Dubai Fashion Week Announces SS26 Show Dates for September
Dubai Fashion Week (DFW) will return to the Dubai Design District (d3) from the 1st to the 6th of September 2025, it has been announced.
Organised in partnership with the Arab Fashion Council and d3, this edition comes on the heels of a successful Autumn/Winter 2025/26 season held in February. The AW25-26 shows included high-profile appearances by international models, the debut of regional designers such as Les Benjamins, and a finale by acclaimed Indian couturier Manish Malhotra. Also featured were immersive brand activations, private showings, and citywide events that attracted major global retailers and media outlets.
The Spring/Summer 2026 edition will host over 30 fashion brands from across the globe, including names from France, India, Italy, Lebanon, Libya, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom. The line-up will showcase diverse creative approaches while addressing key themes such as sustainability, ethical production, inclusivity, and cultural expression.
In addition to runway shows at d3, the event will extend across Dubai with private dinners, collection launches, and exclusive showcases. A dedicated Buyers Programme will also return, connecting designers with key decision-makers from Europe, the United States, and other markets. This initiative is aimed at supporting commercial growth and international exposure for participating brands.
Applications are now open for designers wishing to take part. Each submission will be reviewed by the DFW Selection Committee, which will finalise a curated list of participants to reflect Dubai’s global and innovative fashion identity.
Dubai Design District is also celebrating ten years as a creative hub. Launched in 2015, it now hosts over 1,100 businesses and 20,000 professionals across fashion, design, architecture, and art. The district also houses in5, a business incubator, and the Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation, in collaboration with MIT and Parsons School of Design.
dubaifashionweek.org
Second Edition of Saudi Fashion Awards to Take Place in Riyadh
The Saudi Fashion Commission has announced the return of the Saudi Fashion Awards, with the second edition set to take place on the 22nd of May in Riyadh.
Following its successful inaugural event in 2024, the Awards aim to celebrate excellence across fashion and beauty. This year’s edition expands its focus, adding new categories to reflect the sector’s continued growth and transformation.
Award categories for 2025 include:
- Fashion Stylist of the Year
- Fashion Photographer of the Year (in partnership with Hia Magazine)
- Menswear Brand of the Year
- Womenswear Brand of the Year
- Jewellery Brand of the Year
- Honorary Award: Model of the Year
- Four international awards supported by WWD, spotlighting achievements in design and beauty innovation
The judging panel comprises leading names in the global fashion and media landscape. Among them are Law Roach, Image Architect and Stylist; Amanda Smith, CEO of Fairchild Media Group and WWD; Burak Çakmak, CEO of the Saudi Fashion Commission; Xavier Romatet, Dean of the Institut Français de la Mode; Mohammed Aldabbageh, KSA Managing Director of Chalhoub Group; and Mai Badr, Editor-in-Chief of Hia Magazine.
Burak Çakmak, CEO of the Saudi Fashion Commission, described Riyadh as a growing epicentre for the creative industries. He said the Kingdom’s shift from regional promise to international presence on red carpets, runways and in retail spaces is the result of “the ingenuity and dedication of a new generation of trailblazers redefining regional and international fashion standards.”
The Saudi Fashion Awards were established in 2024 to bolster Saudi Arabia’s presence in the global creative economy. They aim to foster innovation, sustainability and craftsmanship in the industry while recognising standout talent.
The Fashion Commission itself was launched in 2020 with a mandate to develop the Kingdom’s fashion sector. It supports growth through investment, regulatory frameworks and talent development. The organisation also focuses on preserving Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage while elevating local designers.
fashion.moc.gov.sa
Chloé Unveils Spring-Summer 2025 Eyewear Campaign
Chloé has released its Spring-Summer 2025 eyewear campaign, showcasing a collection shaped by a sense of freedom, instinct, and optimism.
The designs reflect the house’s established codes while presenting a fresh interpretation of summer through light materials, joyful tones, and an artisanal aesthetic.
The collection includes the “Aly,” which was the first eyewear design by Creative Director Chemena Kamali in FW24. For the new season, the style features luminous metal frames, contrasting materials, and distinctive triple gradient lenses..
The designs reflect the house’s established codes while presenting a fresh interpretation of summer through light materials, joyful tones, and an artisanal aesthetic.
Three key styles in the collection:
CHO278S is a rectangular sunglass frame crafted entirely from metal. It features a double bridge design, a laser-engraved Chloé logo on the left lens, and drop-shaped openings at the temple tips, a signature of the brand.
CHO286S offers an oversized square silhouette with an acetate front and metal temples. This model is also equipped with triple gradient lenses and the engraved Chloé logo on the left lens.
CH02870 is an optical frame with an oversized square shape. It is marked by transparent shades and includes a decorative metal detail linking the end pieces to the temples.
Each piece in the collection aims to capture the spirit of summer through expressive form and materiality. The combination of acetate and metal, along with gradient lens finishes, underscores the focus on craftsmanship and refined detailing.
chloe.com
Jewels of the World Opens in Riyadh with Exclusive Global Showcase
The Jewels of the World exhibition has officially opened at the Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah in Riyadh, bringing a broad selection of international and regional jewellery and timepiece brands to the Saudi capital.
The event, which runs until the 19th of May, offers nearly twice the floor space of the Al Khobar edition held earlier this month.
The exhibition is positioned as a key destination for discerning collectors and jewellery enthusiasts, offering pieces not typically available in the Kingdom. On display are a range of creations from daily wear to high jewellery and bridal sets, highlighting both contemporary and traditional craftsmanship.
More than 60 brands are exhibiting, including Al Baqshi Jewelry, Charles Oudin, Diva Jewels, and Yoko London. Saudi Arabian designer Renad Alamoudi is showcasing her Marque Legacy collection, inspired by a custom piece made for Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman. The collection is crafted in Switzerland and features rare gemstones and handcrafted watch mechanisms.
British jeweller Yoko London is debuting its signature O by Yoko and Zyyp collections in Saudi Arabia. The Zyyp line includes a statement necklace with a zipper mechanism that allows for adjustable styling, while O by Yoko features sculptural designs in chokers and earrings.
Bil Arabi, founded by Nadine Kanso, is presenting its first high jewellery Hobb set. The line incorporates Arabic calligraphy with diamond settings, maintaining the brand’s focus on modern Arab identity.
Italian house Scavia is showcasing pieces such as the Ethnico necklace and bracelet, adorned with yellow diamonds and coloured sapphires, as well as the Rinascimento necklace, combining white gold with rubies, emeralds, sapphires and a pink pearl.
Finally, FerriFirenze is also displaying designs from its Vito collection. These handcrafted pieces, including necklaces and bracelets, are characterised by fluid, sculptural forms and are embellished with diamonds.
jowsaudi.com
Alaïa Unveils Summer Fall 2025 Campaign Celebrating the Power of the Female Form
Maison Alaïa has revealed its Summer Fall 2025 campaign, titled Archetypes, spotlighting themes of bodily freedom, sculptural elegance and intimate power.
Photographed by Tyrone Lebon in the South of France, the campaign features models Anok Yai and Binx Walton in a warm, Mediterranean light that underscores the Maison’s vision of an endless summer.
The campaign is closely aligned with the creative direction of Pieter Mulier, who continues to evolve Alaïa’s distinctive visual language. The images convey a dreamlike yet grounded mood, presenting Yai and Walton in moments that are both stripped back and strikingly composed. Their portrayal captures what the brand describes as “the very embodiment of the Alaïa woman”, figures who are sculptural, magnetic, and imbued with a confident sensuality.
Photographed in an architectural setting defined by arches, floaters, and sculptural lounge chairs, the visuals are intimate and tightly framed, reinforcing the physicality and poise of the models. This intimacy, described by the brand as “like an embrace, like a circle,” is mirrored in both the set design and the collection’s construction.
Key pieces from the collection include form-fitting swimwear, spiral skirts and dresses that emphasise movement and structural finesse, and Alaïa’s signature bustiers. These garments trace the contours of the body with precision, reinforcing the brand’s longstanding commitment to craftsmanship and form. The silhouettes are described as dynamic and almost athletic.
The campaign also spotlights a selection of updated accessories from Alaïa’s established repertoire. These include Le Teckel, Le Cœur and the Hip bag, as well as spiral hoop earrings, bold mask sunglasses, and the label’s well-known ballerinas and sculptural heels. Each piece is designed to elevate the silhouette and align with what Alaïa terms “solar allures”.
According to the Maison, the Archetypes campaign is not merely a seasonal statement but an evocation of purity and motion. It presents an aesthetic rooted in liberation, strength and beauty, qualities central to Alaïa’s design philosophy since its inception.
maison-alaia.com
Guerlain Appoints Mohammed Hindash as First Middle East Ambassador
Guerlain has named Mohammed Hindash as its first Regional Makeup Ambassador for the Middle East.
The announcement marks a strategic move by the French luxury beauty house to strengthen its presence in the region and reflects a broader commitment to celebrating local talent and regional aesthetics.
Hindash, a Dubai-born make-up artist and entrepreneur, is known internationally for his distinctive approach to beauty. His appointment follows a longstanding admiration for Guerlain, with which he shares an affinity for blending heritage with innovation.
“My chapter with Guerlain represents more than just beauty, it embodies timeless innovation rooted in heritage,” said Hindash. “I’m beyond thrilled to take on this role as I showcase Guerlain through my lens and artistry.”
Gabrielle Saint-Genis, CEO of Guerlain, described Hindash as a natural fit for the brand. “His singular artistry, strong sense of style and deep connection to the region makes him the perfect ambassador to help share the Maison’s makeup creative vision to the Middle East,” she said.
Founded in 1828, Guerlain has played a pioneering role in beauty, credited with numerous innovations such as the first lipstick in a tube, Ne m’oubliez pas, in 1870, and the enduring Terracotta powder, launched in 1984. Its Rouge G lipstick remains a global icon. The brand continues to combine creative craftsmanship with high-performance formulations and a strong emphasis on natural ingredients.
Hindash, who began as a classically trained artist, has earned a global reputation for his refined aesthetic and has worked with various high-profile figures across the fashion and entertainment industries. His partnership with Guerlain will focus on promoting the Maison’s vision through his interpretation of Middle Eastern beauty, while also highlighting the diversity and richness of the region.
The collaboration will include storytelling through make-up artistry, featuring Guerlain’s signature products and newly released collections. It also underlines the brand’s dedication to empowering beauty enthusiasts across the region.
Guerlain products are available in boutiques throughout the UAE and Saudi Arabia, with a flagship location in The Dubai Mall, as well as online at guerlain.sa.
The Best Digital Detox Retreats to Try in Summer 2025
Relax and reset at these tech-free retreats during this summer and beyond
Euphoria Retreat, Greece
Situated near the southern UNESCO World Heritage site of Mystras in Greece, the architecture of the Euphoria Retreat is inspired by Byzantine design, complementing its natural surroundings and providing a serene backdrop for relaxation. The retreat offers guests an opportunity to unplug from their devices and reconnect with themselves in a structured and supportive environment. A key element of Euphoria’s digital detox programme is the restriction of mobile phone use in both the restaurant and the spa. This policy creates a distraction-free setting, allowing guests to fully engage in their physical and emotional well-being activities without the interruptions of modern technology. Alongside their property-wide approach to technology, the retreat offers a variety of wellness programmes, including detox, weight loss, yoga, and mindfulness classes.
These programmes are designed to help guests restore balance and achieve a state of well-being. Expert guidance is provided throughout, with an emphasis on facilitating profound physical and emotional transformation. Guests are encouraged to embark on a journey of self-discovery within a safe and nurturing environment. Standout facilities include the striking sphere pool, located within a domed structure and reaching a depth of 3.5 metres, where guests diving into the pool can experience the unique sensation of hearing the sounds of dolphins and whales. Meanwhile, Euphoria Retreat’s spa facilities include a tepidarium, a Byzantine hammam, along with a range of treatments aimed at rejuvenation and relaxation. The retreat also offers personalised nutrition plans based on individual assessments, supporting guests in their wellness journeys.
Chiva-Som Hua Hin, Thailand
The Chiva-Som retreat is situated on Thailand’s Gulf coast in an area known as Hua Hin, which is famed as being the preferred holiday destination for Thai royalty. The resort enforces a policy that restricts the use of mobile phones, personal computers, and electronic devices to only guest rooms and the library, thereby preserving a tranquil environment conducive to relaxation and self-reflection. This approach is designed to support guests’ wellness journey and to mitigate the constant distractions and micro-stressors associated with digital device usage. By encouraging guests to disconnect from their devices, the resort aims to enhance mental clarity, improve focus, and facilitate deeper connections with oneself and others.
While device-free, guests can engage in a variety of wellness activities, including yoga sessions, meditation, and mindfulness practices, all intended to promote mental and physical well-being. The resort’s holistic approach encompasses a range of treatments and therapies that support the digital detox experience. The spa encompasses 70 treatment rooms, offering a comprehensive range of therapies that blend traditional Thai healing with modern wellness practices. Signature treatments include the Chiva-Som Spa Haven Body Cocoons, such as the Cleansing Cocoon, which utilises a deep cleansing coffee scrub to exfoliate the skin and stimulate circulation, aiding in the removal of toxins. Another option, the Revitalising Cocoon, combines a zesty Thai herbal body scrub with an oil massage to relieve pain and polish the skin. The Siam Ritual Cocoon features an active herbal scrub with sea salt, followed by a nourishing wrap with aloe vera and rejuvenating body moisturiser to soothe sensitive skin.
Blackberry Mountain, Tennessee, US
Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee, the Relais & Châteaux resort Blackberry Mountain is designed for guests seeking a digital detox in a natural setting. Spanning 5,200 acres, over half of the property is dedicated to conservation, providing an environment conducive to relaxation and disconnection from digital distractions. The resort offers sumptuous but rustic accommodation, including stone cottages, chic treehouses, and mountain homes, all constructed with local materials to blend with the natural surroundings. Each unit is equipped with amenities that encourage guests to unwind without relying on technology. Throughout the stay, there is a plethora of wellness activities including forest bathing, yoga, sound bathing, and aerial yoga sessions.
Guests are also encouraged to engage in outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and climbing, which are facilitated by the resort’s extensive trail system and natural features. The on-site spa, Nest, adds to the experience, offering treatments focused on healing and recovery, such as fascia sculpting and assisted stretching. Culinary offerings at the property focus on seasonal menus that champion healthy ingredients, all served with panoramic mountain views. Blackberry Mountain’s approach to luxury is centred on providing an environment where guests can disconnect from digital devices and reconnect with nature and personal well-being. The resort’s emphasis on conservation, wellness, and outdoor activities makes it the ideal destination for those seeking a retreat from the demands of modern digital life.
Gili Lankanfushi, the Maldives
Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives is a delightful five-star retreat with a digital detox ethos, which they call their “No News, No Shoes” philosophy. Guests are encouraged to disconnect from technology and avoid distractions such as news and social media. This approach is designed to foster a more mindful, relaxing experience, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings.”No News, No Shoes” underpins the entire guest experience, promoting simplicity, tranquillity, and a deeper connection with nature. Personal butler service is provided, with each guest assigned someone to help assist to facilitate a seamless digital detox. Whether arranging activities or ensuring guests’ comfort, the butlers play a key role in maintaining the resort’s serene atmosphere.
The focus on disconnection supports a broader commitment to wellbeing. Guests are encouraged to embrace outdoor activities such as snorkelling, helping them engage with the natural environment rather than digital devices. While high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort, the property actively encourages disconnection, helping to strike a balance that may appeal to those looking to dip their toes in to try a digital detox. Providing guests the opportunity to step away from daily pressures and return to a simpler, more mindful way of living.
Jenna Ortega Named Dior Makeup Ambassador for 2025
Dior has officially announced American actress Jenna Ortega as its new international beauty ambassador for Dior Makeup. The collaboration places Ortega under the creative direction of Peter Philips, Creative and Image Director for Dior Makeup.
The move strengthens Ortega’s growing relationship with the French luxury house and marks another significant milestone in her career. The 21-year-old actress, who rose to global fame through her role as Wednesday Addams in the Netflix series Wednesday, will now represent Dior Beauty across global campaigns.
Ortega’s appointment is seen as a strategic alignment between Dior’s brand values and the actress’s public image. A Dior spokesperson described her as embodying the “bold elegance of the House” and noted her ability to inspire a new generation through both her work and her values.
In a statement, Ortega reflected on her first experiences with makeup. “The House of Dior symbolizes audacity, elegance, and timelessness, and being part of it is both incredibly exciting and surreal,” she said. “The first time I wore lipstick, I must have been 10 or 11 and it was for work, because I started acting when I was so little. I was wearing my mum’s lipstick, we were just in the bathroom of the studio and she put it on me.”
Ortega’s current projects reinforce her position as a key figure in contemporary cinema. She recently reunited with director Tim Burton for Beetlejuice Beetlejuice and has returned to the role of Wednesday Addams for the show’s second season, set to air in autumn 2025. In addition, she is starring in and executive producing the film Death of a Unicorn and appears in Hurry Up Tomorrow alongside The Weeknd, directed by Trey Edward Shults.
Her recent filming work also includes The Gallerist, where she stars alongside Oscar-winning actress Natalie Portman, and Klara and the Sun, directed by Taika Waititi.
The announcement underscores Dior’s focus on working with talent that reflects both artistic merit and cultural relevance. Ortega’s global profile and distinctive presence in film and fashion make her a prominent choice for the role.
dior.com
Jaeger-LeCoultre Opens New Boutique in Bahrain’s Marassi Galleria
Swiss watchmaker Jaeger-LeCoultre has opened a new boutique in Bahrain, located at the Marassi Galleria in Marassi Al Bahrain, Diyar Al Muharraq. The launch marks a strategic milestone in the Maison’s continued expansion across the Middle East.
The boutique design draws inspiration from Jaeger-LeCoultre’s home in the Vallée de Joux, Switzerland. The interior incorporates organic materials and natural tones to create a calm, immersive environment reflecting the brand’s heritage of watchmaking and innovation.
The new space offers a comprehensive brand experience for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Features include a private VIP lounge, a Calibre Wall, and a Personalisation Wall. The Calibre Wall presents a selection of movements from the more than 1,400 calibres created by the brand to date, grouped by themes such as Precision, Chiming, Functional, and Thin & Small. A touch-screen display allows visitors to explore behind-the-scenes videos from the “Behind the Calibres” series.
The Personalisation Wall encourages clients to customise their timepieces. An interactive Strap Bar allows experimentation with a variety of strap materials, colours and stitching combinations. Customers are also offered examples of engraved and lacquered Reverso casebacks, providing inspiration for creating bespoke designs on Monoface Reverso models.
The boutique showcases Jaeger-LeCoultre’s current collections, including the Reverso, Polaris, Rendez-Vous, Master Ultra-Thin, Master Control, Duometre, and Master Grande Tradition lines. The Atmos clock, a perpetual timepiece powered by changes in air temperature, is also on display.
This year, the brand is paying tribute to the centenary of the 1925 Exposition des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, which marked the birth of the Art Deco movement. This artistic style became the defining aesthetic of the Reverso, now recognised as one of the most iconic watch designs in the world.
The boutique is situated on the first floor of Marassi Galleria and is open from 10am to 10pm, Saturday to Wednesday, and from 10am to midnight on Thursdays and Fridays.
Jaeger-LeCoultre.com
Jewels of the World Exhibition Set to Open in Riyadh
The internationally acclaimed Jewels of the World exhibition is set to open in Riyadh from the 16th to the 19th of May, following the conclusion of its Al Khobar edition.
The event will take place at the Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, marking the exhibition’s return to the Saudi capital after its debut there in 2024.
After a successful showing in the Eastern Province, the Riyadh edition promises an expanded line-up of luxury maisons and designers. The exhibition will feature an extensive range of high jewellery, bridal collections, bespoke pieces, fine jewellery and luxury timepieces.
A wide roster of participating brands will be present, including Al Baqshi Jewelry, Al Nahar Jewellery, Amarin Jewels, Azar Gems, Bil Arabi, Birdhichand Ghanshyamdas, Carlo Barberis, Charles Oudin, Devji Aurum, Eliva Gioielli, Etho Maria, FerriFirenze, George Hakim, Giovanni Ferraris, Hanna Jewels, HRH Joaillerie, J.H. Jewellers, K K Jewels, Kahn Jewellery, Maison Mirath, Moksh Jewellery, Piranesi, Renad Alamoudi, RK Jewellers, Scavia, Silvia Furmanovich, Solitarie Jewels, Vanessa Gioielli, Yoko London and Yvan Tufenkjian.
Several of the showcased pieces will be newly unveiled following their first appearance in Al Khobar. The exhibition aims to provide both collectors and the public with access to exclusive designs and high-end craftsmanship from across the globe.
The event will be open to the public daily from 16:00 to 23:00, with all items available for purchase.
For registration and more detail, visit jowsaudi.com
The Best Red Sea Luxury Hotels to Visit in 2025
The Red Sea in Saudi Arabia is now welcoming international visitors with the launch of its first five resorts, marking a significant milestone for Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 project.
Located along the Kingdom’s western coastline, the new properties in the Red Sea region are central to the country’s broader plans to diversify its economy and position itself as a key player in global high-end tourism. The new properties are part of phase one, which will include 16 resorts across three islands and two inland locations, all accessible directly from the newly opened Red Sea International Airport. The full phase will see the gradual opening of all 16 resorts throughout 2024 and 2025. By 2030, the wider development will feature 50 hotels, in addition to more than 1,000 residential properties. Spread across 22 islands and six inland sites, according to developers, the destination has been carefully planned to accommodate a maximum of 1 million visitors annually in order to preserve the fragile local ecosystem. Here we take a look at the first five properties to open in the region.
The St. Regis Red Sea Resort
The St. Regis Red Sea Resort is situated on Ummahat Island, offering a secluded luxury retreat accessible only by seaplane or speedboat. The resort comprises 90 villas, positioned either overwater or along the beachfront, each equipped with a private pool and expansive views of the Red Sea. Designed by renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, the resort integrates architecture and environment, with structures shaped by the island’s natural contours. The design features dune-inspired forms and interiors influenced by local breezes and textures. Guests can expect signature St. Regis butler service and access to a range of amenities, including a spa influenced by the natural rhythms of the Red Sea, cold plunge pools, a yoga pavilion, and casual barefoot dining at the Beach Club. Dining options include Nesma, a beachfront venue; Gishiki 45, which offers modern Japanese cuisine; and Tilina, specialising in refined Levantine dishes. The resort is the ultimate destination for discreet luxury and relaxation.
Six Senses Southern Dunes
Located on the outskirts of Umluj, the Six Senses Southern Dunes is set among the Khuff dunes and serves as a gateway to the surrounding volcanic craters, mountain landscapes, and archaeological sites. The resort’s 3,974 square-metre spa is a central feature, designed to mirror the desert terrain through calming, natural tones. Split across two levels, the upper floor offers a gym and fitness suite with panoramic views of the surrounding desert. On the lower floor, guests can access treatment rooms, a wet area with cold plunge pools, and water surfaces designed to provide a cooling contrast to the climate. Wellness experiences include a Holistic Anti-Ageing Centre, sensory suite with a meditation dome, separate treatment areas for men and women, and outdoor treatment cabanas. Traditional Arabic elements, such as the scent of frankincense, are integrated throughout. Dining options span five restaurants, each reflecting Saudi Arabia’s culinary traditions. These include a cooking school, a chef’s table, a patisserie, and a Gelato Pod. Destination dining around the resort complements the Six Senses’ focus on local sourcing and sustainability.
Desert Rock
Desert Rock opened last year and is one of two inland properties that will be welcoming guests in the area. Located in a secluded valley surrounded by rugged mountains, the resort is designed to integrate with its dramatic natural setting while offering high-end amenities. The property’s dining options feature a range of curated experiences. Nyra focuses on wood-fired cuisine using locally sourced ingredients, while MICA presents an inventive drinks menu. Meanwhile, Basalt delivers elevated comfort-inspired dishes, and Wadi serves a more casual menu al fresco by the pool, all designed to reflect the surrounding landscape. Adventure and wellness are central to the Desert Rock experience. Akun-led excursions provide access to the mountainous terrain for immersive outdoor activities. Meanwhile, the resort’s spa, situated at the mountain base, includes eight treatment rooms, a private hammam, and a rhassoul chamber. Treatments draw on the desert’s natural elements and traditional healing practices, aiming to restore balance and well-being.
Shebara Resort
Shebara Resort is an eco-luxury retreat focused on sustainability and high-end hospitality. The resort comprises 73 villas, both overwater and beachfront, each designed to blend into the island’s natural setting. Every villa includes panoramic sea views and a private infinity pool. There are two restaurants at the property, serving delectable dishes. These include iki.roe, which offers Nikkei-inspired cuisine, and Ariamare, specialising in Mediterranean dishes. Both are led by recognised chefs and aim to provide diverse, high-end dining experiences. Sumptuous wellness facilities include a full-service spa, featuring treatments such as the Pearl & Green Caviar Signature Hammam, and a 24-hour fitness centre. Shebara Resort is accessible via a 30-minute seaplane transfer or a boat ride from the Red Sea International Airport.
Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, offers a secluded escape for those seeking refined, bespoke luxury and a deeper connection to nature and the sea. Located in a pristine coastal setting, the property blends natural beauty with refined hospitality. Culinary experiences at Nujuma highlight the region’s rich cultural influences. The resort’s dining philosophy draws on local traditions, where fine ingredients are elevated by aromatic spices. Meals are crafted to foster community, with a seat always open for both friends and strangers, making dining an inclusive and meaningful ritual. The on-site spa provides a curated menu of bespoke treatments, including massages, facials and full-body rituals, using both regional elements and global techniques. Moringa Peregrina oil, sourced from AlUla, features prominently in the holistic wellness journeys offered. Meanwhile, signature therapies are complemented by sensory elements such as oud-infused treatments and dedicated spaces for reflection. The spa includes private treatment suites, relaxation lounges and immersive environments aimed at guiding each guest through a process of renewal and discovery. With tailored wellness consultations and thoughtfully designed experiences, Nujuma’s spa experience supports long-lasting balance and well-being.
How Matcha Took Over the Wellness Industry
You may have recently noticed an increase in the number of green-hued beverages at your local coffee shop. Or perhaps a surge in the number of cafes with “matcha” in the shop name.
Once considered an exotic drink associated with traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, the lesser-known sibling of green tea is now starting to challenge the heavyweights of the caffeinated beverage industry. According to the Matcha Global Market Report 2025, the industry is currently valued at approximately $4.24 billion, having experienced a rapid climb from $3.84 billion in 2024.
Experts suggest that the surge in matcha’s popularity is the result of a complex intersection of cultural, health, and social media-driven factors. “There’s been both an undeniable increase in demand and a shift in that demand,” said Haiya Tarik, founder of HAIYATEA. “Social media, particularly TikTok, has played a huge role – matcha has blown up and become somewhat of a lifestyle. It’s ‘in,’ and peer pressure plays a role too.” Tarik also points to the rise in travel to Japan, exposing more consumers to matcha firsthand, and a general move from industrial-grade to more premium ceremonial-grade matcha, which commands higher prices.
Matcha’s appeal lies not only in its cultural heritage but in its nutritional profile. Unlike green tea, where the leaves are steeped and discarded, matcha involves consuming the entire powdered leaf, providing a concentrated source of antioxidants, L-theanine, and other nutrients. “Matcha contains a stronger concentration of some antioxidants and nutrients, which might have more health benefits,” explained Dr Amir Firouzjaei, an acupuncture practitioner with Wellth.
Health benefits are a major driver of its success. Clinical dietitian Mitun De Sarkar of Simply Healthy adds, “People are actively looking for healthier energy alternatives, something with less of a crash and more calm — and matcha delivers that.” She added, “It contains L-theanine, which enhances calm focus without the crash.”
Clinical studies back these claims. A meta-analysis has indicated that matcha can help lower blood pressure and LDL cholesterol while offering anti-inflammatory benefits. Emerging research also points to potential cancer-preventative properties, although experts agree that more human studies are required.
Dubai and the wider Gulf region have proven to be fertile ground for matcha’s rise. “Dubai loves matcha, especially the younger crowd,” De Sarkar observed. However, she warned that not all matcha offered in the region is authentic or of high quality: “A lot of places use culinary-grade powder for drinks and pass it off as premium.”
Alexi Campsteyn, Brand Marketing Manager at Onda in Dubai, highlighted another dimension of matcha’s growth: its alignment with broader lifestyle trends. “The rise of intentional living, clean caffeine, and ‘quiet luxury’ in wellness has made matcha not just relevant, but aspirational,” Campsteyn said. “It’s not just what’s in your cup – it’s the mood that comes with it.”
The traditional preparation of matcha remains central to its appeal. In contrast to regular green tea, matcha is created from shade-grown leaves that are steamed, dried, and stone-ground into powder. The method of preparation, using tools such as the chawan (bowl) and chasen (bamboo whisk), forms an integral part of the matcha experience. “Making matcha is a meditative process,” said De Sarkar. “It feels like self-care, and it’s a wholesome experience in a cup.”
However, experts are cautious about modern applications that drift too far from matcha’s roots. While matcha’s incorporation into smoothies, protein snacks, and even skincare products is welcomed, some trends raise eyebrows. Tarik criticised the “cold-whisking of matcha directly into milk using a chasen” as disrespectful to the craftsmanship of traditional tools. Campsteyn echoed this sentiment, noting, “When it’s reduced to a novelty — dyed into fluorescent desserts or masked in artificial flavourings — it drifts away from its essence. Matcha isn’t meant to shout; it’s meant to ground.”
Despite these concerns, experts agree that the adaptability of matcha has helped broaden its appeal. “The variety of items which have matcha as a key ingredient brings more matcha-flavoured items to those who might not like to drink matcha as a tea,” said Dr Firouzjaei.
One factor distinguishing matcha from coffee is the experience of energy and focus. Matcha provides a “longer, smoother energy boost,” according to Dr Firouzjaei. While coffee causes a rapid spike and crash in energy levels, matcha’s caffeine is moderated by L-theanine, resulting in sustained alertness without jitters. Campsteyn put it more succinctly: “It’s the difference between sprinting and gliding – one’s a jolt, the other’s a groove.”
Traditionally sourced matcha from regions like Uji in Japan remains the ideal for those serious about quality. “Uji, Kyoto is the gold standard,” said Campsteyn. “The soil, the climate, the centuries of expertise – all come together to produce matcha that’s unbelievably vibrant, smooth, and flavourful.”
For those new to matcha, experts recommend starting with ceremonial-grade products and using the correct method of preparation. De Sarkar advised, “Never boil the water because too much heat can make the tea bitter. Use a bamboo whisk because it makes a huge difference in texture, and the whole process is calming and almost meditative.”
Ultimately, matcha’s recent rapid growth arguably reflects broader shifts in consumer values towards health, authenticity, and mindfulness. A trend that, if experts are correct, is likely to continue beyond the current wave of popularity. “Treat yourself to some good matcha,” urged Tarik. “A poor quality or poorly made matcha can really put you off what is a truly nuanced and special beverage.” In a world increasingly saturated with fleeting trends, matcha’s grounded elegance might just be its secret to longevity.
Emporio Armani and Our Legacy Work Shop Launch Second Collaborative Collection
Emporio Armani and Swedish label Our Legacy Work Shop have unveiled their second collaborative collection, marking the continuation of a partnership first launched in 2023.
The new Spring/Summer 2025 release introduces womenswear for the first time and reinterprets archival Emporio Armani designs through the lens of Our Legacy’s experimental approach.
Credit – Alasdair McLellan
The collection, photographed by Alasdair McLellan on the remote Mediterranean island of Pantelleria, draws deeply from the Emporio Armani archive. Several pieces are constructed using original Armani fabrics and trims, while others feature vintage Armani textiles recreated specifically for this project. The collaboration highlights both brands’ shared emphasis on durability and timelessness.
Credit – Alasdair McLellan
“I love things that age well, things that don’t date, that stand the test of time both in terms of durability and wearability,” said Giorgio Armani.
Cristopher Nying, creative director of Our Legacy, described the process of using existing materials as both a challenge and an opportunity. “These fabrics carry history. Seeing them return in a new form made the entire process unexpectedly rewarding,” he commented.
Credit – Alasdair McLellan
The collection integrates subtle nods to traditional East Asian dress, notably in pieces like the collarless Sciovolo Shirt and the Ampolla Blazer, which features East Asian-inspired motifs on its pocket lining. The Toga Coat, inspired by the structure of a kimono, is a central piece in the range. Elsewhere, elements such as bathrobe-inspired silhouettes and slipper-like footwear evoke a relaxed, vacation-ready aesthetic.
Credit – Alasdair McLella
Silhouettes from the initial 2023 collaboration make a return in new interpretations. The recurring cat motif also reappears, this time featured on a deck of Our Legacy Work Shop Emporio Armani playing cards.
Credit – Alasdair McLellan
The new collection will be available from Friday, the 16th of May, through a dedicated installation at Armani/Manzoni in Milan, as well as Dover Street Market locations in London, Paris, New York, Los Angeles and Ginza.
Credit – Alasdair McLellan
It will also be stocked at Our Legacy’s own retail locations in Stockholm, London, Berlin and Seoul, in addition to WORK SHOP Stockholm and select wholesale partners including SSENSE, NET-A-PORTER, MR PORTER, and various Dover Street Market outlets globally.
armani.com
Schiaparelli Unveils Spring/Summer 2025 Evening Collection with Sculptural Precision
Schiaparelli has presented its Spring-Summer 2025 ready-to-wear evening wear collection, once again showcasing creative director Daniel Roseberry’s precision craftsmanship and the inventive capacity of the house’s atelier.
Titled Pour Le Soir, the collection pushes the boundaries of silhouette and texture, combining traditional savoir-faire with experimental materials. Roseberry continues to explore and reimagine the DNA of the Maison through sculptural forms and rich embellishment.
Standout pieces include figure-hugging garments in laminated knit, appearing in shades of turquoise or nude, that adhere closely to the body. These pieces feature openwork in Schiaparelli’s signature Keyhole motif, offering structured yet sensual lines. Another key design is the draped, pleated jersey dresses that juxtapose ecru and black, creating bold graphic contrasts.
Art and craftsmanship meet in the use of mesh fabrics embroidered entirely with hand-painted sequins, arranged in floral compositions inspired by master paintings. These painterly touches underscore the Maison’s ongoing dialogue with fine art traditions.
The collection also features flowing jumpsuits, secured by jewelled collars that leave a delicate impression on the skin. One of the more theatrical entries is a dress rendered in electric blue tussah silk, designed with asymmetrical draping that reveals the curve of the leg.
Other garments play with concealment and exposure. A mesh and bi-material jersey dress offers alternating moments of opacity and transparency, challenging traditional concepts of evening wear.
Each look reaffirms Schiaparelli’s ongoing commitment to technical excellence and bold imagination. The house’s Paris studio continues to develop new interpretations of evening attire, building on its heritage while embracing forward-thinking innovation.
This season’s materials and forms reflect the Maison’s mission to reinvent eveningwear on a continual basis. The result is a collection that remains rooted in couture techniques, while addressing modern desires for movement, drama and identity through fashion.
Schiaparelli.com
Rolls-Royce Phantom Marks 100 Years as a Global Symbol of Power and Prestige
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has marked the 100th anniversary of its flagship model, the Phantom, with a tribute to its cultural significance and enduring legacy as a global symbol of luxury, power and influence.
To celebrate the centenary, Rolls-Royce designers have created eight artworks inspired by the history and lifestyle of Phantom owners. The initiative references Charles Sykes’s 1910 oil paintings and underscores the brand’s ongoing commitment to bespoke craftsmanship.
Phantom I – Quintessentially British
First introduced in 1925, the Phantom has served as a vehicle of choice for royalty, world leaders, cultural icons and titans of industry. From Field Marshal Montgomery’s wartime transports to the British Royal Family’s ceremonial cars, the Phantom has consistently conveyed authority and refinement. Montgomery famously used the Phantom III to ferry Churchill, Eisenhower and King George VI during the D-Day planning stages. The Royal association began in 1948 with the Phantom IV, commissioned for Princess Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh, a car still in service today.
Phantom II – The Golden Era of Travel
The Phantom’s global reach has extended far beyond Britain. In 1966, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan used a Phantom V at his inauguration as ruler of Abu Dhabi. The same car later played a role in the formation of the United Arab Emirates.
Phantom III – Lights, Camera, Action
Phantom has also made its mark in the arts and popular culture. John Lennon’s customised Phantom V became an icon of the 1960s counterculture, while Elvis Presley’s 1963 model inspired songs and charitable donations.
Phantom IV – Grand Occasions
In Hollywood, early adopters included Fred Astaire and Greta Garbo. The car appeared in the 1964 film Goldfinger, and more recently, a one-off Phantom VIII paid tribute to that legacy with the Phantom Goldfinger edition.
Phantom V – A Musician’s Dream
Today’s Phantom, now in its eighth generation, continues to serve as a platform for personal expression.
Phantom V – A Musician’s Dream
It has featured in high-profile events including the 2012 London Olympics closing ceremony and maintains a presence in global luxury through collaborations with institutions like the Serpentine and brands such as Hermès.
Phantom VII – A Sense of Arrival
Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, stated: “Phantom is much more than a motor car… it is a cultural phenomenon that both reflects and influences the world around it.”
Phantom VIII – The Pinnacle of Luxury
rolls-roycemotorcars.com
Dior’s New High Jewellery Collection is a Sparkling Ode to Nature, Beauty and Time
Diorexquis, the latest high jewellery collection from Dior High Jewellery’s Artistic Director Victoire de Castellane, once again breathes life into Christian Dior’s enduring obsessions with nature, celebration, and eternal elegance. This time with a fresh poetic intensity.
Drawing from Monsieur Dior’s personal passions, Diorexquis is structured around enchanted landscapes, delicate flora, and the magical grandeur of evening galas. These three core themes are the lifeblood of Dior’s creative spirit, and under de Castellane’s visionary guidance, they have been transformed into a series of strikingly original and emotionally charged masterpieces. Each jewel tells a story captured in gold and gemstones.
The collection unfolds like a dream sequence, moving effortlessly through the seasons. Icy whites and cool blues capture the serenity of winter with crystalline clarity, echoing snow-dusted branches and frozen lakes in their glistening compositions. As spring arrives, pieces bloom with sculptural florals and dewdrop-like diamonds, bursting with colour and movement. Then comes the warmth of summer, radiating through sunlit stones that catch the light in dazzling, joyful bursts. These seasonal transitions are rendered in a breathtaking ballet of colour and form, a testament to de Castellane’s ability to create not just jewellery, but a complete world.
Visually, Diorexquis is bold and layered, both in its storytelling and its design. Many pieces are composed of multiple volumes, textured layers of gemstones set against mineral backgrounds and hemmed in micro pavé diamonds. Each detail is executed with precision, and the overall effect is one of richness without excess, exuberance without abandon.
A particular highlight is the use of the opale doublet technique. This involves layering precious opals atop a base of onyx or mother-of-pearl, creating mesmerising iridescent effects reminiscent of twilight skies or rippling water. The visual depth this technique achieves is almost otherworldly, pulling the viewer into a dreamlike state that mirrors the very essence of the collection.
Equally captivating is the plique-à-jour method—an age-old enamel technique revived and perfected in Dior’s ateliers. With it, jewellers create shimmering, stained-glass-like panels of translucent colour, turning rings and pendants into miniature artworks that play endlessly with light. This level of technical mastery, paired with the house’s signature lacquer detailing, results in pieces that glow from within.
Among the standout sets are a necklace, ring, and earrings that encapsulate fleeting moments of enchantment, like a gala night frozen in time or a garden dew-kissed at dawn. These pieces balance grandeur with intimacy, telling stories in gemstone that feel both deeply personal and universally romantic.
Diorexquis is a tribute to the enduring legacy of Christian Dior, and also to the vision of Victoire de Castellane, whose creativity continues to expand the language of high jewellery. It is a collection that honours the past while embracing the future, where fantasy and technique coexist in exquisite harmony.
dior.com
BVLGARI Reopens Renovated Boutique in Amman’s Um Uthaina District
These are the Best Film Festivals Happening in 2025
The next eight months promise to be an exciting time for film festivals around the world.
From the glamour of the Croisette in Cannes to the evolving landscape of Middle Eastern cinema, each of this year’s leading film festivals offers a unique lens through which to experience the art of storytelling.
Leading the way this month is the Cannes Film Festival, set to take place from the 13th to the 24th of May. Now in its 78th edition, Cannes remains a key platform for international filmmakers. This year’s highlights include directorial debuts from Scarlett Johansson and Harris Dickinson, both featured in the Un Certain Regard section. In the main competition, Wes Anderson’s “The Phoenician Scheme”, Ari Aster’s “Eddington” and Richard Linklater’s “New Wave” are also tapped to gain significant attention at the 11-day event. For this year’s festival, Juliette Binoche will serve as jury president, while Robert De Niro has been confirmed to receive the Honorary Palme d’Or.
Next on the circuit is the Venice International Film Festival, which is set to unfold from the 27th of August to the 6th of September 2025. Recognised as the oldest film festival in the world, Venice continues to shape the awards landscape each year. This year’s festival will be directed by Alberto Barbera and will feature acclaimed US director Alexander Payne as jury president. Venice is famed not just for its glamour, but for being a launchpad for serious Oscar contenders, “La La Land”, “Joker”, and “The Shape of Water” all had pivotal debuts here. In addition to its main competition, Venice’s Horizons section provides a platform for cutting-edge films from new directors. The festival’s unique setting, on the historic Lido Island, adds a level of elegance few other festivals can match.
On the final days of the Venice festival, attention will start to switch across the Atlantic, for the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), which runs from the 4th to the 14th of September. TIFF has earned a reputation as the most audience-driven of the major festivals, where the prestigious People’s Choice Award often helps to predict future Academy Award success. With its wide-ranging programming that blends global auteurs, breakthrough talents and major Hollywood premieres, TIFF offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience a broad spectrum of cinema in the heart of Toronto. Beyond screenings, the festival hosts extensive industry panels, making it a crucial hub for networking and discovery
Asia’s cultural influence comes into focus next with the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), scheduled for the 17th to the 26th of September. Celebrating its 30th edition this year, BIFF has matured into the leading platform for Asian cinema. In addition to its impressive film selection, the festival hosts the Asian Project Market, a key space for connecting emerging filmmakers with investors and co-production opportunities. The Busan Story Market, another unique feature, fosters the development and international sale of intellectual property across films, television and new media, ensuring Busan’s pivotal role in the future of Asian content creation.
Fast on the heels of BIFF, eyes will turn back to North America for the New York Film Festival (NYFF), which is set to take place from the 26th of September to the 12th of October. Established in 1963 and organised by Film at Lincoln Center, NYFF is one of America’s oldest and most respected festivals. Unlike other North American festivals that focus heavily on premieres and awards positioning, NYFF is known for its curated, non-competitive selection that highlights the best in global filmmaking. Each year, the festival opens with a high-profile world or North American premiere — in 2024, it was Michael Mann’s “Ferrari”. While the 2025 lineup is yet to be announced, NYFF typically features major films that have debuted at Cannes, Venice, or Berlin, alongside important independent and experimental works. The atmosphere is more scholarly than starstruck, with extensive filmmaker talks, panel discussions, and retrospectives enhancing the cultural experience.
Rounding out the year is the spectacular Red Sea International Film Festival, which is set to be held from the 4th to the 13th of December this year in the historic Al Balad district of Jeddah. Now in its fifth edition, RSIFF continues to champion bold new voices from the Arab world and beyond. With over 280 projects supported through the Red Sea Fund to date, the festival has already had an impact on the global cinematic landscape, backing one Oscar-nominated film. The Red Sea International Film Festival has firmly positioned itself not only as a showcase for new talent but also as an essential meeting point for the future of cinema from emerging markets.
The Best Dressed Celebrities at the 2025 Met Gala in New York City
The 2025 Met Gala, held yesterday evening at New York City’s Metropolitan Museum of Art, embraced the theme “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” celebrating the rich history and cultural significance of Black dandyism and menswear.
The accompanying dress code, “Tailored for You,” invited attendees to interpret the theme through personalised expressions of suiting and sartorial elegance.
These are the top ten looks from the evening.
Gigi Hadid in Miu Miu
Zendaya in Louis Vuitton
Nicole Kidman in Balenciaga and Cindy Chao The Art Jewel
Pharrell Williams in Louis Vuitton
Lewis Hamilton in Grace Wales Booner
Jenna Ortega in Balmain
Jeff Goldblum in Grace Wales Bonner, Jacob & Co. watch, Swarovski brooch, and Jacques Marie Mage glasses
Leon Bridges in Nicholas Daley
FKA Twiggs in Grace Wales Boomer
Dua Lipa in Chanel
Alserkal Avenue’s Director Basmah El-Bittar Discusses Community and Creative Expression
Basmah El-Bittar is the Director of Alserkal Avenue, leading its strategic growth and expansion.
For more than a decade, she has been the driving force behind the district’s evolution into one of the region’s leading cultural hubs, home to more than 90 independent, homegrown creative concepts spanning contemporary art, film, design, theatre, performance, literature, music, food, education, and wellness – alongside developing year-round programmes including major exhibitions, commissions, and festivals. As director, she has championed collaborative models that move beyond the traditional lease structure to create a rich sense of community at Alserkal Avenue, redefining how creative entrepreneurs engage with those who visit the district, fostering deeper connections and new forms of expression. Most recently, El-Bittar oversaw the 2025 edition of Alserkal Art Week. We recently spoke to her to learn more about her plans for the future of the hub.
You’ve been with Alserkal Avenue for over a decade. What key moments are you proud of during your tenure with the art hub?
Yes, it’s been over a decade! I think what has made the expansion of Alserkal Avenue very special is that it has been a very organic growth. It went from a handful of galleries that we set up in the Avenue to a full-blown, multi-faceted cultural space for different businesses, creative industries, and different entrepreneurial voices. It’s really hard to pin down a specific moment, but we’ve done everything from museum-grade exhibitions to very unique programmes that speak to a very specific audience. It’s been quite a journey.
As director, how do you balance strategic growth with creative freedom with the different projects?
I think it’s important to look at it from a perspective of collaboration and partnership. We look for the right people to partner with and to welcome into the Avenue ecosystem. It’s not a random selection [of businesses] that we welcome into the Avenue. We put a lot of effort into curating the experience and the right mix and industry mix we have in the Avenue.
We are interested in people who challenge the norms and have a different, really unique approach. They’re experts in their industries, and the Avenue is the kind of place that really just helps amplify them and helps them grow.
One of your biggest collaborations has been with Art Dubai. Please could you tell us a bit about that?
Our partnership with Art Dubai continues to grow over the years. Art Dubai is a moment where the whole city comes to life, focused on arts and culture. And it makes sense to join the efforts and join voices to make this moment more substantial for our international audiences, specifically. So really to have that collective moment where people do fly in specifically to experience it and to highlight all the work that’s been done across the year, and making sure that the artists that our galleries collectively represent are presented in the right way.
Alserkal Avenue is an important space for independent voices and homegrown creatives. For you, what defines a good fit for Alserkal Avenue?
It’s a working relationship. What defines a good fit is not defined by one conversation. It’s a continuous relationship where we build with different individuals and entities, and collaborators.
In the Avenue you don’t live in silo. I think being a good fit means that you are part of the connecting tissue of all these different concepts in the Avenue, and you’re all working together to foster all the creative juices in the Avenue.
Our range has also really expanded in the last few years. Our Contemporary Art remains a core part of the mix. However, we now have everything from lifestyle destinations to F&B to performing arts and design spaces. design. The founders of these spaces are very close to their businesses in the Avenue, which plays a major role in keeping these spaces relevant.
You recently held Alserkal Art Week under the theme, “A Wild Stitch”, inviting multiplicity and hybridity. What inspired this year’s theme?
Okay, so I speak on behalf of our team, who have worked very diligently to bring this theme to life. So, imagine a picture that is stitching this very particular pattern, and they purposely make a mistake. It’s to do with some form of resistance or some form of creativity, it’s a practice very well known in the Levant and other communities as well. It can also be connected to some spiritual thoughts about the fact that only God is perfect and that we need to make this mistake to sort of emphasise that. Our themes are deliberately broad enough to be able to be an umbrella for a lot of different works and interpretations.
Were there any particular dialogues or tensions you wanted to surface through the programme and discussions at this Alserkal Art Week?
So one of our sort of most popular programmes is our panel discussions or talks, but this year it was a series of debates. They revolved around questions connected to the art world, such as social responsibility, decolonisation, and the relevance of art fairs today.. And I think those. The conversations were very dynamic. Especially as we had a format where speakers would have to switch sides midway through the debate. They would have a topic, and then midway, they would have to argue against it. So yeah, it was an interesting one for us. And the audience is quite engaged with this series of debates.
Was there an audience reaction that surprised you at this year’s festival?
I think one of the special moments we had was at Concrete gallery, which was showcasing the work of Imran Qureshi. We invited Pakistani labourers from around Al-Quoz to a tour by the artist in Urdu. It was the first time we had done something like this. It was so special because many of them had not engaged with the arts before in this way, it was quite emotional.
Especially as the exhibition had everything from photography to video works to the site-specific installations that were at the forefront of the show. It was an emotional tour for everyone.
What are some of the highlights coming up at Alserkal Avenue that our readers can look forward to throughout 2025?
We have a few new openings coming up in the next six months, including some industries that we have not tapped into before. So that’s going to be exciting. There will be more details to come in the next few months.
And looking ahead more broadly, where would you like to take Alcicat Avenue in the next five to 10 years?
For me, I think it’s making sure that we continue to foster and amplify unheard voices. Particularly for communities that do not find other places to be able to express their voices. And that is across all industries and all aspects I think is important for us, to be a safe haven.
alserkal.online
Loro Piana Unveils 2025 Summer Resort Collection
Loro Piana has revealed its 2025 Summer Resort Collection, a refined capsule that draws on the house’s signature palette of natural tones and elevated craftsmanship.
Designed for relaxed, sun-soaked destinations, the collection reinforces the brand’s commitment to understated elegance and quiet luxury.
Spanning both womenswear and menswear, the collection consists of 12 looks that showcase breathable fabrics such as linen, silk, cotton and raffia. A blend of soft textures and muted tones defines the collection, ranging from optical white and light dune to apricot iced tea and plum purple.
Among the highlights is Look 1, which features the “Carolina” dress and “Augustin” trousers in linen in a warm golden beach hue, accessorised with the crocheted “Dorothy” hat and nappa leather “Leo Buckle” sandals. Look 2 adopts a layered approach with reversible silk garments in dual tones of deep lagoon water and sunset glow, matched with silk Bermuda shorts and raffia accessories.
Look 5 embraces a monochromatic theme in optical white linen. The ensemble includes the “Shirley” shirt and “Bob” trousers, complemented by the “Arola” hat crafted from cashmere and abaca, a “Blooming Linen Flower” necklace in brass, and woven leather “Leon” loafers.
Menswear includes versatile separates such as the “Eduard” jacket and “Othello” trousers in linen Rain System®, shown in Look 8, and the “Clem” blouson and “Nyuzén” Bermuda shorts made from cotton and linen, which appear in Look 7 and Look 11.
Accessories play a key role across the collection, with hats crafted from straw, raffia and cotton, and a variety of leather footwear options including loafers, sandals and slingback pumps. Bags include structured shoppers and clutches made from suitcase stripe fabric and rounded leather.
The colour palette is earthy and coastal, with tones such as walnut kernel mélange, peanut granules, renkon beige and dusk anchoring the range. The careful pairing of colour and fabric reflects Loro Piana’s ongoing attention to detail and heritage of fine materials.
The collection continues Loro Piana’s tradition of seasonal refinement, designed for individuals seeking both comfort and quiet sophistication during the summer months. The complete press lookbook and product codes are available through the Loro Piana press office.
LoroPiana.com
Maison Safqa Launches in Saudi Arabia
Maison Safqa has officially launched its luxury private sales platform in Saudi Arabia, offering members exclusive access to premium fashion and lifestyle products at reduced prices. Designed for the modern Saudi consumer, the online service combines global high-end brands with a growing focus on regional talent.
The platform operates on a members-only model, hosting time-limited private sales of fashion, lifestyle and beauty items. Each sale is curated and available for a limited time, creating a sense of urgency and offering customers an exclusive shopping experience.
Maison Safqa aims to deliver a new way of engaging with luxury retail, offering access to prestigious brands in a manner that maintains their value and reputation. Co-founder and CEO Léa Mehaweg said, “Maison Safqa was built on the idea that each brand deserves a dedicated off-price sales channel to maximise its performance and reach without compromising the equity and name they have built.”
For brands, the platform offers a discreet outlet for previous collections that would otherwise remain unsold due to the fast-paced nature of the luxury fashion calendar. By presenting these collections in a controlled, members-only setting, Maison Safqa enables brands to protect their image while also reaching a targeted and style-conscious customer base.
The platform is now live across Saudi Arabia.
maisonsafqa.com
Arte Museum Dubai Launches Multi-Sensory Exhibition with Musée d’Orsay
Arte Museum Dubai has unveiled a new collaborative exhibition with Paris’ Musée d’Orsay offering an immersive, multi-sensory experience that reinterprets over 100 19th-century French masterpieces through cutting-edge digital technology.
The installation is housed in the Arte Museum Dubai, located on the second floor of Dubai Mall.
The exhibition, titled ARTE MUSEUM X MUSÉE D’ORSAY, presents iconic works such as Monet’s Water Lilies and Van Gogh’s Starry Night through advanced visual storytelling, projection mapping, AI-powered artistry, and atmospheric effects including orchestral soundscapes and curated scents.
This initiative marks the first collaboration between the Musée d’Orsay and Arte Museum, and is part of a broader effort to bridge classical fine art with contemporary digital media. Guided by Musée d’Orsay curators, the experience maintains scholarly and historical integrity while offering a new emotional lens through which to engage with French impressionist and post-impressionist art.
Visitors are led through a narrative beginning with the Musée d’Orsay’s origins as a train station, progressing to its transformation into a world-renowned museum. The exhibition highlights key artistic movements and individual painters through immersive formats that extend across walls and floors, creating a dynamic reimagining of the museum’s permanent collection.
Arte Museum Dubai is operated by South Korean digital design company d’strict, known for pioneering multimedia installations and spatial experiences. The Dubai venue is the latest in a growing global portfolio of Arte Museums, which includes locations in South Korea, China, and the United States. Plans are underway to expand to 20 international cities by 2027, including Santa Monica and New York City.
Open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Arte Museum Dubai also features an on-site retail space, Arte Shop, which remains open until 11 p.m. on weekdays and midnight at weekends. The venue aims to be inclusive, drawing audiences of all ages and backgrounds by blending art, technology, and accessibility.
The collaboration with Musée d’Orsay reflects a growing trend of partnerships between traditional cultural institutions and digital innovators, redefining how global audiences engage with art in the 21st century.
artemuseum.com
FENDI Launches Summer 2025 Collection Celebrating 100 Years of the Maison
FENDI has launched its Summer 2025 collection for women and men, coinciding with the Italian fashion house’s centenary year.
The collection draws inspiration from the Maison’s archives, particularly the 1977 fashion film Histoire d’Eau, which marked Karl Lagerfeld’s first foray into FENDI Ready-to-Wear for Spring/Summer 1978.
Directed by Jacques de Bascher, Histoire d’Eau followed a glamorous traveller, portrayed by Susy Dyson, as she wandered through Rome’s monuments and fountains. The collection channels this cinematic legacy and positions Rome once again as the backdrop to a modern summer story.
The Summer 2025 range incorporates the sunlit palette of a Roman summer and the refined ease of the Italian seaside. Coral red, sandy terracotta, seafoam, iced lemon, and ocean blue form the season’s colour card. Nature-inspired embroideries and sculptural red coral motifs appear throughout the collection, referencing both the film and archival FENDI designs.
For women, breezy fabrics are shaped into maxi dresses, city shorts and tank dresses, embellished with patchwork devoré lace, leather appliqué and beaded collars. Sportier elements appear in twisted pencil skirts and laser-cut floral chambray denim outerwear. Swimwear and tunics are adorned with golden shell hardware, blending athletic style with luxe detailing.
Menswear also features coral bandana prints and postcard-style graphics, rendered on silk shirts and shorts. Striped knitwear in coral and sand evokes a nostalgic sporting aesthetic.
The accessories collection highlights a mix of traditional craft and playful detailing. Raffia techniques sit alongside trompe l’oeil ‘denim’ Cuoio Romano leather, and coral bandana motifs feature across FF jacquards. New Summer Tote bags join the Peekaboo, Baguette, and By The Way lines, all updated with vibrant, seaside colourways and two-tone finishes.
Footwear includes the FENDI Fling thong sandal, which uses a single abstract ‘F’ strap, along with updated Colibri pumps and raffia mesh wedges. Men’s options include FF-buckled suede sandals and Selleria stitched leather slides.
FENDI.com
CELINE Launches ÉTÉ CELINE 2025 Collection Inspired by the French Riviera
CELINE has unveiled its ÉTÉ CELINE 2025 collection, a summer offering that captures the essence of the French Riviera, with particular nods to Saint Tropez. The line has been crafted to suit the seamless transition between urban environments and coastal settings.
Positioned as a modern summer wardrobe, the collection encompasses ready-to-wear garments as well as accessories that emphasise craftsmanship. A key focus of ÉTÉ CELINE 2025 is the inclusion of raffia bags, which demonstrate artisanal construction and textured design. These pieces are intended to evoke the relaxed elegance associated with Mediterranean summer style.
Alongside the fashion elements, the ÉTÉ CELINE narrative now extends into the realm of lifestyle with a new CELINE Lifestyle Collection. This extension includes decorative objects and furniture, suitable for both interior and exterior use. These additions reflect the brand’s broader approach to leisure and design, supporting the aesthetics of the summer collection.
Beach accessories also form part of this expanded offering, underscoring CELINE’s attention to seasonal utility and refined casual living.
The ÉTÉ CELINE 2025 collection continues CELINE’s tradition of blending timeless tailoring with contemporary luxury. It positions itself not only as a wardrobe for the summer season but as a wider cultural statement about ease, elegance, and versatility in lifestyle.
celine.com
Dior Unveils The House’s 2025 Dioriviera Capsule Collection
Dior has launched its latest Dioriviera capsule collection, a seasonal reinterpretation by Creative Director Maria Grazia Chiuri that pays tribute to Christian Dior’s enduring fascination with travel.
The latest edition introduces refreshed motifs, immersive boutique experiences, and a line of homeware through Dior Maison.
For this collection, Chiuri revisits the classic Toile de Jouy print, reimagined as the Toile de Jouy Sauvage in new turquoise and pink tones, and the Toile de Jouy Palms featuring dense jungle imagery. These prints are applied to a variety of garments, including silk dresses, skirts, tops, and accessories, as well as to ponchos and sarongs. Footwear such as the Dway and Dioract mules, D-Sand sandals with dangling charms, and satin Dior Lucky sneakers contribute to the collection’s relaxed yet refined aesthetic.
Handbags, including the Lady D-Lite and Dior Book Tote feature the signature prints, while accessories like the D-Bobby straw hat and Teddy-D hat are accented with raffia bases, leather cords and aquatic-themed charms. The Dior Cabinet d’Été jewellery line and handbag charms continue the motif of whimsical fauna and flora.
Dior Maison extends the collection’s vision into the realm of home decor with items crafted from natural materials. Cannage-adorned beach mats and side tables are accompanied by decorative items such as cushions, fans, vases, and hand-painted candle jars. Notably, the collection includes ceramic palm trees designed by Jean Roger and vases from the historic Manufacture des Émaux de Longwy.
To showcase the collection, Dior has announced a series of immersive pop-up stores and boutique installations across global resort destinations. The retail spaces, inspired by tropical gardens and designed with woven rattan sculptures of elephants, giraffes, tigers and palm trees, can be found in locations such as Bali, Seoul, Ibiza, Capri, and Portofino. The brand’s flagship at 30 Montaigne and other boutiques worldwide will also feature the themed décor.
In select destinations, Dioriviera furniture decorates resort spaces, including deckchairs, parasols and animal-shaped pool floats. Guests may also enjoy Riviera Boats bearing the Dior name, travelling Dior cafés and well-being workshops.
dior.com
The Ferrari 296 Speciale and 296 Speciale A Set a New Benchmark for Hybrid Performance
Ferrari has unveiled two new flagship models, the 296 Speciale and the open-top 296 Speciale A, marking a significant evolution of its hybrid sports car range.
Both models build on the foundation of the 296 GTB and 296 GTS respectively, offering higher performance, reduced weight and an elevated driving experience through track-derived technologies.
The heart of both models is a re-engineered 3.0-litre 120° V6 twin-turbo engine coupled with a plug-in hybrid system. Combined output is rated at 880 cv, an increase of 50 cv over the standard versions. The internal combustion engine alone produces 700 cv, up 37 cv, thanks to enhancements including titanium connecting rods, reinforced pistons, a lightened crankshaft and Formula 1-derived knock control.
The electric motor, positioned between the engine and the eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox, delivers 180 cv in extra boost mode. This enables both models to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds. A new shift strategy uses the electric motor to maintain torque during gear changes, reducing shift times and enhancing driver engagement.
Weight reduction has been prioritised in both cars, each shedding 50 kg through the use of carbon fibre and titanium components. The result is a best-in-class power-to-weight ratio of 1.69 kg/cv.
Aerodynamically, both models benefit from innovations tested in Ferrari’s motorsport programmes. A revised aero package generates 435 kg of downforce at 250 km/h, a 20% increase over their predecessors. Key features include an integrated aero damper, vertical fins and side wings, plus a rear spoiler with a new control strategy offering three active configurations: Low, Medium and High Downforce.
The Speciale A further enhances the experience with Ferrari’s retractable hard top (RHT), adding open-air capability without compromising torsional rigidity. Aerodynamic refinements specific to the spider version ensure cabin comfort and stability even with the roof lowered.
The suspension system in both models features revised geometry and Multimatic adaptive dampers, allowing 4% higher lateral acceleration and reducing roll by 13%. Braking performance is also improved, aided by optimised cooling systems inspired by the F80.
Both vehicles offer a 25 km electric-only range via the MGU-K motor and are covered by Ferrari’s seven-year maintenance programme.
With the 296 Speciale and Speciale A, Ferrari has arguably solidified its position at the forefront of hybrid performance engineering, combining cutting-edge technology with a focus on pure driving engagement.
ferrari.com
CHANEL Reveals Teaser for Cruise 2025/26 Show with Sofia Coppola
CHANEL has released a teaser for its upcoming Cruise 2025/26 show, featuring a short film directed by longtime collaborator Sofia Coppola.
The teaser sets the stage for the collection’s presentation, which will be unveiled this afternoon, Wednesday, 30th of April at 4pm Gulf Standard Time on chanel.com.
The film stars model Ida Heiner and was shot at the Villa d’Este, a historic hotel situated on the shores of Lake Como. The location, described as a “veritable film set”, provides a backdrop of Renaissance architecture and lakeside grandeur. In the teaser, Heiner is seen wearing pieces from the new Cruise collection, including high-waisted shorts, a swimsuit and various accessories. She moves through the marble staircases, ochre-toned terrace and rooms overlooking the lake, capturing the essence of the collection’s mood.
The visual narrative reflects Coppola’s signature style, marked by stillness, light and an atmospheric sense of place. The setting and the cinematography aim to evoke themes of escape, self-reinvention and introspection. The short film, although promotional, adopts a cinematic approach rather than a traditional runway preview.
Coppola, an Oscar-winning filmmaker known for works such as Lost in Translation and Marie Antoinette, has a long-standing relationship with CHANEL. Her work often features elements of nostalgia and dreamlike aesthetics, qualities that align with CHANEL’s identity for the Cruise season.
The teaser acts as an invitation to the full digital presentation of the Cruise 2025/26 collection, continuing CHANEL’s investment in fashion film as a medium. The move also aligns with wider industry trends where digital showcases supplement or replace live runway events, especially in exclusive or logistically complex locations such as Lake Como.
The full film of the show will be released exclusively on CHANEL’s website, allowing global audiences to experience the setting and the collection simultaneously. This strategy not only highlights the designs but also positions the show as a curated experience, merging fashion, film and place.
chanel.com
Sabrina Carpenter Fronts Versace’s La Vacanza 2025 Campaign
Versace has unveiled its La Vacanza 2025 campaign, starring two-time GRAMMY Award-winning artist Sabrina Carpenter.
The campaign features a series of poolside images captured by photographer Carlijn Jacobs, showcasing the collection’s signature blend of glamour and versatility.
The campaign positions La Vacanza 2025 as a modern interpretation of Versace’s luxury identity, bridging day-to-night wear with poolside elegance. With Carpenter as its face, the collection explores what the brand describes as a “transformative pool-to-occasion spirit”, set against a backdrop influenced by classic Hollywood aesthetics.
This marks Carpenter’s second campaign with Versace, reinforcing an ongoing collaboration between the Italian fashion house and the global pop star. Commenting on the experience, Carpenter said, “I have always felt empowered when wearing Versace. That is what Versace means to me; amazing clothes which empower individuals to express themself in so many different ways. This La Vacanza collection is exactly that and feels so free and exciting to wear.”
The images highlight the brand’s signature Tag bag, reimagined in new animations to reflect the tone of the collection. The setting also features subtle nods to Versace Home, underlining the brand’s lifestyle vision that extends beyond fashion into travel and interior design.
Versace.com
Miu Miu Unveils L’Eté 2025 Campaign Celebrating a Liberated Summer Spirit
Miu Miu has revealed its L’Eté 2025 collection and campaign, offering a natural and liberated take on summer dressing. The campaign was photographed by award-winning artist Siân Davey, marking her debut in fashion photography.
Set in a lush, verdant location intended to evoke a tranquil and energising holiday refuge, the imagery reflects long summer days and balmy evenings, furnished with eclectic antiques to suggest a home away from home.
Davey’s lens captures a diverse cast including Canadian actress Callina Liang and American actress and model Diana Silvers. The result is an intimate portrayal, balancing quiet revelation with subtle provocation.
The collection reinterprets childhood dress codes through the use of simple cottons, bold colours such as pink, red and periwinkle, and playful details. Signature fabrics like cotton poplin, piquet, check in various materials, knit and leather return to form silhouettes ranging from classic to sporty. Aviator jackets, tennis skirts, blousons and panties, sundresses, polos and tailored ensembles in uniform greys are mixed and matched, personalised by the wearer with an irreverent touch. Knitted bustier tops and knotted bandana-print scarves are styled over sweaters and shirts, while belts, heavily embellished, are layered over underwear and combined with fingerless gloves. The styling juxtaposes abbreviated bra tops with full, knee-length skirts and knee-high footless socks.
Continuing the collaboration initiated at the Spring-Summer 2025 Paris runway show, the collection extends its dialogue with Petit Bateau. Exclusive to Miu Miu, the offering includes a tank top, boatneck t-shirt and briefs made in ultra-soft, striped cotton jersey, presented in dedicated co-branded packaging.
Accessories maintain a light-hearted spirit. Shiny, block-heeled Mary Janes, sneakers with mismatched laces and clogs with authentic wooden heels feature prominently. Bags such as the Wander and Beau are reimagined in woven leather, while the Aventure appears in natural suede. Backpacks, reminiscent of school journeys, are offered in primary-coloured canvas and classic leathers. Suede crochet and striped beach bags accompany the preppy Ivy bag, available in striped fabric or lightweight raffia. Jewellery inspired by flora and fauna and oversized aviator-style eyewear complete the collection.
miumiu.com
