Equity Magazine June 2017 Issue

JUNE 2017 | ISSUE 01 

ROGER 

FEDERER 

AHEAD OF 

WIMBLEDON 

TRAVEL 

BUDAPEST 

BOUND FOR A 

CULTURAL ESCAPE 

BILLIONAIRE 

BUNKERS 

INVEST IN A 

HOME BENEATH 

THE SURFACE

Extraordinary is in the detail. 

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Be Extraordinary. 

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EQUITY

inside 

EQUITY 

22 

mind 

12 

APOCALYPSE CHIC 

Billionaire bunkers – the next big 

investment option 

32 

15 

17 

20 

22 

25 

27 

32 

EXOTIC INVESTMENTS 

The latest strategies to consider 

INVEST IN HIS JOURNEY 

Alande Mustafa Safi talks to 

EQUITY of his past and future 

DATA ATTACKS 

Steven Jupp weighs out the 

significance of securing an 

organisation from cyber attacks 

HOW TO BE A BAWSE? 

YouTube sensation Lilly Singh 

opens up about her book and 

sensitive issues 

SUPPORT LOCAL 

A chat with a startup founder 

ROGER FEDERER 

A conversation with the star 

ahead of Wimbledon 

IN EXPERT HANDS 

Explore why Riverston may be 

a good option for your child 

38 

40 

body 

36 

TRENDING NOW 

The latest in summer fashion 

straight from the runway 

38 

40 

42 

THE CHECKLIST 

Prep yourself for a shopping haul 

ahead of summer 

SHOP TALK 

The stores to add to your list 

INDULGE YOURSELF 

Make an appointment for the 

latest treaments on the market 

4 

EQUITY

JUNE 2017 

64 

soul 

44 

ON OUR RADAR 

Statement pieces to 

add to your arsenal 

64 

EID STAYCATIONS 

Venture towards the northern 

parts of the UAE for a getaway 

52 

NOTHING TOPS SAFETY 

Advise from DC Aviation 

68 

JETSETTER JOURNEYS 

Wellness breaks, new openings 

and travel inspiration 

56 

59 

DINING IN DUBAI 

Iftars and hotspots to 

hotfoot to over the weekend 

HOTSPOT ROUND UP 

Culinary experiences worth a visit 

this month 

70 

On the cover 

ROGER FEDERER 

wearing the Rolex Oyster 

Perpetual Datejust II 

Read page 27 

62 

HISTORICAL BUDAPEST 

A gatronomic tour through a city 

brimming with history and culture 

69 

70 

72 

AESTHETIC APPEAL 

Luxhabitat's lavish offerings 

THE WOMAN BEHIND 

THE BRAND 

A peek into Amanda Navai's life 

The publication may not be 

reproduced, stored in a retrieval 

system, or transmitted in any 

form or by any means electronic, 

photocopying, recording or otherwise, 

without the permission of Equity 

Media. Where opinion is expressed it 

is that of the author and does not 

necessarily reflect the editorial 

views of the publishers of 

EQUITY-Always invest in yourself. 

All information in 

EQUITY-Always invest in yourself 

is checked and verified to the best 

of the publisher’s ability, however the 

publisher cannot be held responsible 

for any mistakes or omissions 

enclosed in the publication in 

content, advertising or graphics. 

5 

EQUITY

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From the EDITOR 

Summer rolled around quickly this year. 

But then again, we pretty much say that 

every year. This month we’re anticipating 

Roger Federer’s match at Wimbledon, read 

all about him on page 27 – will he take home the 

trophy? Speaking of celebrities, Lilly Singh rose to 

fame via her YouTube channel and resonated 

with over millions who tune in to watch the 

comedian and now author (page 22). Talk of 

bunkers has been prevalent in movies, TV shows and amongst celebrities 

and entrepreneurs prepping ahead of doomsday with sophisticated 

underground housing, explore why on page 12, That’s not the only 

investment entrepreneurs are making though. With the latest global 

cyber-attack alarming the masses, organisations need to secure 

themselves in every way possible (page 20). 

The latest in lifestyle rounds up fashion trends straight off the 

runway (page 36-40), statement pieces (page 44-55) and the latest 

gastronomic offerings around town (page 56-60) with Iftars and 

Suhoors worth visiting. Eid is just around the corner, look to our 

pages for gifting inspiration (page 38), and make use of the long 

weekend with a quickgetaway to culture-packed Budapest (page 62). 

Those staying in the country can head to Ajman or Fujairah to 

experience a stay that puts wellbeing and entertainment at the forefront 

(page 62-67). 

Ramadan Kareem and Eid Mubarak in advance 

Nicola 

Nicola Monteath 

EDITOR'S PICK 

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A sleek men's 

watch from 

Jaquet Droz, to 

give our outfits 

an edgy oomph 

This 

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playfulness and 

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Follow us: 

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EQUITY - Always invest in yourself 

EDITOR NICOLA MONTEATH - nicola@equity.media 

DIGITAL EDITOR VARUN GODINHO 

CONTENT MANAGER OLIVE SEVILLA 

ART DIRECTOR ODILAINE MEJORADA 

SALES advertising@equity.media 

WWW.EQUITY.MEDIA 

PRINTED BY United Printing & Publishing 

is a proud member of 

I'll be catching up with friends 

over Suhoor, with a game on this 

Backgammon Set from Berluti 

7 

EQUITY

CALENDAR 

MARK YOUR CALENDAR 

Jet-setters, don’t forget to add these dates to the diary 

2 

WHERE: City-wide 

WHEN: June 1-30, 2017 

MIAMI FILM MONTH 

Don’t miss out on movies at 

participating art cinemas in a festival 

that celebrates movies in Miami this 

month. When in town, catch an 

indie movie with a couple of friends. 

1 

WHERE: Hall 7 & 8, Dubai World 

Trade Centre, Dubai 


3 

WHERE: City-wide 

4 

PSA DUBAI WORLD 

SERIES FINALS 

WHERE: Dubai Opera, Dubai 


Squash ups its glamour 

quotient with the finals being 

battled out at Dubai Opera. 

Watch champions Mohamed 

El Shorbagy, Gregory 

Gaultier and Camille Serme 

go head-to-head to get a hold 

of this year’s title. 

RAMADAN 

NIGHT MARKET 2017 

Score a deal and indulge in a bit of 

retail therapy ahead of Eid with 

amazing discounts, activities and 

fun for the little ones. Additionally, 

you could walk away with a few 

prizes as well. 

VIVID SYDNEY 

WHEN: May 26 - June 17, 2017 

The largest winter festival in the Southern 

Hemisphere plays host to lights, music and 

ideas events for over 22 days. This year’s light 

festivities will stretch from Botanic Gardens 

to Darling Harbour, with musicians including 

Laura Marling and Nick Murphy performing 

at the Opera House and over 200 ideas 

battling for your attention at Vivid Ideas. 

8 

EQUITY

5 

NIGHT FACTORY VIEWS EXHIBITION 2017 

WHERE: Today’s Gallery Studio, Tokyo 


The factory district of Keihin, Tokyo, take centre stage at this 

exhibition where the neighbourhood celebrates the play of 

lights. A journey through the illuminated factories called the 

“Night View Factory Cruises” has inspired professional and 

amateur photographers to click away. The exhibition is only 

curated in Japanese so make sure you’ve got your pocket 

translator ready. 

6 7 

WHERE: Los Angeles 

MACHT FERIEN 

WHERE: Museum für Gestaltung, Zurich 

WHEN: June 6 - July 9, 2017 

As Switzerland Tourism gears up to celebrate its 

100th birthday, make your way to the exhibition, 

highlighting numerous tourism posters from the 

past century, showcasing the country’s striking 

hotels, helter-skelter roads and mountain 

railways. This will call for a return trip! 

CONTEMPORARY SCENT 

WHERE: Somerset House, London 

WHEN: June 21- September 17, 2017 


Celebrates LA’s design culture, diversity and 

talent through a series of artworks, art 

installations, furniture design, pop-up stalls, 

food markets and much more, this is one to 

head to with a bevvy of friends. It is Los 

Angeles in a nutshell. 

8 

WHERE: France 

9 

PERFUME: A SENSORY JOURNEY THROUGH 

WHEN: June 21, 2017 

An aromatic exhibition which celebrates a sensory journey 

through contemporary scent. Watch iconic perfumers and 

their perfumes of the last 20 years jostle with new 

contemporary perfume provocateurs and a vibrant new 

perfume scene. 

LOS ANGELES DESIGN FESTIVAL 

FÊTE DE LA MUSIQUE 2017 

Roughly translated into Festival of Music and a national holiday 

since 1982, this huge one-day countrywide event celebrates 

France’s beautiful music culture with “music everywhere and 

the concert nowhere”. This live music event is free for all. 

CALENDAR 

10 

WHERE: Daegu, South Korea 

DAEGU INTERNATIONAL 

MUSICAL FESTIVAL 

WHEN: June 23 – July 10, 2017 

Launched in 2006, this is the only 

international music festival in Korea 

showcasing international and domestic 

productions to audiences around the 

world. Musical events and activities are 

affordable and diverse, so that every taste 

is catered to. 

9 

EQUITY

www. 

EQUITY. media 

GET THE LATEST NEWS AND UPDATES ON BUSINESS AND LUXURY 

LIFESTYLE ONLY ON WWW.EQUITY.MEDIA. FROM ENTREPRENEURS 

AND DEALMAKERS TO PHILANTHROPISTS AND POLICY MAKERS, 

HERE’S ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE FINANCE WORLD. ALSO, 

CHECK OUT OUR LIFESTYLE SECTION WHERE YOU’LL FIND THE 

LATEST ON CARS, YACHTS, PRIVATE JETS AND TRAVEL DESTINATIONS. 

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10 

EQUITY

mind 

The latest investment opportunities are no 

longer exotic. Discover what you should be 

investing in, along with the need for secure 

systems within your home and organisation. 

You can also get a glimpse of the life and mind 

of Roger Federer and Lilly Singh. 

11 

EQUITY

FINANCE 

APOCALYPSE CHIC 

Natural calamities, war and a myriad of scenarios could leave you 

homeless. But not if you own one of these underground bunkers 

equipped with everything you would need for years to come 

It will no longer be the survival of the fittest when 

doomsday arrives. More like survival of the astute, if we 

are being honest. Survivalism is a topic that’s being 

considered as seriously as financial planning, especially 

amongst the UHNWIs. Tim Chang, a 44-year-old managing 

director at Mayfield Fund, a venture-capital firm, recently 

revealed in an interview that he regularly meets with friends in 

Silicon Valley for financial-hacking dinners to discuss backup 

plans. Sure, cryptocurrencies and an additional citizenship are 

part of the plan for some. However, apart from a vacation 

home and finances, word around the space is all about an 

escape route to a home beneath the surface. 

That’s right. You may have heard of underground bunkers 

recently on Billions (TV show) or perhaps from ongoing 

speculation of Mark Zuckerberg’s latest land acquisitions. 

Bunkers are currently everywhere and being constructed in 

nooks and corners around the world, with several companies 

offering opulent bunkers in countries such as the United 

States, Germany, Czech Republic and England, fit to to rival 

a five-star resort,. 

Real estate mogul Jakub Zamrazil acquired The Oppidum 

back in 2013 and has since transformed the underground 

complex in the Czech Republic (a 6,700-square foot master 

apartment) to seven 1,720 square foot suites. The opulent 

subterranean shelter is home to bathrooms complete with 

rainfall showers, and a garden that offers simulated natural 

light to replicate a bright sunny day. But that’s not all, the 

facility also comprises a nightclub, bar, climate-controlled 

12 

EQUITY

FINANCE 

wine cellar enough for 10-years’ worth of stock, movie 

theatre, billiards room and an extensive library. 

Entrepreneurs can stay connected at the control and 

communications centre built within. 

While The Oppidum is a lavish structure in itself, multiple 

underground survival complexes are underway. Vivos 

founder and CEO Robert Vicino recently announced the 

Vivos Europe One, an invitation only, five-star underground 

survival complex, similar to a cruise ship. In Germany, the 

complex will be home to several families, each acquiring a 

private 2,500 square foot area with fixtures and finish similar 

to a mega-yacht. Each member can hire their own architect 

and contractor to build their customised living quarters. All 

underground rooms are serviced by two fully customised 

climate and ventilation systems. The self-contained water 

and power generation system with three diesel generators, 

including redundant back-up systems, assures autonomous 

operation of the underground shelter without support from 

the outside world. “I had a very compelling and specific 

inspiration in 1980, that I needed to build an underground 

shelter for 1,000 people to survive what will be coming in our 

future. While I didn’t know the exact threat, the message was 

clear and explicit. Now three decades later, I have met the 

goal and continue to expand the Vivos underground network 

to accommodate at least one in every one million people on 

Earth within our bunkers,” says Vivos founder and CEO 

Robert Vicino. 

While these bunkers may seem solely for UHNWIs, 

Robert’s aim serves otherwise. “We cater to all people who 

can afford to secure this life-assurance solution. They include 

every profession, actors, and even a member of royalty. The 

buyers we’ve seen are typically conservative, self-sufficient, 

well educated, highly intelligent people, acutely aware of the 

real dangers we all face,” he tells us. 

Naturally, every individual will have their own requests 

they would like to integrate into the bunkers. “Many want to 

store their precious automotive, wine and art collections; 

while others want to have their DNA preserved in a Vivos 

DNA Vault. The people with aberrant behaviour are quickly 

declined, with our primary qualifier being that everyone must 

be tolerant of all others that they may shelter with. Those 

who cannot leave their egos at the door, do not like children 

and pets, or are prejudiced against another’s race, ethnicity, 

colour, religious beliefs, age are flagged and rejected,” says 

Robert. When asked if they will be venturing into the GCC, 

Robert states that their Europa One shelter is only a short 

flight away. “The global interest has been exponentially 

expanding as more people are becoming well-aware of the 

threats that are now all around us, global economic situations, 

increasing Earth changes, a natural or weaponised pandemic, 

and the concerns about the approaching Nibiru/Planet X. 

Vivos is the life-assurance solution that we hope will never 

be needed, but when these cyclical events do unfold, it will be 

priceless,” he ends on an assuring note. 

13 

EQUITY

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14 

EQUITY

FINANCE 

Exotic 

Investments: 

How essential is it to include 

these strategies in your portfolio today? 

Words by Itsparipassu 

15 

EQUITY

FINANCE 

A 

couple of decades ago, alternative investments, 

the so-called “exotics”, used to form a minor 

portion of an investor’s portfolio. These 

traditionally comprised hedge funds, private 

equity, real estate, commodities and currencies and were 

included for specific reasons, such as diversification, hedging 

and return-enhancement. However, the world of investment 

has evolved from what it used to be 20 years ago and there is 

an urgent need for recognition by investors. UHNWIs need 

to shift from conventional investing to this new era, as 

investments that were once considered alternative are no 

longer an exotic asset class. They have simply moulded in a 

clever way by combining traditional techniques with modern 

strategies, to offer solutions that are well suited to today’s 

market environment. Now, alternative investments are 

gradually growing in investors’ portfolios to occupy a major 

portion of the asset allocation pie. 

Not much clarity is available in the world regarding 

market direction, given the over-looming threat of 

geopolitics. Notwithstanding that opacity, some prevalent 

market conditions are clear to anyone who is investing 

today – low interest rates and inflation, accompanied by 

lacklustre growth. Consequentially, there has been a 

they’re satisfied with. Investors could afford to ignore these 

instruments when interest rates were higher and growth 

was relatively upbeat. However, these strategies have now 

become a necessity for most high net worth investors. 

Similarly, a lot of multi-asset mutual funds have emerged to 

suit the need for alternative sources of returns for all kinds 

of investors – offering fully liquid solutions, the best of 

these funds have a remarkable track record of achieving 

attractive and sustainable returns, while maintaining 

significantly low volatility relative to the market. Other 

investing avenues such as private placements and crowd 

funding were not accessible to all investors in the past. 

Today, all these strategies are offered to individuals at much 

lower subscriptions and reduced costs. For managers of 

alternative investments, the world of investing today is less 

about returns and more about risk management. Investors 

need to embrace this philosophy if they are looking for 

ways and means to achieve strong and steady growth of 

their portfolios. 

Many HNWIs go back to their wealth managers/private 

bankers, asking them to provide traditional options for 

investment. The truth is that excessive investment in these 

instruments is more troubling today than ever – it’s a hunt for 

Traditional asset classes such as plain bonds and stocks 

aren’t lucrative investments anymore 

paradigm shift in markets. Traditional asset classes such as 

plain bonds and stocks aren’t lucrative investments 

anymore and there appears to be more downside risk in 

these instruments than upside potential. However, financial 

institutions began to adjust to this new era, recently 

focusing on bringing further strategies to the table, wherein, 

all kinds of investors get access to attractive tools for 

diversification, hedging, income and growth. 

The definition of the alternative investments space has 

widened to include a lot more strategies. For instance, 

traditional equity investments tend to be associated with high 

risk high returns. The instability of this asset class is so 

extreme, that risk-adjusted returns don’t appeal to most 

investors. Recognising this, the alternative strategy of 

investing in equity-linked structured products has grown to 

fit the bill of most investors. If understood well and treated 

right, these products serve to return handsome yields to 

investors, while minimising volatility. Similarly, structured 

products linked to fixed income instruments provide a yield 

pick-up over and above traditional bonds and debt securities. 

It is a myth that these products are designed to put 

investors at a loss and make them compromise on liquidity. 

Building a portfolio that balances the inclusion of such 

instruments with those that are liquid and simplistic can 

ensure that investors achieve the return-to-risk metric that 

yield, rather than a justified return for risk. At this juncture, 

I must stress the importance of educating investors about the 

new age alternative instruments. The right financial advisor 

should be able to educate investors about the design of these 

strategies, the inherent risks and benefits and the right 

treatment of these strategies in the portfolio. Apart from such 

strategies, the world of alternative investments is also being 

groomed by the rising tide of luxury asset investing. UHNWIs 

have always had the option of investing in extravagant assets 

such as art, yachts and luxury real estate – most of which 

usually took the form of passion investing. However, today, 

such investments are forming a part of the growing share of 

alternative investments that offer the potential for attractive 

returns. Wealth management for UHNWIs has started to 

move away from the traditional private banking model and 

now includes these facets of investing as well. 

Exotics were less accessible and more feared in the past 

due to the lack of information regarding these instruments. 

As far as information flow goes, there is a massive 

improvement now, as compared to before. More qualified 

professionals, stringent regulations and increasing 

transparency are coming to the forefront in this field. It is 

time that investors jump on the bandwagon and usher in 

the new age of modern alternative investing. 

itsparipassu.wordpress.com 

16 

EQUITY

FINANCE 

INVEST IN HIS 

JOURNEY… 

Afghanistan-born Australian Alande Mustafa Safi spills on his journey 

from a young migrant boy to successful entrepreneur 

When Alande Mustafa Safi, 

Chairman of Paragon Premier 

Investment Fund, migrated to 

Australia, he didn’t speak much 

English. He did however speak five other 

languages that led him to quickly climb the ranks 

in the financial world. The Afghanistan-born 

Australian citizen moved to Melbourne 23 years 

ago with his family and recalls the entire 

experience as though it happened yesterday. 

The decision to migrate to Australia was 

purely for security reasons. “There were a few 

things about the policy that stood out for our 

family. One was security, because when you’re 

17 

EQUITY

FINANCE 

Being a Mustafa, knowing the region 

and having Dubai as a hub for nationals 

from Afghanistan, India and 

Pakistan, initiated the decision to 

set-up here. 

in transition in India, Iran or Pakistan, coming 

from a war-torn country – like how the Syrians are 

currently feeling with the turmoil in their nation – 

you know that when you go to a place like Australia 

you feel safe and at home. The country accepted a 

lot of migrants from any background and religious 

ethnicity with open arms”. 

Growing up Alande’s ambition was to become 

a commercial pilot, however upon graduating 

from high school he took to the finance world 

as a commission-based mortgage broker. By the 

time he was 23, Alande was the highest winning 

national seller for the company and by the age 

of 26, he was in the top three nationally for that 

leading brand in Australia. “In 2008, I aspired to 

open my own company called Paragon National 

Home Loans. He attributes his successes to 

being multi lingual. “One of the things that 

assisted my journey was that I speak six 

languages including Dari, Pashtu, Urdu, Hindi, 

Farsi and English,” Having the ability to speak 

these languages gave him the opportunity to 

expand his network, and by using his multi 

lingual skills to help educate the migrant 

markets settling into Melbourne and expanding 

their multi-culturalism to give these people a 

better understanding of the property market. 

Alande went beyond mortgages in 2011 “I 

created two products that were approved by the 

Federal government of Australia, which was 

immigration by investment. I’ve been part of the 

program ever since the inception and in November 

2012, with these qualified products, we brought in 

the China and Middle East market, currently 

managing $284 million AUD." In 2012 Paragon 

Business Group was then created, completing 

deposit lending and now currently manages over 

$950 million AUD in residential mortgage 

aggregation, domiciled in Australia. Paragon 

Business Group, the parent company, went on to 

launch Paragon Premier Investment Fund in 2016, 

securing an Australian Financial Services License. 

Paragon is a development investment fund 

programme in Australia. Paragon is dedicated to 

building homes, factories, or any development 

project that are feasible for the Australian 

community, which is much needed due to the 

population growth. 

Alande noticed a shift within the Australian 

market, since the banks have become stringent 

with their lending policy and will not lend to these 

developers, Paragon is filling the gap that they do 

not. Paragon is able to offer lucrative returns 

through development. Alande expanded to eleven 

markets including the Middle East. “Being a 

Mustafa, knowing the region and having Dubai as 

a hub for nationals from Afghanistan, India and 

Pakistan, initiated the decision to set-up here.” 

The way Paragon Premier Investment Fund 

operates is by offering people the chance to invest 

in government-approved projects in Melbourne’s 

South, East and West. “We don’t deal with 

volume; however we have close to 20 relationships 

within the region that aren’t generated just in 

Dubai. We use this city as a hub. Currently from 

Dubai we are looking into $7.5 billion worth of 

assets under management.” Institutions, Sovereign 

Funds and Private funds are his biggest clients in 

the region. 

Currently, a Fund in India is being launched – 

Paragon Investment Fund India, with a presence 

in Mumbai and New Delhi. “Due to the current 

turmoil in the Indian financial market and 

exchange rates, we are looking to provide a service 

solution for diversification of funds into Australian 

government-approved projects.” When asked if 

he has visited Afghanistan ever since he left, 

Alande states that he hasn’t, although he does 

boast a presence there through his office in Kabul 

and ownership of the Paragon Band-e-Amir 

Dragons cricket team, which is a part of the Kabul 

Premier League, equivalent to the Indian Premier 

League (IPL). 

What's his key to success? “I never ever talk 

business with my clients on the first pitch. I talk 

about my journey, where I want to be, and how I 

can fit them into my journey.” It's all about 

maintaining relationships. 

18 

EQUITY

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19 

EQUITY

WOMAN FINANCELEADER 

DATA ATTACKS, 

RANSOMWARE 

AND THE FINANCIAL 

SECTOR - ATTACKS AND 

DISCLOSURE OF DATA 

Steven Jupp touches upon the need for cyber security 

improvement amongst the finance world 

20 

EQUITY

FINANCE 

Words by Steven Jupp, CEO at Avem Capital 

Having spent most of my life working 

with technology companies, firstly as 

a hobby, then as a career and finally as 

an owner, I have seen many changes 

in businesses perception of security. Coupled with 

these changes there have been a variety of advances 

in the methods used to hack, crack, phish and infect 

technology based systems. In today’s world it has 

unfortunately become commonplace that we are 

facing an ever-growing threat from an increasing 

scope of technologically focused criminals. As we 

are seeing in the physical criminal world, the world 

of cybercrime is increasing rapidly in line with the 

opportunities it creates. It is evident that these 

prospects are not only for those using technology to 

enrich their daily lives, but also for criminals 

exploiting its use. In a world where businesses can 

be brought to their knees within minutes or held 

ransom to large financial demands, one would 

expect a financial firm to adopt the highest degree 

of logical security to match the physical building’s 

security. I myself have witnessed horrific networks, 

bolted together by inexperienced IT engineers or 

even admin staff. Attaching just about everything 

possible to a so-called, secure infrastructure. I 

started writing this article a few weeks prior to the 

WannaCry ransomware propagation of the internet 

of everything. Poorly patched and out of date 

operating systems were the cause of a global 

outbreak, of which many in the logical security 

sector would deem ludicrous. 

On several occasions, I have come across 

previous ransom operations, whether directly 

attacking a corporation, or worm type attacks as 

seen with WannaCry. Aside from the ones reported 

in the press, there is also a perturbing trend on the 

number of hidden attacks, not disclosed to public 

by corporations. This was reported by numerous 

security officials, including myself, as far back as 

2008 and then through the Securities and Exchange 

Commission of the US requesting disclosure in 

October 2011. Some now argue that companies 

keeping these attacks secret may lead to quicker 

fixes, but I would consider them to be protecting 

their entities from reputational harm. In some 

guises, there is obviously a need for the 

consideration of secrecy, but I would argue that in 

the world of finance, where regulation is increasing, 

the disclosure of such attacks is paramount to the 

client’s financial integrity. Previously, most 

disclosures have been based on identity theft, 

account details and even the recent 191 million US 

voter registration records loss. However, with a 

new world of financial gains being made through 

ransom, we now enter a potentially catastrophic 

situation whereby a hedge fund or financial 

institution is held to ransom by organised crime. If 

the company is made to report the attack 

immediately, they could complicate/elongate the 

process of strengthening their cyber defence 

systems. Leaving the attack undisclosed however, 

could lead to a further attack of other firms. 

There is currently an unhealthy wave of patchy 

laws and regulation globally. This has led to mainly 

voluntary sharing of threat information. The 

governments of the world need to act at a quicker 

pace or the financial sector risks being a “cherry to 

pick”. The finance industry is fast becoming a rich 

flavour for the organised and even less organised 

crime syndicates around the globe, and our 

collective efforts are required to detract anyone 

who thinks they can benefit from this. 

21 

EQUITY

WOMAN LEADER 

YouTube sensation Lilly Sing speaks to EQUITY on 

stardom and her latest book, How to be a Bawse 

When Lilly Singh – better known by her 

YouTube pseudonym Superwoman – 

began vlogging, little did she know the 

channel would one day boast 11 million 

subscribers. The 28-year old Canadian is one of the 

world’s highest paid YouTube stars, recently starred in her 

first feature film titled A Trip to Unicorn Island and now 

ticks the author box with the launch of her first book, How 

to be a Bawse: A Guide to Conquering Life. 

WHERE DID THE INSPIRATION FOR HOW TO 

BE A BAWSE STEM FROM? 

I have been so grateful for the good, bad and truly 

unbelievable experiences I've had over the past years and 

felt a book was the perfect format to share those lessons 

with others. I've learned so much from smart people who 

I admire along the way and wanted to share those stories 

with my audience. I hope it will inspire others to see 

beyond the mentality of “dreaming for their dreams.” I 

22 

EQUITY

WOMAN LEADER 

want readers to work for their dreams, conquer life and 

fight for their happiness. 

WHAT HAS BEEN THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE 

ABOUT WRITING YOUR BOOK? 

As simple as it sounds, finding the time to write. Turns out 

that writing a book takes a lot of time. I had an idealistic 

image in my head about the writing process: I was going to 

take three months off, sit by a fireplace and then the book 

would be done. That was quite the fantasy given my schedule 

and commitments. I have learned that to write a book you 

have to find the time to do it and it isn’t going to play out the 

way you envisioned, but that is okay. 

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR PROUDEST 

ACHIEVEMENT SO FAR? 

It is difficult to share, but I have three moments that are 

particularly special to me. First is my world tour and 

documentary, “A Trip to Unicorn Island.” Being able to travel 

the world, meet my fans and spreading positivity was an 

unforgettable experience. Second is my Girl Love Rafiki 

Bracelet. When I saw my design come to life, I was 

overwhelmed. The bracelets not only represent being 

passionate about Girl Love, but doing something about it. 

Last is “How To Be A Bawse", of course! Writing my book has 

been a surreal journey. 

WHAT’S THE BEST BIT OF ADVICE YOU’VE 

BEEN GIVEN? 

It’s not a piece of direct advice, but during Dwayne Johnson’s 

acceptance speech at the People Choice Awards he said, “It 

is nice to be important but it is more important to be nice.” 

This resonated with me because as I’ve grown in the 

entertainment industry, I have seen what happens when fame 

is thrust upon you. People can easily forget how important it 

is to be a nice person, so it was refreshing and grounding to 

hear this from someone of such prominence in the industry. 

WHAT’S YOUR TOP BIT OF ADVICE FOR 

SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN THEIR CAREER? 

When you start your career, you’re often starting at the bottom. 

There is this idea that constant growth is necessary and we are 

tempted to “use escalators” to get to the top as quick as 

possible. My advice is to put in the work and take the stairs or 

climb the ladder. This way you can make every day count 

instead of spending that energy scheming a way to escalate to 

the top which will make the end result even sweeter. 

WHO INSPIRES YOU? 

My fans #TeamSuper. I started my YouTube channel 

because I felt alone and their love and support has completely 

changed my life for the better. When I get to meet them in 

person, hear their stories and see how my videos have 

encouraged them to work harder or love themselves more. 

That’s true inspiration. 

WERE THE ‘OUT OF THE BLUE’ CHAPTERS 

DIFFICULT TO WRITE? 

They were very difficult to write, but I felt they were necessary 

to include. I want my readers to know that I’ve been through 

difficult times just like them and this is what I did to get out of 

it. Even now I choke up when I read these chapters since they 

remind me of when I was a totally different person. Overall, it 

was humbling but difficult to relive those experiences. 

HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH NEGATIVITY 

ONLINE? 

I have a sticky note on my computer that reminds me every 

day to focus on what deserves my attention. I know that 

negativity exists, but I choose to not engage with it and spend 

time on things that I want more of. 

CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR 

#GIRLLOVE CAMPAIGN? 

#GirlLove is a social initiative I commenced to end the 

cycle of girl-on-girl hate. The sad reality is that hate is 

everywhere: at school, work and online. I wanted to create 

a community that encourages positivity amongst us 

because as women, we know how amazing other women 

can be. I want young girls and ladies to see that 

encouraging one another to achieve is a global win – we’re 

all in this together. 

WHAT’S YOUR NEXT PROJECT? 

Right now, I'm most excited about How To Be A Bawse and 

can't wait to meet fans on my tour this year to support it. I 

care so much about those who take time to come and see 

me on tour and want it to be a special experience for each 

and every one of them. I'm also focusing a lot on Girl Love. 

It feels more important than ever for young girls and 

women around the world to lift each other up. I would also 

love to pursue more acting opportunities and possibly 

maybe make my own film or pilot. Lately, I have been 

learning a lot about screenwriting, directing and producing. 

There are so many opportunities here which is exciting. 

23 

EQUITY

A World of Sophisticated Beauty 

Armani Hotel Dubai brings to life the “Stay with Armani” philosophy 

delivering a genuine home approach and a unique lifestyle experience 

where every need and desire is fulfilled for each guest individually. 

www.armanihoteldubai.com 

24 

EQUITY

LOCAL STAR 

#SUPPORTLOCAL 

Discover this startup's journey 

German-born Astrid Ellis shifted to Dubai 13 

years ago to take on a position in the Oil & Gas 

industry. Little did she know, her affinity for the 

city would grow so much that she would one day 

honour the stunning landscape, she now calls 

home, with the launch of a business. The Shower 

Tower, Dubai’s first ever Soapenir was created, as 

a result, offering travelers and residents a gorgeous 

aromatic keepsake of the iconic Burj Khalifa. Here 

she takes us through her journey: 

How was The Shower Tower conceptualised? 

The idea was to create a luxury Soapenir, paying 

tribute to Dubai’s most iconic structure, the Burj 

Khalifa. Astrid partnered with one of the oldest 

soap-making factories in Austria to create an allnatural 

and organic product made with shea butter. 

The memento was launched early this year, offering 

a shower experience that leaves your skin as smooth 

as velvet, with perfume oil that lingers on. 

Major challenges until date? 

In a challenging market such as here in the UAE, 

it can be quite hard to stay motivated all the time. 

Personally, I enjoy meeting and bouncing ideas 

off like-minded female entrepreneurs as well. It’s 

quite stimulating. 

Where do you see your brand in five years? 

We will have more iconic shapes and different scents. 

I see this brand creating wonderful soaps rebuilding 

famous landscapes. Additionally, we will also be 

creating corporate soaps that reflect the true passion 

and calibre of the business of our customers. 

It’s imperative for a startup founder to have a 

mentor. Do you have one? 

Yes! Dawn Metcalfe, Founder and Managing 

Director of PDSi, a company based in Dubai that 

helps individuals and organisations with mentoring, 

training and coaching. Her latest product is called 

‘Hard Talk’ and she is brilliant at what she does. 

From running a successful service company based in 

the Oil and Gas Industry to becoming the creator of 

Dubai’s first Soapenir has been a successful journey 

thanks to her. 

Where is the product stocked? 

O-Concept Store, Jumeirah, Alserkal Cultural 

Foundation, Arabian Souvenirs in Jumeirah Beach 

Residence and Hotel Westin Mina Seyahi. 

To find our more about the product and order your 

soapeneir, visit theshowertower.com. 

25 

EQUITY

Your secured investment 

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26 

EQUITY 

AUSTRALIAN FINANCIAL SERVICES LICENSEE 483118 | ABN 27 608 511 593

ROGER 

FEDERER: 

18 GRAND SLAMS, 

302 WEEKS AT NO.1, 

1,099 CAREER WINS. 

HE’S NOT DONE YET 

CELEBRITY 

IMAGES BY SHUTTERSTOCK | WORDS BY SIMON BRIGGS | TELEGRAPH MAGAZINE | THE INTERVIEW PEOPLE 

Many thought Roger 

Federer’s career was 

on the slide, but a 

smashing start to the 

2017 season shows 

that, 20 years after he 

became a pro, the Swiss 

tennis legend can still 

ace it. And might he 

win Wimbledon again? 

27 

EQUITY

CELEBRITY 

ROGER FEDERER IN DUBAI 

When Roger Federer is winning, the world is a 

better place. He is the clean-cut sheriff of 

tennis, John Wayne in a bandana. And his 

version of sport feels like something primal: 

the pursuit of an ideal, rather than a cheque or trophy. It 

triggers something equally primal in us: the joy of being alive. 

Take the moment in Miami six weeks ago when Federer 

confounded Tomas Berdych – a muscle-bound 6ft 5in Czech 

– with a viciously sliced drop shot that dipped like a 

doodlebug. The fans gasped, and then erupted into childlike 

laughter – the same sort of involuntary reaction that Usain 

Bolt evokes when he destroys his rivals on the track. 

After that match – which Federer won, maintaining his 

best start to a season since 2006 – he changed into a black 

velour tracksuit and we strode together through the maze of 

tunnels underneath the stadium court. He was still grinning 

about the drop shot. 

It was like one I hit against Simone Bolelli a couple of years 

ago,’ Federer told me. Only this was even higher – I thought 

for a moment it was going to bounce and spin back over the 

net. Playing creative is gold: players are stuck in their ways, 

their patterns, and sometimes you just have to break it." We 

turned left and into a long, low-roofed lounge filled with 

scatter cushions. Federer threw himself full-length on to a sofa 

and arched his back luxuriously, a black panther in his lair 'I 

was in this room just before with Ivan [Ljubiči] and Severin 

[Lüthi, his two coaches]. We talked about how it’s quarter-final 

day: I am supposed to win but, actually, I would have been 

happy just to be here in the quarters a year ago. So just chill out, 

relax, play free. After winning in Australia, this season is pure 

joy.’ He raises an eyebrow. 'It wasn’t always like this.’ 

Of course it wasn’t. But then Federer’s career contains 

epochs. It separates into a minimum of four distinct phases: 

the petulant teenager (1997-2001), the super-smooth 

champion (2002-2007), the senior, fading, pro (2008-2016) 

and the impossible rebirth (right now). 

As Federer resumes his former dominance, it’s worth 

re-emphasising one basic statistic: he is 35 years old. Yes, 35. 

This summer represents the 20th anniversary of his departure 

from school, in favour of a professional sporting 

career. In other words, he came in with Tony 

Blair and New Labour. For a sport weary of Pete 

Sampras’s perpetually creased forehead, things 

could only get better. 

Back in the Miami recreation room, I asked 

Federer what he remembered of those first 

skirmishes with adult opponents. 'I was very 

convinced school was slowing me down,’ he said, 

'though I promised my dad I would go back if tennis 

didn’t work out. I won my first rankings point 

against a Russian guy; Igor Tchelychev was his 

name. And my friend got me so good. He had all 

these people calling me, pretending to be 

interviewers, wanting to know how I feel. They all 

had my number and they were so excited. I said, 

“Oh my God, so many guys are calling me,” and he 

said, “You’re not believing what’s happening, right?” 

The unformed Federer was a tempestuous teen, who 

once earned himself a week of toilet-cleaning by ripping 

the courtside curtain in Biel – home of Switzerland’s 

national tennis centre – with a thrown racket. Yet he had 

charm too. His first real interview was with René Stauffer, 

a reporter from the Swiss newspaper Tages-Anzeiger, 

who wrote that Federer was anything but the 'reserved 

and taciturn’ character he had expected. 'He spoke 

flowingly and confidently with a mischievous smile.’ 

Others remember Federer’s unfeigned fascination for 

the world around him, his love of heavy rock band AC/ 

DC and his extraordinarily speedy texting on his entrylevel 

Nokia. There was even a girlfriend at this stage, 

though he is understandably coy now about revisiting the 

subject (he was soon to fall in love with a Swiss tennis pro, 

Mirka Vavrinec, whom he met in 2000; they married in 

2009). 'I was so young, at that time. It was way before 

everything happened.’ 

Federer possessed such prodigious gifts – he had already 

'mastered every stroke’, in Stauffer’s words, when they met 

in 1996 – that he was bound to climb quickly. But no one 

knew how quickly until he dethroned Sampras at 

Wimbledon in five sets in 2001. Federer didn’t lift the title 

– that didn’t come until 2003 – but he admitted recently that 

the whole occasion gave him a huge rush. 'All of a sudden it 

started to make sense. Why you’re doing weights. Why 

you’re running. Why you try to sleep well at night.’ 

The essential parts of the puzzle were beginning to mesh. 

Peter Lundgren had taken over as coach, with Pierre 

Paganini as fitness trainer. And Vavrinec had been on the 

scene since an exploratory kiss at the Sydney Olympics. The 

daughter of Slovakian émigrés, she had grown up on the 

shores of Lake Constance, where she preferred ballet to ball 

games – until a chance meeting with Martina Navratilova 

shifted her sights. With a peak ranking of number 76, she 

might have made a substantial player in her own right, but 

for the foot injury that forced her retirement at the age of 

24. So she directed her energies into Federer’s career 

instead. 'He gave my tennis life back to me,’ she has said. 

'When he wins, it’s as if I win as well.’ 

28 

EQUITY

CELEBRITY 

And there was a whole lot of winning going on. 

Between 2003 and 2005, Federer maintained a 100 

per cent record in finals: 24 trophies from 24 

attempts. 'It was like being on a speed train,’ he 

recalled. 'I was learning so much: how to deal with 

TV shows, red carpets, pressure, press, travel. This 

is where my fitness coach, Pierre, and Mirka, my 

wife, have been unbelievable. They were the rocks 

behind the whole organisation.’ 

Admittedly, the train began to decelerate 

towards the end of the decade, thanks partly to 

the emergence of Rafael Nadal, and partly to 

glandular fever. ('It made a big dent in my 

career; in 2008 I felt a step slower.’) But Federer 

was about to enter a new phase of his life. 

'The beautiful times came in 2009,’ he said, 

'where I finally won the French, Mirka got 

pregnant, we had the kids, I won Wimbledon 

and broke the record [Sampras’s 14 grand 

slam titles]. That was the dream summer 

with everything. We were trying to keep it 

under wraps that she was pregnant. That was 

fun in itself because we didn’t want people to 

find out because we wanted this to be private, 

and we achieved that, which was great.’ 

Is it possible fatherhood might have 

lengthened his career, rather than shortened it 

as so many pundits had predicted? "Yeah,’ he 

answered. 'Even though, when we found out it 

was twins in Australia in 2009, Mirka was very 

worried that the logistics weren’t going to work. 

That she would have to be at home and I would 

be playing and we would be separated, and it 

made her very sad, in that moment. And I told 

her, “Not for a second do you have to worry; 

we will make it work somehow.” Actually the 

first year when they are that small it’s quite 

easy, the travel. It gets tough between oneand-a-half 

and four, when they want to 

walk a marathon on the plane. That’s why, 

for me, 2010 and 2011 are a blur. My 

memories are much more with the kids 

than they are with tennis.’ 

By now Federer had a second home 

in Dubai, and a jet set of 

internationally famous friends that 

included rock star Gavin Rossdale 

and Vogue editor Anna Wintour. 

('I am finally going to the Met Ball 

with Anna this year,’ he said, 

'because she has invited me for 

years.’) But he still keeps up 

with the old gang from his 

embryonic years in 

Switzerland: fellow Biel 

trainees Yves Allegro, 

Michael Lammer and 

Marco Chiudinelli, plus 

Actually the first year 

when they are that small 

it’s quite easy, the travel. It 

gets tough between one and 

a half and four, when they 

want to walk a marathon 

on the plane. That’s why, for 

me, 2010 and 2011 are a blur. 

My memories are much 

more with the kids than 

they are with tennis. 

29 

EQUITY

CELEBRITY 

Swiss professional 

tennis player Roger 

Federer during 

his visit in Prague, 

Czech republic, 

February 20, 2017. 

30 

EQUITY

CELEBRITY 

BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 3 :ROGER FEDERER, VICTORIA AZARENKA, RADEK 

STEPANEK AND GARBINE MUGURUZA AT THE 2016 BRISBANE INTERNATIONAL KIDS DAY 

Vincent Christinet, the room-mate who became like a 

brother when Federer lodged with the Christinet family in his 

late teens. These two old allies meet for coffee whenever 

Federer is in Geneva, and Vincent 'writes me after every 

match basically’. 

For Federer’s most ardent fans – who tend to resent Nadal 

and his other rivals – this blend of domesticity and moviestar 

glamour only adds to his appeal. When at his main home, 

in the small Swiss town of Valbella, he eats fondue at the 

local restaurant and practises at the public sports centre. 

'You have to book the court.’ He smiled. 'Let’s say you 

book from 4pm to 6pm, you have to go and wait in front of 

the door until 3.59. You shyly open the door, you see 

they’re packing up their stuff, you come in. 'Oh! Can I take 

a picture?’ No problem. They walk off and then you play 

until the next guys walk on. I like it like this. It keeps me 

grounded; it keeps me in a normal state. I even pay for the 

court there, and that’s cool.’ 

Court time was not a priority for Federer last season. He 

enjoyed his six-month lay-off as an opportunity to dine with 

friends, but described it as 'brutal’ in tennis terms. The 

starting point was the knee injury he suffered in the most 

bizarre fashion in January, while running a bath for his sevenyear-old 

twin daughters (he also has twin sons, aged three). A 

torn meniscus sent him to the operating table for the first 

time in his life – an extraordinary statistic for a man with 

1,355 tour-level matches under his belt. 

Federer’s personal time warp peaked four months ago, at 

the Australian Open. The tournament was a festival for the 

over-30s, reported as 'the flashback slam’. Nadal sweated 

his way to finals weekend, along with both Williams sisters. 

But it was Federer, impassive under his white headband, 

who commanded the stage. For a fortnight in January – the 

same fortnight, incidentally, during which Donald Trump 

was sworn into office – his drive to an 18th major title felt 

like the sunniest storyline in human existence. 

'This win, it came from so far left field,’ he said. 'I am 100 

per cent truthful when I say 

that not for a second did I 

really believe I was going to 

win. Severin hinted to me in 

Dubai in December: “I tell 

you, if you play like this you 

could win this thing,” and I 

said, “Yeah I guess so,” but 

you never take that too 

serious. But I was winning 

so many sets in practice and 

I was playing so well that he 

just thought, “Jeez you 

never know.” 

Having received his 

replica of the Norman 

Brookes Challenge Cup – 

his fifth, in all – Federer 

was photographed 

embracing it in his luxurious 

Swiss chalet. He giggled 

when I mentioned the picture. 'Yeah, that’s what I do at 

home. I sit there every day with my trophy on my fur rug 

for 15 minutes like a weirdo.’ For all Federer’s surprise 

and delight, though, he declined to class his Melbourne 

miracle as a fluke. He sees it as something closer to a 

scientific breakthrough, earned through three years of 

tireless experimentation in the lab. 

'2014 is when I feel like a new career started, because of the 

racket,’ he said. 'I know you might think it’s a marketing thing 

but it’s not; for me it’s so special. I just thought I have to 

move along with the times, so I designed the RF97 [so called 

because the surface area is 97sq in, seven more than the old 

model] by myself, I tested it, I did all that stuff. 

'I had to figure out myself what works better and what 

doesn’t with the new racket, and then as I always said, I just 

need hours and hours of practice. At 5-5, 30-30 in the third 

set, do you trust yourself to go for the backhand down the 

line, on the line? That’s essentially when you know you can 

trust your racket. Winning now in Australia, you can imagine 

what it meant to me. And I am having fun playing this way.’ 

And so to the question that no Roger Federer interview 

can ignore. How many more aces does he have up his sleeve? 

How much fire still burns behind that suave exterior? In 

February, he signed a contract extension for his home 

tournament in Basel that will take him up to 2019. But no 

one, including Federer himself, really knows how his Indian 

summer will end. 

'You have to be hungry,’ he said. 'If I’m losing second 

round every week, yes it makes me happy that I’m healthy 

and I can play, but it’s not going to make me particularly 

happy as a tennis player. I’ve had too much success for a 

second round to keep me entertained. 

'At the same time, it doesn’t mean that I have to finish as 

world number one or achieve certain things. Some people 

would always feel that it needs to be this fairy-tale ending, but 

I feel like the time will be the time. I just hope I can do it on 

my own terms.’ 

31 

EQUITY

EDUCATION 

IN EXPERT HANDS 

Give your child the care they need at Riverston Children’s Centre 

Words by Olive Sevilla 

If your child has special needs, chances 

are, you are hard pressed to find a 

school that ticks all the right boxes, 

especially here in the UAE. Luckily, a 

few have popped up to cater the demand for 

schools that provide a high level of education. 

The Riverston Children’s Centre for 

Special Needs and Education recently 

opened in Dubai to cater to these children in 

a nurturing and guiding way. The joint 

venture between Tarbia (part of Daud 

Investments and the Belhasa Group) and 

Riverston caters to the need of families who 

need diagnosis and treatment for family 

members with special needs. According to 

the Centre, special needs falls into a broad 

spectrum of categories ranging from autism 

and dyslexia to issues such as the inability to 

focus. The centre provides speech and 

language therapy assessment and sessions, 

screenings and consultations, while providing 

its wards with a safe and encouraging 

environment. Prospective students go 

through centre-issued standardised tests that 

determine the type of specialist best for the 

child. Parents and children are prepared for 

therapy and lessons, as it is recommended to 

32 

EQUITY

EDUCATION 

spot any learning difficulties in a child, before 

they hit pre-school, at 24 months. For 

example, if a child has down’s syndrome, it 

helps educate parents on difficulties their 

child might face in the future. In short, 

parents are an equally significant fragment of 

the learning process. 

A typical day involves children coming in 

for an hour-long session on their own, or to 

be part of a group where they have support 

for communication, speech sound 

articulation, motor skills and a range of 

various activities they may have trouble 

coping with. Other services at the centre 

include occupational therapy and training for 

teachers. The centre even provides accredited 

and non-accredited training to parents as 

well. Another interesting aspect of the centre 

is that it’s not only for kids as adults have 

been discovered with learning and cognitive 

problems too. Kids up to the age of 18 are 

catered to widely by the centre and adults are 

enrolled if they wish to continue in the 

environment. With fees similar to the rest of 

the special needs education providers in 

Dubai, the centre is set tobe a benchmark in 

special needs education. Over the summer, 

students can learn to build on their social, 

motor, communication and friendship skills 

with playtime, yoga and intensive therapy 

sessions at camp. People with special needs 

and dyslexia have been discovered to be quite 

entrepreneurial, so the need to spot and 

nurture these traits is immense for the centre 

and parents.The utmost importance is to 

catch any difficulty or special needs 

requirements as early as possible and have 

the full support of parents in the learning 

sessions at home and at school. The 

Riverston Children’s Centre for Special 

Needs and Education aims to build an 

environment where they aren’t frowned 

upon as being “different”. riverstonecc.ae 

33 

EQUITY

34 

EQUITY

ody 

Everything you need to prep 

for Eid, your summer solstice 

and to revamp your wardrobe. 

Don't forget to treat yourself 

to the finest in celebrity 

indulgences with our tried and 

tested selection of treatments. 

35 

EQUITY

FASHION 

TRENDING NOW: 

Step aside formal suits, the stylish men’s ensemble 

is all about a punch of colour, neat cut and 

structured lines. From Burberry to Gucci’s capsule 

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36 

EQUITY

TRENDING NOW: 

FASHION 

Hailed as one of this season’s hottest trends 

and apt for sunnier climes on tropical islands 

or here in the UAE, the all-over print is one 

to channel for effortless summer style with a 

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prints, stripes, floral patterns and textures to 

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when it meets the eye, but it’s all possible 

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Label at 

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Shorts, 

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Birger at 

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37 

EQUITY

TRENDS 

The 

CHECKLIST 

Chic picks to keep you vogueish this summer 

Bag it 

This season’s bags are smaller than 

the totes we lug around, boasting fun 

elements, while showcasing attention 

to detail in every piece. 

Dhs2,033, 

WAIWAI at 

Shopbop.com 

NEW SIENNA 

MIDNIGHT BLUE 

PYTHON, Dhs6,000 

at belquis.com 

Drew mini 

suede-trimmed 

water snake 

shoulder bag, 

Dhs2,195, 

CHLOE at 

net-a-porter.com 

LEONARD, 

Dhs4,950 at 

Nathalie Trad 

A DESTINATION FOR ALL 

Who doesn’t love a bit of online shopping? Admiring the 

latest collections, adding new wardrobe pieces to the cart 

and the excitement of waiting for your shopping haul to 

arrive. We know, we do! NET-A-PORTER have unveiled a 

Ramadan collection, their vacation shop JET-A-PORTER, 

and an exclusive capsule collection with CHLOÉ, making it 

the ultimate e-commerce catering to our summer and travel 

needs. Click away at net-a-porter.com 

38 

EQUITY

TRENDS 

THE PERFECT GIFTS 

With Eid and Father’s Day looming, you will need plenty of options to 

make sure you’re well prepped this time around. That is, if you can 

part ways with these gorgeous goodies. 

Who doesn’t love a coffee table game? This 

BACKGAMMON SET is a great conversation 

starter and statement centrepiece. 

Dhs16,400 at Berluti 

STEAL HIS STYLE 

A good pair of shoes 

instantaneously elevates 

an outfit. Channel Brad 

Pitt on the red carpet with 

this summer ensemble paired 

with classic PLAIN-TOE OXFORD SHOES 

FROM THE TRAMEZZA COLLECTION. 

Dhs4,000 at Salvatore Ferragamo 

THE NIGHT CALL FROM EX 

NIHILO comprises notes of 

toasted sesame fused with 

beeswax, gingerbread, 

patchouli, benzoin and 

tonka. Apt for those with 

eclectic taste. Dhs3,100 

exclusively at 

Bloomingdales Dubai at 

The Dubai Mall 

SET IN STONE 

A timeless piece that injects 

a dose of sophistication and 

colour is just what we need to bring 

our summer outfits to life. Nakhla’s 

eye-catching pieces with raw stones 

utilise the process of jewellery 

casting, where liquid gold is poured 

into a mold, making each piece a 

handmade work of art. 

Dhs32,397 at 

nakhlajewelry.com 

One for the mantle, this 

1940'S CHRISTOFLE 

VASE BY LUC LANEL, 

doubles as an 

investment, so why not 

get it as a gift, or 

perhaps treat your 

home to a stunning 

piece? Dh8,815, 

Mantiques Modern at 

modaoperandi.com 

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SHOP 

talk 

IN STYLE 

The stores to visit for 

your next shopping haul 

ALL IN ONE 

Dubai Festival City is brimming with 

new outlets for everything from fashion 

to beauty. Here are two to visit: 

● Expand your fragrance wardrobe 

with a visit to Beautique, a homegrown 

concept offering the latest in niche 

perfumes, including the likes of Maison 

Francis Kurkdjian, By Kilian, Laurent 

Mazzone, Moresque, and Sospiro. 

INDIAN TOUCH 

Renowned international fashion designer 

Manish Arora has collaborated with RIVA 

Fashion to launch a line reminiscent of his 

Indian heritage and the iconic Taj Mahal. 

Rich vibrant colours, parkas fused with the 

designer’s signature pink, and demure 

dresses with a kaleidoscope effect of 

yellows, blues, violets and golds, bring the 

collection to life. Available at SIVVI.COM 

and RIVA Fashion stores. 

CLASSIC PAIRS 

For timeless sole wear 

that’s bang on trend, 

head to Stuart Weitzman. 

The celebrity-approved Mulearky slides in dusty pink and black have 

been spotted on Gigi Hadid and Karlie Kloss, to drop a few names. Our 

favourites? the Supersonic (pointed-toe flat with ankle-wrap detail). 

Those who love a bit of heel can opt for the Partisan (platform sandal 

with metallic block heel and satin straps), and Wallawalla (a suede stacked 

heeled desert boot with oversized stitch details and tasselled laces). 

stuartweitzman.com 

● In the world of 

fashion, French 

women are always looked up to for their 

understated elegance and that certain je 

ne sais quoi. Lucky for us, with the launch 

of La Fee Maraboute at Robinsons Dubai, 

a French-inspired wardrobe doesn’t have 

to be a flight away. Expect florals, prints, 

flowy dresses, and ultra-feminine pieces 

that are topical yet glamorous. 

Give back with flowers 

The days of stopping by a florist to get a 

flower bouquet are long gone. Women 

much prefer receiving roses presented in 

a gorgeous hat box nowadays, which 

makes for a great Instagram post too. To 

commemorate the Year of Giving, 

Maison Des Fleurs have teamed up 

with Dubai-based artist eL Seed to 

unveil a flower box designed with 

his signature calligraphy style. 50% 

of all proceeds will be donated to 

the Dubai-based globally 

renowned initiative Al Jalila Foundation, 

treating children with life-threatening 

illnesses and towards local research into 

better treatment options to improve 

children’s lives. From Dhs749, visit 

maisondesfleurs.com 

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WELLNESS 

INDULGE 

YOURSELF 

Tried and tested experiences of the month 

THE ELIXIR CLINIC 

When we heard of a treatment where you get pricked to amp up antioxidants, 

vitamin-intake and plenty more goodness, we couldn’t pass. Fatigue and climatic 

conditions have been taking a toll on our health. Forgetting to take our 

supplements saw us reaching for caffeine every few hours. Thus, the reason this 

treatment was a no-brainer. Upon checking into the Elixir clinic we filled up a 

form and sat down for a consultation with the doctor soon after to weigh out 

stress, energy levels, and daily habits. Up next, it was time to get the VIP Elixir 

VitaDrip, a concoction of vitamins and minerals aimed at boosting the immune 

system, easing fatigue and slowing down the ageing process. Since we haven’t 

been to the gym for a while, we were glad to find out that L-Carnitine (an amino 

acid that also serves as an appetite suppressant) was part of the drips, however 

the doctor mentioned it’s mainly to assist weight loss and rid toxins, so we 

wouldn’t be dropping pounds instantly. 13 drips are available to choose from, all 

tailored towards a specific cause for your body and long-term wellbeing. We 

must warn you, once the drops are inoculated into the system (takes 

approximately 30-45 minutes), an injection for your hair, nails and skin follows 

suit. We found ourselves drinking plenty of water, which works wonders for the 

system and flushes out toxins. Compliments of glowing skin were well received 

and could only be attributed to the treatment since nothing really changed in 

terms of our diet and activity levels, which overall made us feel amazing. 

Need to know: Prices start from around Dh1,200, visit theelixirclinic.com 

ROSSANO FERRETTI 

World-renowned hairdresser Rossano Ferretti 

has had the pleasure of working with Angelina 

Jolie, Jennifer Lawrence and Salma Hayek. 

When we heard news of his latest outpost in 

Jumeirah, the first in the Middle East, we had to 

visit the space. Minimalist décor and 

comfortable lounges coupled with plenty of 

natural sunlight flood the space. Naturally, it 

was all booked for hair appointments when he 

was in town, so we plonked ourselves on the 

leather chairs and opted for a manicure/ 

pedicure instead. Once my nails were cleaned, 

buffed and filed, a scented scrub that instantly 

revitalised was applied to slough away dead 

skin cells. Our hands and feet were then placed 

into a cool serum-soaked collage mask to keep 

wrinkles at bay and skin moisturised. A wide 

selection of nail polishes are available to choose 

from, with a two-week long polish for those 

who don’t want to commit to gel counterparts. 

A coat of quick dry and we were ready to get 

on with our day. 

Need to know: Dhs140, call 04-330 0073 

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soul 

Take a trip to Budapest for a 

quick getaway or opt for a 

staycation in the country to 

unwind. Feed your soul by 

spending quality time with 

family and friends at the latest 

spots in town, Iftars and your 

next big investment, be it arm 

candy or a new home. 

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COLLECTOR'S PIECES 

ON OUR RADAR 

Striking statement pieces 

JEWELLERY 

Rihanna ♥ Chopard 

NECKLACE 

Singer, actor and superstar Rihanna has teamed 

up with Chopard to create the RIHANNA ♥ 

CHOPARD Haute Joaillerie collection. 

Capturing her boldness, style and spirit, the 

collection showcases bright bold and striking 

pieces, that pay homage to Rihanna’s island 

roots; the verdant gardens of Barbados and the 

thrill and energy of Carnival. 

PRICE UPON REQUEST AT CHOPARD 

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FURNITURE 

Molocaho 

AMORETTE 

Tanzanian furniture brand, MOLOCAHO by Amorette, recently debuted the 

M-Luxury Chair – the world’s only encrusted hardwood chair from the 

country – at INDEX Design Series 2017. The creation, designed by Jacqueline 

Mengi, is a work of art, showcasing the best in craftsmanship through its 

unique design, century old techniques and premium quality hardwood: 

Pterocarpus angolensis and Mninga. Jacqueline’s inspiration for the plush 

majestic creation stemmed from the ancient throne of tribal kings. Only 20 

pieces were created of the limited edition chair adorned with rare gemstones 

native to Tanzania. How’s that for a statement chair? 

US$ 98,000 (APPROXIMATELY DHS359,963) AT MOLOCAHO.COM 

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WATCH 

Jaquet Droz 

Grande Seconde Moon Ivory Enamel 

FOR HIM 

Jaquet Droz is the undisputed king of automatons. But beyond those charming animated dial side 

creations (a cherub on a carriage drawn by a butterfly, birds feeding their hatchlings, et al), there’s 

another feature that’s become synonymous with the brand – flawless, expansive enamel dials. 

If you’re looking for understated elegance, this Grande Seconde Moon Ivory Enamel is the only 

dress watch you need right now. At Baselworld 2017, the Marc Hayek-led brand dropped three 

novelties in the Grande Seconde collection: stainless steel with Onyx dial, stainless steel with 

opaline dial, and this 18k red gold version with a grande feu enamel dial. 

Within the oversized figure eight (considered lucky among several Asian countries) on the 

multi-layered dial, the hours and minutes are indicated in the smaller aperture on top, while the 

lower aperture contains the running seconds, date and a detail-rich moonphase display. 

The 43mm case houses an automatic-winding movement that packs in a power reserve of 68 

hours. There is a moonphase corrector located on the side of the case at 8 o’clock which can be 

operated with a stylus that comes bundled with the watch. 

Interestingly, the moonphase on this doesn’t need to be adjusted for the next 122 years and 46 

days. Let your grandson who’ll inherit this heirloom piece worry about that. 

DHS110,000 ($29,800) 

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WATCH 

Chanel 

Premíère Camélia Skeleton Full Set 

FOR HER 

Chanel lifted the bar a few notches last year when it debuted its first in-house movement in the 

incredibly handsome Monsieur de Chanel men’s watch. It signalled to the watchmaking world that 

it’s gone far beyond merely a fashion house that also makes timepieces on the side, to now firmly 

into the realm of a maison that specialises in haute horlogerie. This timepiece that broke cover at 

Baselworld 2017 reinforces that narrative. It has introduced its second in-house movement, this 

time for women, in the Premíère Camélia Skeleton timepiece. 

This watch is a 30th anniversary tribute to the very first timepiece that Chanel made back in 1978, 

the Premíère. The case shape, a nod to the rectangular bottle shape of the iconic Chanel No. 5 

perfume, is like the original, but that’s where the similarities end. There are three versions of this new 

timepiece, one with a total diamond weight of 5.54carat, and another with a weight of 7.85carat. 

This Camélia Skeleton Full Set however, limited to just 12 pieces, has a diamond weight of a jaw-slacking 

22.7carat. That includes 105 baguette-cut and 63 brilliant-cut diamonds. With a skeletonized movement 

that defines the negative spaces, you won’t have to take our word for it – go ahead and count. 

DHS1.9MILLION ($515,000) 

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PERFUME 

Eau de Memo 

MEMO PARIS 

French fragrance house Memo Paris commemorates their 10th anniversary with a bespoke music box 

for Eau de Memo. Cloaked in embossed beige leather, the bottle stands in all its glory alongside singing 

automated birds, making you reminisce age-old jewellery boxes with the dancing ballerina. The limitededition 

piece is a creation from Reuge, Swiss watchmaking specialist, who beautifully transforms the 

music box to a treasure trove. The boxes are made to order, with a three-month delivery window – 

you may want to get yours ahead of Christmas and wedding season. 

PRICE UPON REQUEST AT MEMO PARIS 

48 

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AUTOMOBILE 

KING OF THE ROAD 

The $13million Rolls-Royce Sweptail is an 

exercise in proper bespoke coachbuilding 

Words by Varun Godinho 

Think of a Rolls-Royce as you would a land 

yacht. It’s expansive, stately and a statement 

piece that signals you’ve entered a rarefied 

orbit. Those who inhabit this space can tell 

the difference between a Basquiat and Bacon, 

appreciate the aesthetic value of a threequarter 

plate on an A. Lange & Söhne 

movement, and always score the chef’s table 

at Osteria Francescana. 

At this level, money is no bar – fine taste is. 

The customers of a Rolls-Royce are industry 

captains, oligarchs and celebrities who aren’t 

sold – or swayed – over a $13million price 

tag. One such customer, that remains 

unnamed, contacted RR back in 2013 and 

asked the carmaker to build a bespoke car for 

him. Four years later, the curvaceous Rolls- 

Royce Sweptail was born and was awarded 

its first public showing at the Villa d’Este 

Concorso d’Eleganza last month. 

The event held on the banks of Lake Como 

in Italy is Europe’s annual vintage and classic 

car exhibition where some of the finest 

automotive jewels are paraded before 

adoring fans. These cars mostly belong to 

what’s referred to as the golden age of 

motoring, that Pre-World War 2 era where 

straight-off-the-assembly-line was considered 

blasé, and coachwork houses around Europe 

and North America handbuilt bespoke shells 

for discerning clientele. 

That’s the nostalgic era of motoring that 

Rolls-Royce turned to for inspiration on this 

build. The new Sweptail has the rounded 

doors look from a 1925 Phantom I, borrows a 

silhouette from the 1934 Phantom II 

Streamline Saloon, and its most striking feature 

– the swept tail – from the 1934 Gurney 

Nutting phantom II Two Door Night Saloon. 

The single-piece glass panoramic roof, was 

one of the largest and most complex ones 

ever installed on a car. The number plate 

carved into the lower pedestal, and the one at 

the rear is milled from solid aluminium blocks. 

The well-appointed interiors have plenty of 

buttery leather and veneered wood (Macassar 

Ebony and Paldao wood, if we’re being 

pedantic). The lengths to which bespoke can 

50 

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reach today means that at a touch of a 

button, the centre console brings up 

two champagne flutes and a bottle of 

champagne, both of which are tilted to 

the precise angle that makes it the 

easiest for the owner to lift it. 

Rolls-Royce design director, Giles 

Taylor, guided the one-off build that saw 

this car start life as a standard two-door 

Phantom Coupé before it underwent 

this dramatic transformation. 

It wasn’t built for speed, and frankly 

attempting to drive a Rolls-Royce like a 

sportscar would be an unseemly sight. 

But with a 6.6-litre V12 that’s good for 

453hp, there’s plenty of power to 

prove a point should you feel the need 

to. And if you do, you’re probably not 

ready to own one yet. 

$13MILLION (DHS47MILLION) 

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AVIATION 

NOTHING 

TOPS 

SAFETY 

Holger Ostheimer Managing Director at DC 

Aviation Al-Futtaim advises on aircraft ownership 

DC Aviation Al-Futtaim, a joint venture 

between DC Aviation Group based in Germany 

and Al-Futtaim, has been operational in the UAE 

since 2007, offering charter flights in complete 

privacy, right from the minute the client steps out 

of the car, to the aircraft and destination of choice. 

Holger came on board as a consultant in 2012, 

graduating as a teacher. “I grew up close to 

Frankfurt Airport in Germany and having done all 

my work around there from passenger aircraft to 

operations, I ended up getting a commercial pilot 

license,” he tells us. Unfortunately, the timing 

wasn’t right for pilots in 2001, with the market 

looking dire and the space being under shock 

from the September 11 attack. As a result, Holger 

had to make do in the fact that his future lay in 

management. Grabbing the opportunity, he then 

stepped into the field with flight support, following 

on as Operations Director at Daimlerchrysler, 

before heading to the Middle East. 

Speaking further about operations and 

maintenance, Holger tells us that at DC Aviation 

nothing tops safety. “As a quality operator like 

ourselves we make sure our company guidelines 

and handbooks reflect what the regulator expects 

from us,” he says. A sophisticated organisation is 

behind the management of the aircraft, to provide 

warranty claims – if the aircraft is young – and act 

on behalf of the client to recuperate recurring 

costs of purchasing parts and man power. 

52 

EQUITY

AVIATION 

Aircraft purchasers need 

to be careful with the type 

of aircraft they are about to 

invest in. DC Aviation 

provides a credible service 

wherein the operator 

negotiates a justified price 

based on the condition of 

the aircraft, and the specific 

documentation required, 

while ensuring the aircraft is 

in its best possible state for 

the client’s benefit. 

Whether cabins are 

bespoke and built from 

scratch or re-sold and 

configured at a previous 

point in time, the 

commercial and technical 

department is on hand to monitor each and every 

aspect. “Anything missed out in the process will 

cost the operator and owner very dearly. If the 

documentation wasn’t done well, and you have 

the aircraft purchased and the regulatory 

authorities come up and ask for documents, you 

can suddenly be confronted with a huge bill 

because a certain part hasn’t been installed. We 

send people on site, to the plant, every two to six 

weeks to check up on the process – the sheet 

metals being welded together or anything that’s 

missed out. Once the floor boards and cabins are 

on you won’t be able to tell,” he says. When 

someone buys an aircraft and management issues 

occur, the blame falls on the operator, which is 

why it’s important to reach out to credible 

organisations in the first place, advises Holger. 

With the second hangar, currently on board for 

year-end completion, the 6,800 square metre 

space will enable DCAF to add two single-aisle 

aircraft maintenance bays and provide enough 

space for an additional workshop and equipment 

storage. It will also significantly increase the 

number and size of aircraft that can be 

accommodated at the facility. The second hangar 

will also be able to accommodate aircrafts up to 

the Boeing 767 and provide B1 (airframe) and B2 

(avionics) maintenance services for the Falcon 7X, 

alongside line maintenance support for customers 

operating the Bombardier Global Express, 

Challenger 604/605, Airbus 320 family, and the 

Global 6000 and Global 5000 Vision Flight Deck 

aircraft types. 

Currently, DCAF has a total of five aircrafts on 

its managed fleet including the Dassault Falcon 

7X, two Bombardier Challenger 604, a Global 

XRS, and a Global 5000, with popular destinations 

being business hubs including Paris, Hong Kong, 

London, Pakistan, Delhi, Mumbai, Saudi Arabia 

and GCC countries. 

53 

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55 

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GASTRONOMY 

DESERT DINING 

1 

BAB AL SHAMS 

An Arabian-nights themed fairytale 

setting with souq stalls, large Persian rugs 

and aromas of incense greet you as you 

walk along the path to the buffet and 

seating area. That’s what you can expect 

at the Al Hadheerah tent tucked away 

amongst tranquil sandy surroundings. 

Hummus, baba ghanoush and a selection 

of dips are placed on each table to tuck 

into with freshly baked bread, the minute 

you arrive. At the buffet, help yourself at 

the ten live cooking stations featuring 

everything from Omani, Emirati, Iranian 

and Syrian cuisine to Lebanese and 

Moroccan, to name a few that are 

available. Follow the traditional way of 

Iftar beginning with lentil soup, followed 

by freshly prepared fatayer, hot cheese 

rolls and kibbeh (meat croquettes), a 

selection of salads, cheese and meat 

manakeesh and shawarma. For mains, 

we highly recommend diving into the big 

pot of crab – you can’t miss the large 

steel dish – succulent kebabs and lamb 

chops, with a side of lamb ouzi, couscous, 

tagines, biryani, and koshari (an Egyptian 

dish with macaroni, rice, tomato sauce 

and meat) – it’s best to taste a little of 

everything, right? Sate sweet tooth 

cravings with homemade cakes, 

pastries or the irresistible Turkish ice 

cream, served by a Turkish man with a 

barrel of laughs. Oud players, a 

traditional Tanoura and a camel and 

horse heritage caravan live show offer 

entertainment for a mystical evening in 

the desert. Call 04 809 6100 

Dining in Dubai 

The city’s finest gastronomic outlets to see and be seen at 

56 

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GASTRONOMY 

MEXICAN VIBES 

2 

PEYOTE 

Let’s begin by mentioning they serve 

cactus salad. That’s right, the modern 

Mexican restaurant named after a small 

cactus native to the Chihuahuan 

Desert, is a concept straight out of 

Mayfair that brings with itself the spirit 

and culture of the country, complete 

with everything from a cactus salad – 

with a texture slightly similar to aloe 

vera – to usual suspects including 

guacamole and crisp calamari. Four 

salsas ranging from mild to peanut 

butter and spicy, accompany all meals. 

Must-have starters showcase sharingstyle 

dishes of roasted chicken adobo in 

a soft taco (made in-house) with 

pineapple pico de gallo lime and 

cilantro, alongside silky pieces of halibut 

in a tangy lime-cilantro dressing. The 

24-hour braised lamb shoulder stands 

out, especially for carnivores, and it 

sure does impress. Cooked in a banana 

leaf and served with a side of salsa 

tatemada, the barbacoa is shredded 

tableside, after which you make your 

own taco filled with salsa, sides such as 

the highly recommended sweet corn 

with homemade mayonnaise and 

creamy queso fresco, and patatas 

bravas (baby potatoes with salsa). 

Leave room for desserts, as you can’t 

leave a Mexican restaurant without 

feasting on their churros dipped in 

chocolate and cajeta (thick goat’s milk 

caramel sauce). Don’t stop there 

though, two of our favourites feature a 

contemporary take on tres leches (a 

soaked vanilla sponge cake) with layers 

of red berry jam, and the Oaxaca 

chocolate, a chocolate sphere that 

hides within a warm chocolate and 

chipotle mousse with a hint of spice, 

toned down by the complementing 

raspberry sorbet. Call 04 521 6300 

ARABIAN AMBIENCE 

3 

JUMEIRAH AL QASR 

The gorgeous waterway eatery may 

have contemporary exteriors with 

white fixtures, however indoors, a 

traditional Arabian affair awaits diners. 

For a Lebanese-inspired Iftar, break 

your fast with fresh juices followed by 

fattoush, cheese sambusek and freshly 

baked bread to scoop nutritious 

options including muhamarra and 

baba ganoush. Leave space for fall-offthe-bone 

lamb chops that arrive every 

few minutes fresh from the grill, and a 

selection of seafood specialities. Lamb 

ouzi and fish machboos are some of 

the other dishes you can tuck into 

with roasted vegetables, shish tawook 

and plenty of savoury dishes. For 

desserts, you can’t leave without 

trying the sticky toffee date pudding, 

cakes or fresh fruit, with a side of 

Moroccan tea, prepared on the spot. 

Call 04 432 3232 

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GASTRONOMY 

CONTEMPORARY 

TOUCH 

4 

ZAHIRA 

Australian-Lebanese celebrity chef 

Greg Malouf is back with his latest 

outpost at The H, giving diners a 

taste of modern Middle Eastern 

cuisine served in a sharing style 

manner. A relaxed lounge fitted 

with leather chairs, couches and 

high bar stools make up the area 

where cocktails such as the Kiss of 

Oud (a whiskey-based concoction), 

Beqaa Sour (avocado infusion) and 

the Amaya – served with a spritz of 

perfume – are prepared. Appetisers 

such as the creamy burrata atop 

warm foul medammes are apt for 

those who love the Arabic starter, 

while crisp hazelnut falafels with 

yoghurt tahini and pickled turnips 

break apart beautifully as you bite 

into it. The signature duck bisteeya 

with sweet spices and almonds, 

showcase stringy tender duck under 

pastry adorned with the hand of 

Fatima. The dish is best eaten on its 

own with the slaw it’s laid upon. If 

you do want to pair it with 

something substantial, we highly 

recommend the spatchcock fatteh; 

clay pot cooked French chicken with 

chickpeas, laban and wafer bread. 

You will be bursting at the seams by 

this point, but you can’t leave without 

nibbling on the warm and comforting 

kunafeh doused in rose water or 

peach pavlova, a messy meringue 

delight. Call 04 501 8606. 

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HOTSPOTS 

ON THE 

Culinary offerings, Iftars and flavours to try in the country 

MENU 

GUESS WHO’S BACK? 

Katsuya by Starck is out of Dubai 

Mall, and in new grounds, now at 

Jumeirah Al Naseem Hotel, 

Madinat Jumeirah. The gorgeous 

eatery is one to flock to for a taste 

of modern Japenese cuisine. On 

the menu, wagyu filet with foie 

gras, seared tuna with Japanese 

salsa, signature sushi rolls, ceviche, 

terriyaki, and local-favourite 

edamame hummuous are some of 

the specialties to tuck into. Finish 

off with the double chocolate lava 

cake or decadent mochi. 

Open daily, call 04 419 0676 

TURKISH DELIGHT 

Just when you think Dubai’s Iftar scene 

has become saturated, Günaydin 

introduces its own. This outpost of 

the famous Turkish steakhouse 

located in Souk Al Bahar boasts 

breathtaking views of the Dubai 

Fountain. Guests can choose from an 

elaborate spread of mezze, meats and 

desserts with dishes like Orgu Peyniri 

(braided cheese), and Fistikli Kebap 

(lamb kebab with pistachio) being 

cooked in an open kitchen among 

many delectable offerings. 

Dhs220 per person for Iftar, 

call 04 561 0732. 

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HOTSPOTS 

PRIVATE GATHERING 

Al Manzil at Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights is apt 

for a company Iftar or a large-scale event, where you can 

cater for over 200 people. Complete with a private 

entrance, the venue showcases an Iftar with widespread 

offerings ranging from a widespread salad bar and mezze 

to vegetarian options, fish, curries, freshly prepared 

manakeesh, whole lamb ouzi and grills including meats, 

tender shrimp and shish tawook. 

Call 04 553 1219 

ETHIOPIA ON A PLATE 

It doesn’t get as authentic as Gursha for Ethiopian food in 

Dubai. The Palm Jumeirah's latest culinary offering features a 

selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes including 

spicy red lentil stew, beef and chicken curries with Injera 

(gluten free sourdough thin bread), Telba (flaxseed flour 

stew) and a kale variation on the kitfo (beef tartar with 

Ethiopian spice and herbed butter). A wide variety of their 

offerings are available at the Iftar buffet. 

Dhs175 per person, call 04 554 2665 

NEW ADDITION 

Add The Galleria Dining Collection to your weekend plans, especially if you’re undecided on a place for a meal. Joining 

the list are Nusr-ET, Loca and COYA, so take your pick and indulge in everything from meat and burgers to Peruvian 

specialities. Visit thegalleria.ae 

IFTARS IN THE CAPITAL Treat family, friends or your colleagues to an extensive spread. Here are two to try: 

The iconic Emirates Palace offers a sneak peek to their 

seaside venue with the launch of the Ramadan Pavilion. 

Authentic Emirati and Arabic dishes featuring everything 

from salads to lamb ouzi (carved at the cooking station), 

chicken harees, baked fish with vegetables, and camel meat 

with baby marrow, are served at the buffet. The dessert 

station is where you can satisfy sweet tooth cravings with 

chocolate fondue and traditional desserts such as Umm Ali 

and kunafeh. Dhs265 per person, call 02-690 7999 

The St. Regis Abu Dhabi has pulled out all the stops 

with an Iftar at the world’s highest suspended suite. 

The Iftar in the Clouds seats up to 50 guests and offers 

panoramic views of the city, with a private VIP entrance 

to access the venue. Offerings include Arabian delicacies, 

including a dessert room with kunafeh, atayef and a 

selection of Ramadan beverages. 

Available on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, Dhs250 per 

person, call 02 694 4553 

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Office 804-806, Arenco Tower, Dubai Media City | T: 04 432 79 72 

Dubai’s only high-end real estate and interior design company, 

setting extraordinary records in the marketing, designing 

and selling of the most important residential properties. 

WWW.LUXHABITAT.AE 

61 

EQUITY

TRAVEL 

GO SIGHTSEEING 

The city is split in two, segregated by the Danube River and 

connected by the striking Chain Bridge, with Buda on the 

western bank of the Danube and Pest opposite. Begin your 

tour with a river cruise to discover the history and landmarks. 

In Buda, head over to Castle District, the highlight of the old 

town, and take in the views of the palace, Matyas Church, 

museums and picturesque squares clad with souvenir shops. 

The palace complex, can be reached by the Siklo – a 19th 

century funicular that runs from Clark Adam ter by the 

Chain Bridge. In Pest, visit St. 

Stephen’s Basilica, which 

took over 50 years to build. 

The spot is known for its’ 

panoramic views over Pest 

and artwork including 

mosaics by Károly Lotz. 

THE BEAUTIFUL CHAIN BRIDGE WITH THE 

HUNGARIAN PARLIAMENT IN THE BACKGROUND 

Historical 

Budapest 

DANUBE RIVER RUNNING THROUGH THE BUILDINGS OF BUDAPEST 

ST. STEPHEN’S BASILLICA 

REST HERE… 

The palatial Corinthia Hotel 

Budapest served as inspiration for The Grand 

Budapest Hotel movie, and is the city’s most 

opulent spot to get a restful sleep. Don’t be 

surprised if you bump into a celebrity here, the 

hotel has been home to plenty and you can find 

the broad list on placards in the lobby. Bock 

Bisztró is located within the hotel premises, so 

you don’t have to head far for a sumptuous 

dinner. Jaded jet-setters can head to the Royal 

Spa for everything from massages to facials, yoga 

and ESPA body treatments. Visit corinthia.com. 

Explore Hungary’s DINING HOTSPOTS 

capital and the 

The discerning traveller 

country’s cultural heart 

with a palate has plenty of 

culinary offerings to pick 

with our nifty guide 

from. Onyx (+36 30 508 

0622, onyxrestaurant.hu) 

focuses on contemporary Hungarian produce with 

tasting menus, while Costes (+3612190696, costes. 

hu) emphasises on an international menu with 

Hungarian influences. This restaurant is the first to 

receive a Michelin star in Budapest and serves pigeon 

cooked two ways, with beetroot and coffee, slow 

cooked trout, and plenty of other options. Bock 

Bisztró’s (+3613210340, bockbisztropest.hu) wellpresented 

menu featuring foie gras sushi, fillet of pike 

and veal neck stew with dumplings can be paired with 

their extensive and varied wine list. 

62 

EQUITY

TRAVEL 

A TIPPLE AND MORE 

Abandoned spaces have been 

transformed into ruin-bars and make 

for a great cultural and architectural 

sight. Two local-favourites are the 

Corvinteto (+36 20 474 0831, 

corvinteto.hu) and Szimpla Kest (+36 

20 261 8669, szimpla.hu). 

For a sophisticated affair coupled 

with jazz tunes, a great selection of 

grape beverages, cheese and meat 

platters, for perfect pairings, look no 

further than Doblo (+36 20 398 

8863). When a spot gets an accolade 

from World’s Best Bars, you can’t skip 

it. Boutiq (+36 30 554 2323) knows 

a thing or two about cocktails, pouring 

concoctions with ingredients such as 

African vanilla and Mexican chilli. 

SHOPPING HAUL 

Food items, souvenirs and goodies native to 

Budapest can be found at the Great Market 

Hall (+36 1 366 3300). Voted as one of the 

most beautiful markets in Europe, the market 

is a treasure trove for literally anything you 

want under one roof. Here are a few things 

to shop for: 

✽ Rubik’s cube, a Hungarian invention 

✽ Paprika, grown locally 

✽ Porcelain, the hand-crafted tradition harks 

back to hundreds of years 

✽ The secret box (for children). Similar to a 

jewellery box in shape, this one is hard to 

open, until the shop keeper 

shows you how to slide open 

the secret panel to unveil the 

key and hidden locks. 

Top 5 eats 

Langos: the flat bread is apt 

for a snack in between 

meals and is usually eaten 

topped with mashed 

potatoes, sour cream, 

grated cheese and sausage. 

Try it at the Central Market 

Hall and near the Funicular. 

Fisherman’s 

soup: a hot, river 

fish soup with a 

spicy paprika base. 

Beef Goulash: 

a beef stew/soup 

cooked with 

onions, paprika 

and meat. 

Chimney cake: 

originally baked 

by Hungarian settlers 

in Transylvania. The 

hot, freshly baked 

pastry is made and sold 

by street vendors. 

Try it with flavourings such as 

chocolate and cinnamon. 

CAFFEINE AND CAKES 

One of the most traditional coffee houses 

you can come across is Café Gerbeaud 

(gerbeaud.hu). The wooden interior café 

dates back to the 19th century, and known 

best for their namesake cake with ground 

walnut and layers of jam between soft 

sponge cake, all doused in chocolate. The 

New York Café (+36 1-8866-167, 

newyorkcafe.hu) is another, steeped in 

history and previously known as a meeting 

point for literary and artistic personalities. 

The ceiling frescoes, glided stucco work and 

Venetian chandeliers are striking features to 

gaze at while enjoying breakfast, afternoon 

tea or the Hungarian cake selection. 

Chicken paprikash: 

the mouthwatering chicken 

dish uses local ingredients 

such as paprika combined 

with a tender stewed 

chicken leg. 

63 

EQUITY

HOTEL REVIEW 

EID STAYCATIONS 

Escape to these emirates for a long-weekend away from the 

humdrum of the city 

DESTINATION: 

FAIRMONT 

FUJAIRAH 

BEACH RESORT 

IDEAL FOR: 

A FAMILY GETAWAY 

Meander through the winding path of the Al 

Hajjar Mountains before your eyes meet the 

coast and this five-star resort tucked in between. 

We must admit, the exterior dampened our first 

impression, but indoors the décor stuns with 

splashes of colour from lanterns, statement 

furnishings such as a briefcase cloaked front desk 

and a monochrome scheme in the lobby, quickly 

redeeming itself from the peachy outdoors 

which we learnt later mimic the landscape in 

Marrakech. The art-inspired resort boasts a 

Moroccan vibe throughout, with all guest rooms 

facing the ocean or marina. It’s the type of spot 

you can leave the children to be, hit the beach 

for a dip or water sport activities – they offer 

everything from kayaking to jetpacks – and while 

away with a book on your terrace. 

room for children to play around. Natural 

sunlight floods the master bedroom, offering 

unrivalled views of the coast. The bathroom 

steals the limelight here, with a bathtub that 

looks out to the room and coast, once the 

wooden dividers open. 

CHECK IN: The Royal suite, sprawls across 

360 square metres, offering a living room, three 

bedrooms, kitchen, dining space and ample of 

64 

EQUITY

HOTEL REVIEW 

HOTEL REVIEW 

RELAX AND REJUVENATE: A staycation is 

incomplete without a revitalising treatment. We 

highly suggest the five-element aroma massage 

which begins with a personality survey to depict 

your element. Once the results are in, you’re 

asked to inhale a concoction of oils to help 

balance your body and mind and bring you back 

to healthy being. Make sure to mark the areas that 

require extra attention, we focused on the back, 

neck and shoulders – a common with desk 

workers – and had every muscle eased with a few 

cracks and skilled therapeutic techniques. Finish 

the treatment with a trip to the sauna, tropical 

showers accompanied by sounds from the forest 

or storms, and a quick snooze on the heated 

lounge beds. 

Need to know: 

The Royal Suite rates 

start from Dhs7,200 per 

night. Visit fairmont. 

com/Fujairah 

DINE AT: For lunch, you can’t go wrong with the 

Kale salad, freshly prepared baguette and seafood 

risotto at the European bistro-style Café Pronto. 

Try not to fill up on fresh fruit served in-room, 

and build up an appetite for dinner at Copper 

Lobster, the resort’s gastro bar restaurant. Begin 

with impressive red pepper and rose-infused 

cocktails at the bar – the mixologist Alex 

Khvastunov once served Vladimir Putin – before 

you take a seat and enjoy the jazz singer go across 

ivory keys. The menu comprises comfort food 

commencing with lobster mac and cheese (a 

thermidor and pasta shell hybrid) and fresh 

burrata and artichoke salad, followed by a harra 

lobster with gravy, cooked in a French clay 

sourced by the chef from the market. Sticky toffee 

pudding is one of our favourite desserts, and we 

couldn’t have chosen anything better to end a 

lovely meal. Breakfast takes place at Canvas every 

morning, offering a wide selection of pastries, and 

cuisines ranging from Middle Eastern to Indian. 

The pool bar serves a wide selection of snacks 

and bites including a fresh and crisp fish and chips, 

to indulge in while basking in the sun. 

65 

EQUITY

HOTEL REVIEW 

DESTINATION: 

THE OBEROI 

BEACH RESORT 

AL ZORAH, 

AJMAN 

IDEAL FOR: 

COUPLE'S GETAWAY 

Road trips to Ajman were only ever considered 

for seafood eateries that flank Corniche, serving 

up fresh crustacean and fish. However, much has 

changed over the last year with the development 

of the Zorah neighbourhood. The Oberoi Al 

Zorah, sited near the Al Zorah Golf Club, is 

reminiscent of an island with blank concrete 

canvases, serving as accomodation, placed all 

over the resort. Away from the residential area, 

the secluded resort boasts a yoga and fitness 

studio tucked away in a corner, infinity water 

bodies that look out to the ocean and lush 

greenery in every nook and corner. 

CHECK IN: The private villa is the ultimate retreat 

here. Black-out drapes, a bath tub with views of the 

palms outside, and a backyard swimming pool with 

a large terrace accessible from the bedroom and 

living room are some of the features that took our 

breath away. A kitchenette with ice machine is on 

hand for summer drinks, with a walk-in closet to 

stow away luggage. 

66 

EQUITY

HOTEL REVIEW 

Need to know: 

The Eid Al Fitr promotion 

includes breakfast and 

yoga classes, with a 

minimum stay of two 

nights. The offer is 

available at Dhs2,900++ 

per night, valid 

between June 26-30. 

oberoihotels.com 

RELAX AND REJUVENATE: The spa doors 

are again a concrete wall, similar to the villas. 

Once you enter, relax in the lobby before you 

head through a pebbled path outdoors to your 

treatment room. Jump into the bed for 90 

minutes of bliss. I rarely fall asleep on the bed, 

but the techniques, with a combination of the 

oils and right pressure put me in a state of lull. 

DINE AT: The gourmet offerings at this resort 

are outstanding, a statement we don’t throw 

around at EQUITY. Each dish, whether the crab 

salad followed by freshly prepared red snapper 

with miso sauce for lunch at Aquario, or the 

nocturnal set menu at Vinesse were fresh, 

delectable and impeccable. Dinner included a 

starter of pistachio falafel, providing the right 

amount of nuttiness paired with pickled raddish, 

followed by a medium Wagyu ribeye doused in 

a moreish sauce. Breakfast takes place at the 

same venue during Ramadan, with the openlayout 

kitchen offering cold cuts, cheese, fresh 

juices and pastries. Hot dishes like Indian 

breakfast specialities such as upma along with 

Arabic and international offerings such as eggs 

benedict are served, as per your preference. 

67 

EQUITY

TRAVEL TALES 

JETSETTER JOURNEYS 

Explore the latest in experiences, tours and wellness breaks 

HEAD TO… 

Conrad Guangzhou, the seventh property from the hotel chain 

that recently debuted in Greater China is the place to stay at when 

in the city. Popular landmarks such as the Guangdong Museum, 

Guangzhou Opera House and Canton Tower are minutes away, 

making it a destination to explore from on your next business trip. 

Visit conradhotels.com 

A MANSION BY THE SEA 

Sri Lanka is home to numerous gorgeous 

resorts, but if you’re looking for an intimate 

gathering with close family and friends, make 

the trip worthwhile with Eden Villas. The 

luxury villa management company have 

launched a seven-bedroom home, that 

sleeps 14 adults and six children, on the 

south coast of the island. The Meda Gedara 

villa boasts a private access to the beach, 

cinema room, 21 metre water slide and 

yoga shala with views of the coast. 

Visit envisl.com 

TIME TO DISCONNECT 

SHA Wellness Clinic is the place to head too if you want to hit the 

restart button on your health, body and mind. To eliminate toxins, purify 

the body and detox to improve vitality, physical and mental well-being, 

opt for The Detox package. You can also unwind, restore energy and 

maintain a sense of calmness with the Anti-Stress Programme. A 

minimum of seven nights is required, with Eid promotions on from June 

1st to July 20th. Visit shawellnessclinic.com 

68 

EQUITY

TRAVEL TALES 

HEAD SOUTH 

Visiting the coast of Portugal for a round of golf? 

Stay at the newly opened Anantara Vilamoura 

Algarve Resort, that offers guest rooms and 

suites that look out to the Arnold Palmer 

designed Oceânico Golf course. The twobedroom 

Anantara Suite which includes a 

terrace with private dining area, jacuzzi and 

sundeck is the one to check into. The resident 

wine guru António Lopes won the accolade of 

2014 Best Sommellier of Portugal and hosts 

tasting sessions and a private visit to a local 

vineyard. vilamoura.anantara.com. 

THAT’S AMORE 

Lake Como beckons this summer. Imagine strolling the streets with 

gelato in hand, boat trips and authentic Italian food. To explore the city 

in the best way possible, book the Lake Como Grand Tour package 

with Grand Hotel Tremezzo – celebrating its 107th anniversary this 

year – offering tours on the hotel’s water limo and a traditional boat to 

tour the lake. Other features include a two-way ticket for two on the 

traditional boat to Bellagio, entry for two at Villa Carlotta and its 

botanical gardens, and a guided tour at Villa Balbianello. Minimum of 

three-night stay is required, starting from Dhs3,840 per night, 

visit grandhoteltremezzo.com. 

TRENDING NOW: #BABYMOON 

Couples are jumping on the bandwagon by 

planning Babymoon Packages, where they can 

relax and pamper themselves before the 

arrival of their bundle of joy. Take advantage 

of the packages from Constance Hotels and 

Resorts which feature 60 minutes 

complimentary couples massages, a daily 45 

minutes foot or shoulder massage for mumsto-be, 

a complimentary manicure and 

pedicure, fishing trips for the men, a traditional 

sunset fishing trip, and a free green fee for 

three 18-hole golf courses (for Constance 

Prince Maurice and Constance Lemuria). 

Offerings and prices vary for resorts, visit 

constancehotels.com. 

69 

EQUITY

REAL ESTATE 

AESTHETIC APPEAL 

Elegant refurbished homes from Luxhabitat 

EXCEPTIONAL SIGNATURE VILLA 

AT PALM JUMEIRAH 

Make this man-made island – one of the most coveted 

addresses in the city – home with this renovated villa. 

Residents can take a dip in the central private pool, which 

can be seen from the living room floor, or gaze at the 

sunset and ocean from the terrace. The villa boasts 7 

bedrooms and 8 baths, a built-up area of 8,600 sq. feet 

and a massive plot size of 15,683 sq. feet. That’s not all, 

the beach entertainment area competes for attention 

from the interiors adorned with prized artworks and 

striking furnishings. 

THE PRICE TAG 

Upon application. 

TO SCHEDULE A VIEWING 

Call 04-432 7972 

www.luxhabitat.com 

70 

EQUITY

REAL ESTATE 

STUNNING PENTHOUSE IN 

DUBAI MARINA 

Located in the Marinascape Avant Tower by 

Trident this triplex penthouse is reminiscent of 

Gwyneth Paltrow’s $14.25 Million Tribeca 

residence. The 3-bedroom and 5-bathroom 

property sprawls over 9,365 sq. feet of customised 

living space, boasting unrivalled views with stateof-the-art 

features including temperature control 

private pools, an open plan kitchen, three terraces, 

two balconies, and an in-house spa. To top it off, 

the upper floor leads to a mini guesthouse with an 

en-suite bedroom and the largest balcony within 

the property. 

THE PRICE TAG 

AED 22,500,000 

TO SCHEDULE A VIEWING 

Call 04-432 7972 

www.luxhabitat.com 

71 

EQUITY

ENTREPRENEUR 

WOMAN BEHIND 

the BRAND 

Handbag designer Amanda Navai 

gives us a peek into her life 

Shoes or 

handbags? 

One would think 

I'm going to say 

handbags, which 

I would if you 

asked me 

seven years 

ago, but now 

I would say 

shoes. 

A TYPICAL DAY 

When I'm in Dubai it’s jam packed with 

meetings with buyers, influencers, marketing 

and PR executives from various retailers. I visit 

all the retail stores that carry my designs to make 

sure everything looks great and speak with the 

sales associates to understand what's going on at 

the shop floor to get their feedback. 

When I'm in Beirut, I go to my factory, 

depending on the work load, and during the 

rest of day, I juggle between thinking of next 

season’s collection, commercially 

strategising and responding to emails. 

BEFORE LAUNCHING… 

I worked in a company called Sogedimo and 

Chalhoub Group wherein I was involved in 

launching niche brands in the region. 

YOUR LATEST COLLECTION 

I'm always inspired by people or symbols of 

strength. My latest collection is inspired by 

lions - I've always been mesmerised by them. 

They are powerful in life, in mythology 

and even just as a statue. Most of my 

handbags in the latest collection have 

two lion heads - each looking towards 

a different direction - one representing 

the past and the other one to the future, 

lessons and hope. 

ON YOUR BOOKSHELF 

48 laws of power by Robert Greene. 

My favourite book, however, is What 

I once loved by Siri Hustvedt. It really touched 

me as it's about how an incident changed a 

happy family’s life. Makes you realise how often 

we tend to take moments for granted. It’s one 

of those books you can't stop reading and made 

me very emotional. 

A PLACE YOU WOULD TRAVEL TO 

FOR A MEAL? I’d probably go to Sweden to 

a cosy dining spot, Smaka. I love their meatballs 

and mashed potato. I used to go there once a 

week, it’s a meal that's very comforting and 

reminds me of happy times. 

RECENT 

PURCHASE 

I just bought myself 

a Serpenti Bulgari 

necklace for my 

seven years’ brand 

anniversary. 

PERFUME OF CHOICE 

That is almost like asking who's your 

favourite child. If I had one choice it would probably be the 

original Dolce& Gabanna perfume. 

If a movie was created about your 

life, which celebrity would play your 

role? Sienna Miller 

This summer 

I’m travelling to… 

London, Gothenburg, Tehran 

and hopefully New York. 

My hotspots 

Currently, I’m obsessed with this new homegrown 

restaurant called 3 fils, in the fishing village. They get fresh fish 

from Japan every Friday, the food is amazing and of very high 

quality. I also love La Petite Maison, the food and atmosphere 

is always great. Peyote which recently opened in Dubai is great 

too, and I’m a big fan of Mexican food. 

YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE 

To be honest I never wear foundation or concealer. I usually 

put on my face moisturiser, topped with a tinted one from 

Laura Mercier, blusher and eye shadow (only in the evening). I 

do however have one eye shadow palette by Tom Ford that I 

absolutely love, a four-shade palette. The one thing I usually 

wear, no matter what time of the day, is red lipstick. My 

favourites are Ruby Woo and Lady Danger both from Mac. 

72 

EQUITY

THE HOME OF PRIVATE AVIATION 

AT THE SPEED OF BUSINESS 

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73 

EQUITY

THE ETERNAL MOVEMENT 

Ulysse Nardin, from the movement of the sea to the perpetual 

innovation of Haute Horlogerie. For over 170 years, the 

powerful movement of the ocean has inspired Ulysse Nardin 

in its singular quest: to push back the limits of mechanical 

watchmaking, time and time again. 

Marine Regatta 

Chronograph 

Countdown timer 

Silicium technology 

ulysse-nardin.com 

74 

EQUITY 

ULYSSE NARDIN BOUTIQUES: The Dubai Mall +971 44341421, Mall of the Emirates +971 43950577, Beirut Souks +961 1992092 

Abu Dhabi: Al Manara International Jewellery Amman: Time Center Bahrain: Asia Jewellers Cairo: BTC Exclusive Doha: Ali Bin Ali 

Jeddah: First Jewelry Kuwait: Morad Yousuf Behbehani Muscat: Le Carat Riyadh: First Jewelry

Equity Magazine June 2017 Issue

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