Our second edition promises to be an exhilarating journey and I’m delighted to share it with you.
We have captured modern Bahrain in the pages of Life N Style, its dreams, hopes and aspirations. The dreams are being turned into reality, harnessed by determined perseverance as exemplified by His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the World Endurance Racing Champion.
We are privileged that he has shared his journey, ruminations, and ambitions with us in a thought-provoking exclusive interview. We are amazed by the dexterity with which he handles his many roles- including that of being a young father leading by example and involving his young children in every aspect of his incredible journey. Life N Style magazine and its entire team would like to congratulate His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, His Majesty the King’s Representative for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs, Royal Endurance Team Captain on his glorious win.
In the month that celebrates woman power, we salute HE Fatima Al Sairafi for being named the ‘Best Woman Tourism Minister of the year’ at ITB Berlin. In an exclusive interview, the minister shares with us the blueprint her ministry has for transforming our charming island into a buzzy tourist hub.
As we enter the holy month of Ramadan, we also bring you a carefully curated list of Bahrain’s most exquisite Ramadan experiences, epicurean feasts of Iftars and Ghabgas from our favourite luxury hotels.
Our magazine is about life, style and luxury and it was only fitting that we speak to the man who embodies Italian luxury- Tonino Lamborghini. We learnt about his upcoming Bahrain plans and were pleasantly surprised by his love of poetry, especially Dante’s ‘Divine Comedy’.
Our magazine hand-picks the most sophisticated aspects of luxury to present to you from jewellery, watches, and automobiles, to art, bespoke interiors and more. For an immersive luxury experience scan the QR code to watch the videos we have specially created for you.
Happy Reading! Editor-in-Chief
Sonorita Chauhan Mehta
06
Cover Story
The World Champion
An exclusive interview with His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa
Chairman Mohammad Mansoor
Managing Director
Heena Mansoor
Editor-in-Chief
Sonorita Chauhan Mehta
Contributors
Eunice D'Souza
Saaya Mansoor
Photographer
Kiran Varghese
Designed by Aneesh / Shrikant
Publisher Al Ayam Publishing Est.W.L.L.
20
Epitome of Italian Luxury
Tonino Lamborghini talks exclusively to Life N Style about building his luxury brand, plans for Bahrain and his father’s legacy
34 Fashion
Five hottest trends from Paris Fashion Week Best Collections from Milan Fashion Week
Designed & Marketing by
Life N Style Magazine, c/o Exelon Solutions WLL - Bahrain
Tel : +973 17236777 | info@lifenstyle.bh | sales@lifenstyle.bh | www.lifenstyle.bh
14
Supercharging Tourism Growth
An exclusive interview with HE Fatima bint Jaffar Al Sairafi, the Minister of Tourism
58
Motoring
Change of Guard: A chat with Bentley Bahrain’s new GM
60 A look at Lamborghini Invencible and Autentica
62 Test driving the Ferrari 296 GTB
64 Rare and vintage cars up for auction
70
Auction
Coveted Middle Eastern art from the prestigious Al Zayani collection
74 Rare masterpieces from Patek Philippe and Rolex
76 Luxury Interiors with celebrity interior designer Kate Instone
100 Sports
F1 predictions: Redbull hot favourites for 2023 championships
108 Passion and Glory Lift the King's Cup
87 Hotels
Exploring the Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain resort and spa with GM Marco den Ouden
52 Spotlight
Daniele Decor and Atelier CL Lorain, masters of luxury bespoke interiors showcase their craftsmanship
44 Health
Exploring holistic healing with newly inaugurated King Hamad American Mission Hospitals’ CEO & CMO Dr George Cheriyan
Disclaimer: Life N Style Magazine has taken the utmost care to ensure that the content is accurate on the date of publication. The views expressed in the articles reflect the author(s)'s opinions and are not necessarily aligned with the views of the publisher and editor. The published material, adverts, editorials and all other content is published in good faith. Life N Style Magazine cannot guarantee and accept any liability for any loss or damage of any kind caused by such errors and for the accuracy of claims made by the advertisers. All rights reserved and nothing can be partially or in whole be reprinted or reproduced without the written consent of the publishers.
The World Champion!
POWERFUL. MAJESTIC. GLORIOUS.
It is an intensely demanding sport where many accomplished riders and horses struggle to cross the finish line. It requires rigorous training, a cool demeanour and the steely determination to keep going even when every muscle in your body wants to give up. Such is the ferocity of endurance horse racing.
It requires rhythmically continuous physical movement with the horse and high muscle strength of hands to upper-forearm and back strength; which are ameliorated by horse riding. Only those who remain undaunted when the going gets tough, with the vision to dream, the courage to recover from adversity and the determination never to be shifted from their goals can be winners. His Highness Shaikh Nasser is all this and more as he tests the limits of his physical and mental strength and conquers endurance sport after endurance sport.
It was perhaps one of the proudest moments for Bahrain as His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa was crowned World Champion at the FEI Endurance World Championship, in Abu Dhabi. His Highness Shaikh Nasser, with his horse Darco La Majorie added Senior World Champion – individual and teamto his already successful equestrian record of achievements, only months after he claimed gold at the FEI Endurance World Championship for Young Horses in October. Having participated in 14 championships since 2004, HH Shaikh Nasser won his first gold at the FEI Endurance World Championship for Young Horses in 2012.
His latest victory, in an event that featured 126 riders, both men and women, representing over 36 countries, is born out of his persistence and passion for excelling
at everything he participates in from Ironman World Championship to World Endurance Championships.
His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, His Majesty’s representative for humanitarian work and youth affairs, Supreme Council for Youth and Sport (SCYS) Chairman and Royal Endurance Team Captain believes in leading by example. His dedication, perseverance and sheer determination have made him an aspirational figure for young athletes the world over.
scanning the QR code
His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa sharing his joy after his victory with HM the King
Watch His Highness Shaikh Nasser's race & win in UAE by
In an exclusive interview with Life N Style, His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa gives us a glimpse into his life as a worldclass athlete, shares with us what kindled his fascination for horses, his proudest sporting memory and his love for his young family.
Congratulations Your Highness on becoming the world champion - and now that you have achieved it, can you tell us how the journey has been? And what it takes to be a world champion?
His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa: Becoming a world champion demands a significant commitment to training, preparation, and continuous development. It requires a combination of natural talent, hard work, dedication, and a deep understanding of the horse’s needs and abilities. The journey is long and challenging, but with hard work, dedication, and perseverance, it is possible to achieve this goal. When I compete, I always strive to set a new personal best.
Endurance racing is a very intense sport requiring immense dedication, can you take us through the schedule you set for yourself to reach the top of the sport?
To excel in this sport, it is imperative for me to have a rigorous and systematic schedule that I follow strictly, encompassing consistent training, adequate nourishment, diligent recovery, and mental readiness, and the full backing of my team.
Endurance horse racing is a mentally challenging sport, and riders need to have a positive mindset to perform at their best. Incorporating meditation, visualization, and positive affirmations in my routine help me conquer mental fatigue and stay focused during races.
In essence, a structured and disciplined regimen that incorporates consistent training, balanced nutrition, efficient recovery, psychological readiness, team support, and competitive exposure is required to achieve the pinnacle of success in endurance horse racing.
Your pictures with your horses showcase a very beautiful relationship - do you remember how this relationship began and your first horse? And do you have a favourite?
As a child, I was introduced to equestrian sports by my father, His Majesty, The King, who gifted me my very first horse.
HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa with his brother HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa
My first participation in equestrian sports was on April 7th, 2000, and since then, my passion for the sport has continued to grow.
Today, I am fortunate enough to have a collection of horses that I carefully choose for each race based on their unique abilities and conditions. I understand that each horse is different, and it is crucial to consider their individual strengths and limitations while choosing them in each competition I participate in.
I believe that the relationship between a horse and its rider is incredibly special, and I am fortunate enough to have developed a strong bond with each of my horses. The time I spend with them brings me immense joy and satisfaction.
As a lifelong sportsman, what sparked your interest in sports? Apart from your latest victory, is there a memorable moment that you can share that took place when you were competing? Which is your favourite?
Triathlon has been one of my favourite sports besides horse racing, and I have dedicated a significant amount of time and effort towards honing my skills in it. Participating in triathlons has not only pushed me to my physical limits but has also taught me valuable lessons in perseverance, resilience, and discipline.
One of the most memorable moments of my athletic career was achieving my four-year goal of winning the 2018 Ironman World Championship in my age category
His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa winning the 2018 Ironman World Championship in Hawaii
at Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. The Ironman World Championship is one of the most gruelling and prestigious triathlon events in the world and winning it was a dream come true for me.
Leading up to the race, I had put in countless hours of training, both physical and mental, and had developed a meticulous strategy that would help me achieve my goal. I persevered through the challenging course, drawing strength from my training, and mental preparation.
Crossing the finish line and being crowned the Ironman World Champion was an indescribable feeling, and it remains one of the most significant accomplishments of my athletic career. It taught me the importance of setting goals, developing a strategic plan, and working tirelessly towards achieving them, no matter how challenging they may seem.
As someone who is constantly challenging himself to reach greater heights, is there a new target you have set for yourself?
My philosophy is that I am always in competition with myself, constantly endeavouring to surpass my personal achievements in all aspects of life. I maintain a long list of aspirations and targets that I am determined to attain in my lifetime.
What has been the guiding factor or inspiration in your life?
The King, His Majesty, has been the beacon of inspiration and guidance that has helped me strive for success in my life. My family serves as the primary motivation for me to become a better person each day, while my aspiration to inspire my fellow countrymen propels me towards achieving excellence in all my endeavours.
Your Highness, we have followed your magnificent journey for the last several years and you have been an inspiration to the youth. As the head of Bahrain’s Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, what is your hope for the aspiring young sportsmen/women of the country?
Observing the participation of Bahraini youth in sports brings me immense joy and a sense of fullfilment, and I am honoured to serve as a source of inspiration for them. My primary objective is to support the youth in realising their aspirations and becoming exemplary
His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa lifting the trophy at the FEI World Endurance Championships in Abu Dhabi
His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa with his daughter Her Highness Sheema Bint Nasser Al Khalifa
citizens by offering opportunities for them to acquire the skills and qualities required to become future leaders of the country.
This aligns with His Majesty, King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s vision for the Bahraini youth, wherein sports serve as an excellent platform to nurture and instill qualities such as responsibility, teamwork, dedication, and effort, which are vital for success. Through sports, the youth can learn the signficance of contributing to the greater good and
striving towards collective achievements.
Together with my brother, His Highness Shaikh Khalid Bin Hamad Al Khalifa, who currently serves as the First Deputy President of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, President of the General Sports Authority, and President of the Bahrain Olympic Committee, we are committed to promoting novel sports that will have a positive impact on the youth and the country’s economy, particularly through sports tourism.
His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa with his kids
The strenuous schedule of a world-class sportsman can be very challenging, and we know you are very passionate about your fitness. Is there anything else that you are passionate about, apart from sports?
In all aspects of my life, whether as a father, brother, athlete, or in serving my community, and my country, I am driven by an unwavering passion, and I always approach everything with my heart and soul, giving nothing but my best.
As a father, I strive to provide my children with a nurturing and supportive environment, where they can grow and nourish into individuals of exceptional character and integrity. I take great pride in being a reliable and responsible brother, always there to lend an ear or a helping hand whenever needed.
As an athlete, I am fully committed to honing my skills and pushing myself to the limits, constantly striving for excellence in everything I do. I am deeply passionate about sports and have a profound appreciation for the camaraderie and team spirit that it fosters.
In serving my community and country, I am guided by a deep sense of purpose and responsibility, recognising the signifcance of contributing towards the greater good. It brings me immense satisfaction to be able to make
a positive impact on the lives of others and contribute towards the betterment of society.
Overall, whether it is as a father, brother, athlete, or in serving my community and country, I am dedicated to living a life of purpose, passion, and excellence.
Your beautiful bond with your family, especially your young children, is a delight to see! How much does their love and admiration mean to you and do you hope they follow your footsteps into the world of sports?
My family is the most important aspect of my life, and I take great pleasure in passing on my knowledge of sports to my children. Engaging in sports has transformed my life, enabling me to lead a healthy and active lifestyle.
I would love for my kids to get the same experience. Pursuing sports requires considerable changes to one’s daily routine, including dietary habits and exercise patterns. However, the benefits of such changes are signifcant, leaving me feeling energised throughout the day and better equipped to handle the challenges that come my way.
A perspective from HE Fatima bint
Jaffar Al Sairafi, the Minister of Tourism
From historical sites to colourful souqs; from bustling shopping malls to luxury resorts and sunkissed beaches, Bahrain is the ideal travel destination. And it’s no secret that Kingdom has been laser-focused on growing the tourism sector with its comprehensive tourism strategy (2022-2026).
Under the dynamic leadership of HE Fatima bint Jaffar Al Sairafi, the Minister of Tourism, the sector has seen phenomenal growth in 2022 and the results speak for themselves.
Consider this:
• Tourism revenue over-achieved its target for 2022 by 50 per cent growing to BD1.5 billion
• 9.9 million tourists visited Bahrain in 2022, up by 19% over the target number of 8.3 million
• The island is playing host to 14 destination weddings in the first quarter of 2023
• Bahrain has signed agreements with more than 100 tourism agencies across the world to increase influx of tourists in the coming years
In an interview with Life N Style, the Minister shared the Kingdom of Bahrain’s tourism strategy and emphasised her eagerness to strengthen collaboration with private sector organisations and international tourism offices with a
view to attracting more tourists to the Kingdom and her vision for the future of the sector.
2022 was quite an eventful year for the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibition Authority with the launch of several prominent projects such as the Exhibition World Bahrain, Al Dana Amphitheatre, and many others, all of which are helping to increase the tourist flow to Bahrain – Can you give us a sneak peek into what the BTEA has lined up for us this year?
H.E. Fatima bint Jaffar Al Sairafi: The Authority is working on several projects, including activities and events as well as working to attract tourists through agreements with international offices and streamlining tourist visa procedures. We are collaborating with the relevant authorities to enhance the visa and air transportation systems between Bahrain and countries with whom tourism cooperation agreements have been signed. We have created a schedule to coordinate events throughout the year in order to attract more tourists and visitors. We are also running promotional campaigns in targeted markets and cities as well
The Tourism Minister Fatima Al Sairafi being awarded the 'Best Woman Tourism Minister of the Year' at the world's biggest travel and trade fair, in recognition of her efforts to promote tourism.
as participating in international tourism exhibitions to promote Bahrain as a desirable tourist destination and a hub for conferences, exhibitions and weddings. This strategy has been developed in cooperation with the private sector and Gulf Air.
We are working to update the Tourism Regulation Law and are offering assistance and support for hotels, international restaurants and other businesses which attract tourists to the Kingdom.
We have seen a massive push to promote Bahrain across the globe, and last year it was reported that 11,000 tourists from countries like Spain, Russia, France, Germany and the UK visited Bahrain as part of a cruise. With the number of these ship-based tourists likely to increase this year – what provisions are in place to cater to such high demand?
We have developed the tourism strategy (2022-2026), which anticipates an increase
HE Fatima bint Jaffar Al Sairafi, the Minister of Tourism at an event
in the number of tourists visiting Bahrain from 11.7 million this year, to 14.1 million in 2026. The Authority has prepared for this increase by having plans in place to accommodate, attract and meet tourist expectations, whether they are in Bahrain for business or leisure. We are currently developing the Galali coast while also developing new tourist hotspots and waterfronts in Manama and Muharraq. Exhibition World Bahrain, which opened at the end of last year, is one of the region’s most notable examples of exhibition tourism infrastructure.
There are projects where the private sector is working with the Authority to expand recreational and MICE –as well as sports tourism – and there are other projects where the private sector collaborates to meet the aspirations of tourists.
In the last several years, there has been a consistent effort in cultivating the island’s reputation as the ideal location for destination weddings. The project has been a tremendous success. How do these wedding events hosted by the Wedding Island Team contribute to boosting tourism and
its economic impact?
Promoting the Kingdom of Bahrain as a destination for weddings has been the work of a devoted team within the BTEA in recent years. As a result, the overall number of international wedding guests from 2017 to now, has increased significantly going up to 12,466.
The number of destination weddings is projected to rise this year especially since we agreed to host 4050 guests for 14 weddings from East Asian, Arab, and Gulf countries during the first half of 2023.
The BTEA strategy consists of attracting exotic weddings by hosting international wedding organisers, expanding the network of wedding specialists, discussing expansion plans in targeted markets, and coordinating with others in various countries. Our additional efforts are in line with our key plans to develop wedding tourism in Bahrain through the ‘Island Wedding’ initiative, including a variety of offers that appeal to families and tourists from all over the world.
Artist's impression of the beach development in Bahrain
Our greatest asset are is Bahrain’s surreal landscapes and exceptional venues along with highly-ranked international tourism institutes, islands, beaches, the Bahrain International Circuit, and heritage-based locations that can play host to exotic weddings. This alongside prominent hotel chains make Bahrain a favourable wedding and pre-wedding destination.
Recently there has been a particular focus on developing and increasing the number of beach-front properties despite the often -cited view that Bahrain doesn’t have that many public beaches –can you give us an sneak peek at what we can hope to see on this front in 2023?
On the contrary, the Government has plans to provide many public spaces overlooking the sea. The Ministry of Tourism is contributing to the activation of these plans. Bilaj Al Jazayer Beach is one of the most important tourist destinations for families and friends, while Marassi Beach offers a rich experience for the visitor, whether local or foreign, through a variety of beach and water sports, apart from seafront restaurants.
Many cultural events are held on those beaches, and they are well prepared to receive visitors originating from within
and outside of Bahrain. The ‘Saada’ project, which provides excellent services to visitors directly on the sea, has been a resounding success and the Ministry is preparing to launch a waterfront development on the coast of Galali. The Dar Islands Sea Resort offers pearl diving and cruises to Jarada Island, where visitors can enjoy swimming in its crystal-clear waters and learn about the various species of coral reef as well as dolphin watching. We have also signed an agreement to work with the Royal Foundation for Rescue and Water Safety, aiming to provide safe beaches and water tourism for the community and visitors to the Kingdom.
What is your vision for tourism in Bahrain and how do you see the sector growing and increasing its contribution to GDP in line with the Economic Vision 2030?
Inbound tourism to the Kingdom of Bahrain last year saw steady growth as compared to previous years. The total number of visitors to Bahrain reached 2,990,614 visitors during the third quarter of 2022, representing an increase of 31% compared to the second quarter. The second quarter of 2022 saw 2,278,279 visitors coming to Bahrain, up 38% from the first quarter when the number of visitors reached 1,652,557.
Inbound tourism to Bahrain exceeded prepandemic levels by 18% in the thirdquarter of 2022, compared to the same period in 2019, which saw 2,539,988 visitors come to the island. The e-government statistics recorded 2,991,000 visitors coming for tourism purposes to the Kingdom in 2022. This represents an increase of 124% from the previous year, which recorded 1,335,000 visitors.
The number of tourist nights in 2022 increased by 38% compared to 2021, as the number of nights spent in Bahrain by tourists reached 2,989,000 nights in 2021 and increased to 4,139 million nights in 2022. Total inbound tourism revenues reached BD 456 million this year, recording an increase of 74% over the previous year and 46% over 2019. So you can see the growth of our contribution is there and it is constantly exceeding expectations.
To know more about the upcoming events in Bahrain, scan the QR code
Artist's impression of the beach development in Bahrain
Epitome of Italian Luxury
Lamborghini. The name conjures up images of luxury, innovation, Italian ingenuity and design. Carrying forward the family legacy and diversifying it across sectors is Tonino Lamborghini, the son of Ferruccio Lamborghini who is the founder of the Lamborghini supercars.
A true ambassador of the Italian luxury lifestyle, Tonino has taken inspiration from his family heritage and created his homonymous lifestyle experience brand with a range of luxury designers including watches, eyewear, leather goods, and beverages to 5-star boutique hotels, real estate projects, cafés and restaurants. We have also heard whispers that the Tonino Lamborghini brand might be coming to Bahrain.
When our Chairman, Mr Mohammad Mansoor met Mr Lamborghini in Dubai, they spoke extensively about the growing prospects for luxury projects in the region. To find out more, Life N Style caught up with Mr Tonino Lamborghini, President and Mrs Angela Krieger, Market Strategist, Brazil & UAE, Tonino Lamborghini Company, at the launch of their stunning new project in Dubai.
Congratulations, on the opening of the beautiful Tonino Lamborghini Mare Nostrum Skypool Restaurant which is an amalgamation of restaurant, bar and pool all in one, overlooking the iconic structures of Dubai - a very distinctive luxury offering. You’ve expanded your footprint from luxury goods to hospitality and real estate in the last several years,
what was the inspiration to diversify into these sectors?
Tonino Lamborghini: When I started my company in 1981, the aim was to become an ambassador for the Italian style. The first products that we brought to market were watches, apparel, leather goods, eyewear, and home furnishings. But ‘Made in Italy’ to me, is also high-quality food, and so we brought high-quality coffee to the market, followed by energy drinks and spirits. The transition from beverages to lounges and restaurants was quick especially since I wanted to create places where one can find true Italian atmosphere, a world of style, culture, art and exclusive services. Our foray into luxury hotels began in 2012, with the Tonino Lamborghini Library Boutique Hotel, Suzhou, China. The
property is a unique amalgamation of history and modernity as at the heart of the hotel lies a lush Chinese garden, which revolves around the 100-yearold ‘Lambo’ tree.
In 2013, we added the Tonino Lamborghini City Center Hotel in Kunshan and, in 2014, the Tonino Lamborghini Lake Side Hotel, in Huangshi. With each success, we added more hotels and resorts in several cities in China, Brazil and Egypt. Tonino Lamborghini Hospitality today has many projects across the world and will be launching many more.
Tonino Lamborghini Library Boutique Hotel, Suzhou, China
You have hospitality projects in China, Brazil, Egypt, Thailand, the UAE and we’ve heard that there is a possibility of a project in Bahrain…
I can’t say much; what I can tell you is that we were searching for the perfect partner to bring to beautiful Bahrain a memorable design project. I am eager to enter this country that is so open to new ideas and steeped in history and culture. So stay tuned to discover more!
In 2022, the movie was released based on your father’s incredible story, Ferruccio Lamborghini - ‘Lamborghini: The Man Behind The Legend’. What a powerful story, tell us what is the most distinctive thing you remember about your father?
Mr Mohammad Mansoor, Chairman, Saara Group with Mr Tonino Lamborghini
His drive to follow his dreams. I always try to pass on the lessons my father taught me, to my son and daughters. I also remember him as a very happy and content man: my childhood memories of him involve us eating, drinking, playing cards and spending time together as a family. His passion for automobiles led him to found his own company. As the movie shows, it all started when he discovered a clutch issue with the Ferraris he owned and confronted Enzo Ferrari about the issue.
This enraged Mr Ferrari who referred to my father as a farmer who could only produce tractors. That day, my father decided he would build his own car and the rest is history!
And I have to ask which is your favourite Lamborghini?
My favourite is Miura, it changed the world of sports cars, not just in terms of design but also performance. It was put on display at New York’s Museum of Modern Art and represents perhaps the most beautiful automobile ever made. Miura is also the second name of one of my daughters.
(Miura was the first supercar with a rear midengined two-seat layout. This layout has since become the standard for high-performance sports and supercars. When released, it was the fastest production road car.)
Apart from being passionate about your business, what is Tonino Lamborghini passionate about?
My first passion is vintage cars, then art, reading poetry, especially in Latin, a language that has enchanted me from the time I was a schoolboy. Even today, in my spare time, I enjoy reading Divina Commedia – The Divine Comedy by Dante. And apart from that I enjoy cooking and I believe I cook well.
What can we see next from the house of Tonino Lamborghini?
We never stop creating new collections for our core products - watches and eyewear – and soon we will present a brand-new leather goods collection for men and women.
Studio Marco Piva Tonino Lamborghini Towers, Chengdu, China.
Apart from this, we have new projects in the field of hospitality & real estate. There are several projects we are looking to announce soon in India, Dubai, Thailand and South Africa.
These are just excerpts from our conversation. The true essence of our interview has been captured in the video, set against the backdrop of some of Dubai’s iconic structures, it captures the wit, liveliness and spirit of Mr Lamborghini. You can scan the QR code to watch the full interview.
Mr Tonino Lamborghini, President, Tonino Lamborghini company and Mrs Angela Krieger, Tonino Lamborghini Market Strategist, Brazil & UAE in Dubai
Garrard's
New ‘Couture’
Prestigious British jewellery house Garrard presented a powerful and daring vision with their new haute joaillerie line ‘Couture’.
Just like a bespoke gown, each Couture jewel is unique, showcasing a dynamic and bold mix of colours, stones and silhouettes with the same exquisite attention to detail and finish as a couturier.
Inspiring avant-garde ways of wearing high jewellery, Couture was launched at the Kensington Palace in the UK with a series of spectacular suites – Amazonia, Desert Rose, Northern Lights and Mustique.
In the Desert Rose suite, a collection of rare morganites were sourced and re-cut specifically for the design. The morganites are framed by motherof-pearl inlay, its shimmering hue accentuating the intense, peach-pink tone of the stones.
Selected for their uniqueness, other statement stones include bicolour tourmalines that softly graduate from green to pink and a tourmaline that revels in its beauty in a setting designed to showcase the gem in a 360-degree fashion. Cabochon aquamarines, meanwhile, create a completely different effect from the traditional faceted aquamarines they are paired with.
In the Northern Lights suiteGarrard worked with stone-cutting experts to craft the finest opals, pairing them with a bicolour mother of pearl that transitions from white to gold and multi-coloured sapphires to mirror the play of colour within the opals.
Garrard has a long history of association with the British Royal family and the crown jewels as the very first Crown Jewellers. From Queen Mary’s consort crown to the Princess of Wales’ engagement ring, Garrard has been a part of some of the most iconic jewels for almost 300 years.
The high jewellery launch is accompanied by a campaign entitled RULE, inspired by Garrard’s royal heritage. Shot in a sumptuous palace setting, ‘Rule’ is a playful and modern take on the aristocratic life.
Watch Garrard's new collection by scanning the QR code
Couture is available to view by appointment at Garrard, 24 Albemarle Street, Mayfair, London W1S 4HT
CHOPARD at the Oscars Sparkle Jewels
Emily Blunt, Eva Longoria, Sofia Carson, Miranda Kerr and Eva Herzigova were among the stars who wore Chopard creations to the 95th Annual Academy Awards and its post-parties.
Presenter Emily Blunt dazzled in pink Chopard chandelier earrings that lent a pop of colour to her white Valentino gown.
The earrings called to attention 76.17 carats of pear-shaped pink sapphires and 5.89-carats of diamonds set in 18k white gold. She also sported three diamond rings set in 18k white gold, all from the Haute Joaillerie Collection.
Presenter Eva Longoria glittered on the red carpet with earrings from Chopard's Haute Joaillerie Collection in Zuhair Murad Couture. Her look was fresh off the designer's spring 2023 collection which debuted in Paris in January. Adding to her scintillating presence were her jewels; 8.69 carats of diamonds set in 18k white gold approximately each, earrings from the L’Heure du Diamant Collection and rings from the Ice Cube Collection.
Actress and singer Sofia Carson stunned in a necklace from the Haute Joaillerie Collection featuring seven octagonal-shaped emeralds, totalling 122.49-carats along with 92.57-carats of pearshaped, marquise-cut, baguette-cut and round-shaped diamonds set in Fairmined-certified white gold.
Actress and singer Sofia Carson dazzled in a necklace from Chopard's Haute Joaillerie Collection
actress and director
Shimmering in the Vanity Fair Oscar Party were Miranda Kerr and Eva Herzigova, wearing looks embedded with stunning jewellery from the magnificent collections of Chopard.
Supermodel Miranda Kerr elevated her look with earrings from the Haute Joaillerie collection, featuring 30.49 carats of pear-shaped and round-shaped diamonds; a delicate and elegant bracelet featuring 16.27 carats of marquise-cut diamonds, 9.9 carats of round-shaped diamonds and 9.10 carats of diamonds both set in 18-karat white gold.
Award-winning
Emily Blunt in Chopard's pear-shaped pink sapphire earrings
Supermodel Eva Herzigova sparkles in Chopard jewellery at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party
She also selected a ring from the Green Carpet collection embedded with 2.90 carats of marquise-cut diamonds set in 18-karat white gold.
Eva Herzigova chose to accentuate her supermodel style with sparkling earrings featuring 20.23 carats of cushion-shaped diamonds and 4.83 carats of marquisecut diamonds. She sported a bracelet carrying 27.32 carats of cushion-shaped coloured diamonds, as well as a ring featuring an 8.07-carat, rare yellow-coloured diamond set in 18-karat white gold.
Supermodel Miranda Kerr wore Chopard jewellery at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party
Actress Eva Longoria dazzled in Chopard jewels on the Oscars' red carpet
Trends from
On the heels of New York, London, and Milan fashion weeks, a very long month of fashion concluded in Paris because the global style capital still reigns supreme. Here the best in the market gather twice a year to present ready-to-wear that changes the game. The usual marquee brands, like Saint Laurent, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Miu Miu, made an appearance, along with other shows of note, including Ann Demeulemeester and Nina Ricci, where Ludovic de Saint Sernin and Harris Reed presented their debut collections as creative directors, respectively. So here are the top five trends that emerged at the ready-to-wear Fall/Winter PFW 2023.
COLOURS OF THE SEASON - RED, BLACK AND WHITE
Red continued to trend across the fashion weeks and the PFW was no different. Alexander McQueen’s creative director Sarah Burton explored evening wear in red, and there was one dress in particular that caught our eye. It was dramatic in volume, using an angular corset to a higher neck, nearly covering the face, on a strapless gown with a high-low bubble hem. There was a striking Stella Mc Cartney red suit, an oversized short/dress with a black tie from Valentino, and Giambattista Valli’s collection of flowy red dresses that also wowed.
Some delightful designs were served up in black and white, especially with brands like Issey Miyake, Alexander Mc Queen, Dior, Comme des Garçons and Schiaparelli in different styles, cuts, and fabrics.
Paris Fashion Week 2023
A look from Stella McCartney's FW Paris Fashion Week 2023 Collection
FEATHERS
This trend really underscored the fact that designers LOVE drama.
This season, designers injected a heavy dose of fabulousness into their Fall/Winter 2023 collections with the help of feathers. From tastefully attached feather trims to full-blown feather dresses and coats, Paris Fashion Week didn’t hold back on the glamour. They were seen on everything - skirts, jackets, and shoes, in wide-ranging colours, textures and sizes. We really loved Nina Ricci’s creative director Harris Reed’s pop of colours. However, Loewe and Valentino were liberal in their use of feathers, while others like Elie Saab and Victoria Beckham used them only for detailing purposes.
METALLICS
Fashion is armour, and no one knows it better than fashion houses like Paco Rabanne, Coperni, Balenciaga, Louis Vuitton and Alexander McQueen, who were amongst those that put metallics front and centre of their collection. Our favourite was this exquisite sculpted corset metallic dress from Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen; armour suitable for a model who knows her walk, as well as a queen leading her army.
Nina Ricci incorporates feathers in neon colours in this look from Fall/Winter Paris Fashion Week 2023
Metallics feature in a big way in this structured look from Alexander McQueen Fall/Winter Paris Fashion Week 2023
BOLD SHOULDERS
If there is one trend that has kept making a resurgence every couple of years, it is the bold shoulder look. Reminiscent of the 90s shoulder pads and Alexis Carrington, this PFW, the bold shoulders were more structured and tailored.
Although bold shoulders are reserved for those who like taking fashion risks, the designs from this PFW invite you to take the plunge again. We loved the super structured Saint Laurent collection but also enjoyed the Louis Vuitton, Vivienne Westwood, and Alexander Mc Queen’s take on the trend.
TRENCH COATS
From Alexander McQueen to Balenciaga, Herme, Givency and Christain Dior; all presented their variations on this winter classic.
We saw trench coats in denim, vinyl, satin, leather, two-tone, and charming colourful iterations. We also saw cape-like options and oversized trench coats worn by the likes of German influencer Leonie Hanne to model Ashley Graham. Despite the coat’s classic silhouette, these fashion tastemakers showed how versatile the style can be, wearing it in many different ways from morning to noon, and night.
Saint Laurent incorporates bold shouldered jackets as part of their Fall/Winter Paris Fashion Week 2023
Balenciaga incorporate the trendy trench coat in their Fall/Winter Paris Fashion Week 2023
Practicality
MILAN reigns in
Milan, traditionally one of the most high-octane fashion cities, shunned theatrics this year and concentrated on wearable fashion. The shows had none of the made-for social-media viral moments but focused instead on the practicality of wear. Here are the collections that caught our eye at the Milan Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2023
GIORGIO ARMANI
The collection took inspiration from the architecture of Milan. Beautifully made three-piece suits in a silky-looking material with distinct movement. It was a contemporary version of their mid-’70s concept but the refurbishment was full of fresh pleasures and unusual touches in a patently Armani architecture of style.
A three-piece suit from the Giorgio Armani Fall/Winter Milan Fashion Week 2023
DOLCE & GABBANA
The collection featured impeccably tailored suits and masterfully sharp-cut coats, with just a touch of pearl grey and two white pantsuits. The designers said that they were attracted to experimenting with new cuts, new collars, and new fastenings and that they wanted to enhance the simple complexity of the handmade
PRADA
A sharp, minimalist collection — strong on compelling outerwear and youthful tailoring.
Modernist precepts of reduction and simplicity combine with their apparent contradictions: comfort, exaggeration, and intimacy. Paradigms of fashion combined with paradigms of Prada.
Silhouettes were emphatic, amplified, and attenuated, exploring extreme vicissitude between couture volumes through the architecture of the clothes.
A signature impeccably tailoured white suit from Dolce & Gabbana Fall/Winter Milan Fashion Week 2023
A look from Prada's Fall/Winter Milan Fashion Week 2023
FENDI
Cashmere, logomania, and the lavender colour reigned supreme in the Fendi Fall 2023 collection which was all about “feeling great with fashion during the day but also during the night,” according to creative director Silvia Venturini Fendi. While some pieces exuded comfort, the one-shouldered and asymmetrical ones were a throwback to the disco era of the 70s.
A look from Fendi Fall/Winter Milan Fashion Week 2023
Holy Grail Skincare of
Of all the beauty gadgets that one can possibly invest in, this LED mask appears to be the ultimate device to get, and it’s now available in the Middle East.
It's no secret that Korea’s boundary-pushing skincare market wears many faces, and of late, the industry has been pursuing skincare devices as the next frontier. Leading the market is Cellreturn with its range of LED masks for the face, neck and hair. The star of the pack is their Platinum LED mask which uses patented NASAderived technology and is the most powerful mask on the market with 1026 LED lights.
One of the leading skincare products in Korea, it is endorsed by a slew of A-list Korean celebrities.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
If you are wondering whether coloured lights actually make a real impact on your skin? The answer is yes. Light-based skin therapy has been clinically proven to help skin issues. Once upon a time, these revolutionary devices were only available at a dermatologist’s as part of an in-clinic or spa treatment. However, with the advancement in technology, these masks have firmly found their way into the homes of millions of beauty enthusiasts across the globe.
The Platinum LED Mask works by inhibiting the action of Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) to decrease inflammation, whilst activating and proliferating fibroblasts to increase collagen synthesis (anti-ageing), elasticity and hydrates the skin from within as well as being anti-bacterial with its blue LED wavelength.
THE HERO BUYS
Apart from the star product - the Platinum LED mask, Cellreturn’s range also includes something for other problem areas like the neck and the hair.
The Neckle Ray Plus is the world's first and only neck care device. It helps with improving dry and saggy skin, ageing and ‘Tech Neck’.
The Hair Alpha Ray uses the same technology through two patented Infrared rays that work to promote a healthy scalp and hair, with research proving that the technology assists with Androgenic Alopecia (AGA) type hair loss.
EASE OF USE
The device is easy to use, portable and wireless. It has to be used on clean skin after washing and before any creams or moisturisers. Exercise extra caution if you use retinol.
Dr Amanda Powell, founder of Cellreturn Middle East has been instrumental in bringing these devices to the region. Currently, they are being used in spas including Awaken at Atlantis, Palazzo Versace and St. Regis The Palm, among others. For more information visit: www.cellreturn.ae
HOLISTIC
Healing
Futuristic. Smart. State-of-the-art. None of these adjectives can really do justice to King Hamad American Mission Hospital and the vision of the man behind the shiniest new jewel in the Kingdom's healthcare crown. A vision that places the preservation of health, and innovation, building a healthcare ecosystem and growing medical tourism in the nation at the forefront of its strategy.
HRH Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa receives a memento from AMH Group CEO, Julia Tovey, Corporate CEO & CMO Dr George Cheriyan after inaugurating the new King Hamad American Mission Hospital
Life N Style spoke to Dr George Cheriyan, Corporate CEO and Chief Medical Officer of the American Mission Hospital, who gave us a tour of the mammoth (72,615 sqm) King Hamad American Mission Hospital complex in A'ali with its sprawling (14,615 sq m) landscaped garden area before it officially opens its doors to patients.
You said in your speech at the inauguration, that KHAMH is a futuristic, smart hospital with technologies designed to create a holistic healing environment that extends beyond the four walls of the hospital - please tell us more about these technologies as we stand beside this lush green garden, which I believe is your effort to provide a healing environment and hosts a 500 underground parking area underneath.
Dr George Cheriyan: The concept of healing should include healing of the body, mind and spirit of man. But, for long, healthcare has just focused on the body. If you don't attend to the mind, which is responsible for 80% of all somatic illnesses, you would only be healing the patient partly, not wholly.
When we conceived this new hospital, our aim was ‘holistic healing’. It was to bring nature within the four walls of a hospital, or at least as close together as possible. It was also to take technology within the four walls of a hospital, outside into the community, and into the patients' homes. That’s because patients heal best in their home environments.
And how can technology help that healing? Within the four walls of
the hospital, we have paid particular attention to the glass that brings in natural light and that shows the beautiful greenery outside. We have fountains and water features that actually provide the soothing calmness that the mind needs.
But more importantly, we also have technology that will also allow us to take this healing into the homes of patients where they feel most relaxed. Thanks to emerging tech like IoT – Internet of Things - from our command centre in the hospital, we can soon easily monitor and help the patients who are in their homes.
It is from this concept of holistic healing that the future of health comes.
This world-class hospital will doubtless increase medical tourism to the Kingdom as you have tied up with one of the best hospitals in the world. Tell us about these associations and what they will bring to KHAMH.
A smart hospital by itself does not make for a world-class healthcare system.
It involves multiple other links within the ecosystem.
Even Mayo Clinic, the world’s best hospital, on its own, is not a global healthcare system. It provides care for patients who go to Mayo. Similarly, this King Hamad American Mission Hospital by itself doesn't make for a total healthcare system.
HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa tours the King Hamad American Mission Hospital with Dr George Cheriyan
It is when our hospital collaborates across geographic boundaries and when we exchange expertise in technology, that we can build an ecosystem that is effective.
We knew, right at the outset, that collaboration is the only way. And that it will have a ripple effect. Our collaborations can make us, truly and totally, world-class.
The Royal College of Surgeons of Ireland (RCSI), which has a 300-year history, has got a branch here in Bahrain for 15 years. It is a not-for-profit organization with a long legacy, like AMH. They have been training with us for years but now RCSI has got its own location on the fifth floor of our new hospital. So, ours is a teaching hospital for RCSI students. And our collaboration brings in research and training, with teaching.
Collaborations also help in attracting good physicians and surgeons, who can prepare and train a new generation of healthcare providers. These collaborations will go a long way in bolstering Bahrain’s healthcare ecosystem.
With Mayo Clinic, through our first phase of collaboration, we are aiming to bring the very best to Bahrain. And Mayo is not easy to partner with; because its standards are very high.
King Abdul Aziz Al Saud, the first king of Saudi Arabia (right) and Shaikh Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the then ruler of Bahrain with Dr Louis P Dame.
The first hospital in Bahrain, the Mason Memorial Hospital was opened in 1903. It later became known as the American Mission Hospital.
So unless they see that there is synergy in this partnership, they would not collaborate, and in that aspect, we feel we have delivered for the country.
What are the new areas/specialisations that you will be expanding into with the KHAMH?
At the opening of the King Hamad American Mission Hospital, I said this is not just another hospital.
It is world-class expertise that is locally delivered. If you need a consult, for a complicated problem, you don't have to travel all the way, either to Mayo or to any other place. You can come here, and we would source that expertise for you.
Concierge medicine is to bring to the patient, affordable, high-quality, healthcare that is world-class. At King Hamad American Mission Hospital, we can do that regardless of speciality.
So I believe we have every speciality here and if a patient needed
something very special, exclusive or rare within primary, secondary or tertiary care then King Hamad American Mission Hospital can source it. And deliver it at an affordable cost to the patient.
The hospital was launched on the 26th of January 2023, to coincide with the date the first AMH was set up in 1903, for this, the construction work was carried out all through the COVID period - tell us about how you managed this mammoth operation while simultaneously handling the patient influx and care during the pandemic?
Yes. The opening was exactly on the day on which our first hospital opened 120 years ago.
However, this wasn’t planned. We planned to have the hospital completed in about 24 months by around November 2022. But, as we were nearing completion, we realised that celebrating the 120th anniversary, which falls on the 26th of January, with the official opening date of the
new hospital would be wonderful.
For this to happen, we had an excellent project management team on site. That’s what kept the project moving.
The joker in the pack, however, was COVID. So at any one point, we had up to a thousand people working on-site. A thousand people! We put a clinic in the heart of the building site to make sure that we screened the people who came in to build here.
The American Mission Hospital is said to be the first hospital in the Arabian Gulf. And it has a long association with Bahrain. Tell us how did it all begin?
You see, the modern history of Bahrain is strongly connected to our hospital. The founder, Samuel Zwemer came here in 1892, and started a little dispensary in the Manama Souq. That was 130 years ago!
Circa 1992, the Late Amir, Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the ruler of Bahrain, opening an Art Exhibition marking 100 years of medical service by the American Mission. Also seen the picture is HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa who was then the Crown Prince.
In a couple of years, he went to Baghdad, met and married Britishborn Australian missionary nurse Amy Wilkes and brought her to Bahrain. And together, they treated and cared for the patients in their first dispensary near the Hindu temple in the souq area.
Later they moved to a house where the Al Raja School stands today. It was, in fact, Amy Wilkes Zwemer who started the school. She called it the Acorn School which became the American Mission School, and which later became known as the Al Raja School.
Seeing the acute need for healthcare here, the Zwemer couple kept requesting the Arabian Mission organization for a full-fledged hospital run by trained physicians.
And that’s how, the doctor couple, Sharon J Thoms and Marion Wells Thoms, from the University of Michigan, arrived in Bahrain in 1900.
These American missionaries requested the then Hakim of Bahrain, Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, to sell them a piece of land to build a hospital. And after they bought it, they built it and opened it in 1903.
It was originally called ‘Mason Memorial Hospital’ because a family from New York, with the name Mason, donated substantial amounts for its construction.
We hear that AMH doctors were travelling across to Saudi Arabia, Oman etc to set up clinics. Any particular stories that stand out for you from that period?
Oh, there are hundreds of stories available from the hospital’s rich history.
For instance, in 1911, a boatload of Bedouin Arabs, with multiple bullet wounds, were brought from Qatif, which is in today’s Saudi Arabia – after a skirmish there between rival tribes. Many of their lives were saved by this hospital.
In 1919, during the Spanish Flu Pandemic, our Dr Paul Harrison – a graduate of Johns Hopkins - went to Riyadh to treat the family of Ibn Saud, the ruler of Nejd who later became the first King of Saudi Arabia. Dr Harrison soon ended up camping there for months, treating hundreds of others. He led many medical camps later over the next 30 years.
In the 1910s, we started the American Mission Hospitals in Muscat and in Kuwait. In the 1940s and 1950s, our doctors used to regularly visit Qatar and the Trucial states (which became UAE) to hold medical camps, treat diseases and conduct surgeries.
In 1936, we became the first hospital to order and use an X-Ray machine in the Arabian Gulf region. In 2007, we became the first hospital here to have achieved international healthcare quality accreditation from Australia. You see, we have always been on the move with many ‘firsts’.
You have had a long and stellar career as a doctor and as an administrator, what would you say was the highlight of your career?
As much as we physicians would think we are capable of doing, we suddenly realise that it is not us who do the healing. There is a greater power that actually does the healing.
We are just instruments in His hands. Like any other profession, it’s the hands of God that actually allow us to do the things we do. I always remember Mother Teresa's quote: 'The hands that heal are holier than the lips that pray.' And for me, my life's journey has been to use the talents, and the time that God has given me, to make a difference in the lives of people, ordinary people.
For me, the greatest challenge today as I look at healthcare is to provide highquality equitable healthcare to all.
As a doctor and an administrator, the demands on your time are endless, what do you like to do in the little off time that you get?
I enjoy reading very much. I'm a continuous lifelong learner. And I find that even at this stage of my career, in life, there's so much to learn.
Usually, I read three or four books at a time. And I've got a very quirky habit of being in several different chapters of different books. And for some reason, my brain seems to connect them.
So, recently I've been reading a book by Simon Sinek. It is about mindful leadership that can happen when you ‘Start with the Why’. And another book related to Red Ocean Strategies versus Blue Ocean Strategies. These strategies were developed by worldrenowned professors Chan Kim and Renée Mauborgne. And somehow the books connect.
I find the concepts pretty relevant to what I'm actually doing today. Normally, when companies thrive, it’s a win-lose situation. Yet for me, I always want a win-win. So you have to create your own roadmap and be a leader so that others can follow. I want to be on the path of creating blue oceans, where competition does not matter. Each competitor has his
own space. When you pursue high product differentiation at low cost, competition becomes irrelevant. So, our leadership strategy must be creative. And that's my aim.
What is the most valuable piece of advice that you have got? And what is the advice as a medical professional you would like to share with our readers?
The piece of advice that I've got is, ‘always stay humble’. There are always people who know far more than you and are far smarter than you.
The advice I would give to your readers is to remember that health is the most precious commodity. You can have everything in life but, if you do not have health, you have nothing.
These are just excerpts from our very interesting chat as we toured the KHAMH before it opened to the public. To watch the full interview scan the QR code .
The King Hamad American Mission Hospital in A'ali
The Masters of bespoke Interiors
Creating bespoke interiors is an art. From the customised creation of specialised ceilings in palladium or gold leaf, to gilded decorative paintings and murals on the walls; from stucco to “trompe l’oeil” on canvas, and handcrafted furniture made from handpicked materials that are stitched, carved, sculpted and finished by accomplished artisans— each element is like a brush stroke on an Old Masters’ painting creating an interior that is as awe-inspiring as it is beautiful. Daniele Décor and Atelier CL Lorain are the masters of this art and have been the preferred firm in the Middle East for bespoke furniture and interiors for over 35 years. Their clientele is very exclusive, discerning, and elite including royalty and luxury brands like Cartier Boutique and Piaget
Bespoke furniture from Daniele Decor and Atelier CL Lorain
Life N Style spoke to Emna Chouikha, CEO, Daniele Decor and Atelier CL Lorain, about their specialities, the legendary French craftsmanship and how trends in bespoke interiors are evolving.
Bespoke luxury interior design is like a commissioned exquisite work of art where only a true artist can bring the client’s vision to life. Your popularity with clients speaks volumes about your work but what do you feel sets you apart from others?
Emna Chouikha: From our main office and workshops in Bahrain we have been working on bespoke interiors not just in the GCC region but across the world. What sets us apart are our highly qualified craftsmen who are the heirs of the French tradition of workmanship dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. We are honoured to keep these French techniques alive in the Middle East and beyond.
In 2013, Daniele Decor and Atelier CL Lorain became a part of the prestigious Atelier De France Groupe which is currently working on some of the most high-profile restoration work in the world, can you share more details?
Emna Chouikha, CEO, Daniele Decor and Atelier CL Lorain
Emna Chouikha: Atelier de France is a group of companies that was assembled for the sole purpose of producing the highest quality of construction and decoration for classic and contemporary projects or the preservation and restoration of French architectural heritage.
In 2022, the Atelier de France Groupe was heavily involved in luxury construction projects in France and worldwide. We have participated in the restoration of world-famous sites, such as Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, the Grand Palais and the Oval Office in the White House, the painting and gilding decoration of the Opéra Garnier and the Elysée Palace in Paris.
Our 1900 artisans, including sculptors, bronzesmiths, marble workers, ironworkers, carpenters, gilders, and decorative painters, both men and women, are in high demand for such projects. This is because of their passion for excellence and unrivalled expertise which has been passed down from one generation to the next.
Daniele Decor and Atelier CL Lorain are masters of traditional French interior design techniques like ‘Trompe l’oeil’ on canvas and ‘Verre Eglomisé’ among others.
Trompe l’oeil’ is French for 'deceive the eye' and is an artistic term for the representation of an object with such verisimilitude as to deceive the viewer concerning the material reality of the object, simply put a realistic optical illusion of three-dimensional space and objects on a two-dimensional surface.
Whereas ‘verre églomisé’ is a technique that involves engraving a design through gold or silver leaf and applying coloured pigment so that the coloured portions show through the engraved areas. The painting is in turn backed with protective glass or foil.
Traditional techniques aside, Daniele Décor and Atelier CL have their eyes firmly set on evolving trends and have made huge strides in contemporary interiors. Emna, what can clients looking for modern French chic find at your firm?
As trends change and evolve, we have been commissioned to do more modern interiors. Some of our clients also want minimalist or monochromatic interiors using natural materials and lights.
One of our answers to those requirements is straw marquetry, a decorative technique where pieces of straw are glued together, edge to edge, onto a backing. Straw marquetry uses one of the only materials today that brings a luminous shine to the created object without varnish. There is also the environmental aspect to consider. The essential element of this design - the raw material we use, the
One of Middle East’s French leaders in bespoke interior, Daniele Decor and Atelier CL Lorain, customised the gold leaves ceiling at the Royal Saray Hotel, Bahrain.
rye straw, is harvested by specialised cereal growers in France every year. Additionally, the technique does not require water or machinery and thereby no electricity is used in the production process, rating straw marquetry high on the sustainability scale with a low carbon footprint.
Apart from residences for quality-conscious high-end clients, you are one of the most 'sought-after' luxury interior design firms, having worked with luxury brands like Cartier Boutique and Piaget. Take us through that creative journey and the exclusive design elements that you created for special clients that you are most proud of.
Of course, we are extremely proud of all our projects. What makes the beauty of an interior shine is the quality of execution and we employ the best craftsmen who ensure that the work is always up to the highest standards in the industry.
We also use our ancestral know-how for different projects, from modern and contemporary to traditional, and have created masterpieces along the way for high-end hospitality projects as well as interior decorations of living spaces like villas. Our client’s privacy is essential, hence, many of our projects remain confidential. We can execute the most sophisticated designs and are really proud to be working with big names on the design scene like Jacques Garcia, to name just one.
A beautiful example of straw marquetry technique used to create the map of Bahrain
Customised straw marquetry work on coasters.
Of the many projects that you have been a part of in the region, which was the most challenging and the most satisfying?
All our projects are challenging and satisfying in their own way. However, we have been lucky to work on outstanding ones with royalty in the gulf region, where we have used premium materials, from the most prestigious fabrics like silk or taffeta to the highest quality of marbles, paint finishes, and gold gilding. Decorative painting and gilding are two of our group’s historic crafts and its major areas of expertise. We have also been working with top designers to realise the most lavish and high-quality projects.
Scan the QR code to see more beautiful customised creations from Daniele Décor and Atelier
CL Lorain
Daniele Decor and Atelier CL Lorain are a part of the prestigious Atelier de France Groupe which is heavily involved in luxury construction projects in France and worldwide including the restoration of Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral
CHANGE OF GUARD
His familiar friendly face has been a constant for Porsche owners and fans in Bahrain for the last nine years. As the General Manager of Porsche in Bahrain, he has been instrumental in raising the bar for sales volumes and outstanding customer delight for the brand. As he takes over as the new General Manager of Bentley and Lamborghini, Colin Sattar speaks to Life N Style about his exciting plans for these two luxury brands.
“Having worked with these prestigious brands previously, I am proud of having the opportunity to work with them again and take them to new heights. I truly hope to apply to Bentley and Lamborghini all that I have learned working with Porsche for the past decade. My main goal in 2023 is to connect and engage with Bentley and Lamborghini Bahrain customers and ensure they receive
the same outstanding levels of customer service across both Sales and Service departments."
Luxury car enthusiasts are going to be spoilt for choice this year as both Bentley and Lamborghini have some exceptional models up for launch in 2023, “With Bentley Bahrain, we have the Bentayga EWB and Flying Spur Hybrid coming to the market soon and with Lamborghini Bahrain, we have the Huracan Tecnica and Urus Performante on their way soon as well. So stay tuned!”
With over three decades of experience in luxury cars like Bentley, Lamborghini, Porsche, McLaren and Bugatti, in the UK, KSA and Bahrain, it’s safe to assume luxury cars are a part of Colin’s DNA. So it was tough to find out which cars are his favorites. “This is certainly a very difficult question to answer as I have had the good fortune
of experiencing many amazing vehicles! That said, the Porsche 911 Turbo and the Bentley Bentayga are definitely among my top 5 choice of cars.
Everyone has a dream car and I would have to say that the fast performance and refined luxury of the Bentley Continental GT is what makes it my overall dream car”, he says.
The Work-Life Balance
Passionate about his work, success is what motivates him to do a good job, says Colin. But work apart, “My
number one priority is my family. Apart from that, I like helping people and making a difference in people’s lives. Finally, I am a very keen sportsman and participate in most sports. When I am not working, I like to play Golf, Padel, Cricket and Football and head to someplace quiet to relax, - Amwaj is usually my preferred location”, says Colin.
Bahrain is like a second home to Colin, having been in the region for over ten years, “I came to Bahrain looking for opportunities and career development and Bahrain delivered. What I love most about Bahrain is the fantastic and amazing people who are very warm and welcoming.”
Invencible and Autentica - two one-off cars – a roadster and a coupé – have been created to celebrate the end of the V12 supercar era, ushering in the hybrid age.
With just little while to go until the debut of Lamborghini’s first hybrid super sports car, the Italian company is celebrating its iconic naturally-aspirated V12 with the Invencible coupé and Auténtica roadster: two unique, one-of-a-kind cars that showcase the brand’s DNA and epitomise Lamborghini’s exclusive focus on personalisation. Customers were involved in creating these truly bespoke models from the beginning.
“The V12 engine is one of the pillars of our history and our marque’s success,” said Stephan Winkelmann, Automobili Lamborghini Chairman and CEO. “As we head towards embracing a new era of hybridisation at
Lamborghini Invencible
the heart of our Cor Tauri strategy, this is the Lamborghini way of celebrating the naturally aspirated V12 with two one-off vehicles that perfectly represent our concept of excellence in personalisation.”
Invencible and Auténtica pay homage to Lamborghini design masterpieces such as the Sesto Elemento, the Reventón, and the Veneno. Both cars feature a carbon fiber monocoque from the Aventador, produced in Sant’Agata Bolognese, along with full carbon bodywork and design and technologies tested in motorsport.
The hexagonal motif, a well-known aspect of modern Lamborghini design, is integrated into the car’s distinctive visual elements, including the front and rear light assembly with innovative hexagonal LED running lights. The cabin is dominated by clean lines, with a minimalist dashboard, hexagonal 3D-printed air vents, and no instrumentation on the console, to emphasise the cabin’s lightness and the focus on pure driving enjoyment.
The Invencible coupé features a dominant shade of red with carbon-look elements and red “flakes”, complemented by Rosso Mars brake calipers and hexagonal tricolours as a tribute to the Italian flag. The Auténtica roadster features bodywork in Grigio Titans with Matt Black details and a Giallo Auge livery, with contrasting interior embroidery and upholstery in Giallo Taurus, Nero Ade leather, and two-tone Nero Cosmus and Grigio Octans Alcantara.
“We have created two one-off cars with their own unique character, inspired by track days and the high-octane circuit environment,” said Mitja Borkert, Automobili Lamborghini Head of Design. “They are designed by Lamborghini Centro Stile, exerting maximum creativity on the V12 platform. These one-off designs draw on our unique design DNA while once again elevating our design heritage to a new level.“
The Invencible and Auténtica are the last cars to be produced by Lamborghini with a 12-cylinder 6.5 l engine and mark the transition to a hybrid era. They deliver 780 CV and 720 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed ISR transmission, and can reach a top speed of over 350 km/h.
Lamborghini Auténtica
Superpower! Hybrid
The Ferrari 296 Gran Turismo Berlinetta (GTB) heralds a new era for future Ferrari models as it ushers in the age of the V6 twin turbo hybrid engine. With all the innovations, it is an intensely complex car but is surprisingly easy to drive - both on and off track.
Test driving the Ferrari 296 GTB on the BIC race track and cruising on city roads was an interesting experience. The track drive was intensely exhilarating especially when the pedal hits the metal and you let that beast roar! At high speeds, you feel powerful and in control with the lithe handling, strong brakes, astonishing agility and responsiveness to commands, that truly set this Ferrari ahead of the pack. It’s sexy and visceral with a hidden hybrid superpower that can deliver up to 819 hp. On city roads, while you may feel you have to be more
careful, it handles difficult terrain, especially the dreaded speed bumps, quite well. In both scenarios, the purr of 296 GTB really ups the experience and is integral to the essence of the car. Ferrari has successfully created a unique and distinct sound for the 296 GTB which is deep, much like a V12. Even on city roads, the engine can be heard inside the cabin. The sound alone has the ability to lift your mood and make your soul sing.
The street drive is so comfortable and fun, that we can really visualise this being an everyday-use car, not the trophies that sit in your garage, only to be taken out on track days.
Its sporty, sinuous design and extremely compact dimensions also visually underscore its exceptional modernity, brilliantly referencing the likes of the 1963 250 LM, the perfect marriage of simplicity and functionality.
Elegant minimalism is the word that comes to mind while describing the interiors of the 296 GTB, that is, of course, except for the steering wheel. All the focus is on the dashboard which can be controlled through the steering wheel, giving it a Formula One race car-esque feel. The center console contains a push-button shifter inspired by the gated manual Ferrari gearboxes of old.
The 296 GTB’s cabin raises the concept of the formal puritywhen the engine is off, the onboard instruments go black but once the start button is pressed, an exceptionally modern and completely digital interface lights up.
Beyond being a mechanical marvel, one of the most interesting aspects for an owner is the customisation. You get to decide on finer details including at least 15 different interior colour combinations, various textures and trims, roof and engine bay finishes, and much more. A delicious dilemma to have!
Finally, we tend to agree with most experts, that the 296 GTB is an ideal segue into the next generation of hybrid Ferraris. It stays stylish while being eco-friendly and is seriously fun to drive.
Catch our test drive of the 296 GTB on the BIC circuit by scanning the QR code.
Ferrari 296 GTB
The Pinnacle of Exclusivity
Being a vintage car collector requires patience, passion, patience, love and determination. Some collect to preserve the past; others for the thrill, the hunt or the quest but the one thing they have in common is the pure joy and excitement owning rare vintage cars brings.
For avid car collectors, RM Sotheby's exclusive and private sales are the pinnacle of taste and exclusivity, offering the perfect opportunity to own some of the world's most significant blue-chip vehicles.
Here is a selection of what is on offer this year:
960 Bentley S2 Drophead Coupe by H.J. Mulliner
One of the firm’s most successful models, a total of 1,863 Bentley S2s were produced by the time production drew to a close in 1962— virtually all of which were fitted with standard factory bodywork. Just 15 examples benefitted from the beautifully proportioned and hugely expensive Drophead Coupé coachwork of H.J. Mulliner & Co., Ltd. Of those special cars, just seven would be configured in left-hand-drive, the first of which is presented here: Chassis B75LBR.
The car passed through the hands of at least one other owner before being acquired by the consigning seller via Vantage Motorworks of Miami, Florida in 2021. The Bentley was serviced by the dealership prior to its sale, for more than $83,000, and remains in excellent condition. A rare example of a post-war, coach-built Bentley, these strikingly attractive H.J. Mulliner S2 Drophead Coupés are seldom seen and much sought-after, and would make a fine addition to any collection of significant British motorcars.
1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster
This Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster offers not just the thrill of open-air motoring but has also undergone restoration by Rudi & Company in Victoria, BC, world-renowned 300 SL specialist. During the restoration, it was confirmed that the Roadster retained its original chassis, engine, body, transmission, front axles, and rear differential. The original engine and gearbox were fully rebuilt, utilising only factory-correct components supplied by Mercedes-Benz Classic.
Acquired by its current Ontario-based owner in 2017, this beautifully presented MercedesBenz remains in exceptional condition today. Hailed as one of the greatest open sportscars of all time, the 300 SL Roadster is an icon of one of the most glamorous periods of motoring. These extraordinarily capable and deeply attractive Roadsters offer a seductive combination of class-leading performance, dynamic handling, and looks that could stop traffic.
1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster offer a seductive combination of classleading performance, dynamic handling, and looks that could stop traffic.
1960 Aston Martin DB4 GT Lightweight
From a sporting - if not necessarily a commercial - perspective, 1959 proved to be the most important year in Aston Martin’s history. In their twentieth attempt, they finally won the coveted Le Mans 24 Hours race; a result which proved instrumental in securing the World Championship for Sports Cars later that year. This beauty, the 1960 Aston Martin DB4 GT Lightweight, was one of just 75 Touring-bodied DB4 GTs constructed, and one of only six RHD 'Lightweight' cars. Having won several racing victories, the vehicle was fastidiously maintained during the present ownership by marque specialists Aston Engineering. Its fascinating association with one of the most illustrious of all privateer racing teams, race-winning pedigree - courtesy of 'Moss the Maestro' and Jack Sears - and unimpeachable, entirely UK-domiciled provenance undoubtedly renders 0124/R one of the most significant Aston Martins to be offered for sale in recent times. As such, it would represent a dramatic and hugely historically significant centrepiece to any suitably discerning car collection.
A collector's delight!
Coveted Middle Eastern art from the prestigious Al Zayani Collection to go under the hammer
It is expected to be one of the most highly anticipated events in the art world this year as Abdulrahman Al Zayani, one of the pioneering collectors of Middle Eastern art is offering over 80 eclectic works of art from his private collection for auction in London.
Based between Bahrain and London, Abdulrahman Al Zayani together with his family has assembled a multitude of artworks, from the historic Islamic world to modern and contemporary international art and design.
This spring, in a dedicated auction Sotheby’s will offer works of art from the prestigious Al Zayani family collection, all of which have been hung alongside each other in their home in Bahrain – marrying together impeccable taste with eclecticism. Hailing from Egypt, Turkey, Lebanon, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and North Africa, the artists in this collection represent the vast artistic production created over the last century in the Middle East.
Ahead of the auction on 25th April, the Al Zayani family spoke fondly about the passion with which the pieces were acquired, “As we open the doors to our collection, the overarching sense is that these pieces were acquired with love, and we are excited for them to go to new homes where they will be discovered and appreciated anew. As with all journeys, new pathways must be travelled, and so with this auction, we are opening a new chapter of both our story and the story of these timeless artworks. The world of Middle Eastern art has transformed since we first started almost two decades
Fouad Kamel, Untitled (The Drinker)
ago, and we are proud to witness and be a part of that evolution, living in a region that is now becoming one of the cultural hubs of the world.”
Some of the collection’s artworks are museum pieces, including one by the late Egyptian artist Gazbia Sirry. She was renowned for her early work that focused on images and stories of women. Her 1959 painting ‘The Garden’ depicts stylised female figures within geometrical shapes where she uses colour effectively to explore the different phases of women’s lives.
Fahrelnissa Zeid is another powerhouse artist whose work is included in the collection. Zeid was an important figure in the Turkish avant-garde circles in the early 1940s, her abstract paintings combine Islamic, Byzantine, and Arab influences with European abstraction techniques. Many of her monumental works can be admired in major museums across the world.
The collection also includes works by Moroccan contemporary artist Hassan Hajjaj. His exuberant portraits with their dynamic, trippy, pop aesthetic have earned him the moniker ‘Andy Warhol of Marrakesh’.
Ashkan Baghestani, Sotheby’s Contemporary Art specialist calls the auction a unique opportunity for budding collectors to acquire rare and important works of artistic masters from the region. Exploring myriad themes and mediums, each work represents a different aesthetic whilst tying into a rich thread of cultural heritage.
Gazbia Sirry, The Garden, oil on canvas, 1959 (Photo: Courtesy Sotheby’s)
Patek Philippe Reference 5531R-010 World Time Minute Repeater.
(Photo: Courtesy Sotheby’s)
Rare Treasures
Two horological masterpieces, from Patek Philippe and Rolex respectively, up for auction in New York.
One of the rarest and most coveted models from the historic Genevan brand Patek Philippe, and it’s up for auction! It is the Patek Philippe Reference 5531R World Time Minute Repeater.
Released in 2017, Patek Philippe’s important modern reference was created in celebration of the opening of ‘The Art of Watches Grand Exhibition’ – a ten-day retrospective of vintage and special edition timepieces from the legendary Swiss watchmaker in New York. In honour of the occasion, 10 examples of the reference were created with grand feu cloisonné enamel dials depicting two versions of New York’s iconic skyline in day and night time colours by celebrated artist Anita Porchet.
Its debut marked the first time the minute repeater and world time complication came together in one case in an unusual way: the hours and minutes chime the time in the time zone selected by the wearer via a city disk.
This exceptionally rare pink gold example is fitted with the ‘New York by Day’ dial and is one of just five examples, and the second one to ever appear at auction.
Also on view is a yellow gold Reference 6241 Daytona Paul Newman 'John Player Special' circa 1968. Affectionately named for its resemblance to the black and gold of John Player Special-sponsored Team Lotus cars of the 1970s, this watch evokes the excitement and opulence of Formula One racing. This exceptionally rare variant of an already limited edition watch is characterised by the
pairing of a black and gold contrasted dial with a 14k yellow gold case. Both masterpieces will be coming up for auction in New York on 9th June.
Rolex Reference 6241
Daytona Paul Newman ‘John Player Special’.
(Photo: Courtesy Sotheby’s)
Designing LUXURY
Quiet sophistication, elegance, an eye for minute detail, eclectic taste, a keen sense of proportion, and a distinctive feeling that living is easy, are the hallmark of Kate Instone, Founder of Blush International, a luxury interior design firm based in Dubai, UAE.
Kate’s client list boasts of patrons like Madonna, Seal, Thierry Henry, Lindsay Lohan among others. While she focuses purely on residential interior design, she has superyachts and private jets tucked away in her portfolio too.
As Kate has recently done a bespoke project in Bahrain, Life N Style caught up with her to get an insight into the what it takes to design living spaces for the most discerning people in the world.
Luxurious interiors of a private yacht designed by Kate Instone
You have been designing luxury spaces since 2007, tell us how does one take luxury design beyond the cookiecutter approach?
Kate Instone: I believe that luxury is subjective. For example, one client’s idea of luxury could be a dressing room with perfect make-up lighting, meters of customised storage painstakingly designed to house each individual item of clothing, chilled cashmere storage and a private spa. Another client’s idea of luxury could be a rooftop art studio, a private yoga space and a copper-lined sleep chamber. The key to creating true luxury is understanding your client and until then you will not be able to create their version of luxury.
I don’t believe that creating luxury is filling a home with Baccarat chandeliers and Hermes furniture - anyone can do that!
You’ve designed for several Ultra High Net Worth clients, kitting out superyachts and private aircrafts; which of these has been creatively the most satisfying project?
Discretion is a key tenet of the industry and while I cannot name several of my clients, including several Presidents, I have worked on interior design projects for Madonna, Seal, Michael Flatley, Lindsay Lohan among others.
One of the most creatively satisfying projects is one that I am currently working on - a privately owned Boeing 777. The brief is to create an interior that does not look like a typical private jet but like an elegant and sophisticated London
penthouse! It helps that we have been given a very generous budget to create new and unique finishes as well as a full bespoke fabric and furniture collection for this project. It has certainly got our creative juices flowing!
Designing luxury spaces means sourcing one-of-akind furniture that must have taken you on many a hunting trip. Do share some of the interesting tales from your travels.
I have made so many memories whilst sourcing furniture for clients. I am very fortunate to have worked with some of the most fascinating people alive who have wanted to fill their homes with rare and interesting pieces.
Kate’ s Design Style Guide For 2023
Natural materials
Natural woods and stones reduce the toxins we bring into the home through man-made fibres and chemicals, which in turn improve our overall health and sense of wellbeing.
Neutral shades
A calm and relaxing palette with softer shades of beige, grey and whites reflect naturally occurring colours, and this along with natural materials create a very elegant interior.
Stay Sustainable
Reducing the environmental impact of our homes is key so invest in items that have been sustainably produced using renewable and reusable materials.
Keep It Simple
Return to minimalism! Less is more and I love the calming trend of minimalism and simple and uncluttered spaces.
Unique Style
In keeping with the sustainability trend invest in vintage and antique furniture. It adds a new layer of personality to your home.
I have spent weeks at Paris' Saint-Ouen sourcing antiques. I have been sent by private jet to bid on rare Louis Vuitton trunks at Christie’s auction house in London. I have found crazy antiquities for sale whilst exploring Aynhoe Park in Oxfordshire.
Designing for superyachts and private planes must be very different from villas and living spaces - how do you approach these projects?
Designing these mobile palaces is something of a bespoke art. There are obvious space constraints when designing a yacht or a jet, you need to be skilled at maximising storage and functionality while still creating a luxurious and comfortable environment.
The other factor is to find durable materials that can withstand high humidity, salt and UV rays, ones that can withstand movement and vibration.
They need to be bespoke, unique and sophisticated environments that reflect the client’s status and tastes.
You have recently designed a luxury project in Bahrain, tell us what that experience was like.
We found Bahrain to be business friendly which helps the progression of a project, allowing for a seamless experience. There is a wide range of suppliers from the east and the west and everyone in between. Both the local and expat clients are well travelled and have gained inspiration from all
around the world, enabling a designer the freedom to create beautiful designs.
Among your many projects which one did you have the most fun designing, and which was the most challenging?
I think my most fun project was working on Madonna’s London home in around 2007. When I was growing up, she was such an icon, a successful, strong and forceful woman. I loved working with a client who had such a powerful and creative vision.
I think the most challenging project to work on is my own home. A very important part of Blush’s design process is to really get to know our clients. When designing my own home, I needed to take time for some serious selfreflection and reconnect with ‘me’. It’s amazing in our busy lives and being a working mother, how little time you have to really reflect on who you really are, what drives you, what you need and what you really want!
Kate has also worked on Madonna's London home in 2007.
Flying high in style: Interiors of a private jet designed by Kate Instone
Tranquil Haven
Rest, relaxation and tranquillity, surrounded by a pristine private beachfront and azure waters, perfect to reinvigorate your mind, body and spirit, and embark on a journey of all-encompassing wellness, the Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort and Spa is the ideal place to experience Jumeirah’s famed Arabian hospitality. Marco Den Ouden, the General Manager, Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain, proudly showed us around the luxury resort and spoke about their future plans and more.
Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort and Spa is one of the 'hottest' properties on the island - and it is truly gorgeous. Marco, tell us what you believe is the most unique aspect of the property that makes it special.
Marco Den Ouden: I think the location is quite unique. We are, as you said, a beautiful beachfront property here and since a lot of people in Bahrain have very busy lives, and it's very important to take some time away from all of it for yourself.
We, as a resort, one of the first resorts in the Kingdom, have a lot to offer and that makes us unique.
The Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain is a massive property and gives large family vacation vibes. We understand you have multi-room suites and villas, what else do you have in place to cater to that category of clientele in terms of other amenities and dining options?
You are right about the vibes. On the room side, we have a very unique setup with rooms that are interconnected as well as larger room categories like the Royal Suite. Then there is the Gulf Summer House that is set up to cater to larger families.
And we have great facilities for them to enjoy once they are here, we have one of the largest spas in Bahrain with a membership program, eight F&B outlets, a kids club, a cinema, seven pools, and a beautiful beachfront with water sports.
Seven pools, that’s something else. So the parents can be in one pool and the children can enjoy themselves in another.
I think our hyper-personalisation program is quite different from anything else in Bahrain. On vacations, while people like to spend time with their loved ones, however, for some, real relaxation or rejuvenation comes from having a bit of alone time. So we're very proud to be one of the first ones to offer something like this.
Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain also have plenty to offer in terms of dining options, from Europe, East Asia and the Middle East –how many outlets do you currently have and are there plans to bring in more?
Yes, you are right we do have a wide variety of cuisine on offer here with eight dining outlets. Our latest is ‘Due Mari’ which is a Sicilian restaurant. Funnily, the word ‘Due Mari’ means two seas, just like the word Bahrain! Then we have Obab Al Bahar which has all-day dining, it is also where we do our Friday brunch - which has become very popular.
One of the signature outlets that we've recently launched is called Zahrat Al Fayrouz, a lovely venue with great Levantine cuisine. Every F&B outlet has a completely different setup because we want to create little destinations in the property itself and also allow the chefs to let their creative juices flow. So please come and experience it.
Being environment-friendly is the new mantra in the hospitality industry - how has the Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain worked on this aspect?
We work with a lot of fresh ingredients that we mindfully source locally. We pre-select suppliers with a low carbon footprint so we have a lot of organic produce. We also try to be as energyefficient as possible in our energy and water consumption.
However, we realise now that there is a lot more that needs to be done and we need to create a more continuous effort towards sustainability.
You've worked at some of the most beautiful properties out of Maldives and earlier in China - what prompted the move and how has your experience in Bahrain been thus far?
Bahrain is a great market and there are so many opportunities to expand the international and even local touristic footprint - with more diversity, more experiences and more hospitality options.
That’s why I am here. I like to create, initiate and innovate and that’s why I think Bahrain is such a great place to be. Bahrain actually has an innate sense of hospitality and culture and that makes it so much more interesting to work here.
It is no secret that I enjoy food and creativity. I think those two things have really surprised me in Bahrain.
There are a lot of beautiful markets with fresh produce and the availability of diverse cuisines or ingredients Apart from that, there are a lot of painters and artists, whose craftsmanship we have used throughout our property in our interiors and artwork across the hotel, but there is so much more and that’s what I usually like to explore my free time.
Work-life balance is almost a myth in the hospitality industry - how do you deal with it and what do you enjoy doing in your limited leisure time?
I try very hard but I have learned that my phone is not my phone; as soon as my number gets shared, people call whenever they feel like it. So my real moment of privacy is when everybody else is asleep.
I also try to find my moments during the day and am very fortunate to have a great team that supports me operationally and so I can step into the background and work on creating bigger and better experiences for our guests.
This is just an excerpt of our conversation with the charming Marco Ouden, the true beauty of this interview lies in the video have shot across the Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain exploring this slice of heaven. Scan the QR code to watch the interview.
Ramadan Nights
Best of Bahrain's
Ramadan is the time to connect with family, loved ones, friends and the community, especially over a meal. In the first proper Ramadan post-pandemic, the hospitality sector is raring to go and has put together a wide range of dining and staycation options to make your Iftars and Ghabgas truly memorable. We have put together a comprehensive list of some of the truly lavish options for you to choose from.
Premium Experience at Four Seasons’ Ramadan Tent
This year, guests can soak in the spirit of the Holy Month, celebrate togetherness, and feast into the night on the private island of Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay in the spectacular atmosphere of the Ramadan Tent or under the stars at the outdoor extension of the tent.
The award-winning tent is an opulent dining destination featuring stunning Arabesque-inspired décor, lavish Iftar and Ghabga experiences, and live music.
Premium Experience: A special opportunity to enjoy full table-waited service, with a dedicated Four Seasons butler on hand to attend to every request along with a selection of Executive Chef Leonardo Di Clemente’s recommended menu, the premium experience also enables guests to select any items from the extensive buffet selection to be served at their table.
IFTAR will be served daily from sunset to 8:00 pm, priced at BD 35 net per person, children (aged 6-12) dine for BD 18; children aged 5 and below dine with the hotel’s compliments.
GHABGA will be served daily from 9:00 pm to 2:00 am, priced at BD 38 per person, children (aged 6-12) dine for BD 20; children aged 5 and below dine with the hotel’s compliments (including food and Ramadan juices).
PREMIUM EXPERIENCE is available daily from 9:00 pm to 2:00 am with rates from BD 55 per person (the tables can be booked for a minimum of 4 people).
For more information or to make a reservation, please call +973 1711 5500 or email diningreservations.bahrain@fourseasons.com
Ramadan Special at Vida Beach Resort
Marassi Al Bahrain
This holy month, gather your friends and family and indulge in a unique Ramadan-inspired culinary spread at Vida Bahrain’s award-winning restaurant, Origins. Celebrate with a special sunset iftar or a dazzling Ghabga with your loved ones at the cosy indoor or al fresco setup by the shores of Marassi Al Bahrain. Enjoy traditional live entertainment and flavorful shisha to cherish the spirit of togetherness this Ramadan at Vida Bahrain.
First week of Ramadan Iftar and Ghabga promo: 50% off for all (22nd – 29th March)
Start off Ramadan with a special gift for everyone from Vida Bahrain and indulge in Origins’ Iftar or Ghabga at flat 50% off throughout the first week of the holy month! Take in the sweeping views of the beach during twilight hours at Iftar for a heartwarming Ghabga with an assortment of scrumptious dishes featuring live entertainment, for a memorable Ramadan experience.
Book your table by calling +973 7748 8100 or email reservations.vimbh@vidahotels.com
Tuesday Iftar n’ Beach @ Vida (Free beach access for all Iftar guests)
Soak up the beautiful beachside sunset, break your fast gathered with loved ones and enjoy free beach access, every Tuesday for all Iftar guests. Spend quality time by the beach before a flavorful feast of Iftar at Origins Restaurant, as you admire the deep blue hues of the sea.
When: Every Tuesday | Time: Sunset – 8:30pm
Price: BD 22 net inclusive of Ramadan beverages and juices
Ghabga Twilight Hours (Book 5 Pay 4)
Share a table full of Ramadan indulgences with your loved ones for a blessed feast in Origins Restaurant’s sparkling setting and grab the Ghabga Twilight Hours every Wednesday, where you can book for 5 and pay for 4.
When: Every Wednesday | Time: 9:30pm – 1:00am
Price: BD 22 net buffet inclusive of Ramadan beverages and juices
Vida Diva Nights (50% off Ghabga for all ladies)
It’s a girls’ night at Vida Bahrain! Swing by for our Vida Diva Nights every Monday to catch '50% off Ghabga' promo and spin off your evening with live oriental music, as you catch up over appetizing traditional and international cuisines all night long on the beautiful shores of Marassi Al Bahrain.
When: Every Monday | Time: 9:30pm – 1:00am
Price: BD 22 net buffet inclusive of Ramadan beverages and juices (BD11net for ladies every Monday)
Midnight Shisha Hours (40% off shisha)
Round up your squad at the Stage2 terrace for an awesome catch-up time as your favourite post-iftar hang-out spot is back and serving you with the best seaside shisha in town only at Vida Bahrain.
When: Every Thursday | Time: 12:00 am – 2:00 am
Price: BD 22 net buffet
Book your table by calling +973 7748 8100 or email reservations.vimbh@vidahotels.com
Enchanting Ghabga Nights at The Restaurant
This Ramadan, embrace the true essence of the holy month immersed in the magical environs of The Restaurant and relish a delectable Ghabga feast featuring traditional live entertainment, as you make memories with your loved ones in unforgettable surroundings with a cosy setup overlooking the serene beach.
Everyday Buffet: BD 32 net
Timing: 9:30 pm – 1:00 am (weekdays) | 9:30 pm – 2:00 am (weekends – Thu & Fri)
Venue: The Restaurant
For inquiries and reservations please call +973 7799 8888 or email dineatbeachresortbah@addresshotels.com
Discover Ramadan Nights at Address Beach
Resort Bahrain
Honouring the holy month, Address Beach Resort Bahrain presents its first-ever Ramadan experiences, ranging from remarkable Iftar and Ghabga culinary journeys at the signature outlet, The Restaurant, to an intimate beachfront Ghabga Under The Stars setting.
A MAGICAL IFTAR AT THE RESTAURANT
Everyday Buffet: BD 32 net including Ramadan beverages and juices
Timing: Sunset – 8:30 pm
Venue: The Restaurant
Staycation at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa
Rejuvenate this Ramadan with Sofitel Bahrain and experience genuine and authentic hospitality in refined luxury with Sofitel Bahrain’s Ramadan retreat offers, starting from BD 75 for a luxury room with grand sea views, inclusive of Suhoor for two. If you are looking for an option with a similar room bundled with Suhoor and Iftar for two it starts at BD 105 net.
For more information or to make a reservation, please call +973 1763 6363
Layali Al Zallaq Ramadan tent at Sofitel Bahrain
The multi-award winning ‘Layali Al Zallaq’ Ramadan tent at the Sofitel Bahrain makes a comeback this season.
The Ramadan tent has a glorious seaside view of the Arabian Gulf. Let the wondrous and opulent Arabian ambience and delectable delicious Iftar and Ghabga delights whisk you away into a world of authentic flavours and Arabian magical nights. Embark on a marvellous night filled with enchanting live Arabian entertainment and exciting fun-filled activities catered just for you and your loved ones!
IFTAR begins at sunset and till 8.30 pm with prices starting at BD26 net per adult, inclusive of food and butler service and BD13 per child (between 6-12 years), children below 5yrs are welcome without any charge.
VIP Lounge: The VIP lounge is priced at BD35 net per person, inclusive of food and butler services.
Ladies Ghabga Night
Sofitel Bahrain welcomes all the ladies in Bahrain for an enchanting Ghabga evening every Monday at the dedicated weekly ‘Ladies Night’. Apart from enjoying the wide array of delicious traditional Ramadan delicacies, there are exciting raffle prizes to be won!
The festivities begin every Monday from 9:30 pm to 1:00 am. Ladies get a 50% discount on all food and beverages.
For more information or to make a reservation, please call +973 3888 5789.
GHABGA starts at 9:30 pm and goes on till 12:30 pm on weekdays and till 1:00 am on weekends. It is priced the same as Iftar, with the same services.
Ramadan Evenings at the Diplomat Radisson BLU
The Diplomat Radisson BLU is bringing a new delicious concept which will make to make Ramadan evenings spent at the hotel more memorable than ever. The epicurean journey of the Iftars and Ghabghas is put together by Bahraini Executive Chef Younis Ramadhan.
IFTAR: BD 19 net per person.
For more information and reservations please call: +973 1753 1666
Khaimat Al Khaleej Ramadan Tent at the Gulf Hotel
Light up your Ramadan at Khaimat Al Khaleej tent at the Gulf Hotel with a beautiful ambience, incredible cuisine, live stations, entertainment and much more!
IFTAR: BD 22* per person on weekdays
GHABGA: BD 20* per person on weekdays and BD 22 per person on weekends (*Prices are subject to applicable taxes | *T&Cs apply)
LADIES NIGHT: Every Tuesday (Ghabga ONLY) priced at BD 15 net per person
Call +973 3655 1333 | +973 1771 3000 for more information or to book
Baharat Mahya Ramadan at Le Meridian
‘Mahya’ is a tradition where devotional messages are displayed on a string of lights from the soaring minarets of the Ottoman-era mosques, it is unique to Turkey and dates back hundreds of years. This year, Baharat offers a glimpse of Turkish Ramadan tradition from its décor which highlights the Blue Mosque and other religious landmarks in Turkey.
IFTAR will be served from sunset to 8:30 pm priced at BHD 21.5 net for adults, BD 10 for children (6-12 years) and children below 6 years dine with the compliments of the hotel.
GHABGA will be served from 9:00 pm to 2:00 am priced at BD 14.5 per person. Shisha service available from sunset to 12:30 am is priced at BHD 9 net.
GHABGA & SHISHA package is priced at BHD 21 net
Baharat is located on the ground floor of Le Meridien City Centre Bahrain
Staycation at the Le Meridien
The special room and iftar package includes a stay in a superior room and an iftar buffet at Baharat Restaurant priced at Bd 55+++ for single occupancy and Bd 65+++ for double occupancy.
Additionally, the package can be upgraded by a stay in a deluxe room and an iftar buffet at Furn Bistro priced at BD 80+++ for single occupancy and BD 90+++ for double occupancy
For more information or to make a reservation, please call +973 1717 1111or email reservations.bahrain@marriott.com
Traditional Iftar & Ghabga At Wyndham Grand Manama
This Ramadan, the Atmosphere restaurant at the Wyndham Grand Manama has put together unique yet traditional Iftar & Ghabga offerings with an exceptional dining experience that includes Middle Eastern, Meditteranean, Asian & Indian delights. It is priced at BD17 plus taxes per person
For more information or to make a reservation, please call +973 3366 0312
Ramadan Staycation at Wyndham Grand Manama
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Manama Skyline with a stay at the Wyndham Grand Manama. Prices start at BD58 (plus taxes) including your choice of breakfast, Iftar or Ghabga.
For more information or to make a reservation, please call +973 3366 0304.
A Cut Above The Rest
He is a fascinating personality, the quintessential chef, entrepreneur and culinary genius, Wolfgang Puck, is one of the world’s most celebrated chefs. A hit with celebrities, royalty and Presidents alike, he has received several Michelin stars and even won a Daytime Emmy Award for his cooking show.
As he celebrates 50 years of his culinary journey, Life N Style sat down with him over lunch at ‘The Cut by Wolfgang Puck’ at the Four Seasons Hotel to talk about his life experiences, his favourite place to eat in Bahrain and his advice to someone starting out as a chef today.
“For someone wanting to get into the cooking business today, I would ask them to go learn how to cook. A lot of young people these days want to become a chef, be on television, or own a restaurant right away. It takes time to learn the basics and to know how to get things right. So learn it at somebody else’s expense and then you can do all that.”
CATERING AT THE OSCAR’S GOVERNOR’S BALL
Wolfgang Puck has been catering at the Oscars’ Governor’s ball for almost 30 years and along the way, he has realised that his chicken pot pie is a crowd favourite, with Barbara Streisand and Prince Albert of Monaco being the biggest fans of the dish.
We asked him to share some of his fondest memories from the event and he revealed something very interesting. “It’s a really great event especially since we know most of the celebrities who come, really well. What is really funny this year, is that one of the writers for ‘All Quiet on the Western Front’, used to work as a waitress at the Governors Ball and now she is nominated for an Oscar. So I think they’re going to be fun”, says Puck.
(The movie was nominated for nine Oscars including Best Adapted Screenplay)
INCORPORATING LOCAL INGREDIENTS
Wolfgang’s visit to Bahrain during the Formula One season is highly awaited and he has been making the trip for the last eight years. Chef Puck is known for his fusion style where he incorporates fresh local ingredients to elevate his dishes. “We always go to the farmer’s market and the fish market to select the best local produce and ingredients. For example, we do this black sea bass that the people who enjoy fish love - and it’s local. However, we do not have cows running around here so we import the meat from Europe and America,
because we get the best steaks there”, says Chef Puck.
FAVOURITE BAHRAINI RESTAURANT
A pioneer of fusion cuisine, Wolfgang Puck’s vision and unique creativity bridged tradition and invention, allowing him to create cuisines that transcended culture and conventionalism. The inherent fusion in Bahraini cuisine appeals to him, “I think it is really interesting because it is influenced by several cuisines including Arabic and Indian. They use spices a lot including saffron, and pepper among others giving it a lot of flavours and I love that.”
“My favourite thing to do when I come to Bahrain is to go to Haji’s Cafe and have breakfast. They have all different kinds of dishes, from beans to meat. I really like their yoghurt, honey, and the sweet noodle dish they have with the egg on top (Balaleet). So I eat a lot of Bahraini traditional dishes, which is important for me because when I come here, I want to feel like I’m in Bahrain.”
The Cut by Wolfgang Puck at the Four Seasons Hotel
Chef Puck at Haji's Cafe in Manama.
RED BULL
As Bahrain dazzled on the global stage for the season opener of Formula One, former F1 driver David Coulthard and British Formula One digital presenter William Buxton of Netflix’s ‘Drive to Survive’ fame spoke exclusively to Life N Style magazine to give us their take on the upcoming season.
It was an electrifying weekend with a record sell-out crowd, amazing world-class entertainment, and an incredible race, as Bahrain lit up for the massive global success that was the season opener of Formula One at Sakhir. A whopping 36,000 spectators watched Red Bull dominate the race with Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez picking up the first and second places while Fernando Alonso had a third-place podium finish after an intense battle with Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) and Carlos Sainz (Ferrari).
Commenting on the conclusion of the 2023 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, Arif Rahimi, Chairman of Bahrain International Circuit, said, “Our sell-our crowd over the weekend reflects the incredible popularity of Formula 1 across the world. What is especially encouraging
is that we are attracting more fans than ever before from overseas and also bringing in a new generation to the sport. Moreover, the passion of the Bahraini fans is as intense as I have ever seen.”
WILL BUXTON AND THE ‘DRIVE TO SURVIVE’ CRAZE
There is no escaping the impact that Netflix’s docuseries ‘Drive To Survive’ has had on the sport. Data from reputed market research firm Nielsen found that 34% of Netflix viewers became fans of F1 racing after watching the series. Another 30% said they understood the sport more, and 29% said they felt more engaged with the sport.
The analysis, which looked at F1 viewership during three specific periods, found that more than
His Royal Highness The Crown and Prime Minister, Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa with the Red Bull team principal, Christian Horner in the Paddock at Sakhir
360,000 viewers who didn’t view F1 in the latter part of the 2021 season, watched F1 racing in 2022 after watching ‘Drive to Survive’. Its halo effect has driven fans from the TV screen to the live sport, something that has been difficult to accomplish earlier.
In an exclusive chat with Life N Style, Will Buxton, the Formula One digital presenter, who has found international fame due to his presence on the immensely popular show got his predictions for Bahrain spot-on - A Red Bull one-two and a third for Alonso, revealing why the show has kept him on for all five seasons.
Speaking about the impact of the show, Buxton says, “I love it and I think it’s been extremely positive for the sport to be able to open it up to people who had never even thought about watching a Grand Prix race and I feel very blessed to be a part of it.
I get to explain the complexities of the sport and try to make it simple so that if you’ve never watched a Grand Prix before you understand it. I know that I get mocked a little bit for saying some of the obvious things like: 'You want to start from the pole position to be able to start ahead of everyone else', but if you think about it, in any other sport say the 100m at the Olympics, if Usain Bolt or whoever qualifies with the fastest time,
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BAHRAIN GEARING UP TO CELEBRATE THE BIG 2-0!
Bahrain celebrates two decades of hosting Formula One in 2024. It was the vision and foresight of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa which ensured that Bahrain became ‘The Home of Motorsport in the Middle East’. His Royal Highness Crown Prince and Prime Minister who visited the various teams in the paddock on race day, something he has done since the first F1 race in 2004, emphasised that the success of the 2023 Bahrain Grand Prix was a testament to the Kingdom's capacity for hosting international sporting events and reflects His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa's aspirations.
Sheikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, Chief Executive of Bahrain International Circuit, added, "As the dust settles on our 2023 race, we are already looking towards the future. Next year represents a landmark 20th anniversary for us as a circuit and our involvement in F1. For that, we plan to step it up another year for our fans with a special celebration. We look forward to welcoming everyone again next year."
why would he start a meter or 10m ahead of everybody else, doesn’t seem fair right?
So, those little things might seem obvious to us, but not to those who have never watched the sport before. Sometimes you just need to explain those little things. And it’s lovely to be able to do that.
And what it’s done for the sport, is opening new markets, to see the demographic grow and change so
rapidly, I think it’s been very positive for Formula One.”
Speaking about his predictions for this season, Buxton is a little cagey, “It’s really impossible to say because there’s so much development that goes on throughout the year so we could have a team that starts off disappointingly and pull it back by the end of the year.
Rewind 12 months. McLaren had such a difficult first race last year, who would’ve thought that they would
be fighting over fourth place in the construction championship? They made these amazing advances.
I think it’ll be Red Bull, Ferrari and actually Aston Martin fighting at the front of the season. I think Mercedes have a long way to catch up and if they have to change the design and philosophy of the car, that’s going to hold them back even more. So I think Aston Martin are the only ones who could be competitive.”
HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, SCYS First Deputy Chairman, GSA Chair and BOC President, presenting the trophies to winners, Max Verstappen and Fernando Alonso.
For the new drivers, Buxton felt that they were in a difficult position. "Williams trying to fight their way through the field from the back, AlphaTauri look like they’ve got a tricky little car underneath them and McLaren have a long way to go to be able to be where they want to be. This actually makes life a bit easier for the rookies, as it is much better if they can take their time to figure out slowly as opposed to being in the fastest car on the grid, and making their mistakes in the glaring public eye. Even if they’re not going to be up there necessarily fighting for podiums, and wins, I think they each get points and then they’ll be able to learn gradually as the year goes on.”
Seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton has been put in a difficult position with Mercedes not getting their design strategy right in 2022 and even 2023, from what we saw in the first race. In fact, the team principal for Mercedes, Toto Wolff, even announced pre-race that they were looking to change up the design philosophy completely.
“I think they have to do that and the sooner they make a decision the better. The longer they go on with a design philosophy that isn’t working, the more time they are losing.
Toto Wolff admits it. At the start of this weekend, they are already one year behind from where they wanted to be. So with every race that goes on they find themselves closer to getting almost 18 months behind”, says Buxton.
DAVID COULTHARD’S PREDICTIONS FOR THE SEASON
To get a former formula one driver’s take on this year’s season, Life N Style spoke with
the unforgettable racing great turned commentator, David Coulthard. The British driver who competed in 15 seasons of Formula One between 1994 and 2008, had 13 Grand Prix victories and 62 podium.
Coulthard’s predictions for the season, “I believe that Max will win the world championship again. And it will be quite a tight battle between McLaren and Ferrari. Fernando Alonso will maybe even get a win. But for sure he will get some podiums.”
With a number of rookies joining F1 this season, Coulthard says their journey was a little harder to predict. “Nyck de Vries has been doing a good job but it has been tough, especially as he has had to start from the last row in Bahrain. Oscar Piastri going to have a bit of a learning curve and is struggling, so that’s is going to make it even more difficult for him. But, I think they’re all there on merit, and I wish them all the best.”
It’s only the start of the season and all possibilities are open, but if we were to believe what we have seen on the track in Bahrain and what the pundits are saying, it is likely to be Red Bull’s year once again.
Apart from F1, BIC has a lot of exhilarating experiences to offer. To know about them scan the QR code
After landing the Group 3 Bahrain International Trophy in November with Dubai Future, Saeed bin Suroor and Daniel Tudhope teamed up once again to win the prestigious His Majesty The King’s Cup with Passion And Glory for Godolphin.
Royal Court Affairs Minister Shaikh Ali bin Isa Al Khalifa had been deputised by His Majesty King Hamad had deputised to attend the races said, "It is a testament to the growth and development of the sport that horseracing in Bahrain now regularly
HH Shaikh Ali bin Isa Al Khalifa presented the trophy of the Al-Methaq Cup to HH Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa.
attracts world-class horses and worldrenowned trainers and jockeys such as Saeed bin Suroor and Danny Tudhope. And I would like to congratulate Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum on his success with Passion And Glory and thank him for his ongoing support for racing in the Kingdom.
As shown by today’s racing, this season we have taken another step towards fulfilling our ambition to establish Bahrain as a home for top-class International horseracing. I would like to take this opportunity to thank not only our overseas visitors but also the kingdom’s own jockeys, trainers and owners, without whom such progress would not be possible."
In the Al-Methaq Mile, an earlier race, the Allan Smith-trained Byline emerged as the winner for its owner Al Adiyat Racing. Ridden by Gerald Mosse, the son of Muhaarar, powered clear. That victory gave Al Adiyat Racing and Allan Smith a treble on the day. Meanwhile, Bin Isaan Racing’s Epic, trained by Fawzi Nass and ridden by Stephane Ladjadj, won the final race of the day, for the King’s Cup.
The King’s representative for humanitarian work and youth affairs HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, REHC Chairman Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa and Supreme Council for Environment Vice-President and REHC Deputy Chairman Shaikh Faisal bin Rashid Al Khalifa also attended the races organised by Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club (REHC) at its racecourse in Sakhir.
