclusive of soft beverages; QR355 - inclusive of selected house beverages; and QR390 - inclusive of premium house beverages.

Call 4015 8888 for more information.

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Dobrinka Kostadinova Hygiene & HACCP Manager, Radisson Blu Hotel Doha

Doha Insider Hi Dobrinka! Tell us three things that are important to food safety and hygiene in Doha?

What sets apart the Radisson Blu Hotel Doha’s HACCP efforts from its competitors in Doha?

One: Continual improvement through accomplishing quality objectives by establishing, implementing and maintaining documented effective systems that comply with HACCP requirements. Two: Create an environment of teamwork, involvement and system awareness to all employees.

Three: Commitment to provide wholesome food and services.

Management commitment. Our management is aware of the importance of food safety and supports all food safety activities as well as providing resources and facilities. For example, we have more than 100 employees trained and certified in L3 HABC food safety, and 400 employees trained and certified in L3 HABC food safety. We are the first (maybe the only hotel in Doha) to implement PIC (Person In Charge).

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What are some of your goals for the rest of 2016?

My goal is to maintain services of the highest possible standard to satisfy and exceed our customers’ requirements and expectation of quality, safety and reliability. I am planning to conduct Allergen Management training, as allergy is considered the “disease of the 21st century” and we need to focus and stress more on that.

Visit Jumeirah at Etihad Towers throughout summer and get a 50% discount voucher to use during your next visit. Whether you choose to dine at any of our restaurants, savour chilled drinks at any bar or lounge or enjoy our pastry selection, we will recognize your loyalty with a special voucher that entitles you and your guests to a 50% discount on your next visit at any of our restaurants until 31 August 2016.

Date: 17 July – 31 August, 2016 Time: 19.00 – 23.00 For more information, please call +971 2 811 5666 or email JADrestaurants@jumeirah.com fact magazine

To join now or learn more visit jumeirahsirius.com

facebook.com/Jumeirah.at.etihad.towers

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Add a little excitement to the season as you spend your summer at Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl.

Take advantage of our special oers, designed to appeal to both the young and the young at heart, and begin a unique tale of never-ending enchantment.

STAY

DINE

PLAY

Book a two-night stay and receive an additional complimentary night.

Stay in a suite and enjoy the connected room at half price.

Enjoy fabulous cuisine across 11 restaurants and lounges. Children below the age of 6 dine free while those from 6 to 12 years enjoy 50% discount.

Complimentary 2-hour Maserati driving experience for our guests.

Younger guests will enjoy a variety of fun-ďŹ lled entertainment.

#summerstartshere @MarsaMalaz

Find out more at kempinski.com/marsamalaz/summer +974 4035 5555 | reservations.marsamalaz@kempinski.com

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