Velvet July-August Issue 2014

Arab History: Sunni-Shia Historical Debate

Ramadan: Heavenly Bites Sheikha Madiyah Al Sharqi: Rise of a Royal Designer

Exclusive: Secrets of the Dior Roses Travel Special: What is going on in Qatar?

Azza Fahmy: Jewel of the Nile

s n o i t a t p m e T

July-August 2014 Issue 32 AED 20 QR/SR 20 BD/OR 3.5 KD 2.5 GBP 5.0 EURO .5

True Story: Raped for a Living

Visit us at: Level 1, Next to Fashion Avenue Level 5 Parking, The Dubai Mall, Tel: +9714 3399450

Level 1, Near Dome Area, Dubai Marina Mall Tel: +9714 4342513

July-August CONTENTS ISSUE 32

Editor’s Letter 12 Sheikha Hend Al Qassemi presents Velvet Issue 32 Editor’s Picks 14 Just below the knee 15 Travel with the hero bag 18 Summer’s super fruits Trends 18 Festival ready 24 Come on, chameleon 34 Dazzling bright, Diamante Spotlight 26 Viva Vera 33 Panthère de Cartier Collection 103 Sparkling strides 106 World’s first Ramadan Phone Beauty 36 Time for a beauty update Fashion 40 Tribal temptations 48 The muse 56 Splendours of Ramadan 64 Clean beauty 72 Nail art 76 Distractions 84 Radiance Celeb Fashion 92 Star power

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July-August CONTENTS ISSUE 32

Interviews 20 Rise of the royal designer 94 Azza Fahmy: Jewel of the Nile Luxury 96 Sampling of life’s indulgent pleasures Lord Velvet 100 Masters of the fashion universe 101 Man of the moment Ramadan Special 104 Heavenly bites 105 Must-try recipe Travel Feature 108 What’s happening in Qatar?

110 Travel bits for a safe and fun trips Interior 114 A taste for design Arts and Culture 116 Artistic musings True Story 118 Raped for a living Arab History 122 The schism that poisons Islam Charity 125 Lots of love

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Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Sh Hend Al-Qassemi hend@velvet.ae Deputy Editor Anthon Garcia anthon@velvet-mag.com Contributing Fashion and Beauty Editor Ann Pajares Contributing Lifestyle Editor Jennifer DG Contributing Writers Hugh Tomlinson, Paul Vallely Photographers Riccardo Roberti, Tamara Williams, Hikmat Wehbi, Mario Caponi, Carla Guler, Ursu Contributing Stylists Ameni Shafik, Sara Al Banna, Barbara, Palladino, Celia-Jane Ukwenya, Gian Marco Funari Hair and Make-Up Federica Guglielmo, Nadine Klier, Denise Bassler, Marcela Bantea, Federico Faragalli, Nickol Walkemeyer, Kristen Kolntz, Maddalena Brando Images Getty Images Editorial Submissions and Press Releases info@velvet.ae Head of Business Development Anthon Garcia anthon@velvet-mag.com Design Muriel Santos

ALFARDAN JEWELLERY Alfardan - DOHA (+974) 444 08 4008

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Laurence Laborie-Arywanka

PARIS

Editor’s LETTER Pg.20 ICON

Pg.35 Accessories

Dear Velveteers, Ramadan Kareem!

In our part of the world, the Holy Month is one of the most sacred and treasured moments. We share in the reflective mood of the season. This is also a period of celebrations, where families and friends gather for Iftar and Suhour.

We are delighted to bring you some of the heavenly treats (PAGE 104) and are happy to feature a technological revolution that allows for a richer experience of Ramadan (PAGE 106).

There is also a palpable excitement around this time, as we set off for great adventures during the summer months.

Discover exciting destinations (PAGE 110), and get to know more about familiar places, such as our insightful feature on Qatar (PAGE 108). While planning trip, make sure you check out our best picks for backpacks (PAGE 15) and other travel essentials to ensure you have a fun and safe trip (PAGE 111).

Discover how the Arab world is making a mark in the field of jewellery design in our fascinating interview with Azza Fahmy (PAGE 94), and our special feature on Madiyah Al Sharqi, a rising star Sheikha Hend in the fashion design industry (PAGE 20).

We hope to make every page worth your while, so we filled this Pg.110-Travel issue with the trendiest edits in fashion (PAGE 18), beauty (PAGE 36) and accessories (PAGE 34), and added celebrity inspired (PAGE 92) getups perfect for the sizzling months ahead.

We’d love to hear from you about what you think of our stories and feature. Follow us on Instagram (@velvetmagazine) and Twitter (@ Velvet_Magazine) and like us on Facebook (VelvetMagME) and let’s have a conversation.

Eid Mubarak!

Pg.18Fashion Trends

Pg.94 Azza Fahmy

Love, Hend Pg.30-Jewellery

Sheikha Hend Al Qassemi Pg.104-Ramadan Treats

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Editor’s PICK s et’ de nn ma a Vioian--aquont l Ita pale p-fr kirt a s wr silk

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Want to channel a totally effortless feminine look? Then, turn on to your midi skirts. From playful art prints to laced tulles, wrap-front or layered tiers, these skirts that fall midway your calves are suited for casual day wear or intimate evening soirees. Pair it with minimalist top, and statement shoes or accessories, and you’re definitely rocking this trendy piece!

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Editor’s PICK

01 Moschino biker leather backpack 02 3.1 Phillip Lim The Pashli sharkeffect leather backpack 03 Jérôme Dreyfuss’ leopard-print calf hair bag 04 Alexander Wang black texturedleather accented with rose gold hardware Prisma bag 05 Marni gray leather backpack 06 Karl Lagerfeld printed canvas backpack 07 Marc by Marc Jacobs blue chambray Packrat bag 08 Alexander McQueen padlock skull-embellished textured-leather backpack 09 The Row luxe backpack 10 Tory Burch tasseled texturedleather backpack

THE HERO

BAG Need a functional and stylish bag this season, yet tired of the same old satchels? Then, turn in to the hero piece – the backpack – for a trendier, comfy companion. Perfect for traveling in style, backpacks seem to be high fashion house’s go-to item, too, as the likes of Marc Jacobs and Karl Lagerfeld favor them as well. For effortless chic, team these bags with Summer’s shorts and statement tops.

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Editor’s PICKS

PEARS Pears are super weight loss fruits that pack plenty of fiber. This is also a cholesterollowering and heart- healthy fruit due to its potassium content!

SUPER FRUITS

Some are afraid of its sugar content, but fruits are definitely a must in a fitness enthusiast diet plan. It has tons of healthy nutrients, plus it allows satiety which is very important in weight loss. We’ve scoured the best fruits weight watchers should eat to boost metabolism, and here you go…

Oranges

Orange is a really great metabolism booster which is high in vitamin C, thiamin and folate. Believe it or not but one cup of orange has only 85 calories and 5 grams of dietary fiber.

PEACHES

KIWIS

Kiwi’s black seeds combine for a good dose of insoluble fiber that aids digestion. But kiwi fruit also offers soluble fiber, providing bulk that promotes the feeling of fullness.

It contains a high amount of fiber, potassium and it is full of vitamins.

Several studies have shown that peaches are a good source of antioxidants.

BLUEBERRIES Blueberries are the special fruit with one of the highest antioxidant levels. This means that blueberries take on insulin resistance, hypertension, obesity, and cholesterol.

POMEGRANATE

Studies show that the polyphenols antioxidants in pomegranate boost the body’s metabolism.

Also, pomegranate additionally reduces LDL cholesterol, removes harmful toxins and increases the blood flow in the body.

GRAPEFRUIT Grapefruit is low in calories, in fact there’s just 37 calories in a half a grapefruit, and it is high in fiber!

MANGOES

Although mangoes do contain a little more sugar than other fruits listed but they contain about 130 calories, 3 grams of dietary fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin A and calcium.

BANANAS

Bananas are high in both fiber and potassium. Bananas are high sources of vitamin B6 which helps in boosting your immunity and may lower your risk of heart disease.

APPLES

Eat apple a day, and sure you’ll keep the doctor away. This fruit is high in fiber, low in calories, and contains vitamins and minerals perfect for healthy living.

STRAWBERRIES

Strawberries promote the production of the hormones adiponectin and leptin, both of which are fat-burning hormones and metabolic boosters.

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Fashion TRENDS

Just Cavalli Pre-Fall 2014

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FESTIVAL READY Channel the effortless bohemian look this Pre-Fall, and you’re all set for the season. From the mix of prints to the shiniest shades, the carnival look is hitting the shelves now. Pair your maxis with gladiator sandal, or choose chiffon pants and groovy looking necklace for more party glamour spirit.

01 Dolce & Gabbana swimwear 02 Saint Laurent by Hedi Slimane sunnies 03 Missoni crochet-knit poncho 04 Sophia Webster’s gladiator-inspired sandals 05 Valentino rockstud texturedleather sandals 06 Emilio Pucci printed stretch-silk mini dress 07 Roberto Cavalli printed stretchsatin jersey mini dress 08 Etro printed silk-crepe maxi skirt 09 Temperley London silk maxi

Givenchy Pre-Fall 2014

*items are available at net-a-porter.com

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Christian Dior Pre-Fall 2014

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Lanvin Pre-Fall 2014

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TAKE IT FROM THE BOYS Borrowing masculine tailoring and sharp shoulders is returning in fashion this Pre-Fall. With androgynous look still on the rise, women are definitely in to creating the pared-back, transitional look. Shirts and wide-leg pants are must-haves in your closets for sure.

01 Victoria Beckham Denim boiled wool and wool-blend gabardine vest 02 Isabel Marant everly tweed vest 03 DKNY stretch-cotton poplin and stretch-silk georgette top 04 Stella McCartney wool skinny pants 05 Fendi cropped wool tapered pants 06 Michael Kors silk-georgette shirt 07 Rag & Bone oversized wool blazer 08 Alexander Wang lizard-effect leather shoulder bag 09 ChloĂŠ leather-trimmed suede and mesh pumps *items are available at net-a-porter.com

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RISE OF THE ROYAL DESIGNER Madiyah Al Sharqi finds her niche, in style

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ubai’s continuing rise as a global fashion hub has proided just the inspirational spark for local designers to flourish. One promising example is Madiyah Al Sharqi, daughter of the ruler of Fujairah, HH Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi.

She seemed born to live and thrive in the world of fashion. She noticed how tailors on duty fine-tuned the custom dresses with great finesse. That’s how her infant obsession took off and then turned into a lifelong career and passion.

“I grew up with tailors around the house and my mum would be designing clothes. I would see the process of designing and tailoring which I really enjoyed and so I always knew subconsciously that this was something I wanted to do as well,” she says.

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Text by Nagmani

Madiyah Al Sharqi

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1. Velvet Loves - this fab top that’s perfect for fall 2. Intricate details make for a stunning look!

3. A splash of crystals make this piece divine 4. The Madiyah Al Sharqi is a woman of style and substance 5. Gorgeous ensemble fit for day or night 6. Casual chic 7. Bold yet elegant

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way Arab women dress – it’s not just about spending lots of money on well-established designer pieces. They are also more willing to invest in emerging brands for a unique look.”

In the fashion world, she does have role models like Riccardo Tisci (Italian designer) and Phoebe Philo (British designer) whom she looks up to and feels inspired by.

Asked what the world of fashion means to her personally, she replies, “I am really happy to be a fashion designer and I couldn’t imagine doing anything else. I had a dream and I fulfilled it – If I look back, there wouldn’t be anything I would have done differently.” To make her dream come true, she went on to study at the acclaimed Esmod where she learnt the technical side of fashion. During her studies she interned with various designers which gave her a lot of insight into the creative process.

Talking about her designs and what really makes them stand out from the rest in the region, she explained, “I think every designer is unique with his or her designs. All the emerging designers in the region that I know produce distinctive collections. Personally, I believe my collections are very unique as I like to experiment a lot with color, juxtapose fabric and get creative with lengths and layers.”

Following this intuition, she knows who her incredible designs are aimed at. “The Madiyah Al Sharqi woman is definitely a ‘present day’ Marie Antoinette – a powerful young woman who exudes both elegance and assertion freely,” she believes.

Interestingly, one point that struck me during our conversation was that she doesn’t think of any particular celebrity while designing. More or less, she wants everyone to feel like they are shining when wearing one of her pieces.

Inspirations vary from person to person and relate to them in their own way. Likewise, Al Sharqi nurtures some that draw her attention. “I get very inspired when I travel. I love Europe, especially Paris because everyone here is incredibly fashionable and the architecture is beautiful too. I always feel the need to create when I’m there. It’s a beautiful city of effortless glamour and timeless allure, which is what I like to incorporate into my designs,” she says.

Touching people’s sense of style

The Madiyah Al Sharqi label has become a huge rage now since its launch in 2011. She enjoys a big fan base today. On being recognized for her great work in a short span of time, she said, “I can honestly say that I feel really blessed to have support; I feel that the local market has taken my work very well. I always feel honored whenever I see someone wearing a Madiyah Al Sharqi outfit. The excitement never fades and I am incredibly grateful for that.”

Asked about the plans for her brand five years down the line, she replied soberly, “It’s difficult to say where I will be five years down line because the fashion industry is always very surprising and new trends emerge every day. I like to take one step at a time.”

She is so good at her work that each collection of hers has something quite unique to be mad about. Her AW14 is no different with a look back to the dazzling 1960s. “I think I am constantly inspired by a mixture of the 1960’s and the Age of Enlightenment. For AW14, I decided to stick to a pastel pink, white and beige color palette. The fabrics I used consist of cashmere, organza, crepe and embellished lace. For an edgy 60’s look, I decided to incorporate white and pink gingham to several of the pieces, which is my favorite element in the collection. I think it’s so feminine, yet so bold at the same time,” says Al Sharqi. “I do like to use Jacquards as well.”

“What about the tips to look gorgeous?” “As a fashion designer, I can only suggest if you want to look beautiful without becoming a victim of overindulgence, I think it’s important to invest in pieces that are elegant and timeless but feel free to mix and match those pieces with a unique modern print – this will give you an elegant but edgy look.”

But most importantly, she had this to say what she likes about her world: “The fashion industry is incredibly busy and I’m always working, even when I go on holiday (especially then!).

However, I absolutely adore it because everything in fashion is so fast moving and it never gets boring– the events, the fashion shows etc. I appreciate every part of it.”

“I think Arab women are extremely stylish; they manage to merge daring elementswithaconservative twist without looking too contrived.”

LOVE FOR HERITAGE

She admits that her heritage is clearly entwined in what she creates. “As an Arab designer, I always ensure that there is something there for my Arab clients. However, I do not necessarily design with my heritage in mind. I’d like to think my designs could be worn anywhere and not just in the Middle East. I offer women a way to take pride in their culture but with a more international perspective, which is what people really appreciate here.”

And when it comes to fashion, the Arab women’s taste is something to reckon with. “I think Arab Women are extremely stylish; they manage to merge daring elements with a conservative twist without looking too contrived,” she says. “I adore the

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Spotlight BRACCIALINI

EMBRACE VARIETY Bright or pastel, there’s no escaping colour this season. So update your accessories with these gorgeous handbags from Braccialini’s spring/ summer collection. From hold-all to clutches, Braccialini’s new collection offers styles suited for every woman and occasion. Made from highest quality leather with exquisite craftsmanship so can be sure that you are making the right wardrobe choice.

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Jewellery TRENDS

Floral Sensations

In Chantecler’s Paillettes jewels you will discover pink gold settings delicately encircling coloured enamel discs fashioned into floral fantasies to form eye-catching stud earrings and rings or featured on flowing necklaces which can be ‘looped’ twice around their wearer’s neck. This sequined embroidery blossoms into pale pink, aqua green, black or white blooms promising to turn an everyday event into a celebration.

The Chantecler’s delightful Paillettes collection offers innovative earrings, necklaces and rings. Fashioned in pink gold settings and highlighted by enamel, the utterly feminine and colourful collection named after the French word for ‘sequins’ is set to be summer’s new sensation!

Come on, Chameleon

In conjunction with Brazil’s hotness due to FIFA fever, we’re happy to learn about the new Brazilian brand that’s glittering in Bloomingdale’s-Dubai floors. Coined as Hueb, it is inspired by Brazilian ‘joie de vivre’, the unrestrained joy for living and strong belief that jewellery makes women happy. For Hueb, luxury is inspiring and celebratory, not intimidating.

Founded in 1987 Cristina and Rogério Hueb, in the city of Uberaba, Minas Gerais; each Hueb product is infused with an exceptional level of artistry skill and quality, allowing the jewellery to take centre stage. It embodies effortless elegance while crafting creative designs that complement a woman’s personal style.

The jewellery brand features VS-graded diamonds and natural gemstones, many of them set in 18K gold and this is no exception for the new ‘Chameleon’ collection.

The hide and seek of changing colours and playful illusions is echoed in the ‘Chameleon’ Collection. The unique pieces explore interchanging possibilities with a variety of gemstones and versatile designs. Unleash your imagination and create your own signature style.

Charming Charms

Know what the buzzword in jewellery world these days? Well, every one is going crazy about charms. And, gladly, another luxury brand has debuted a collection to add to the charming concept of collecting these cute dazzlers.

Italian designer Ippolita Rostagno drew inspiration from her childhood spent in Florence and Rome for her new Charms collection. Growing up, Rostagno occupied her time collecting whimsical handmade curiosities including hand-carved miniature sculptures, micro-mosaic pins, antique reliquaries, and charms of all sorts—a hobby that she has continued to pursue as an adult. Her debut charm collection is a natural extension of her personal passion and she hopes to inspire customers to similarly collect, curate, create.

The IPPOLITA Charm collection exemplifies the use of antique techniques with modern interpretation showcasing an extensive assortment of handcrafted cameos, intaglio stone carvings, diamond -encrusted numbers and letters, and miniature sculptures.

The 18KT gold and sterling silver charms are priced from AED 525 to AED 7,581 and are available to the Middle East in the IPPOLITA Boutique, The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi; Panorama Mall in Riyadh, Red Sea Mall in Jeddah; and online at www.ippolita.com.

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Got to have Faith

Express yourself, and be proud of what you believe in. Not only does this exquisite diamond sets appropriate for self-expression, each piece in this exclusive ‘Faith’ collection is a showcase of the wearer’s faith designed in a spectacular setting of diamonds, making it the perfect gift for Eid. Created using 18 carat gold and available in four gold colours; white, yellow, pink and black, there is a Messika design to suit everyone. The diamond is always at the core of Valerie Messika’s creations and this collection is no exception. The setting serves only to stage the stone and appears invisible allowing the simplicity and beauty of the diamonds to truly shine through. Timeless yet contemporary, this collection has the ability to be passed down from generation to generation making it an ideal gift for family members and loved ones. This exclusive collection is at once a means of expression and style, by merging faith with fashion this collection has the power to make your heart stop and your eyes sparkle. Messika Paris is available at select stores in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Bahrain.

Go round and round

Fresh and Feminine

With its Emblem Ladies Fine Jewellery Collection, the Montblanc maison introduces a new range of fine jewellery in 18 carat pink and white gold enhanced with pavé diamonds.

The Collection offers three different feminine styles of fine jewellery with understated allure.

The design inspiration of the Montblanc Emblem Ladies Fine Jewellery Collection is derived from the Pétales Entrelacés motif – a delicate petal motif symbolising the emotive rose petal with its sensuality, velvet touch and voluptuous softness. The petals are intertwined, capturing the powerful, yet discreet elegance that characterises contemporary fine jewellery. Coeur de Pétales Entrelacés the largest collection of the three is inspired by the heart, the everlasting symbol of love, created here with two interlaced petals that reflect the light and symbolize the unbreakable bond between lovers. The collection comprises rings, neck laces, earrings, bracelets and bangles, available in a warm pink shade of gold that flatters every skin tone, and in gleaming white gold with discreet pavé diamonds settings.

Trèfle de Pétales Entrelacés uses eight interlacing petals that form a four-leaf clover, a universal symbol of good luck, exclusively presented in a soft pink gold ring, necklace and earrings. Each of the four leaves on this lucky charm has special meaning: the first is or faith, the second is for hope, the third is for love, and the fourth is for luck.

Pluie d’ Étoiles features the star, a universal symbol of happiness and a signature motif of Montblanc’s heritage.

The Montblanc Emblem Fine Jewellery Collection is a reminder of the most precious moments in life, of dreams, of love and of good luck these refined and delicately crafted pieces are ones any woman will treasure forever and destined to become a lifetime companion.

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Circular shape is the new trend that follows Adler’s exciting new Paradiso collection. Featuring necklaces, earrings and rings with diamonds and blue or purple sapphires, set in titanium and gold, the collection is shown to be inspired by the legendary fruit relished by Adam and Eve in Eden, Paradiso jewels flaunt sumptuously rounded shapes, bright hues and fascinating sparkle, promising to turn an everyday event into a celebration of endless possibilities.

Paradiso’s signature motif details ‘streams’ of diamonds and blue or purple sapphires, gathered close together and wrapped round ‘chignon-fashion’ to form a drop-like shape.

These are then strung as pendants on necklaces, dangle on ear lobes as drop earrings or appear on rings as the chief protagonist.

Combined with brilliant titanium and white gold settings as a backdrop, Adler’s Paradiso offers must-have jewels for the discerning fashionista’s list.

Discover the magic of Adler’s new Paradiso collection now exclusively available at ISTANA’s boutiques at The Dubai Mall and Burjuman Centre.

Spotlight DAMAS

VIVA VERA

Damas launched the exquisite Vera collection featuring an array of luxury fashion rings adorned with colored gemstones offset with diamonds. Vera represents the rich and vibrant colors of its warm Mediterranean surroundings and was created with the knowledge that every woman regardless of her taste in fashion, entertainment and leisure deserves elegant jewellery as unique as her. Inspired by nature’s rich palette, Vera is available in many different colors, among them blue, red, green, purple and yellow. Each of these magnificent stones weighs an average of eight to ten carats and is placed as the double-layered centerpiece atop a choice of two different bands of white gold adorned with diamonds. The Vera collection is fresh, youthful and extremely elegant, evocative of the strength, beauty and uniqueness of every woman and her innate desire to be her own person.

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Timepieces

TIMELESS GIFT IDEAS Here’s a selection of timepieces that are a perfect gift for Eid

SPIRIT OF GLAMOUR Saint Honore proudly unveiled its magnificent new men’s watch, the ARTCODE. The perfect combination of a classic spirit and a sporty allure, this piece is designed for the stylish, casual, modern man. The ARTCODE owes its particularly seductive brand of relaxed chic to its harmonious architecture and clean lines, as well as its construction that marries polished steel and brushed steel in a pink PVD finish. Swiss made, like all SAINT HONORE timepieces, the ARTCODE presents a pure white dial that delivers all indications with perfect readability. With its concave centre and date at 6 o’clock, it is rimmed with a halo of gilt Roman numerals. The two openwork and luminescent hands, also gilt, point to the hours and minutes, while a very slender third moves in time with the seconds.

EPITOME OF ELEGANCE Simple and classic, the Longines Elegant Collection includes round watches with sleek lines in three sizes: 25.50mm, 34.50mm and 37.00mm. Displaying the hours, minutes and seconds, as well as the date, these models are available in steel or steel and rose gold cap, and certain versions are set with diamonds. Evoking the Longines watchmaking tradition, all models in this collection are fitted with self-winding movements while the visual lightness of the design is finished off with a bracelet made up of fine links. The Longines Elegant Collection also offers a choice of dials, each presenting its own definition of the brand’s core value.

LYRICAL LUSTRE Lirica is a refined jewellery watch which represents Salvatore Ferragamo’s love of research and experimentation. With its elegant feminine allure, Lirica reflects the perfect balance of exclusive manufacturing techniques and great attention to detail. The iconic Gancino is the dominant decorative feature of the nacre dial. Inlaid as a ton sur ton motif or studded with a pavé of diamonds, it is reminiscent of mother of pearl marquetry, an unusual and recurrent technique used in the Maison’s watches. In a harmonic ensemble, the IP rose gold case, with its smooth lines and measured dimensions, contains a Swiss Made quartz movement. The matelassé leather strap completes the watch’s sophisticated look.

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Watch & JeWellery

everydAy elegAnce Count the days – all 365 of them – in style a Chanel iconic J12 watch, with its timely and chic update

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Chanel’s new J12-365 watch is an exciting update of the iconic J12 line. It still is the precious timepiece which everyone loves (and proudly wears), but is imbued with a fresh aura that is more suited for everyday occasions.

For the busy, yet still stylish woman, the J12-365 is the perfect accessory for telling time (while doing it in style) all day, every day. It’s the ideal accompaniment for whatever a woman does - whether she is busy at work, or running leisurely; it’s the must-have for a far-away trip or even an evening soiree.

With subtle design tweaks to give it a more delicate and refined look, the J12-365 comes with a white or black ceramic case, enhanced with either steel or beige gold, the latter being a new 18k gold alloy developed exclusively for Chanel.

At 36.5mm the diameter of the watch is smaller than the 38mm on previous J12 watches, giving it a daintier look, which also adds to its feminine allure.

The new version has self-winding mechanical movement with a 42- hour power reserve, and hour, minutes and date indication. In addition, it is water resistant up to 100 metres.

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From the very beginnings of his Fashion House in 1947, the couturier had chosen the style of the era of Marie-Antoinette and the ultimate reference in French good taste. This is why the rose, the most prized flower of those times, has always been a recurrent theme in Christian Dior’s collections.

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They also aevening part Christian and parents have just acquired a large areare also a part of of Christian and hishis parents have just large and brocaded on dresses.

Christian Dior isacquired barely oneayear old They Dior’s daily collects rosevilla, whose name “Rhumbs” evokes the Dior’s daily as as he collects rosevilla, name “Rhumbs” evokes They are alsolife alife part ofhe Christian andwhose his parents have just acquired a the large patterned porcelain and likes compass rose and trace the destiny the patterned porcelain likes to to seesee it it Dior’s daily life as heand collects rosecompass rose and is is to to trace the destiny of of thethe villa, whose name “Rhumbs” evokes adorning the 18th Century mantelpieces patterned porcelain and likes to see it young Christian.

“Pebbledash in a very soft compass rose and is to trace the destiny of the young Christian. “Pebbledash in a very soft adorning the 18th Century mantelpieces the 18th Century mantelpieces young Christian.

“Pebbledash intwo acolours very soft inadorning in Grand Salon, Avenue Montaigne. pink mixed with grey gravel, these colours thethe Grand Salon, Avenue Montaigne. pink mixed with grey gravel, these two in the Grand Salon, Avenue Montaigne. pink mixed with grey gravel, these two colours And naturally, roses have always been favourites And naturally, roses areare have always been mymy favourites And naturally, roses are have always been my favourites flowers which fashions”, later thethe flowers which forfor mymy fashions”, hehe is is later to to the flowers which for my fashions”, he is later to take pride place explain when recalling villa take pride of of place inin hishis explain when recalling thethe villa take pride of place in his explain when recalling the villa garden at Milly-la-Forêt, autobiography Christian gardenatatMilly-la-Forêt, Milly-la-Forêt, inin hishis autobiography Christian garden in his autobiography Christian near to Paris.

Dior and I. neartotoParis.

Paris.

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VictoirededeCastellane Castellane adorns Dior and roses away Avenue collections.

Victoire adorns Dior and hishis roses farfar away to to thethe Avenue Montaigne? her “Rose Dior Bagatelle” rings with white her“Rose “Rose Dior Bagatelle” rings with white Montaigne? her Dior Bagatelle” with white Montaigne? coloured diamonds, rings sets her “Rose The roses of Granville, in shades of or fancy or fancy coloured diamonds, sets “Rose The roses Granville, shades of orDior fancy diamonds, sets herher “Rose The roses of of Granville, inin shades Précoloured Catelan” collection with coral, orangey pink, yellowy pink of and Dior Pré Catelan” collection with coral, orangey pink, yellowy pink and Catelan”pink collection orangeypowdery pink, yellowy pink and Dior onyx,Pré chalcedony, quartz with and coral, white, are to become onyx, chalcedony, pink quartz and powdery white, are to become chalcedony, pink quartz amethyst or even cultivates roses and powdery5the white, are to become couturier’s favourite onyx, amethyst or even cultivates roses around a or central stone in herroses 5the couturier’s favourite amethyst even cultivates 5the couturier’s favourite “Précieuses Rose”. around a central stone around a central stone inin herher “Précieuses Rose”.

“Précieuses Rose”.

“A flower most “A “Aflower flowerisisismost most sacred creation sacred sacredcreation creation after women.” after afterwomen.” women.”

Dior –Monsieur MonsieurDior Dior ––Monsieur

Rose Dior Bagatelle large model necklace - Diamonds

Bagatelle RoseRose DiorDior Bagatelle largelarge model necklace - Diamonds model necklace - Diamonds VELVET-MAG.COM

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Spotlight CARTIER

Because it makes its mark, its appearances instantly distinguish a style. The 2014 Cartier panther is once more distinguished by its phenomenal and modern presence.

Even on its own, its charm is arresting.

Figurative, graphic, playful, gentle, wild, sensual, ferocious or kinetic, it offers a range of surprises, loyal to its audacious and sophisticated jewellery aura. Fifty-six pieces. A collection which the heroine reigns over with absolute feline essence. Magnificent as a “vanity” ring, like an x-ray of itself in a gold skeleton.

Devastating when it gives an elegant and slender shock from one finger to another. Jewels made with tremendous know-how that take their creative vitality from the energy of Cartier’s totemic wild cat.

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Photos by: Vincent Wulverick © Cartier 2014

PANTHÈRE DE CARTIER COLLECTION

Accessories NOTEBOOK

Dazzling Bright Diamante

The Gucci Prefall 2014 collection sees one of the House’s most iconic motifs reinterpreted in a modern, powerful, twenty-first century way. Subtle yet striking, the Diamante pattern features geometrics that evoke the facets of a diamond. Dating from the 1930s when the diagonal design first appeared woven on luggage, this season the Diamante pattern is embossed on leather for women’s handbags as well as men’s and women’s luggage. The choice of colour makes these accessories open to the interpretation of the owner – in a season where Gucci’s leather goods feature a wide variety of dashing brights – bumblebee yellow, deep cobalt, red, and blossom pink – there is also always the option of classic hues for timeless, understated style.

The glamorous Gucci Bright Diamante handbag collection features an array of signature shapes, each and every one an object of desire: the bucket-style shoulder bag, the clutch, the top-handle tote, bowling bags, and the Boston bag. Echoing the design of the full-scale originals, mini bags play with new proportions. These pieces deliver both practicality and feminine attitude, and are perfectly in keeping with the crisp style of the ready-to-wear collection.

Black Block

Following the success of the SS2014 daily bags made of precious materials like crocodile, ostrich, deer and saffiano leather available in various colours, the celebrated Umbria maison is now launching a new glamorous rock line: BLACK BLOCK. It is a dark collection in which black predominates in the leather, the inside linings, the logos and enamelled shoulder straps.

Shapes vary considerably, from the three “royal” sizes, Standard Queen, Princess, Royal to the Marilyn bag and the new trendy carry-all bag introduced by this line. The main material is a prestige saffiano leather rendered more luxurious by a total black shine and enamel detailing.

This line is bold and feminine at the same time, with bags for all occasions, day and night.

CharmingBallerinas Love at first sight with these enchanting ballerina laminated suede sandals with summery appeal and sparkling crystals embellished with variety of precious coloured stones to enrich your summer experience. The ballet flats feature a round tip and flat leather sole with partial rubber coating and a soft insole. The Italian-made brand dictates a high quality of craftsmanship and natural materials derive from transseasonal footwear that should never be missed in a woman’s outfit.

The collection is available at Le Silla Store in Mall Of Emirates- Dubai.

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The Italian Job VERSUS VERSACE and SUPERGA announce a new collaboration of collectable pieces that bring together two iconic Italian brands.

The collaboration begins with a special edition of the historical SUPERGA 2750 model, made using one of the key prints from the VERSUS VERSACE FW 14-15 collection.

The print symbolises the rebellious new style of VERSUS VERSACE, with clashing vivid colours and cut-up images of the brand, such as baroque detailing, the Greek key, and the VERSUS VERSACE logo.

The first SUPERGA x VERSUS VERSACE model is made with a cotton upper and a sole of vulcanised natural rubber, with a fabric SUPERGA label. The VERSUS VERSACE logo sits at the heel, which alongside the personalised box testifies to the uniqueness of the collaboration.

Fiery Baldinini Wear a variety of bold and fiery collections this Summer 2014 as Baldinini unveils a beautiful bunch of fiery colours for ladies that sizzle in the range of shoes and fashionable satchels, hand-held bags to complete the sophisticated, modern woman’s lifestyle. The collection draws great inspiration from Baldinini’s luxurious line up of multicolour sandals season-perfect, too.

Velvet Loves

Swarovski’s ‘Facets of Light’ collection truly encapsulated all that is synonymous with the crystal label. The Fall/Winter 2014 range exudes modernity met refinement in a collection celebrating lights, facets and reflections. We say, these pieces are must have for the upcoming season!

Aquazzura X Olivia Palermo

The fabulous shoe metropolis, Level Shoe District is pleased to announce the collaboration betweenthe luxury footwear brand Aquazzura, created by designer Edgardo Osorio and Olivia Palermo, style icon and charity ambassador. This exclusive‘one of a kind’ collection will be available in twelve selected stores worldwide and Level Shoe District has been chosen as one of them.

Aquazzura X Olivia Palermo collection will carry six exclusive to Level essential styles, showcasing how the creative power between Osorio’s modern vision of luxury and his attention to detail comes together with Palermo’s innate sense of style and art of mixing accessories.

This ultimate ‘survival pack’, created after hours spent in Palermo’s closet and Osorio’s archives, includes styles perfect for a relaxed and casual day or a sophisticated evening: Elegant ‘over the knee’suede boots, statement jewel sandals with crystal ornaments inspired by one of Olivia’s vintage Victorian necklaces. Metallic leather sandals featuring an ingenious architecture which creates an impression of a never-ending leg. Laced-up gladiator sandals perfect for fashion week or dancing the night away. A perfect everyday suede and snake pump. The suede bootie (made with Aquazzura’s patented, ultra-soft cashmere leather) which can easily be dressed up or dressed down.

This collection is everything any woman will ever need, for any occasion.

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Beauty NOTES PERFECT MATTE

Thanks to colour-fil velvet ™, for a lasting matte finish and instant colour payoff, the new Armani ‘Eyes To Kill Solo’ shadow gives an elegant satin finish with colour-fil satin, a transparent base that morphs with every skin tone for a perfect colour result every time.

Inspired by the natural elements, Eyes To Kill Solo offers a dense and deep “Macro Colour” range of 24 shades - electric, mineral or nude.

Subtle, silky, intense or sheer materials blend together as light as air to offer these single eye shadows a distinctive luminosity.

A made-to-measure approach that allows each shade to reach near-perfection thanks to a technological formulation that reveals all the beauty of the pigments. Eyes To Kill Solo shades come in perfect mattes, elegant satins, and bold pops to suit any wardrobe and complete any makeup look.

NARS RETURNS

We can’t wait for October! NARS Cosmetics recently announced its launch in the Middle East this coming October. The brand, known for inspiring self-expression, creativity, artistry and bringing high-fashion, high-style and forward thinking to beauty, will open two doors in partnership with Sephora at The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates.

NARS Cosmetics encapsulates Founder & Creative Director François Nars’ philosophy of beauty, empowerment and creative experimentation. A visionary in the world of makeup artistry and photography, Nars remains at the forefront of the brand’s sleek packaging, groundbreaking formulas, and bold shades. His originality in color and design, and spirited celebration of authentic faces has made him an innovator in the beauty world.

NARS is sophisticated, witty and effortlessly seductive, embracing individuality and provides a spectrum of color cosmetics with an innovative skincare range, NARSskin. Bold and audacious, NARS makes its own rules and boldly goes where no other makeup brands have gone before; truly the lifestyle beauty brand for the modern independent woman.

SERIAL KISSER

THE NEW 212

Carolina Herrera is launching 212 SURF, her latest 212 Universe limited edition range. However, 212 SURF is much more than a limited edition. It is a fresh, young and carefree fragrance based on a fun, distinctive story that is inspired by summer memories.

For him, 212 SURF brings us an intensely fresh fragrance created using a new aquatic accord that combines patchouli and a few drops of grapefruit, making it sexy, sensual and comforting at the same time.

For her, 212 SURF brings us a fresh, sensual and addictive fragrance. With an exotic touch and a woody contrast accompanied by notes of musk, its aquatic accord makes it stand out, bringing an extremely original, young and sexy freshness.

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Kiss your cheeks. Blush your lips. Play with colour and mix and match your lips and cheeks. Yves Saint Laurent introduces the latest innovation in the edgy Baby Doll attitude.

Yves Saint Laurent Kiss & Blush introduces a double play of colour for lips and cheeks. A hybrid between a lip colour and a blush, this innovative air-whipped formula allows for an instant application on both lips and cheeks. With a luminous matte finish, colour is easily buildable from a soft and natural look to a more intense sophisticated look. The patented “hidden pearl” applicator is customised to glide perfectly on the lips and to allow the optimal amount of formula to be dotted on the cheeks.

To apply, use one shade and dot the formula on the lips and cheeks with the applicator. Blend with your fingertips for a softer makeup result. For a more intense finish, apply a second layer by using the pearl applicator to fully spread the formula on the lips.

To be more playful and daring, mix and match two shades on lips and cheeks and vice versa.

A range of 12 playful shades to complement each cheeky side of the YSL Baby Doll woman.

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DARE TO TAN

The absolute expert in tanning and sun protection for 40 years and the pioneer of “beautifully tanned and protected skin”, Lancaster has developed a routine at the cutting edge of technology. Here’s Lancaster’s three-step ritual to create a beautiful and natural tan on the skin.

Step 1: Prepare. To kick start the tanning process and accelerate melanin synthesis once you are on holiday, apply Tan Preparer serum to your face and Tan Preparer mist to your body, every morning before your skincare products, a fortnight before heading off to the sun.

And choose the Self Tan Beauty range to immediately show off a flattering natural tan and arrive on the beach with alreadygolden skin. Light, Medium or Intense, the choice is yours; select the intensity best suited to your natural colour.

Step 2: Protect. To effectively ward off the sun’s attack, apply the Lancaster sun care of your choice generously and regularly from the moment you go out in the sun.

This allows you to enjoy optimal and matchless protection against UV and InfraRed rays. And opt for the new Sun Control range to provide deep action against an uneven complexion and ageing, worthy of the best anti-ageing skin care.

Step 3: Prolong. Every evening, rub Tan Maximizer, the legendary aftersun range for face and body, into clean skin. This ultra-repairing skincare combats sun-induced damage.

Intensely moisturising and comforting, it also contains a tan extender to optimise the intensity and colour of your tan. Day after day, your skin is more beautiful and your tan more glamorous and radiant.

LA VIE EST BELLE

Lancome is presenting a new version of the popular perfume La Vie Est Belle as Eau De Toilette by transforming and shaping the composition towards lighter and more gourmet shades.

In the latest version the accent lies on essences of magnolia as key ingredient of the composition set in an elegant powdery embrace of iris Pallida known as the key note of the original perfume - La Vie Est Belle Eau de Parfum edition and white flowers absolute that contributes to softness and sensuality of the composition.

Magnolia is one of the first flowers to announce spring and blossom its graceful petals. As a symbol of beauty and youth, magnolia in this fragrance mixes its aromas with warm, subtle and gourmet blend prepared in delicate way to warm us up, embrace and express the beauty of floral bouquet built of precious iris and white flowers.

Carefully selected flowers of the new composition reveal the joy and energy of awakening of spring and the beginning of a new natural cycle showing us their powdery and delicate gourmet face sweetened enough to elicit a smile and a feeling of happiness. Depth and warmth are provided by elegant patchouli and soft vanilla, and gourmet face is revealed by almonds, pralines, sugar syrup and tonka.

Actress Julia Roberts has been cover face of La Vie Est Belle collection since presentation of the first fragrance in 2012 and now we’ll see her on new photos of the advertising campaign once more.

La Vie Est Belle L’Eau de Toilette arrives in characteristic form of heavy glass flacon decorated with an airy silver bow ribbon on the neck of the bottle. Liquid of the new fragrance is luminous pink. The fragrance will be available as 50ml EDT and 100ml EDT.

PERFECT MATCH FOR LIPS

A dewy intense lip colour that creates shine and colour without sacrificing moisture is the newest sensation from Lancome. The Lip Lover collection offers captivating colour intensity that combines with the hydration of a balm in new three-in-one elixir formula. The balmy base provides up to eight hours of moisture while a smoothing layer reduces the appearance of fine lines and creates a dewy shine. Finally, the saturated pigments provide the ultimate in colour pop.

In fact, Lip Lover is the first all-in-one lip perfector where its hybrid formula gives the comfort of a balm, the eye-catching colour of a lipstick and the enhancing shine of a gloss. All it takes is a stroke from one corner to the other and back to apply just the right amount your chosen Lip Lover shade. The arrow tip can also be used to perfect the corners and define the contours.

Your lips’ new best friend, Lip Lover leaves lips utterly kissable. For even more boosted volume, dab a lighter shade over the centre of the lips using the applicator. So simple!

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Beauty & WELLNESS

W

ELLNESS

ONDERS

Spa My Blend by Clarins takes guests to wellbeing paradise in exclusive island getaway in the Maldives

S

pa treatments are dime-a-dozen these days, each one promising relaxation and rejuvenation but no one quite compares to what Clarins offers. With its renowned beauty and wellness know-how, now spanning 60 glorious years, Clarins takes wellness to new heights with its Spa My Blend by Clarins brand.

At Velaa Private Island in the Maldives, the only Spa My Blend By Clarins in the island paradise – it offers guests a getaway unrivalled for its exclusivity and wellness offers. Here the highest quality personalised therapies developed by Dr Olivier Courtin-Clarins, managing director of the Paris-based Clarins Group, expertly combine the alchemy of science, plants and the art of touch to produce visible, lasting results and glowing skin at any age.

Spa My Blend By Clarins at Velaa Private Island encompasses eight ‘small islands’ incorporating six secluded treatment villas and an experience zone with a sauna, steam room, everflow Jacuzzi and oceanfront relaxation area. It also features the first ‘snow room’ in the Maldives by Klafs, which improves circulation and skin rejuvenation, and a deep relaxation experience called Wolke 7 Cloud 9 in a cloud-shaped reclining treatment pod by Klafs & Sha, along with a Spa Boutique and juice bar, hair salon and nail studio.

SEVENTH HEAVEN Guests will be spoilt for choice with a number of unique and exclusive treatments. The spa boasts seven new beauty and wellness programmes tailored over three or seven days to maximise

effectiveness and make every moment count, fully restoring mind and body-balance for an unforgettable well-being experience. These include Detox, which restores original purity with made-to-measure treatments and wellness activities that revive and renew radiancy. The Ever Young treatment brings exceptional rejuvenating benefits with relaxing and renewing treatments supplemented by holistic yoga. Meanwhile, Relax is a luxurious programme of treatments, massage and yoga nurturing a deep sense of well-being and repose For couples, the Honeymoon treatments are administered in the privacy of a Spa My Blend by Clarins villa overlooking the ocean, a unique and memorable way to celebrate the start of a new life together. Take advantage of the island ambience with the Under The Sun treatment, which allows guests to make the most of the Maldivian sunshine while also protecting and beautifying skin, priming it for a lasting golden glow.

There is also the Men’s Power Pack treatment specifically tailored for men, targeting face, body and massage treatments to optimise vitality and drive away signs of fatigue.

Finally, The Vitality treatment boosts energy levels with an invigorating combination of face and body treatments and personal training, leaving your skin glowing with vitality and your body firmer and stronger, to revel in a new sense of freshness and focus.

SIX DECADES OF EXCELLENCE: HIGHLIGHTS OF CLARINS’ PROUD ACHIEVEMENTS

1954

Creation of Clarins. Development of The Clarins Method. Clarins develops and pioneers the science of touch, a highly effective product application method.

1978

The launch of Extra-Firming. The benchmark. The one women prefer. The very 1st cream targeting the specific needs of women over 40. As it has been reformulated, this exceptional skin carerange has become increasingly effective.

1980

Clarins becomes the top-selling luxury skincare brand in France.

1990

Clarins becomes the top-selling luxury skin care brand in Europe. It’s official: European women adore Clarins!

VELVET LOVES The ‘My Blend’ Face Treatments combine the performance of skin care with the highest degree of personalisation to meet individual needs and any changes the skin might be undergoing during a specific phase of life or time of year. Developed

by Dr. Olivier Courtin-Clarins, the idea behind this product line is revolutionary: it takes into account the individual and changing needs of the skin, at each phase of life and offers made-to-measure possibilities. ‘My Blend’ is based on Essential Formulas for different skin profiles and combines highly targeted Boosters that can be mixed with the Essential Formula for truly visible, lasting results.

SPLENDID SIXTY Clarins has made massive strides in its six decades of existence. At the helm of company’s current golden age is Dr Olivier Courtin-Clarins, who shares Clarins’ secret for success.

What do you consider to be your biggest accomplishment so far?

First of all, on the financial aspect - the selling of our participation in L’Occitane. And regarding the creation of products - Double Serum, and of course, the creation of the line of products My Blend.

What do you think are the top 6 turning points in Clarins’ corporate history that made it into what it is today?

The essence of CLARINS is made of 7 points : Spa, Plants, Unique methods, listening, biomimetism, antipollution complex.

improving them. The dialogue with our consumers has always been very important as well: my father created it via the consumer cards, to know the concerns of women.

Wellness is a big industry in Dubai and the rest of the Gulf.

Are there plans to set up a My Blend Spa by Clarins in the UAE or anywhere in the region?

Not currently. But we’ll have a Spa by Clarins at Doha at the Pearl by the end of the year.

What is special about Clarins?

We have always worked on using plants extracts in our products, and as mentioned above, we work on improving our products (such as Double Serum).

The philosophy you live by?

“Where there’s a will, there’s a way”. In other words, when I take on something, I go all the way. An example? Since I wasn’t very assiduous in class, I tried to make up for the lag in English by following intensive classes four hours a week for the past four years. When I’d spend time in England, I always spent my time with French people. However, my host families loved me because I was nice, always smiling and never asked for much. Of course I didn’t because I could hardly say anything at all!

Clarins’ secret for success?

First of all, our success comes from our products: we have always worked on making efficient products, and have continuously worked on

1991

To protect against the harmful effects of pollution in our atmosphere, Clarins creates the first antipollution complex which fights skin ageing and loss of radiance.

2001

Opening of the first Spas by Clarins.The 1st two Spas by Clarins open their doors in Mauritius at the Dinarobin and the Paradis - two world class hotels.

2011

Opening of the Spa My Blend by Clarins at the Royal Monceau Palace. So Parisian. And so avant-garde!

2013

Double Serum: Clarins No.1 serum. Winner of more than 80 prestigious beauty awards in 2013. 1 bottle sold every 30 seconds. Also this year, Clarins has 187 Skin Spas, 39 Spas

by Clarins, & 4 Spas My Blend by Clarins worldwide.

Dr. Olivier Courtin-Clarins

Gold dress: Lanvin; red arm band: stylist’s own; gold and silver cuff: Swarovski; black wrap bracelet: Swarovski; shoes: Fendi

TRIBAL

TEMPTATIONS In the desert, an oasis of style emerges.

Photographer: Carla Guler | Stylist: Celia-Jane Ukwenya

Jacket and dress: Fendi; tassels worn as earrings: stylists own; scarf worn as turban: Lanvin; shoes: Christian Louboutin; head piece: made by stylist Celia-Jane Ukwenya

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Gold dress: Saint Laurent by Hedi Silmane; necklace: Lanvin; rings: Swarovski

Gold dress: Lanvin; throw worn as belt: Hermes; shoes: Christian Louboutin; bangles: Hermes; neck scarves worn on wrist: Hermes

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Pink metallic dress: Lanvin; pink metallic skirt: Lanvin; red arm band: stylist’s own; gold and silver cuff: Swarovski; black wrap bracelet: Swarovski

Black and gold dress: Paul Ka; canvas bucket bag: Hermes; round black bag: Sportmax; black bag with jewel detail: Sonia Rykeil

Black cut out dress: Fendi; skirt worn under dress: Saint Laurent by Hedi Silmane; large blue bag with gold chain: Yves Saint Laurent; small blue bag: Saint Laurent

by Hedi Silmane; blue print bag: Hermes; multi coloured blue and white bag: Kenzo; bangles: Hermes; red bag: Fendi; boots: model’s own; head piece: made by stylist

Stylist Assistant: Tina Choie; Make Up: Nickol Walkemeyer; Hair: Kristen Kolntz; Retoucher: Paul Snyder; Model: Erica from Wilhelmina Dubai

Dress: Italo Marseglia; necklace: Vintage

The Muse

Breathtaking beauty inspired by fabled Rome Photographer: Ursu | Stylist: Gian Marco Funari

Top: America Apparel; earrings: Vintage; skirt: Italo Marseglia; bangles: stylist’s creation

Fur: Inochi Studio; necklace: Zara

Romper: Gian Marco Funari; shoes: Roberto Cavalli; necklace: stylist’s creation

Necklace: creation of the stylist; romper: Gian Marco Funari

Stylist assistant: Roberta Bencivenga; Model: Cecile Canepa @ Icon Models Rome; Make-up & Hair: Maddalena Brando; Location: Museum of Roman Civilization, Rome

Top: Italo Marseglia; fur: Inochi Studio; shorts: American Apparel; shoes: Just Cavalli; necklace: stylist’s creation

Splendours of

Ramadan Exquisite creations fit for grand celebrations Hikmat Wehbi (W Studio) | Stylist: Sara Al Banna

Hania Abayas – Ramadan Collection

Hania Abayas – Ramadan Collection

Hania Abayas – Ramadan Collection

Hania Abayas – Ramadan Collection

Hania Abayas – Ramadan Collection

Hania Abayas – Ramadan Collection

Location: Al Barari – The Farm; Model: Renata from mmgmodels

Hania Abayas – Ramadan Collection

CLEAN BEAUTY Stylish splash of colours Photographer: Tamara Williams | Make-up & hair: Nadine Klier

Model: Oline Zabell @Crystal Model Management - Paris Retoucher: Andreas Feldl @CreativeLA

NAILART Squeeze some fun out of summer’s delights Photographer: Tamara Williams | Nail art: Denise Bassler

Model: Madeline Milena Babick Retoucher: Andreas Feldl @CreativeLA

Distractions All things fab and fancy

Creative director and stylist: Ameni ShaďŹ k | Photographer: Riccardo Roberti

Dress and coat: Ermanno Scervino; shoes: Loriblu; necklace and earrings: RadĂ

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Dress: Ermanno Scervino; coat: Massimo Ardizzone; necklace and earrings: RadĂ

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Dress: Alberto Zambelli; necklace: RadĂ ; shoes: Ermanno Scervino

Dress: Sergio Daricello: bracelet and earrings: RadĂ

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Dress: Alberto Zambelli: necklace: Iosselliani: earrings: RadĂ ; shoes: Ermanno Scervino

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Dress: Avaro Figlio; necklace and earrings: Iosselliani Model: Greta Aukstuolyte, from Next Models Milan; make-up and hair: Federica Guglielmo; set assistant: Mohamed ShaďŹ k

Dress: Italo Marseglia; necklace: Vintage

Radiance Resplendent in the glow of summer’s light Photographer: Mario Caponi | Stylist: Barbara Palladino

Blouse: Givenchy; skirt: Givenchy; bangles: Philippe Audibert; shoes: Jimmy Choo; sunglasses: Stella McCartney

Dress: Byblos; jacket: Byblos; bracelets: Balmain; necklace (chain): Genny; necklace with animal: Stella McCartney

Dress: MSGM; necklace: Idriss Guelai Atelier; shoes: Nadia C; sunglasses: Stella McCartney; bracelet: LuxuryFashion Jewels; bangle: Vitti Ferria Contin

Make-up: Marcela Bantea; Hair: Federico Faragalli; Special thanks to White Gallery, Rome – www.whitegallery.it

Swimsuit: Alexander Wang; jacket: Genny; ring: Kokosi; sunglasses: CĂŠline

Jumpsuit: Genny; necklace (chain): Genny; necklace with animals: Stella McCartney; shoes: Giuseppe Zanotti Design; bracelet (on the left): LuxuryFashion Jewels; bracelet (on the right): Giuseppe Zanotti Design

Spotted

STAR POWER These celebs are taking the style metre up a notch with these fab looks effortlessly stylish whether out on the street or on the red carpet.

Miranda Kerr dazzles in Swarovski in one for her official duties as the brand’s ambassador

Korean superstar Lee Ha Nee is looking comfy in DVF Spring ’14 Gaylen cotton lace detailed blouse in soft bamboo and Madonna woven shorts in black on her way to Bali.

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In Los Angles, Charlize Theron Salvatore Ferragamo sunglasses

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Kendall Jenner looks stunning in this linen playsuit from the Spring 2014 Longchamp collection and the brand new Le Pliage Heritage handbag from the Autumn 2014 Longchamp collection.

(Credit: ABACA Press).

Olivia Palermo looks effortlessly fab while carrying the CH Carolina Herrera Tokyo bag

Cate Blanchett has every reason to smile as she looks chic in Roger Vivier in Cannes.

Rita Ora impresses in this Moschino total look from the Resort 2015 collection.

Ever so stylish Blake Lively looks glam in this leaf and blush floral sequined dress from Michael Kors’ Resort 2015 collection.

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JEWEL OF THE NILE

Interview

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Azza Fahmy dazzles the world wither uniquely Arabian-inspired jewellery pieces

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Azza Fahmy for Matthew Williamson Gold Star Hoops

Designer Azza Fahmy with Naomi Campbell wearing Azza Fahmy for Julien Macdonald design- 2008

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zza Fahmy has gained global aim for her exquisite jewellery creations. Adored by many, and worn even by popular personalities, Fahmy’s jewellery collections dazzle for their distinctive appeal – a mesmerising mix of traditional and contemporary designs, infused with elements from Egypt’s history and culture.

“To be regarded as one of the most prestigious global jewel brands coming from Egypt and adoringly worn by prominent women from various fields is indeed a matter of pride for us. But it’s a huge responsibility that we work towards sustaining and maintaining every second of the day,” she says.

What makes Fahmy’s brilliant work noteworthy it has put the spotlight on Egypt’s incredible tradition of handcrafted jewellery, reminding the world about the country’s rich cultural splendours, at a time when it certainly needs more encouraging news given what is happening in its socio-political scene.

It’s partly fascinating how the idea of creating jewellery pieces first dawned on her.

She realised her dream of becoming a jewellery designer while she was outside Egypt. “It all began when I came across an art book about classical jewellery of the Medieval Period in Europe. The book was in German and cost me 17.5 EGP- a fortune at the time. I was quite language fascinated by the designs of the jewellery and they inspired me right away. This was the first trigger to my long journey towards building my brand,” she explains.

MASTERING THE ART Initially, she was more curious about acquiring the

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know-how of making jewels. This search led her to a vibrant quarter of Cairo, Khan El halili, known for nurturing the concept of antique jewellery. “Well at first I wanted to learn the craft-and at the time my option was to become an apprentice there and learn at the hands of one of the most skilled masters in this craft. I tied my hair back, wore my overalls and spent two years working in a workshop full of men learning the tricks of the trade,” says Fahmy.

Asked whether it was a common practice among women to pursue a career in such a field back then, she exclaims, “Absolutely not! It was pretty much dominated by male craftsmen and jewellers but this never discouraged me. In the mid-seventies I went on to fulfil my fellowship offered by the British Council and studied jewellery craft in the City of London Polytechnic School.”

Big things do happen in life but not without obstacles. Nothing comes easy. She herself had to go through such a cycle in her life. Since she was a fine arts graduate and had a stable job in the government, she faced some opposition when she finally moved to work as an apprentice in a workshop. In her words, “It was socially unacceptable and raised a lot of questions among my friends and family,” she says. “But I knew what I wanted then, and I’m happy I went for it. Most importantly, these obstacles or challenges helped me grow professionally and personally. It’s an unavoidable part of the process.”

When it comes to jewels, the beautiful intricate designs of Arabian jewellery get a lot of applause from all over the world. They have always been known for their exceptional excellence. As Fahmy puts it, “The heritage we have is undeniable; it’s reflected in our jewellery both on a crafts and cultural level and therefore it’s bound to stand out. However, it’s also very important to be accurate when referencing cultures and using motifs; the right balance between creativity, design skills and research is a key component.”

Now, the brand enjoys an overwhelming presence in major stores around the globe. It grew as the opportunities grew. Over the past seven years, the business has evolved from an entrepreneur-run company to one with an established and strategically structured operations team. Subsequently, the idea of retail expansions came rolling as they reached a conclusion after a lot of research that it was time for the Azza Fahmy Jewellery brand to step into new markets and address wider audiences as most other international brands do. “Our jewellery holds a universal message of beauty, culture and design. And it’s inevitable that with the growth of a brand that has been around for decades to go dig up other terrain if it is to survive,” she says.

And what about her inspirations to create new and exciting pieces that simply stun, she replied, “Inspiration may come from a book, a carpet, an architectural structure, an idea, a poem, a song, or an icon (we just released a collection called “Suma” after the internationally renowned Egyptian singer “Umm Kulthum”. I believe inspiration is everywhere; it’s just a matter of perspective.

The pieces in this collection are inscribed with iconic verses from her sublime music that has left an indelible imprint on Egyptian and regional culture. I cherish her so much for her admirable, artistic, charitable and nationalistic affairs. We came up with this amazing collection to celebrate our 45 years of devotion and design.”

The jewels are stamped both with contemporary and vintage designs as a style quotation. And the Azza Fahmy brand is famous for it. “In many of our pieces we combine classical jewellery-making techniques (or old motifs) with a focus on contemporary presentation. In a way, this helps our designs remain timeless and authentic,” she emphasises.

This is what draws designers like Julien MacDonald and Matthew Williamson towards her firmly believing that she is the one who can give an ultimate touch to their dresses with her enticing jewellery.

Asked about the Middle Eastern women’s taste in jewellery, she says, “Every part of the world has a different demand especially when it comes to jewellery. We’ve noticed that Arab women prefer to wear statement pieces as opposed to Europeans who have a penchant for daintier designs. It’s a matter of understanding each market and evolving accordingly without losing the core of the brand’s identity.”

For the most part, the Azza Fahmy Jewellery has become a spectacular way to connect with the Arab world like never before.

So in what way is Azza Fahmy Jewellery helping to preserve the arts and culture of Egypt and the Middle East as a whole? She replies with a smile on her face, “This is very important ac Br to me plus close to my heart. At Azza Fahmy Jewellery, skilled silversmiths still y ah operate under the ancient Ottoman three levelled hierarchy of master/ gpr i l l trainer/trainee. The merit of this system is to pass on the jewelleryc Ca assi l C making craft from generation to generation, ensuring that the young craftsmen learn at the hands of the masters with many years of expertise. This process preserves the authenticity and uniqueness of the craft. I’ve also published a book called “Enchanted Jewellery of Egypt” which documents the different varieties of jewellery deriving from Egypt, illustrating examples, and describing the techniques and skills involved in their production, the materials used, etc.”

“OUR JEWELLERY HOLDS A UNIVERSAL MESSAGE

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OF BEAUTY, CULTURE AND DESIGN.”

Velvet LUXURY

BRITISH BRANDS FOR LUXURY ADVENTURE TRAVEL

With its presence now firmly established in the region, Abercrombie & Kent (A & K), the luxury travel specialist, has partnered with British automotive brand Land Rover to offer the region the ultimate in Adventure Travel. The two brands, both synonymous with adventure, exploration and luxury, have come together to offer travellers unforgettable experiences that are only possible through such a partnership. Experiences offering guests the chance to explore landscapes, view wildlife and meet communities well and truly off the beaten track.

This coming together of two iconic British brands will commence with a Best of British Tour and two itineraries that showcase some of the most thrilling experiences in Africa and India respectively.

Between 1 September and 14 October 2014 there will be four ten day adventures in Tanzania, taking in the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater and the Tarangire National Parks, returning by night to A&K’s

HOUSE OF ARTS

The Fondation Louis Vuitton will open its doors in Paris in 2014. This extraordinary space for art and culture was conceived by architect Frank Gehry as a vessel whose sails soar amidst the trees of the Bois de Boulogne. The building’s construction represents unprecedented technological challenges.

The building counts twelve immense glass sails, joining a longstanding tradition of glass architecture in Paris, including the Grand Palais.

Frank Gehry also drew inspiration from the Palais d’Hiver and the Palmarium, two glass and steel structures that graced the Jardin d’Acclimatation in the 19th century, bringing Parisians opportunities for discovery and elegant promenades. The architecture is a bold dialogue between tradition and modernity, expressing “the artistic vision of the Foundation”, notes Bernard Arnault. Devoted to contemporary art, the Fondation Louis Vuitton will enable a broad public to enjoy a multitude of artistic creations, deepening LVMH’s ongoing commitment to promoting culture.

The Fondation Louis Vuitton is committed to respecting High Quality Environmental Standards (HQE), acting as a pilot project for certification of cultural buildings.

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trademark luxury mobile tented camps.

A challenging three day drive across the Serengeti, home to an abundance of big game will also showcase the Land Rover ‘s unique all terrain capability through the toughest of environments.

Tigers are the focus for Land Rover and A&K’s second adventure in 2014, which will take in the best India has to offer. With four tours running between 1 November and 11 December 2014, this adventure blends India’s extraordinary heritage with the rich jungle and the challenges of deep ravines and dense forest, providing a totally unique adventure.

Key to both journeys is the expert tuition that guests will receive from Land Rover Experience instructors, ensuring they can fully and safely enjoy the outstanding capability of the Land Rover vehicles. Naturally A&K’s knowledgeable guides will accompany the groups, providing real insight into the places they visit and sights they see. And at the end of every intrepid day the most indulgent accommodation and delicious cuisine await.

THE OBEROI, DUBAI’S FIRST

To commemorate the first year anniversary, the hotel is offering both first-time and loyal guests a special ‘First Time for Everything’ package designed to showcase the best that The Oberoi, Dubai has to offer. Special celebratory menus, complimentary welcome drinks and an interactive dining experience will be available at Ananta and Umai on 15 June as well as a Festive Friday Birthday Brunch at Nine7One on 13 June.

The ‘First Time for Everything’ package includes accommodation in in a luxury suite, offering 2,150 square feet of space with timber floors, hand-tufted carpets and original artwork by Mrinmoy Barua, a spacious living room, a dining area for six guests and floor to ceiling windows with a private balcony overlooking the iconic Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.

Glittering with Tiffany & Co.’s world renowned diamonds and legendary colored gemstones, Tiffany welcomed guests from around the world to its newest store at 62, Avenue de Champs Élysées.

ROSE GARDEN RE-OPENS

Patron of both the rose and the gardens that cultivate it, Piaget remains committed to the preservation of this graceful and seductive flower in its natural form. This commitment is reinforced in Piaget’s support of the refurbishment of the Princess Grace of Monaco Rose Garden, originally planted in 1984 in honour of Prince Rainier’s wife. This idyllic garden located in Fontvieille, has been reopened to the public on 15th June 2014 in the in the presence of LL.AA. SS the Prince and the Princess de Monaco, of S.A.R. the Princess de Hanovre, of Mister Piaget and Mister Philippe Léopold Metzger, after 8 months of work, resulting in the addition of 2,500 new roses thanks to a 1500m2 expansion to accommodate new varieties for the enjoyment of visitors, many of whom travel from all corners of the world to admire these magnificent flowers.

A day of celebrations dedicated to the captivating beauty of the rose will begin with prior to the opening of the Rose Garden ceremony, with the second International Rose Competition of Monaco. For the first edition of this competition initiated and sponsored by Mr Piaget, the Maison created a trophy in its workshops reflecting the stylistic elements of the Piaget Rose jewellery collection. The award doubles up as a piece of fine jewellery in rose gold (30.4g), set with a precious diamond pistil (0.5 ct). When it is not worn as a brooch or pendant, the intricate flower can be clipped onto a stem handcrafted from amaranth wood by a Swiss sculptor and artist. This prized set is presented to the winner of the contest in a triptych case decorated with rose motifs.

With the reopening of the Rose Princess Grace of Monaco and the crowning of a second winner of the Monaco Rose Competition, Piaget expresses once again its admiration for the rose in all its splendour, with a desire to protect its great, yet ephemeral beauty.

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FOUR SEASONS LUXURY MEETS DISNEY MAGIC Opening this August, one of the most delightful aspects of the new Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World速 Resort is its breathtaking location in the Walt Disney World速 Resort. Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort is set amid the palm-tree lined, gated Golden Oak community, a Disney-developed residential enclave of custom single family homes.

Located in a lushly landscaped area with many mature trees, lakes and protected wetlands, the community serves as an oasis - close to all the action and entertainment nearby, yet with a feeling of seclusion. With views of the Magic Kingdom速 Park nightly fireworks from the rooftop of Capa restaurant, an on-site character breakfast and Disney Planning Center, plus availability to offer In-Room Celebrations, the experience is nothing short of wondrous.

One of the distinguishing factors of Four Seasons is its renowned service culture.

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney

World Resort will have approximately 1,000 team members on property, and to date, more than 70 have transferred to the Resort from various Four Seasons properties worldwide - from as far as the Serengeti in Africa and Sydney, Australia to as near as Palm Beach. Four Seasons hotels are known for creating personalized guest experiences that embrace the local surroundings. With a 23-acre (9.3 hectare) recreational paradise, and connectivity to Disney, Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort will provide guests with a very special destination experience.

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort is now accepting reservations for August 3, 2014 and beyond. The extraordinary introductory offer is the Stay Longer- Third Night Free, providing guests with an extra day to explore all Orlando has to experience.

BIONDA CASTANA ARRIVES

Hermione Boutique, a fashion haven for the discerning UAE fashion customer, has just received an arrival of new styles from the famed London-based brand, Bionda Castana. The new stock is a mix of staggering stilettos and the mid-heel pumps, giving every a shoe to suit their lifestyle and comfort tolerance. The collection sees beautiful summer brights and a great mix of monochrome prints. A season staple, the mule, also makes its way into this collection.

Renowned as being the go-to label for women who are after chic, unique and wearable shoe designs, the shoes perfectly compliment the effortlessly chic collection already in-store. Featuring classically designed shapes with an emphasis on rich fabrics, comfort and exceptional Italian craftsmanship, Bionda Castana shoes exude timeless luxury.

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MOSAIC EYEWEAR

Dolce&Gabbana proudly honours once more the traditions of Italian craftsmanship, and for the fist time it applies the art of micro mosaic to its eyewear.

This process has its roots in ancient Roman culture: the technique of micro mosaic, or filato minute mosaic, required the spinning of the tiles that composed the mosaic, resulting in tiles that were much smaller and thinner than those used in classic mosaics. The micro mosaic, created exclusively for the Dolce&Gabbana eyewear collection, involves masterly expertise in the spinning of Murano glass, resulting in micro tiles that are then delicately and accurately laid by hand by skilled craftsmen, a technique that constitutes the very foundation of their craft.

To create the floral compositions in mosaic that embellish the eyewear of Dolce&Gabbana Mosaico Collection, over thirty different filato designs were developed that beautifully recreate the leaves, pistils, and petals of the flower.

The result is a true inimitable “artwork” expressing the most refined premium luxury, and it acts as a tribute to those floral themes that are so beloved by Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, themes that are deeply embedded in the DNA of the brand.

PRIVATE COLLECTION

In celebration of its 5th year anniversary, Emirati luxury brand, Private Collection, specialising in exclusively designed leather footwear and accessories, unveiled Private 5 - a stunning live exhibition that highlighted the company’s dedication to world-class quality and artistry. Held at the Dubai Mall, the exhibition featured master leather artisans using timeless techniques to create the premium, high quality leather goods that have become synonymous with the Private Collection brand. Guests were thrilled to discover the intricate steps involved in creating every pair of Private Collection footwear: from pattern cutting and edging, to hand stitching and trimming, to polishing the leather to a handsome finish.

Private Collection takes enormous pride in its Emirati roots, and has gone to great lengths to produce timeless designs that resonate strongly with the Middle Eastern market.

All of Private Collection’s designs are conceived within the UAE by a team of seasoned local designers, but to ensure world-class quality, the leather wares are handmade by master artisans and craftsmen in Italy.

SCENTSATIONAL SUMMER

As the rays of sunshine sprinkle light onto your home furnishings, allow the room to be awakened with a dash of bright colour and a fresh aroma from Hervé Gambs this summertime.

Hervé Gambs has been dedicated to the art of fragrance, beauty and home decor since 1989. His unique collection of luxury interior fragrances took the world’s most in vogue cities by storm, creating the perfect gift for yourself or your loved ones, especially this Eid. The Hervé Gambs range is available in Bloomingdales Home, Dubai Mall. Why not welcome the world of nature into your home this summer.

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Lord VELVET

MASTERS OF THE FASHION UNIVERSE Try on one of these spectacular looks for a fab get up next season.

Show them you’ve got the flair for style, and you’re guaranteed to get the second look.

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Lord VELVET

MAN OF THE MOMENT From Tokyo to Mexico and New York, meet the man who helps women all over the world achieve natural radiance.Clarins’ International Artistic and Training Director, Eric Antoniotti, shares what he thinks is beautiful and what makes Arab women uniquely gorgeous.

What is your definition of beauty?

Simplicity, elegance, purity. Beauty is a beautiful perfect skin thanks to the association of the right skin care treatment, according to skin condition, combine with the appropriate Foundation (the right amount, not too much, with your favourite coverage, light to full coverage, and the right finish, satin, satin luminous or mate). Beauty is enhancing your natural beauty!

Is there such a thing as a perfect face?

It is all about balancing, symmetry. Once again, a perfect face for me is first of all, a perfect skin, a perfect foundation, the right balance between a warm sun kissed effect thanks to a Bronzing Duo powder, and the freshness of your Blush Prodige (pink or coral). Perfect eye brows is a must! It frames the eyes and enhances the all face expression thanks to a clever Pro Kit: my favorite Eye Brow Kit (all you need for perfect brows!!!).

I cannot travel without it! The lashes. I am crazy about lashes and my favourite is Be Long Mascara, an amazing treatment for lashes and a perfect Mascara at once! I love long curled, intense black separated lashes enhanced by a perfect liner:

3 Dot liner! The final touch, for perfect face, is a light touch a Rouge Eclat enhanced with a touch of Instant light Natural Lip Perfector for voluptuous sensual lips!

What trends should women look out for in 2015?

It is a secret but I can tell you that our Beautiful Nature will inspire most of us! Once again, the Complexion will be flawless, super Radiant and luminous, eye makeup will be soft but enhanced with colours you could find in a beautiful garden in Spring! The lips will be sheer, shiny with lip treatment coloured balms... For Summer 2015, it is all about the ocean, lagoons, and green turquoise water.

Beauty challenges faced by Arab women?

According to the climate in the region, women need to use the right skin care and sun protectors.

They have to look for lasting textures for complexion and eyes, so long lasting make up (hot and humid climate). But they shouldn’t use too much foundation! What I love about women from the Arab world is that they have such unique and amazing expressive Eyes!!!

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Lord VELVET

DYNAMIC DUO

Coach Men’s and American designer Philip Crangi, two New York icons, have looked to the past to create new classic heirloom pieces for the modern man.

A limited edition jewellery collection and accessories just for men, developed by masters of design and style, the Coach + Philip Crangi Jewelry collection line includes belts, bracelets and keyfobs. The brass elements of each of these unique pieces have been left in their raw natural state. Over time, they will age to a richer, more beautiful color.

Nowadays, most hardware in jewelry and accessories is made of zinc, which is very light and permits a more affordable manufacturing process. All the creations in the Coach + Philip Crangi limited-edition collection were made in solid brass, to stay true to the traditional methods that Philip Crangi uses in his own designs and collections, but also to the Coach heritage (the original hardware on Coach products was solid

brass as well).

For this partnership, Crangi drew his inspiration from Greco-Roman artifacts, Baroque ironwork and Japanese armor for the handforges, solid brass hardware used in each piece. He describes his designs as “contrasts of materials, color and mood.”

He explains, “this collection was really inspired by the utility of nautical hardware. I wanted to create a new language based on this vocabulary - something familiar but totally fresh. I was also inspired by the amazing leather craftsmanship that only a company like Coach can achieve. For a designer, getting access to workmanship like this is a dream; another great part of working with Coach.”

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Spotlight GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI DESIGN HOMME

SPARKLING STRIDES The Zanotti man has a keen eye for detail a nd never forgets to pick the right accessories. For shoes, he’s got a variety to choose from – to suit every occasion, mood, and style.

For the coming season, his footwear sparkles with the lustre of gold. No one dares, but the Zanotti man is confident and assured that he will shine in his sparkling strides.

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Ramadan SPECIAL

HEAVENLY BITES TURNING JAPANESE

Katsuya offers a feast for the senses, with a tantalising selection of the finest Japanese delicacies, while enjoying the exotic flavours of its signature drinks such as the Burning Mandarin. Showcasing a delectable menu, guests can sample Chef Katsuya’s culinary specialities, including signature dishes such as Japanese crispy rice with spicy tuna, delicately cut yellowtail sashimi with Jalapeño and miso-marinated black cod.

SWEET SENSATIONS

Enjoy sensation sweets with a French twist with Forrey & Galland’s luxurious chocolates and macaroons. Indulge in the luscious truffles and cupcakes, and haute couture creations from the famed French chocolatiers. They also make for perfect Eid gifts.

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IRRESISTIBLE OFFERS

Experience Ramadan at the landmark JW Marriott Marquis Dubai spread across two iconic towers in Business Bay. Celebrate this Ramadan and enjoy a sumptuous Iftar buffet in Kitchen 6 featuring six international live cooking stations for AED 195 per person, open every night from sunset till 10:30pm.

Or indulge in Nawwara, Arabic Restaurant’s à la carte Iftar, served in the serene surrounds of the chic restaurant and lounge. Experience Chef Youssef’s acclaimed cuisine and relax on the atmospheric terrace overlooking the city below for AED 195 per person, from sunset until 9pm.

At The Ajman Palace Hotel & Resort’s Encore Bistro, the hotel’s master chefs will take guests on an international culinary journey with a new selection of dishes on the buffet every day of the week offering a variety of delectable local and international flavours with an Arabic twist. Those who do not wish to join the Iftar buffet will have the option of ordering their favourite dishes from the restaurant’s a la carte menu. Highlight of the iftar will be live cooking stations along with a range of traditional dishes such as mixed grills, shawerma, kharouf, atayaf, kounafa, Oriental mezzes and other regional specialties including soups, salads, snacks and sweets. Iftar will be served from sunset to 9.00pm in Encore Bistro that can accommodate up to 120 persons. The lavish Iftar buffet is priced AED130 net per person including Ramadan drinks. Sohour will be served from 2.00am to 4.00am for AED 85 net per person.

Must-Try Recipe

Pigeon breast and date purée pastille, mini vegetables and juice with spices.

Prepared by Chef Alexandre, Executive Chef, Constance Belle Mare Plage in Mauritius

Ingredients for 4 people: Pigeons: • 2 Whole pigeons • Duck fat Bone the pigeon and reserve the breasts.

Start the pigeon stock with the bones, carcass and a small aromatic garnish.

Moisten with chicken stock and simmer up slowly for 2 hours. Sieve and reduce to half.

Heat 30 g of honey, add 1 cinnamon stick, 1 star anise and 4 pods of cardamom. Roast for 5 minutes on low heat and deglaze with balsamic vinegar. Moisten with the pigeon stock and cook gently for 20 minutes. Filter and season.

Mini Vegetables: • 8 Pieces Mini carrots • 8 mini turnips • White and black sesame seed • Butter Peel carrot and turnips and cook them in salted water. Cool with ice at the end of cooking.

Date Pastilla: • 150 G dates • 20 G banana • 10 G salted butter • 1 Unpeeled orange • Chicken stock • 2 Sheets of filo dough • Sugar Start the date purée by putting all the ingredients in a saucepan, add the chicken stock and cook for about 20 minutes. Mix it all in a blender and pass through a sieve. Reserve.

With a paintbrush, spread butter on the filo sheets and stack them two by two.

Cut into rectangles of 9 cm / 3 cm, arrange them on a sheet of baking paper, cover with another sheet of baking paper and put an oven tray on top. Bake until lightly browned.

Finishing and presentation: • 1 Star anise • Shiso sprouts • Salt Guerande Build the mille-feuilles of date, with filo dough and date puree. Sprinkle with icing sugar and cinnamon on the last sheet.

Season the pigeon breasts and roast in a frying pan with a little oil. Pass in a hot oven 170 ° C for about 8 minutes and remove. Allow to rest Heat the turnips and carrots in butter.

Arrange on the plate pigeon breasts, add the cooked thighs. Place a date mille-feuilles, two minis turnip, two carrots and finish with the juice with spices.

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Spotlight RAMADAN PHONE

IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE A patented, new mobile technology aims to give Muslims worldwide an opportunity to experience Ramadan in a new way.

Developed by Carib Publishing, through the collaboration of designers and developers from across the globe - the UAE, United States, Italy and India - this unique RAMADAN PHONE 2014 (ramadanphone.com) solution boasts an “always on” capability, as opposed to an ordinary app which is experienced only when launched.

This particular phone experience creates a Ramadan-themed phone environment in a very user friendly way. During the Holy Month, each user has the ability to celebrate the month by immersing his phone into a Ramadan graphical environment (theme) plus receive an extensive array of Ramadan related tools and resources.

The RAMADAN PHONE experience is now available for download at Google Play stores worldwide by searching for “Ramadan Phone”. Users interested in finding more about this patented technology may visit www. ramadanphone.com.

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Travel FEATURE

QATAR: THE COUNTRY BEHIND THE HEADLINES It’s the subject of World Cup corruption allegations and the world’s richest nation per capita. What’s it really like?

have dreamt of, mingle more easily with their foreign guests.

Among older locals, however, there is unease at the pace of change. Pride in the country’s achievements is tempered with concern about what will be left of this tiny Islamic state in years to come. Evenings of Bedouin music and poetry can still be found, but the old dialects are dying out and nomadic culture pushed to the fringes. Unlike the nearby United Arab Emirates, where the skyscrapers and man-made islands of Dubai border vast hinterlands of empty desert, Qatar is too small to truly escape the unremitting creep of Westernisation.

“There are many who feel the country has changed too quickly and some of the soul of the place is being lost. The pace of change has obscured some of the nation’s heritage. We look to Dubai and people are not sure they want to go down that path,” says one Qatari.

“There’s a sense that Doha isn’t sure what it wants to be, that it’s expanding for the sake of it and that those changes may be irreversible,” agrees Stephens.

The effort to placate conservatives and retain touch with the country’s Islamic roots can spark unexpected lurches in policy. In 2011, the Pearl district of luxury hotels, restaurants and villas with private beaches was abruptly stripped of its alcohol licence.

Promoted as the “Arab Riviera” upon opening, the Pearl went dead overnight as Westerners went elsewhere. No reason was given. Certainly the sight of carousing expats had upset some locals, but government advisers say that a financial dispute between developers and members of the royal family was behind the ban.

The sale of alcohol was suddenly banned again last year at poolside bars, forcing frustrated hotel managers to cancel their popular — and lucrative — weekend pool parties. The search for a balance between tradition and progress goes on.

Drawn by plentiful work opportunities and tax-free salaries, much of Doha’s expat population slips easily into the city’s service culture. Many will admit to a vague sense of guilt at losing the ability to cook, clean or fill the car with petrol.

“Qatar has scooped up a host of European and American masterpieces at record-breaking prices, pumping billions into cultural initiatives to underpin its recent emergence as a major political player on the world stage.”

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Text by Hugh Tomlinson

A

cross the Qatari capital, life is slowing down.

Frazzled expatriates creep from one airconditioned space to the next, cowering from the sun staring back from the city’s glass towers and whitewashed walls. The beaches are emptying and commercial work has slackened as the tiny Arab state prepares for the mass summer exodus when Qataris and expatriates alike decamp to cooler climes.

The talk everywhere is of holiday plans. Or it was until the latest allegations of bribery levelled at Qatar’s controversial bid to host the 2022 World Cup sent a shiver of scandal throughout the city once again.

Qatar’s rise to become the world’s richest nation per capita has been so swift that many in the country are struggling to keep up. The glittering towers that ring the bay and striking cultural developments such as the Museum of Islamic Art mask a city still in search of an identity. In the city’s five-star hotels, young Qataris mingle at the bar with foreigners of all stripes. In the desert a few miles away, local men hunt with falcons, a glimpse of life before the discovery of massive natural gas reserves transformed this quiet pearl-fishing community.

“There is a life beneath the surface.

Doha is a vibrant city if you look in the right places,” says Michael Stephens of the Royal United Services Institute, recently returned to London after three years in Qatar. “The hotels and bars are one side to Qatar. Or you can go to the edges of the city and find a real Bedouin lifestyle. Increasing numbers of Qataris are bridging that gap; it’s many of the expats who makes less of an effort.” A massive influx of foreign workers over recent years means that just 300,000 Qataris live in Doha, surrounded by about 1.7 million foreigners. This imbalance and the codependency at the heart of Qatar’s relationship with its expatriate workforce leads inevitably to friction.

Younger Qataris, born with a more Western outlook and more opportunities to travel than older generations could

Tradition meets modernity in rising economic powerhouse Qatar.

(Photo by Alan Baxter/The Image Bank/Getty Images)

Moaning is a national pastime — about Qatar’s often byzantine bureaucracy, the lack of school places for children and particularly the traffic, which infuriates foreigners and locals alike. By night, when the streets have cleared, Doha echoes to the howls of supercar engines. But even a Ferrari can only go as fast as the car in front, though Westerners complain that Qatari drivers too often attempt to defy the laws of physics, forcing them off the road. Speed limits, red lights, even one-way street signs are mere suggestions. “They drive like lunatics,” one Briton says.

There is guilt about the plight of the thousands of migrant labourers slaving in the heat for paltry wages to realise Qatar’s vision. Seen everywhere and yet invisible, these workers — most from the subcontinent and Southeast Asia — are herded to and from camps on the edges of the city. To compensate, many expats adopt an obsequious politeness in their dealings with those migrant workers they encounter in bars, restaurants and shopping malls. Yet the issue is commonly brushed off as “Qatar’s problem” and most Westerners are not above rising to imperious anger if a bloody mary is not mixed to their liking.

“No one is comfortable with it, but there’s a sense that there’s nothing you can do. These people are absolutely powerless but you get seduced by the service culture and then complain when the tiniest thing goes wrong,” says one British consultant.

In the upmarket Villagio mall, indifferent tourists glide on gondolas up a canal between the shops, a small nod to the extravagant mall culture of neighbouring Dubai that Qatar has largely resisted so far.

For those willing to take them, however, Doha’s rapid growth provides a growing number of opportunities for locals and expats to mix. Stand-up comedy is enjoying a surge in popularity, with open-mic nights attended by Qataris and foreigners. The city’s growing cultural programme has brought new diversity to Qatari life. Along with other Gulf cities, notably Abu Dhabi, where new Louvre and Guggenheim museums are under development, Doha is competing to establish itself as the new cultural capital of the Arab world.

Aged just 31, Sheikha al-Mayassa al-Thani, chair of the Qatar Museums Authority [QMA] and sister of the country’s emir, is already one of the most powerful players in the art world. Qatar has scooped up a host of European and American masterpieces at record-breaking prices, pumping billions into cultural initiatives to underpin its recent emergence as a major political player on the world stage. The government has stirred debate with new public art projects, though not every initiative has been a success. A series of vast bronze sculptures

by Damien Hirst, tracing the development of a foetus from gestation to birth, was unveiled in October and hastily covered up again after irate locals called for them to be torn down.

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Travel TIDBITS South Islan

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Discover Danube

When in Budapest, don’t miss the famed Neprajzi Muzeum (Credit Getty Images)

Travel to Budapest and discover the enthralling offers of the Pearl of the Danube, well known for its healing thermal water springs, historic spas and stunning architecture. The city boasts an extensive repertoire of World Heritage Sites such as the Buda Castle Quarter, Andrassy Avenue and of course the banks of the Danube.

The history of the Danube is intricately interwoven with that of Budapest and Hungary. True understanding of the country’s culture and history isn’t complete without exploring the historic Danube Bend. Corinthia Hotel Budapest has designed a special package allowing guests to visit the three most beautiful cities in the Danube Bend: Esztergom, Visegrad and Szentendre.

While there, stay at the luxurious Corinthia Hotel Budapest, which offers a special tour package that starts from €529 (excluding VAT & City Tax) for a minimum stay of three nights and includes accommodation for two in a Superior room and a delicious buffet breakfast.

The full day Danube Bend tour to Esztergom, Visegrad and Szentendre includes a boat tour back to Budapest. The package is valid until 30 September 2014 and is subject to availability and blackout dates may apply. For more information on Corinthia Hotel Budapest and bookings visit www.corinthia.com/Budapest

When in Budapest, don’t miss the famed Neprajzi Muzeum (Credit Getty Images)

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Good vibes

Imbibe the good vibes of the ‘goodest’ country in the world (Credit: Getty Images)

If you want to travel to a place with good vibes, then look no further than Ireland, which is the “good est” country in the world, according to the first-ever index measuring what 125 countries on earth contribute to the rest of humanity and to the planet. The resul ts of the inaugural ‘Good Country Index’ were unveiled at a TedSummit in Berlin by Simon Anholt (founder of the Good Country Index).

Ireland came in first place in the Good Country Index for the size of its economy, its combined global contributions to science and technology, culture, inter national peace and security, world order, planet and climate, prosperity and equality, and the health and wellbeing of humanity – which outrank those of any other country.

Safe travels

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Family FEATURE

LET’S GO TO THE NIGHT ZOO! There’s nothing stopping children from telling mummies and daddies to take them to the zoo. Al Ain Zoo is changing its Summer timings and activities, and here’s all you need to know…

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e admit the weather does not permit kids to enjoy outdoor activities during this season. But, fret not. We’ve got your family covered still with amazing sights and activities they can experience at the zoo.

Kicking off summer with ‘night zoo’ concept, the Al Ain Zoo is changing its summer operating hours, where guests of all ages will get the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of activities and exclusive offers for the entire family in the cooler hours of the evening.

Founded in 1968 by the late Sheikh Zayed, the Father of our Nation, Al Ain Zoo is a family destination, providing entertainment and learning experiences in a natural outdoor environment.

Today, visitors of all ages discover the zoo’s wildlife and enjoy a great day-out packed with fun and adventure, while learning about conservation and exploring a collection of around 4000, animals.

Located on the UAE-Oman border, it is a short drive from UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah and minutes away from Buraimi city in Oman. Al Ain Zoo is one of the city’s leading attractions. Visitors can also venture to the Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum, the former palace of His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, which tells the UAE’s cultural story prior to its dramatic development and Jabel Hafeet which rises at 1245 meters with enchanting views of the city in addition to Al Jahili Fort, Al Ain National Museum and other tourist destinations.

Al Ain Zoo is home to an internationally important conservation programme focusing on the wildlife of the world’s arid regions, and the zoo is involved in conservation research, captive breeding and propagation and the reintroduction of threatened species to their wild habitats. Our collection of desert antelopes is recognized as among the best in the world. Al Ain Zoo is a proud member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquaria (WAZA). Strategic partnerships have been set up with leading zoos, conservation agencies and associations from across the

world, including the World Conservation Union and Species Survival Commission, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, San Diego Zoo, Edinburgh Zoo, the Northern Rangelands Trust of Kenya and the Sahara Conservation Fund.

As part of the UAE’s commitment to wildlife conservation both within the UAE and internationally, Al Ain Zoo is transforming the area around the existing zoo, into a new institution dedicated to exhibiting, interpreting and conserving desert wildlife. This sustainable leisure and learning destination will provide an extraordinary opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about the desert world and experience a world-class tourist destination. Embedded within the UAE World Desert, the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre will feature educational exhibits that celebrate the wildlife and traditions of the desert, celebrate the conservation heritage of the late Sheikh Zayed and help chart a sustainable future for desert living.

The night zoo There will be tons of things to do at the night zoo, that’s the Al Ain Zoo promise. Embracing Abu Dhabi’s summer mascot, the turtle, Al Ain Zoo’s resident experts will be leading informative discussions on this amphibious species. Visitors will also get the chance to take a closer look into the world of reptiles through learning exciting information on these unique creatures. Live crocodile feedings will also be taking place, under the supervision of the crocodile keepers, allowing for a thrilling and exciting experience.

Guaranteeing a fun learning environment for all, a variety of exciting animal experiences such as the live bird shows and weekly lively and educational movie screenings will be exhibited at the Parrot Tent. Several feedings are scheduled for the evening hours, leaving the animals energetic and lively for night-time visitors.

In collaboration with Wadi Adventure, visitors will get to enjoy fun filled weekends during the summer, where they can have a refreshing start to their day full of adventure and excitement, before heading to the zoo where they will experience a diverse

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THE BIRD HOUSE

collection of around 4000 species.

To get a different perspective, night vision goggles are available for rent. These allow visitors to experience first-hand in the cooler evening hours how animal behaviour differs at night.

Al Ain Zoo will be offering a “Buy one get one free” promotion at the main gates of the park. The zoo is open daily from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and from 6:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. during the holy month of Ramadan.

As part of its commitment to provide unmatched visitor experience in a fun and exciting learning environment, Al Ain Zoo’s Bird House will be undergoing enhancements during the upcoming months.

The renovations taking place will be based on the highest international standards, as part of Al Ain Zoo’s ongoing efforts to position itself as a leading zoo both regionally and globally.

The zoo’s diverse collection of species and animal exhibits offers a range of exciting animal experiences and activities. Furthermore, it is home to important international conservation programs, and provides a wide range of educational activities that give visitors the opportunity to connect with wildlife and nature.

THE ARABIAN ORYX

Al Ain Zoo showcased the Arabian Oryx, while highlighting the efforts of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, to save this critically endangered species from extinction in the seventies, when their numbers began to decline and reached 5- 7 individuals in the wild. The late Sheikh Zayed directed his attention towards saving this animal not only for its natural and environmental presence, but also for its cultural value in the UAE. The Arabian Oryx is known for its ability to fully adapt to the desert environment and reduce its need for water consumption during the summer. When water is scarce, the Arabian Oryx can supply themselves with the water from the dew drops that form on the surface of plants. The Arabian Oryx is also known for its identical large horns, which can appear as one horn when seen from a profile, which is probably why the animal was once thought to only have one horn. Their horns are also used to fight predators. Their bright white colour serves as both an advantage and disadvantage. On one hand, the light colours help them cope with the summer heat, but on the other hand the black stripes that occur on the head and neck draw the attention of hunters and predators.

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Interior ROUND-UP

TASTE FOR DESIGN GROWING D3

Since its launch by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai in June 2013, Dubai Design District (d3) has received over 900 expressions of interest, beating expectations and laying the foundations of a genuine design industry. Just recently, d3 confirmed that over 140 licenses have been granted for businesses to move to the site, with over 40% of these from the MENA region.

TECOM Investments’, the developer behind the project confirmed that licences have been awarded to businesses that range from regional and international organisations to local and regionally based small businesses and freelancers. This strategy is reinforcing d3’s vision to bring together the established and the emerging design and creative community as a collaborative eco-system. d3 will help achieve Dubai’s 2020 Vision of attracting 20 million visitors and AED 300 billion in tourism revenues per year. Once complete, d3 will be a world-class creative community that promotes and nurtures emerging regional design talent, as well as providing a home to their global counterparts.

HOMEY WONDERS

Wonder (pun not intended) what’s new in Bloomingdale’s? Well, we’ve recently learned that the lifestyle brand C. Wonder has opened its second UAE outpost in our go-to interior haven, Bloomingdale’s Home – Dubai. Offering

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customers an entirely new retail experience, the new C. Wonder boutique is a shopping destination that transports customers into a world of luxury and surprises. The boutique offers a unique collection of jewellery and accessories, home decor, gift ideas, customizable amenities and services for an easy, feel-good shopping experience with delightful surprises at every turn. Lacquer, enamel, calfhair, suede, monogramming and personalisation are some of the elements used to create special products with lasting appeal.

Adala Nakkash, Wajih Nakkash, Aya Nakkash, Omar Nakkash and Guests

JUST IN

NAKKASH Galleryheld held a grand opening and cocktail reception to celebrate the launch of its 800 sq meter showroom in the heart of Sheikh Zayed Road. Known as the premium destination for both indoor and outdoor design, the unveiling of the new showroom was attended by VIP clients, leading interior decorators and top editors. “We felt it was time to bring our concept closer to our customers, and offer them easier access to our products and services” said founder Wajih Nakkash. “Thirty years is an important milestone and we are showing our customers our dedication to always providing the most interesting selection of design and furniture from around the globe.”

The new showroom highlights the gallery’s commitment to showcasing the most up to date contemporary furniture and will feature prolific designers such as Celerie Kemble, Keno Bros, and Lisa Corti, among others.

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Arts and CULTURE

ARTISTIC

MUSINGS YAA Exhibition Opening 2013

Call for entries

Held under the royal patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Women Establishment, wife of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Presidential Affairs, UAE; The Sheikha Manal Young Artist Award 2014 will open for applications from 1st July until 31st October, 2014.

First launched in 2006, The Sheikha Manal Young Artist Award is an annual fine arts competition which aims to encourage, recognize and promote emerging artists from the UAE and is especially popular amongst university students majoring in Art, Design and Multimedia. Throughout the past years the award had many achievements within the artistic community, where an enormous number of artists have graduated from different artistic aspects, and gained prominence within the Suleiman Mansour_Sad Tunes. 1977 artistic community culturally, globally and locally.

The application process will be conducted via the competition website www.youngartistaward.ae. Interested participants can follow the instructions on the website to make their online Under the Patronage of H.E. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahysubmission. The deadline to apply and upload entries is 31st of an, UAE Minister of Culture, Youth & Community Development, October 2014.

Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF), in partnership The contest is open to all UAE residents, male and female, with Barjeel Art Foundation, presented ‘Sky Over The East’ exhibibetween the ages of 18 to 35 years. One major criterion for the tion in celebration of International Museum Day. Held award is that the artist should not have from May 29 to June 27, ‘Sky Over The East’ exhibited had an independent solo exhibition previat the Emirates Palace Gallery featuring artwork from ously. Moreover, the recently launched, prominent Arab artists from across the Middle East. new value for the Award prize money Drawn from Barjeel Art Foundation’s collection of will be a total AED 405,000. The break Arab art, the ‘Sky Over the East’ exhibition spanned down is AED 50,000, AED 30,000 and AED 86 years of visual arts practice. Bridging a spectrum 20,000 cash prize for winner, runner up of styles, mediums and subject matter, the exhibition and second runner up, respectively of presented 55 works by 49 artists from 12 countries the four competition categories. There and aimed to contextualise key milestones from the will also be a cash prize worth AED 5,000 region’s modern history while testifying to the artist’s for the winner of the ‘People’s Choice role as a vital contributor to the intellectual developAward’. ment of society.

Young Artists Award 2014 entries will An education programme for all ages accompanied be reviewed by a distinguished panel of the exhibition, which was inspired by ADMAF and judges comprised of industry professional Shakir Hassan Al Said_Al Deek Al Barjeel Art Foundation’s common goal of bringing and practicing artists from the local and Faseeh. 1954 generations together through art. Also, there were international art community. The panel workshops exclusively for schools, including Kufic will shortlist fifty art works for an exhibiMural (a contemporary approach to the ancient art of calligraphy), tion followed by the winners being announced during the Gala Emirate Dhabi (Gazelle) (the decoration of three-dimensional Awarding Ceremony to be held in December 2014. objects), and Mural Making.

‘Sky Over The East’

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Contemporary Kingdom Launched in February during the inaugural ‘21,39’ Jeddah Arts initiative and during Art Dubai in March, Contemporary Kingdom: The Saudi Art Scene Now has been obtainable throughout key venues across the Middle East and Europe, and is now available in North America through LACMA (the Los Angeles County Museum of Art), New York based Leila Heller gallery, as well as the British Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum and SOAS in London and on Amazon.com, the world’s largest online retailer.

Additional stockists can be found here.

Produced by regional leading publishing house in Dubai, Canvas Central, the book illustrates the growth of the Saudi art market, the artists, galleries, educational programmes and public institutions throughout the Kingdom and features key interviews with patrons and the new generation of young collectors.

The 360-page hardcover book includes a foreword by HRH Princess Jawaher Bint Majed Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, President of the Al-Mansouria Foundation, and contributions from art world specialists including Chris Dercon, Director, Tate Modern; Mona Khazindar, Director General, Institut du Monde Arabe, and Venetia Porter, Assistant Keeper, Department of the Middle East, The British Museum. Mohammed Hafiz, Co-founder, Athr Gallery; patrons Sara Ali Reza and Faisal Tamer, Stephen Stapleton, Co-founder, Edge of Arabia and Maryam Beydoun, independent curator and art advisor additionally contribute with essays on identifiable themes.

Award for Comic Arts A brand new competition gives Emirati comic artists over 18 the chance to win an animation course at New York Film Academy (New York) and a place at the Middle East Film & Comic Con 2015. Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) has announced the launch of the inaugural edition of The ADMAF Comic Arts Award in association with Mubadala. Part of ADMAF’s Rewarding Excellence programme, the award aims to nurture artistic expression in the comic field and celebrate the power of the comic arts as a creative and cultural tool.

Entries are welcome from UAE citizens aged 18 and above until 15th September 2014. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend the Mubadala Youth Forum, a dedicated event for college-age Emiratis committed to provide guidance and direction about career related decisions and opportunities, on 21st October where their works will be exhibited and the winner announced.

Each entry will be assessed on artistic merit, technical skill, evidence of original thinking, and development of concept. The prize includes an all-expenses-paid trip to New York to attend the New York Film Academy 3D Animation 4-week Course, along with a WACOM Cintiq 13HD® and a place at the Middle East Film & Comic Con 2015.

Submissions are welcomed in comic or animation mediums including Long Form (longer than 40 pages) such as graphic novels, Short Form (shorter than 40 pages), including standalone work, Digital Media including web comics and online comic strips, Comic Strips featuring four or more panels, Single Image featuring a self-contained narrative image, and Moving Image utilising motion graphics. Information and the entry form can be downloaded from the ADMAF website: http:// www.admaf.org/en

Arts, Music and Puppet Shows

Bringing A History of the World in 100 Objects to life, the Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) organised Artscape, a celebratory evening of art and music that took visitors back in time and across the globe, allowing them to engage with the compelling objects that have defined the path of human history. Running as part of the exhibition programme for A History of the World in 100 Objects (which runs until August 1st), the event took place last June 18th in Manarat Al Saadiyat.

Inspired by the artworks and artefacts, visitors witnessed in the exhibition, Artscape’s live performances and workshops that mixed ancient and modern musical forms; including Magic Mirror by the renowned gu qin player Wu Na, and the contemporary artist Feng Mengbo on drums as well as a famous show of Wayangkulit shadow-puppetry.

These live performances were accompanied by a number of interactive workshops such as The History of Chocolate in Mexico, which was presented in collaboration with the Embassy of Mexico and led by Chef Santos Esteban Pére. A workshop, When Art Meets Football, was inspired by the counterfeit football shirt featured in the exhibition, of

Programmes at Manarat Al Saadiyats last Artscape event

Didier Drogba, an Ivory Coast footballer who grew up in France and played for Chelsea F.C. Continuing the cross-cultural nature of the event, shadow-puppetry Wayangkulit was also presented in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia. Puppet-master Dory Repyonugroho alongside Bambang Sarbudiyono and a team of seven gamelan musicians performed the well-known Mahabharata Gatotka Gandrung, a story of Gatotkaca who fell in love with Arimbi and fought over her with his rivals.

The programme for Artscape was inspired by objects in the exhibition A History of the World in 100 Objects. Third in a series of major exhibitions leading to the opening of Zayed National Museum in 2016, A History of the World in 100 Objects is being held at Manarat Al Saadiyat in Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Cultural District for another month.

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True STORY

RAPED FOR A LIVING

A

Her mother had a failing kidney, and her father had lost his sight due to his unstable diabetes. She applied for jobs in Manila, but the pay was not enough to put her younger siblings through college, which she was desperately trying to achieve for them - a better life.

merica, Europe or Australia were all an overseas dream. The salaries were better, the living standards were better, and almost always employees would get paid and be taken care of. Who knows, she might even have her family join her in Los Angeles, or pick up French while in Paris, or share a room with her family in a small studio in New York. She had everything figured out. She would economise, and work really hard to prove her worth. She would be upgraded, because these modern countries appreciate a smart, educated and hardworking woman.

Violeta, was 26 years old, 5’5” of a slender build, but had gained a bit of weight when she stopped working in the farms. She had a degree in Hotel Management, and was looking to be a receptionist in some 5-star hotel in a rich country. She had long hair, large eyes and spoke Spanish because her grandparents had Spanish blood. They had land, which was an asset, but not enough able hands to turn the soil and plant, tend, and harvest the crops. It was a constant struggle that was regularly interrupted by monsoons, floods, crippling pesticide costs, taxes and theft. The local loan shark charged exorbitant rates, triggering a domino effect: by the time one loan was paid, another was needed—a never ending, unfair, vicious circle.

Violeta was the only breadwinner in her family, and wanted very much to get married to her fiancé Lucas

Fernandez. They have been together since high school, but both supported their families and had backbreaking responsibilities. Lucas left to Azerbaijan to work as a florist and had hoped that after a few years he would return and work at a similar caliber hotel in Manila.

He would write her emails, full of promises, pretty pictures of clean streets, fashionably dressed people and flower centrepieces he had created for weddings, receptions and lobbies.

As the money from the farm began to run out, Violeta thought it best to attempt to work in these golden countries. Anything seemed better than starving to death amidst the mud with the sick and dying dreams and family around her. Hard times called for hard decisions, and so she applied everywhere for a job. Many offices required that she pay an upfront fee of 50,000 pesos to receive a passport and a guarantee of a job. It was is a lot of money, equivalent to the price of a plot of land in the provinces. She pawned the only thing that she had left, the land that belonged to her grandparents before her, the land that fed them and kept them under a roof during monsoons, in a final attempt to fight the last battle against poverty. She pawned her land to pay for the passport, a down payment to guarantee her loyalty and seriousness about travelling to work abroad. As is the case for most Asian workers, her contract locked her into two years abroad, regardless of homesickness or an unhappy or unpleasant situation.

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Despite her traumatic experience, Violeta persevered and triumphed. (Credit: Getty Images)

True STORY Violeta had a little extra money left, which she left with her siblings, all under the age of 18. Sibila, 17, who wanted to be a fashion designer, but Violeta wanted her to go into nursing, where the pay is better. The twins, Anthon and Antonella, 15, who wanted to be actors and singers, but Violeta wanted them to be an architect and civil engineer so they could work together as they were both good at drawing and quick in math. Maria Mercedes, the doe-eyed 13-year-old, who towered for her young age, and aspired to be a fashion model or face model.

Violeta was the mother figure in the house and would sometimes find herself crying in desperation at how dreamy and unaware her brood was about their poverty. Her father would eat less and less because he thought that he was leaving food to sustain his children.

His condition required that he eat, and, after the insulin shot, one becomes famished, yet he still guarded his consumption and would try to share his food with his children. His sight had failed, but he could still see during the day and well lit places.

Dressed in her Sunday church clothes to appear polished and fine, Violeta flew in a plane for the first time and arrived in fantastic Dubai, the bustling metropolitan center of the seven emirates in the United Arab Emirates. She voraciously read as much as she could about the city on her long trip. Salaries were good, accommodation was provided for hotel staff, and things were looking promising and exciting. Before the mirror in the plane’s toilet, Violeta practiced speaking to staff and receiving royals and celebrities at her beautiful chic hotel.

An hour before she landed, homesickness struck her and she wept. The air stewardess attended to her and chatted with her.

The attendant was half Filipino and half Italian. She told Violeta what a wonderful place Dubai was, and how she was dating a handsome half-Lebanese, half-Italian man in Abu Dhabi. She told her that she would have to be dragged to go back to the Philippines. In fact, there are so many Filipinos in Dubai, she never had a chance to miss home. To Violeta, it was not home she was thinking of. It was the daily responsibility of the children, her parents, and the loan sharks who could be villainous if she was late in paying, charging even more ridiculous rates.

Violeta met the company chauffeur, a middle aged Indian with a big moustache and dark clothes. In the minivan there

were several Filipinas. Everyone was polite, but curt. They secretly began measuring themselves up against their colleagues and thinking of which position would they handle—day manager, night manager, lobby receptionist, bar tender, maitre d’hotel or waiters.

The drive was short, roughly ten minutes, and the girls were shepherded into a hall. Mrs. Santos, another middle-aged Filipina, head of Human Resources at the company received them, and asked their names, ages, and if the trip was good.

From what the girls had understood, each would go to a different hotel. The lucky ones would go to the 5-star hotels near the downtown, which meant more tourists and higher tips. The uptown was slower, more relaxed, but the tips and raises were lower. However, it also was more stable, with less chance of being sacked. Mrs. Santos casually walked around and inspected the girls, asking them a question at most, then whispering to her gay, fidgety assistant, who would sometimes grunt or whine a response.

Some girls went to one ‘accommodation’ and the rest, including Violeta, went to another. After the one-hour drive, they arrived at the building. It looked like a lonely labour camp in the middle of the desert. Violeta could not stop comparing it in her mind to Alcatraz prison.

She had a very small room with no windows, only a wall fan and a lazy rotating fan above her bed, which was uncomfortable to sleep under.

The girls were given Panadol to sleep better. Violeta could not help but feel like she was back in Catholic Girls School, and Mrs. Santos was the priest, giving the sacramental bread with a small paper cup. Mrs. Santos said she was being supportive of her fellow kabayans because they needed to be bright-eyed for the next day. The girls were all nervous, curious and guarded as they stood outside the long corridor, taking the pill and sip of water before going to bed.

Violeta slept soundly, for which she was grateful, because she had not stopped thinking of her family, her hopes, and how she would change everything for the best.

She woke the next day feeling dizzy and lazy. She went to the bathroom, took a shower after waiting for 20 minutes, and had a conversation with the girls that was friendlier than the ones the day before. It was an international group, made up of young women from the Philippines, India, Pakistan, Indonesia, Romania, Moldova, Ukraine, Moroccan and Egyptian. Appar-

“Humantraffickingrepresentsan estimated $31.6 billion of internationaltradeperannumin2010.

Human trafficking is thought to be one of the fastest-growing activitiesoftransnationalcriminal organizations. The Emirati governmentprovided$15million in financial assistance to a global UN conference on trafficking.”

VELVET-MAG.COM 120 JULY/AUGUST2014

ently none of them measured up for working in the posh hotels.

Violeta cried in the hot shower. She felt like she had poured her last asset down the drain. She was determined to speak to Mrs. Santos, kabayan to kabayan. Surely, she could find her a better job. Perhaps she could advise her. Lucas had said his colleague’s girlfriend and friends were all working in Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. She could not go home now. She could work as a maid for $200 a month and would be fine, since accommodation and meals were provided, so that would be alright for two years.

Claustrophobia began to set in on Violeta. She disliked how she and her colleagues were shooed like cattle into halls. She could not shake off the jet lag. Mrs. Santos said that due to their appearance, they would not work in the hotel. Some of the women started weeping and blowing their noses, making a dull murmur in the background. Violeta stood up and inquired what they were to do, that she had personally, like many others, pawned her last asset to be able to work, to support her dependent family. She stood there, looking at Mrs. Santos, demanding an answer.

That is when the gates of hell opened.

Mrs. Santos said that the women would receive a bed and meals, plus a salary of $136 salary a month, to entertain customers. “My dear, the most I can do for you is introduce you to your customer, and you will be taken care of.” She paused to see if her meaning was clear. “This means you will have to sleep with your customer,” Mrs. Santos added, quietly and ever so coolly, as if she was asking if Violeta would like one or two cubes of sugar for her tea.

The twenty young women began to shout at Mrs. Santos. The noise was louder than anyone could comprehend. Mrs. Santos told the newcomers that the entire four-story building was full of women prostituting themselves. She added that she was fair and kind. She said that after the two-year contract the girls could leave with their compensation and a bonus. She smiled as she said it.

Violeta went to her room to pack and leave. Someone came up from behind and put a handkerchief laden with drugs over her mouth. Violeta was out by the second breath she took.

When she woke, she found her wrists and ankles were tied to the bed. She was still too drugged to yell for help, and she was still under the notion that she was in the province. She felt that there was someone in the room, but she could make out who it was. She was so sleepy that the fan did not even bother her. She woke up at night with the scent of a musky men’s perfume in the air, or was it on the sheets? Mrs. Santos walked in, and began speaking indistinctly about how she would get use to this. She told Violeta she had serviced three men already, but Violeta was too drugged to fully understand. Her tied hands itched. She sat up, but the drugs affected her balance, and she

lied down once again. There was dull pain in her private parts.

Her body felt mangled.

Mrs. Santos fondled Violeta’s hair as she cried, too drugged to even wipe away her tears. Food was brought in and Violeta was left alone. She had been doped and raped, and she did could not do anything about it. This was going to be her life for the next two years. She serviced as many as 15 customers a day from different walks, classes, nationalities and ages. She asked the Filipino men to notify the Embassy, but they did not help, and they never came back to her.

As the days that passed there was no need to be tied down.

An apathy came down upon the girls, who would service a minimum of five men a day. Money was sent to their homes by others, as the women were not allowed out. They were told that after two years they had an option of going back to their homes or continuing their job. Flocks of sheep as they were, the women sought refuge in each other’s pain and stories. They eventually gave in, but when they did, they never were the same again. They stopped complaining and even stopped talking. They became robots that wanted nothing more than for the day to end. Some attempted suicide. A few managed to kill themselves.

The rest were broken into the trade by six months.

Human trafficking is illegal everywhere, but people still do it. Some are forced into it. Others are addicted to the drugs, and servicing clients is the only way to get a continued supply from the drug sellers. Sometimes female members of a household are pawned or held responsible for a drunken father or gambler from the family.

The police discovered the brothel one night, and Violeta was sent to live in a Dubai Charity Home. She stayed for two years, recuperating her sanity and physical health. Violeta is one of many woman who trusted a charming, painted image that lures the weak and desperate. Violated women tend to need years of therapy and support group sessions. The abuse eats away at their communication skills, which ultimately makes it impossible for them to vent their anger. They walk around lifeless, soulless, and seldom are able to return to the socialising normalcy of family and friends.

Violeta was different. She took up music while in recuperation and found solace in it. She played the piano with such powerful passion that it became an adventure, a tragedy, and murderous romance all in one. Through music therapy, the spell was broken. Violeta now teaches music to ex-human trafficking victims at a shelter in Dubai. She married Lucas, who is now a florist in a Dubai flower shop, and she recently gave birth to twin boys. She has achieved a career, a family, and serenity at last.

“Violetawasdifferent.

She took up music whileinrecuperation andfoundsolaceinit.”

VELVET-MAG.COM 121 JULY/AUGUST2014

Arab HISTORY

SCHISM THAT STILL POISONS ISLAM

T

he war in Syria began much earlier than is generally recognised. The conflict actually began in the year 632 with the death of the Prophet Muhammad.

The same is true of the violence, tension or oppression currently gripping the Muslim world from Iraq and Iran, though Egypt, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia to Yemen, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

A single problem lies behind all that friction and hostility.

In February this year, Britain’s leading Muslim politician, the Foreign Office minister Baroness Warsi, obliquely addressed it in a speech she made in Oman, the Arab state at the southeast corner of the Arabian Peninsula strategically positioned at the mouth of the Persian Gulf. The religious tolerance of the Sultanate, she suggested, offered a model for the whole of the Islamic world. It certainly needs such an exemplar of openness and acceptance.

What most of the crucibles of conflict in the Middle East have in common is that Sunni Muslims are on one side of the disagreement and Shia Muslims on the other. Oman is unusual because its Sunni and Shia residents are outnumbered by a third sect, the Ibadis, who constitute more than half the population. But in many countries the Sunni and the Shia are today head-to-head.

The rift between the two great Islamic denominations runs like a tectonic fault-line along what is known as the Shia Crescent, starting in Lebanon in the north and curves through Syria and Iraq to the Gulf and to Iran and further east.

The division between Sunni and Shia Muslims is the oldest in the Middle East — and yet it is one which seems increasingly to be shaping the destiny of this troubled region as thousands of devotees from both sides pour into Syria. Jihadist al-Qaida volunteers on the Sunni side and Hezbollah militants on the Shia, are joining what is fast becoming a transnational civil war between the two factions.

There are around one and a half billion Muslims in the world. Of these somewhere between 10 and 20 per cent — estimates vary considerably — are Shia. In most countries these

Shia are minorities in a Sunni homeland. But in Iraq, Iran, Bahrain and Azerbaijan they outnumber their co-religionists.

What makes Syria different is that there a Sunni majority is ruled by a Shia minority. The Alawites, the sect to which President Bashar al-Assad and much of his army officer elite belong, are Shia. That situation is the mirror opposite of Iraq under Saddam where a Sunni strongman lorded it over a Shia majority — until the invasion of Iraq when elections put the Shia in charge, insofar as anyone can be said to be running that chaotic country.

The division between the two factions is long and deeper even than the tensions between Protestants and Catholics which bedevilled Europe for centuries. The two Christian denominations had a shared history for 1500 years. By contrast the rift between the two biggest Muslim factions goes right back to the beginning — and a row over who should succeed the Prophet Muhammad as leader of the emerging Islamic community when he died death in the early 7th century.

In the last 10 years of his life Muhammad inflicted total defeat on the pagan tribes of Mecca and by doing so united the entire Arabian Peninsula. Around 100,000 people had submitted to the rule of Muhammad and of Allah. Tribal alliances in Arabia in those days usually disintegrated on the death of the leader, or after the short-term military objectives had been met and the spoils divided. Often succession would pass to the leader’s son. But Muhammad had no son, only a daughter. And his inheritance was spiritual as well as political.

The majority of his followers thought his closest associate, Abu Bakr, should take over. They became the Sunnis. But a minority thought the Prophet’s closest relative, his son-in-law and nephew Ali, should succeed.

Shia is an abbreviation of Shiat Ali `the party of Ali’. Intrigues and violence followed, with Muhammad’s widow Aisha (who was also the daughter of Abu Bakr) leading troops against Ali. Eventually Ali was killed, as was his son Hussein, and persecution and martyrdom became ingrained in the

VELVET-MAG.COM 122 JULY/AUGUST2014

Text by Paul Vallely

Catholic/Protestant tension is nothing compared to the vicious Sunni/Shia divide in the Muslim community

Martyrs Memorial commemorating the victims of the Iran-Iraq war (1980-1988),

by Fayde Hassan, Baghdad, Iraq. (Photo

by DeAgostini/Getty Images)

Shia psyche. As the years passed rift hardened into schism. The seeds of civil war had been sown.

The two sides agreed on the Quran but had different views on hadith, the traditions recorded by Muhammad’s many followers about what he had said and done in his life. Diverging traditions of ritual, law and practice soon emerged. A clerical hierarchy, topped by imams and ayatollahs, became crucial in Shi’ism. By contrast Sunni Muslims felt no need of intermediaries in their relationship with God — an approach which has abetted the rise of extremist zealots like al Qaida. The Sunnis became happy to depend upon the state, which its adherents mostly controlled.

The chief Shia religious festival became Ashura when devotees would beat themselves to commemorate the death of the Prophet’s grandson Hussein at the Battle of Karbala in 680.

Various Shia sub-sects formed, including the fanatical Assassins, the Alawites in Syria and the Ismailis, whose leader is the Aga Khan. Some mystical sufi movements created a bridge between Sunni and Shia but hardline Sunnis regard the Shia practice of venerating saints and visiting shrines as heretical — which is why Sunni extremists bomb Shias on pilgrimage in places like Karbala in Iraq today.

But in the 1,400 years since the death of the Prophet the majority of Sunni and Shia Muslims have not routinely allowed their theological differences to create hostility. Some Sunnis included ritual denunciations of Ali in their prayers, but in many times and places the two sects co-existed peacefully.

Yet from time to time violence has flared in which the Shia, in the main, have been brutally and even genocidally persecut-

ed. In 1514 an Ottoman sultan ordered the massacre of 40,000 Shia. Mughal emperors in India between the 15th and 19th centuries routinely executed Shia scholars, burned their libraries and desecrated their sacred sites. Inter-communal violence has recurred in Pakistan.

There have been periods and places of concord. In 1959 the most influential centre of Sunni scholarship, al-Azhar University in Cairo, admitted Shia jurisprudence to its curriculum. In Azerbaijan, where the Shias are in the majority, there are mixed mosques where both sects pray together. But early in the 20th century the Saudi royal family made discrimination against the Shia official and destroyed most of the Shia holy places. With the rise there of the Sunni fundamentalism known as Wahhabism, severe restrictions have been placed on Shia practice and its leaders jailed. Some Saudi scholars brand Shi’ism as a heresy `worse than Christianity or Judaism’.

The fanatics of al-Qaida have been nurtured in this Wahhabi ideology. Some consider the Shia to be not merely heretics but apostates — and the punishment for apostasy, they say, is death.

Over the years the division has been exploited by outsiders.

British colonialists in Iraq in the 1920s used an elite of Sunni army officers to suppress a Shia rebellion, paving the way for Saddam’s Sunni minority rule, in which Shia clerics were regularly executed. The legacy has been that most of the 6,000 killings over the past year in Baghdad are Sunni on Shia and vice-versa. Now this ruthless sectarianism has spread to Syria.

Two major developments have triggered the escalation of tension between Sunni and Shia in recent years. The first was

VELVET-MAG.COM 123 JULY/AUGUST2014

History the Islamic revolution in Iran in 1979 when the rule of the pro-Western Shah was overthrown and replaced with a Shia theocracy with Ayatollah Khomeini at the head. Khomeini did his best to build good relations between Shia and Sunni inside Iran but other leaders, religious and secular, have since been more divisive. And Khomeini was from the outset adversarial to the Sunni aristocrats who led Saudi Arabi — calling them American lackeys as well as `unpopular and corrupt’ dictators.

The Iranians and Saudis have been fighting a proxy war in the Middle East ever since.

Today in Iran, though Christian churches are tolerated, the million Sunnis in Tehran have no mosque of their own. There are no Sunnis in top government. Sunni businessman have difficulty getting import and export licenses. Huge numbers of ordinary Sunnis are unemployed. The situation in Saudi Arabia is the exact reverse, with Shia on the receiving end of the discrimination.

From time to time there are attempts to insist that the tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia are not religious. In 2007 King Abdullah of the House of Saud met the Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and, with public hugs, spoke of a thaw in relations between the two regional powers — and condemned those who were trying to fuel the fire of strife between Sunni and Shia.

But it changed nothing in the realpolitik. Each oil-producing giant sees the other as a huge obstacle to its national interests.

Geopolitics is the reality but religious vision is the tribal badge it wears.

The invasion of Iraq instigated by George Bush and Tony Blair in 2003 was the second big factor in the deterioration of Sunni-Shia relations. Saddam Hussein led a Sunni elite which governed Iraq’s Shia majority with a reign of state terror. The US had backed Saddam in Iraq’s war with Iran throughout the 1980s, in which half a million troops died.

But after 9/11 the US changed its mind about Saddam, so overthrew him and brought democracy to Iraq. The resulting election placed in power leaders from the Shia majority who have excluded the Sunni minority, who have responded with the car bombs which are killing thousands in Baghdad and elsewhere. Al-Qaida jihadists have flooded into the country to join Sunni terrorists in attacking the Shia government. And

The Shah Mosque or Masjed-e Shah, formerly known as Imam Mosque is a mosque in Isfahan, Iran standing in south side of Naghsh-i Jahan Square. (Photo by Kaveh Kazemi/Getty Images)

now the polarised sectarian conflict has spilled over into Syria.

When the Arab Spring reached Syria in 2011 it began as a protest against the corruption, nepotism and human rights abuses of the Assad government. But within two years the armed uprising against the regime was transformed.

Rebels motivated by political indignation, who received limited backing from Western governments, slowly became outnumbered by rebel groups with extreme Islamist motivation fighting to create what they call the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).

These jihadists have come from across the Islamic world but they are backed by Saudi cash. More recently Shia militants from the Lebanese paramilitary group Hezbollah have arrived to support the Alawite-led army of the Assad regime. Full-blown civil war is the result.

What all this means is that Sunni and Shia are locked in conflict all across the Shia Crescent. As each side steps up its activities, the other feels more threatened and hardens its response in turn.

Sunni-Shia tensions are increasing across the world as a result. They are on the rise in Pakistan, Afghanistan, Lebanon, Turkey, Kuwait, Bahrain, Libya, Tunisia, Egypt, Malyaysia and even in London as issues of identity, rights, interests and enfranchisement find sectarian expression.

The tensions are deep-rooted in wider economic and geopolitical concerns. But the risk is — given the long history of division and tension — that predictions of a transnational civil war between Sunni and Shia could become a self-fulfilling prophecy.

“But in the 1,400 years since the death of the Prophet the majority of Sunni and Shia Muslims have not routinely allowed their theologicaldifferencestocreatehostility…in many times and places the two sects co-existed peacefully. “

VELVET-MAG.COM 124 JULY/AUGUST2014

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Qatar +974 44953876 ext: 3299

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The Dubai Mall+971 4 330 3033

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MOE +971 4 395 1700

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Archive

1969

Premium luxury jewellery house Dhamani opened their signature boutique named ‘Dhamani 1969’ at The Dubai Mall. Created in 1969, House of Dhamani has a deep understanding of the intrinsic value and cultural importance of jewellery in today’s world. Dhamani 1969 will satiate the appetite of contemporary and luxury loving fashionistas from across the globe through beautifully crafted pieces.

Dhamani 1969 raises the bar in the jewellery industry by presenting a unique selection of handpicked rare gems and diamond encrusted jewellery. Dhamani 1969 also marks the first major step towards positioning this prominent home-grown brand on a global platform. The new signature brand together with the planned global expansion across Oman, Qatar, Singapore and the UK will provide Dhamani’s international clientele with access to the impeccable quality and workmanship of Dhamani.

As part of the exclusive boutique opening, Dhamani 1969 previewed its unique and timeless diamond encrusted bridal collection. Solitaires of up to 20 carats are intricately woven together to create the bridal diamond collection which reflects meticulous design, suitable for the sophisticated and refined woman who has an eye for detail.

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