bazaaar November 2025

We were overwhelmed by the outpouring of love we received, related to last month’s cover of bazaar magazine, and even we were surprised at how quickly copies ran out at most, if not all of our distribution spots around K-town, and for that, we thank you all!

We might be having lots of intense feelings right now, with the year winding down, beautiful outdoor weather and the festive season ahead of us, and this issue is going to feel like a huge hug to all of you, but it’s also full of the best stories about the most amazing people. The dreamers who dare Starting with Noor Alzabin, who allowed us to get Up Close and Personal with her, and who is the founder and heart of dar.Nur, Kuwait’s most exciting art gallery. We got to learn all about how the project came to be, some of her favorite artists and what to expect at the annual exhibition that is being held this month at Sadu House.

Next we take you away from canvases and paintbrushes to the kitchen, because this month, we challenged Terra Hamadeh to a little game of Truth or Dare. The Lebanese chef told us that her favorite dish is Tabouleh, because of how simple, fresh, and full of life it is, much like her. While she’s a genius at making delicious dishes, we spoke to her about her work with children with special needs and raising awareness on the issue. Read the article to learn how invaluable the work is and how you can reconsider your own personal world view.

If food is the easiest way to travel the world, then a close second would be home décor. Sisters Elham and Fatima Qabazard, spoke to us about their passion project, Khaneh. The online store features carefully curated items from Iran made by true artisans, that will give you a look into traditional handmade crafts that can also be modern and add whimsy and joy to any space.

While objects can, and do, bring us happiness, this month we learned that one of life’s biggest joys, conceiving a child, is much more challenging for some parents-to-be than others. We spoke to Dr. Waheeb Naser, Consultant of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and IVF at Taiba Hospital to learn more about the topic. We were amazed by the advances in the field and touched by his heartwarming stories of successful pregnancies and happy babies.

Speaking of children, our friends at IKEA reminded us that November 20th is International Children’s Day. They shared the IKEA Play Report with us so we could learn more about the importance of play for youngsters’ development, health, happiness and overall well-being. The research has helped develop their products like the recent SANDLÖPARE collection, an African Savannah-inspired collection that includes soft toy animals, playroom decor, and even adorable bedding.

This is just a sneak peek into what we have in the issue, so, grab your favorite Fall drink and dive right in.

Happy reading!

Ahmed El-Adly

The bazaar team...

Boss

Ahmed El-Adly

Editor

Alia Al Duaij

Operations Manager

Ihab Youssef

Content Manager

Yasmine El Charif

Design

Shadi Mofeed

Staff Writer/Online Media

Yasmin Gamal

Israa Odeh

Hanan Othman

Sarah Sharif

Contributing Writers

Abdulwahab AlRefai

Communications

Hala Y. Sharara

Syndicates & Sources

Fast Company

LA Times

MCT International

Newsweek

Printing

ONE MICHELIN KEY

INDEX NOVEMBER 2025

22

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH NOOR ALZABIN

Noor Alzabin built dar.nur|ART on intuition and trust, not trends. After leaving finance in 2006, she shaped a personal gallery where friendships guide selection and conversation comes before categories. This year at Sadu House, November 17-19: an exclusive collection by Rania Abulhasan, new works by Ghadah Alkandari, pieces by Amira Behbehani, and a Kuwait debut by Egyptian calligrapher Mariam Abu-Talib.

42

A BRIDGE BETWEEN WORLDS

Italian perfumer Luca Maffei partners with Kuwait’s CZAR Fragrances on LINK, a scent designed as a meeting point between Italian citrus heritage and Gulf warmth. Composed with bright bergamot, ginger, and cardamom over a green floral heart and elegant, woody base, LINK aims for freshness that lasts.

28

CHEF TERRA: COOKING WITH HEART

Lebanese chef Terra Hamadeh cooks like she tells stories, with memory and care. Her compass points to family kitchens where tabbouleh is a lesson in balance and patience, and to classrooms where inclusion is practiced through adaptable tools and joyful teaching. Workshops and private events blend technique with culture so guests leave nourished and seen.

A MASTERPIECE OF POWER, PRECISION, AND DESIGN

Porsche’s Cayenne refines the art of the performance SUV with a driver centric cockpit, advanced assistance systems, and powertrains that range from a responsive V6 to a ferocious Turbo GT. At Porsche Centre Kuwait, models and configurations await with test drives that turn spec sheets into feel.

70

FIVE IN A ROW FOR TOYOTA GAZOO RACING

Central European Rally delivered another masterclass from TOYOTA GAZOO Racing. The result reflects a culture of calm preparation and clean execution, where the GR YARIS Rally1’s balance and response let crews attack changing asphalt with confidence. It is the ninth manufacturers’ crown in Toyota’s WRC history and a reminder that consistency creates eras.

78

KHANEH

Sisters Elham and Fatima Qabazard are building KHANEH into a warmly modern window on contemporary Iranian design. Working with independent makers, they curate rugs, ceramics, glassware, cushions, and small objects that feel personal and alive at home. KHANEH blends digital convenience with market pop ups, explores custom orders, and stays rooted in an ethos of craft, collaboration, and thoughtful service.

58

STORIES WE MAKE TOGETHER

At Promenade Culture Centre, Naktub Festival turned reading and writing into a hands on celebration for families. Palestinian duo Anas Abu Rahma and Lubna Taha led workshops that demystified structure, explored collage and character, and reminded participants that stories begin with noticing. Children wrote their own stories, adults rediscovered courage on the page, and everyone left with a small keepsake to anchor new rituals at home.

64

SAVANNAH AT HOME WITH IKEA SANDLOPARE

Play is how children learn, connect, and grow, and the IKEA SANDLOPARE collection turns that truth into everyday tools. Inspired by the African savannah, soft toys, textiles, and room accents invite open ended stories that teach facts, spark imagination, and build resilience. Pieces are safe, machine washable, and designed with conservation partners to keep details grounded in nature.

#1

What: @memorycardgame

Info: A Kuwaiti memory card game

Editor’s Note: Losing is not our thing

#3

What: @work.shopkw

Info: A concept store

Editor’s Note: Gift giving just got much easier

#2

What: @maraseal.me

Info: Customized wax seals

Editor’s Note: We need to bring back pen pals so we can get a ton of these

#4

What: @fetelette.co

Info: Event planner

Editor’s Note: Who wants to throw us a fancy party?

#5

What: @khutakw

Info: Hand made bag charms

Editor’s Note: Bag bling is here!

czar.kw www.czar.com.kw

YOUR FIRST HOME ART WALL

A beginner guide to sourcing, framing, and hanging.

By bazaar staff

A blank wall is an invitation, not a challenge. With a few simple rules, you can turn prints, photos, and mementos into a collected, confident gallery that feels like you. Think in three steps: source with a theme, frame for cohesion, and hang with consistent spacing.

SOURCE: START WITH A SMALL STORY

Pick a tight theme so mixed pieces feel intentional. Options: “travel doors,” “black-and-white portraits,” “botanical line drawings,” or “family moments in soft color.” Aim for 5 to 9 pieces: enough variety without chaos. Combine scales—one larger “anchor” (A2 or 50×70 cm), a couple mediums (A3 or 30×40 cm), and smaller accents (A4/13×18 cm). Mix mediums (photo, print, textile, postcard), but keep a unifying thread like a shared palette or subject.

FRAME: COHESION OVER MATCHING

You don’t need identical frames; you need harmony. Choose one of these easy formulas:

· Single color frames, mixed sizes (all black or all light wood).

· Two tones max (e.g., oak + white).

· Mat boards create breathing room and raise perceived value—use a mat on the anchor piece and echo it on one or two others. Pro tip: anti-glare glass helps in bright rooms. If art is precious, keep it out of direct sun.

HANG: THE RULES THAT MAKE IT LOOK “RIGHT”

· Eye-line rule: target a 145 cm centerline (measured from floor to the artwork’s center). This suits most heights and keeps rooms consistent.

· Spacing rule: keep 5 to 7 cm gaps between frames in a gallery grid; go 7 to 10 cm for looser, organic layouts. Consistency matters more than the exact number.

· Edge rule: align at least one clean edge (top, bottom, or side) across several frames to calm the composition.

· Balance rule: place your largest, darkest, or most visually heavy piece slightly off-center, then “counterweight” with two or three lighter pieces.

PLAN BEFORE NAILS

Lay everything on the floor first. Shuffle until it feels balanced. Trace frames onto kraft paper, cut the templates, and tape them to the wall at your target heights and gaps. Stand back, adjust, then mark the hanging points on the paper. For rentalfriendly hanging, use quality adhesive hooks rated above your frame weight; for heavier pieces, use wall plugs or screws.

HARDWARE & LEVEL

Use sawtooth or D-rings for small frames; wire + two hooks for larger frames to prevent tilt. Measure twice. Use a bubble level (or your phone’s level tool) and a tape measure. If frames slowly skew

over weeks, add a tiny removable wall bumper at the bottom corners to keep them straight.

LIGHTING & GLARE

If possible, place the wall opposite a window rather than perpendicular to it to reduce glare. Add a warm white picture light or an adjustable track spotlight for the anchor piece. Aim lights at 30 degrees from vertical to minimize reflections.

MAINTENANCE

Dust frames monthly with a dry microfiber cloth.

Swap one piece seasonally to keep the wall feeling alive without rebuilding the whole layout.

TRY IT TODAY

Pick a theme, gather 5–7 pieces, and choose one frame tone. Tape paper templates, lock in 7 cm gaps, and hang from the center outward. Your blank wall becomes a story wall—personal, tidy, and confidently curated.

THE 7-MINUTE RESET

How tiny rituals upgrade your day.

By bazaar staff

A full life rarely hands you an empty hour, but it will give you seven minutes. Used well, seven minutes can shift your mood, sharpen your focus, and reset your energy without overhauling your schedule. Think of these micro rituals as anchors. You return to them on busy days to feel grounded, clear, and ready. Below are three quick routines you can run on repeat: morning to set intention, midday to refuel attention, and night to release tension. No equipment, no apps, no overthinking. Just seven minutes to change the temperature of your day.

MORNING RESET: PRIME YOUR FOCUS

0:00–1:00 Breathe and sip. Sit upright, feet on the floor, and take six slow breaths. Sip water. Feel your ribs expand and settle.

1:00–3:00 Light movement. Roll shoulders, circle your neck gently, hinge forward and stand tall three times, then do 20 seconds of calf raises. Wake up your body before your inbox.

3:00–5:00 One page of intention. On paper, write three lines: Today will feel successful if I... The one thing I must finish is... I will start by... This beats a long to do list because it picks a direction.

5:00–7:00 Friction check. Pick one small friction you can remove now: lay out lunch items, set a calendar alert, clear your desk hot spot. Future you will thank you by noon.

MIDDAY RESET: RECHARGE YOUR ATTENTION

0:00–2:00 Box breathing. Inhale 4, hold 4, exhale 4, hold 4. Repeat four times. This steadies

your nervous system and widens focus again. 2:00–4:00 Eye and spine break. Look 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Then stand, clasp hands behind you, lift your chest, and take three deep breaths. Sit tall again. 4:00–6:00 Fast tidy. Clear five items from your workspace and close one unneeded browser tab. Quick order reduces background stress. 6:00–7:00 Reset your next move. Ask: If I could do only one thing before the next meeting, what would matter most? Write it down and start it.

NIGHT RESET: UNWIND YOUR NERVOUS SYSTEM

0:00–2:00 Release. Lie down or sit comfortably. Tense and relax each area from toes to jaw. Notice where you are holding on. 2:00–4:00 Gratitude with detail. Write two lines about something small that went right and why. Specifics make it real and help your brain store the day as safe. 4:00–6:00 Gentle stretch. Cat cow on the floor or seated spinal twist, then seated

forward fold. Breathe in for four, out for six. 6:00–7:00 Set tomorrow’s cue. Place one object where you will see it in the morning that signals your first task: the report on your keyboard, gym shoes by the door, water bottle on the desk.

TRY IT TODAY

· Pick one reset and run it as written.

· Put a tiny reminder where it counts: a sticky note on your screen or a calendar ping at 1:00 p.m.

· Track how you feel before and after with three words only.

· Repeat for three days, then add a second reset. Seven minutes will not fix a hard week, but it will give you a lever. Pull it consistently and you will notice a quieter mind, steadier energy, and a growing respect for what small habits can do.

A QUIET EYE, A LOUD HEART

Inside Noor Alzabin’s dar.nur|ART: an online gallery shaped by feeling, friendship, and fearless curation

By bazaar Staff

Some galleries are built around market reports. dar.nur|ART was built around a feeling. “It began really in 2006,” Noor Alzabin says, remembering the week she left finance after seven years to pursue something that felt more like herself. “I quit my job and decided to do something that was more me, more into the creative side. And I started dar.nur.” In the early days it was home accessories with “soft furnishings, some vintage furniture,” and a small constellation of art pieces that reflected her taste. What looked like a retail venture turned out to be the beginning of a personal curation philosophy that now anchors dar.nur|ART.

That philosophy is disarmingly simple, and entirely demanding. “The idea behind dar.nur|ART in general has always been very personal to me,” Noor says. “It’s not things that follow a trend or follow what is in demand. It’s basically what I personally would like. It’s what my eye gravitates towards, what my senses gravitate towards.” The result is an online gallery that feels intimate rather than algorithmic, guided by long relationships and honest conversations. “Art is very personal and it’s very revealing, it’s incredibly exposing,” she says. “I appreciate anyone that takes the leap to be open and put themselves out there.”

dar.nur|ART as we know it took shape during the pandemic, a moment that forced many creative businesses online. “dar.nur|ART started during COVID, it was a COVID project,” Noor explains. Footfall at her last physical space had waned, operating costs were punishing, and traffic-choked streets made visits harder. “The operating cost issue of running a traditional gallery is just not something that I would consider because that would then be imposed on the work,” she says. “It would affect the sale of the work and the livelihood of the artists.” The choice was clear: double down on digital, but design it with care. Clients now browse online, book private at-home viewings, and gather at the dar.nur|ART annual exhibition to meet the work in person. “We send the artwork to the client to view at home in the comfort of their own space during different times of the day,” Noor says. “And we do our annual exhibition where we interact with our clients.”

The annual show is where Noor’s curatorial ethos becomes a shared experience. There is no seasonal theme, no strict trend board. “I don’t have a theme,” she says. “Our annual exhibition is presenting very, very different artists that have very different backgrounds and different styles of expressing themselves put together in one space. The mood is: come and enjoy. Some things you will love, some things you will not feel drawn to, some things will make you think a little bit.” This year, visitors can expect “an exclusive collection by Rania Abulhasan” in her third collaboration with dar.

nur|ART, “a few new works” by Ghadah Alkandari, and pieces by Amira Behbehani. There is also a first: “a new artist from Egypt, Mariam Abu-Talib, who does calligraphy on canvas,” Noor says. “It will be her first time showcasing in Kuwait.”

For Noor, location matters as much as the lineup, which is why dar.nur|ART has returned again and again to Sadu House. “It offers a bit of nostalgia, a bit of romance in terms of space,” she says. “The art that we showcase is relatively contemporary and the contrast between the old architecture, can really complement our work in bridging the gap between old and new.” She loves how the high ceilings and open doors extend a clear welcome. “Art is for everybody and anyone that walks in is welcome, to have a moment of calm in our busy lives.”

If calm is the feeling, conversation is the method. Noor’s selection process is rooted in relationship. “The majority of the people that I work with are friends,” she says. New collaborations start the same way. “It’s a conversation, how they’re going about expressing themselves and then see if this is something that we work with.” She keeps terms light on purpose. “My aim at the end of the day is to promote the work and to sell it because I know that artists are, many artists are, really underpaid and underrepresented. There’s so much talent out there, For me, it’s a pleasure to be working with people that need the extra help communicating with the outside world.”

This human-scale approach extends to the questions people ask about “regional” versus “global.” Noor resists boxes. “The focus more, for me at least, is on the transcendence of art,” she says. “It’s about a feeling, a point of view, which has no boundaries.” She points to the serenity in Rania Abulhasan’s practice, the flow of water and the intimate self-exploration in Ghadah Alkandari’s work. “It’s very personal, but it’s also universal because it’s an expression of herself.” She dreams of bridging gaps through feeling rather than labels. “Showcasing regional arts, transcend boundaries and tap into what it is that moves us as human beings, regardless of where we are or who we are.”

None of this means avoiding the world as it is. “The only work that I have that might have slightly political inspiration would be the work of William Kingswood from the UK,” Noor adds. “It is proPalestinian and completely against the genocide that’s happening in Palestine. We are appalled by what’s going on. We are pro-Palestinian because this stems from our desperate need for peace and justice.” The decision to show such work sits easily within dar.nur|ART’s values. Feeling, dignity, and a refusal to treat art as decor alone.

Digital platforms are part of dar.nur|ART’s present and future, but Noor is clear-eyed about their limits. “Life has turned to digital platforms, really, in every sense of our everyday,” she says. “In our case, the art makes it more accessible

to a wider public to at least look and appreciate and follow and consider if someone wants to start collecting.” Still, she insists on the irreplaceable value of presence. “There is nothing like having a space where you see the art in person,” she says. “Making the effort to actually see something face-to-face when the opportunity arises is not something that you can ever replicate.”

What, then, is dar.nur|ART becoming? More of what it already is, and in more places. “I hope to continue supporting the artists that I’m working with,” Noor says. “We’d like to focus a little bit more on expanding outside of Kuwait and having a little bit of presence in other parts of the world, to take the artists that we work with and maybe showcase them to a wider audience.” She also wants to grow the calendar. “I’d like to have more pop-ups throughout the year, other than just the annual exhibition, and hope to continue promoting art that we feel very connected to.”

Creativity, for Noor, is not a trend but a lifeline. “We kind of fall into a copy paste sort of existence which is incredibly dangerous,” she says. “We don’t want to lose integrity to who we are and our differing points of view, our different ways of seeing things. It’s what really adds a little bit of magic to life which would otherwise be soulless, mundane, and really uninspiring.” That is the quiet power of dar.nur|ART: a space curated by a person, not a market; a gallery that trusts the long conversation; a platform that invites you to feel first, categorize later.

There is a line Noor repeats that could sit over the door at Sadu House on opening night. “Come and enjoy,” she says. “Some things you will love, some things you will not feel drawn to, The common theme is just to come and enjoy creativity in many different forms.” In a noisy, hurried world, that invitation sounds like a rare luxury. Or perhaps, like Noor’s curation, it sounds exactly like a necessary kind of care.

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL QUESTIONNAIRE

What do you most value about your friends? Honesty, vulnerability and non judgment

Which living person do you most admire?

I admire every person that finds peace with themselves and lives in kindness

What is your idea of perfect happiness? Being alone after a long day surrounded by noise

What is your greatest extravagance? Good food!

What is your most treasured possession?

My photo albums and art collection

What is your greatest fear? Cockroaches!

What is your most marked characteristic?

You’d have to ask someone that knows me

Which talent would you most like to have?

To be able to paint, funnily enough. Can’t hold a brush

What is one trait you have that you are most grateful for?

Doing what needs to be done ahead of time, being organized, and knowing when to switch off

What is the human trait you most dislike about others?

Disrespecting time. 9 o’clock is not 9.10. And driving slow (sorry S)

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?

We we we (as in oh no)

What are your favorite words to live by?

Eat the grilled cheese! don’t over think everything, simplify life, we are all stressed enough and time is passing by.. find joy and be kind, it really costs nothing

Where would you most like to live?

India stole my heart. The UK country side feels like home. My roots will always be in Kuwait. Maybe by the sea or in Ahmadi

If you could have any job, what would it be?

Lucky enough to say i would do what i am doing now

What would you consider your greatest achievement?

Raising my boys

You can catch this year’s dar.nur|ART annual exhibition at Sadu House from the 17th of November to the 19th. For more details and timings follow @dar.nur.art on Instagram and visit dar-nur.com to see the digital gallery for yourself.

Skip hours spent behind the stove . Just order our ready-to-ser ve takeaway turkey and all you have to do is just enjoy the dinner.

THE ART OF THE MINI-DECLUTTER

How to tidy one hotspot in under 10 minutes.

By bazaar staff

Clutter spreads because it loves easy places: the hallway drop-zone, the bedside table, the car console. The good news is that these hotspots are also the fastest wins. Ten minutes is enough to restore calm, reduce daily friction, and keep small messes from graduating into full clean-outs. Use these micro-blueprints to reset three common zones on busy days.

HALLWAY DROP-ZONE: MAKE ARRIVALS AND EXITS SMOOTHER

0:00–1:00 Clear the surface. Sweep everything into a temporary bin or tote. Empty surfaces buy you focus.

1:00–3:00 Sort fast by action: keep, move, toss. Keys, access cards, and masks stay; mail and receipts move; obvious trash goes.

3:00–5:00 Assign a home. Place a slim tray for keys and coins, a vertical letter holder for mail, and one hook per person for bags. If you have a shoe pile, limit the visible row to one pair per person.

5:00–7:00 Contain the extras. A small lidded basket handles sunglasses, sanitizer, and spare tissues. Label it to prevent “just for now” creep.

7:00–9:00 Set a rule. One in, one out for the shoe row, and “mail stands, it does not lie down.” Standing mail gets processed.

9:00–10:00 Reset the vibe. Quick wipe, place a tiny plant or scent reed, and step back. This tiny zone sets the tone for your home every time you cross it.

BEDSIDE TABLE: CALM YOUR NIGHTS AND MORNINGS

0:00–2:00 Remove everything. Place it on the bed. The

surface breathes; you can decide with a clear head.

2:00–4:00 Edit to essentials: lamp, water glass or bottle, book or e-reader, hand cream, lip balm. If it does not help you sleep or wake well, it leaves.

4:00–6:00 Create micro-storage. A shallow dish for jewelry, a slim box for cables and earplugs, and a single notebook with pen for late-night thoughts. 6:00–8:00 Cable sanity. Use a clip or loop to anchor the charging cable so it stops sliding to the floor. No cable nest, no stress. 8:00–10:00 Visual quiet. Wipe the surface, return only the edited items, and align them. Screens charge across the room if possible; your brain will thank you at bedtime.

CAR CONSOLE: CLEAR THE CLUTTER YOU DRIVE WITH

0:00–2:00 Empty the console and cup holders into a bag. Shake out loose coins and crumbs.

2:00–4:00 Quick clean. Wipe cup holders and buttons with a damp cloth or a spare wipe.

4:00–6:00 Rebuild with purpose. Keep only what you use weekly: tissues, sanitizer, a compact trash sleeve, spare charging cable, and one pen.

Add a tiny zipper pouch for toll or parking coins. 6:00–8:00 Paper control. Store registration and insurance in a clear sleeve in the glove box, not the console. Receipts live in a mini envelope labeled “to file.” 8:00–10:00 Trash strategy. Line one cup holder with a small paper bag. When it fills, it goes. Future you will never fish wrappers from under seats again.

TRY IT TODAY

Pick one hotspot and run the 10-minute script as written. Snap a quick “before” photo, then an “after.” Set a 7-day reminder to repeat. The goal is not museum-perfect; it is friction-free. When the obvious homes exist and the rules are simple, clutter has nowhere to land.

Small order, big payoff. These mini-declutters help you arrive calmly, sleep better, and travel lighter. Keep the tools in place, follow the same steps next week, and enjoy the feeling of a home that resets itself.

CHEF TERRA: COOKING WITH HEART

How a Lebanese chef is preserving tradition and making the kitchen more inclusive

By bazaar Staff

When Chef Terra Hamadeh talks about food, she is really talking about people. She describes herself simply: “At my core, I’m someone who leads with heart. I’m passionate, hardworking, and deeply connected to my roots. I believe in kindness, authenticity, and creating moments that make people feel seen and loved, whether it’s through a meal, a story, or a smile. Cooking is how I express who I am real, honest, and always from the heart.” That compass points her in two directions at once: back to Lebanon’s kitchens and forward to a more open, generous way of teaching.

Terra’s story begins, as many good food stories do, in a grandmother’s kitchen, with her father close by. “The heart of my cooking beats in my grandmother’s kitchen along with my DAD, where I first learned the stories behind Lebanon’s dishes,” she says. “As a child, I listened, tasted, and created beside her.” Years later, while studying in the United States, restaurant work pulled her back into the rhythm she already knew. “I found myself back in that rhythm working in restaurants, discovering that what began as family tradition had become my life’s calling.”

Ask Terra what most shaped her cooking philosophy and she will answer without hesitation: “My Lebanese roots taught me that food is love, patience, and storytelling. I cook the way my grandmother & Dad did with heart, respect for tradition, and focus on real, honest flavors.” That commitment shows up on the plate in precise, unfussy dishes that carry memory as their main seasoning. One dish, in particular, feels like a signature. “The dish that feels most ‘me’ is tabbouleh. It’s simple, fresh, and full of life just like the spirit of Lebanese cuisine. I grew up watching my grandmother prepare it with such care, finely chopping the parsley and mixing everything by hand. She always said that tabbouleh is about balance not just between the ingredients, but between patience and passion.”

For Terra, tabbouleh is more than parsley and lemon. It is a story. “For me, tabbouleh tells the story of home. It represents family gatherings, summer lunches, and the pride we take in our traditions. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of where I come from and why I fell in love with cooking in the first place.” That sense of continuity anchors a broader mission to keep Lebanese food alive in its most authentic form. “I believe it’s essential to preserve our authentic Lebanese cuisine. These dishes carry more than flavor they carry history, identity, and emotion. Each recipe tells the story of our people, our land, and our traditions. When we pass these dishes on to the next generation, we’re not just teaching them how to cook we’re teaching them who we are.”

Terra does not keep that responsibility to herself. She opens her kitchen to others, especially

children with special needs, inviting them to learn, taste, and lead. “My inspiration came from a belief that food brings people together regardless of age, ability, or background. I wanted my kitchen and my reels to be a space where children with special needs could express themselves, learn, and have fun. Cooking gives confidence, teaches patience, and creates joy. Seeing how these children light up when they participate reminds me that inclusivity should be part of every creative space, especially in the culinary world.”

In practice, inclusion looks like adaptation without compromise. “I adapt each recipe and tool to fit the child, not the other way around,” she explains. “It’s about giving them confidence, keeping it safe and fun, and letting them feel the pride of saying, ‘I made this.’” One filming day changed the way she thinks about teaching. “We were making pizza with one of the children. We had filled almost the entire tray with dough, but there was a small empty spot left. The child noticed right away and refused to move on to the next step until I brought him that last piece of dough to complete it. That small moment meant so much to me. It showed how deeply he cared about doing things right and finishing what he started. It reminded me that inclusion isn’t just about helping, it’s about respecting every child’s way of seeing things, their attention to detail, and their sense of pride. Most

of the time they teach me more than I teach them.”

Care starts before the camera rolls. Terra prepares families and children by lowering the pressure and raising the comfort. “Before filming, I always tell parents to send their children just as they are, no need to force them to do their hair or wear something they don’t like. I want the kids to feel free, comfortable, and happy in their own skin.” Connection comes first. “When they arrive on set, I take time to connect with them before we even start filming. We go for a short walk, talk, laugh a little I listen to them and make sure they feel safe with me, with the space, and with the camera. I always remind them that this is their moment, and whenever they need a break, we stop. The goal isn’t perfection, its joy, comfort, and creating something genuine together.”

Beyond the reels, Terra builds community around the table through workshops and private events that foreground story as much as technique. “I organize workshops and private events that focus on authentic Lebanese cuisine and culinary storytelling. Each session is designed to be interactive, and welcoming guests learn traditional techniques, discover the cultural roots of each dish, and enjoy a meal they helped create.” The setting may be intimate, but the intention is expansive. “My private events are fully customizable, from intimate dinners to group

cooking experiences. What makes them special is the personal connection I want every guest to feel like they’re cooking and eating with family.”

That idea of family keeps circling back, shaping both the menu and the mission. Terra sees her platform as a way to protect recipes that hold identity, while opening doors for people who are too often left outside. “I feel a responsibility to keep these recipes alive, exactly the way my grandmother did for me, while inspiring younger chefs to honor them and keep evolving within that tradition.” Looking ahead, she is clear about where she wants to go. “Moving forward, I want to keep promoting authentic Lebanese cuisine while deepening my advocacy for inclusion in the kitchen. I plan to create more educational and community-based initiatives that bring people of all backgrounds and abilities together through cooking. I believe collaboration is key whether it’s with schools, organizations, or families, anyone who shares the same values can be part of this journey.”

In the end, Terra’s north star remains steady: cook with heart, teach with respect, and make space for everyone at the counter. The menu is Lebanese, the feeling is universal. She sums it up in a way that feels like a blessing as much as a mission statement: “Cooking is how I express who I am real, honest, and always from the heart.”

TRUTH OR DARE QUESTIONNAIRE

How would your dad describe you in one word? Pillar

What is the most ridiculous question you’ve ever been asked? Do you cook at home

What is your theme song?

Sana an Sana – Fairuz and Ya Deneh – Moeen Shreif

What word in the English or Arabic language do you wish you had invented? Hope

Where would you like to live?

Destiny has led me to Kuwait, and my heart has found a home. I have fallen in love with this land.

What is your dream retirement location?

Kuwait has been kind to me, but one day I would love to return to Lebanon where my story first began “My Hometown”

What is the first famous quote that comes to your mind?

We don’t just cook, we remember. Every dish is a memory passed down from tetas hands to ours.

Work is love made visible

Which animal best describes your perfect partner, be it in business, or in life? Dog

Do you miss anything from your childhood and if so, what is it?

I miss the innocence of my childhood when only my concern was to play and the weight of the world had not found me.

If you could change your name, to what would you change it?

I love my name, my dad named me, Terra is a Latin name meaning earth (strong, grounding, full of life, name rooted in nature)

How would you describe your handshake, in one word? Trust

What is the toughest part of your character? Stubbornness

Who is your favorite historical figure? Gibran Khalil Gibran

What in the world do you least desire?

I would least desire a world without kindness or understanding

What do you think is lacking in the world, which [if there were more of it] would make the world a better place?

Compassion with conditions, love without agenda, and lacks courage not the kind that fights but the kind that forgives.

Why do you think most people who do, like you? Maybe because I make them feel seen, safe and understood.

Finish this sentence: “Happiness is … … choosing to rise every time you fall”

Ready to learn more about Terra? You can find her at @chefterraofficial on Instagram and see all the amazing things she gets up to.

THE SCIENCE OF HOPE

A conversation with Dr. Waheeb Naser, Consultant of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and IVF at Taiba Hospital

For Dr. Waheeb Naser, medicine was not a family tradition—it was a calling. Growing up, he was inspired by the respect local doctors earned in his community and encouraged by his parents, who believed deeply in his ability to pursue such a path. “Altho my family’s background is far away from medicine, I grew up inspired by local doctors and the respect they were treated with,” he says. “My parents encouraged me to join medical school and had total belief in my ability to achieve this goal.”

During medical school, his exposure to different specialties shaped his path. Obstetrics and gynecology captured his heart because of its balance of medicine and surgery—and the privilege of witnessing life begin. “It’s very rewarding in terms of outcome and patient satisfaction,” he reflects. “You deal with pregnant women and watch life evolving in front of your eyes.” After completing his training, he developed a growing interest in IVF, drawn to its complexity and its profound emotional rewards.

His medical journey became one of continuous growth. After earning his Jordanian Board in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Waheeb pursued advanced training in the United Kingdom, where he obtained his MRCOG and practiced for more than three years. “That period allowed me to fine-tune both my clinical skills and academic knowledge, particularly in reproductive medicine, under some of the best mentors in the field,” he explains. Among his inspirations was the late Dr. Zaid Al-Keelani, who performed the first IVF case in the Middle East—a figure whose pioneering work deeply influenced him. Returning to Jordan in 2006, Dr. Waheeb joined The Royal Medical Services, one of the region’s most advanced tertiary centers. The experience gave him exposure to complex cases and solidified his approach to both science and empathy. “Fertility medicine is a field where science, empathy, and patience constantly meet,” he says. “While scientific knowledge guides our decisions, it’s empathy that truly connects us with our patients—couples who often come to us carrying years of hope and disappointment.”

He believes that honesty and transparency form the foundation of every doctor–patient relationship. “When a treatment cycle fails, I remind myself that my role is not only to analyze results but also to help restore confidence and keep their hope alive,” he shares. “I approach every challenge with faith, optimism, and persistence.”

Dr. Waheeb remains fascinated by how quickly reproductive medicine evolves. “From the medications we use and the individualized stimulation protocols to laboratory technology, everything is advancing,” he says. “Reproductive medicine was among the first fields to integrate artificial intelligence into daily practice. Some

modern incubators now use AI-based systems to monitor embryo development and help identify those with the highest potential for implantation.”

Still, despite progress, misconceptions about IVF persist. “Some patients still worry about the health of IVF-conceived babies or the long-term effects on women’s fertility,” he explains. “We rely on scientific evidence to reassure them that IVF, when done properly, is safe and effective. Education and communication replace anxiety with confidence.”

For women’s reproductive health in general, his advice is clear: act early, stay informed, and care for your body. “Many women delay pregnancy due to social or work reasons and later struggle because of declining ovarian reserve,” he says. “Obesity, stress, smoking, and poor diet can all impact fertility, especially for those with polycystic ovarian syndrome. Awareness is key.”

Cultural perceptions also play a role. “Even well-educated patients may see infertility or IVF as a stigma, often for social or cultural reasons,” he observes. “Some ask us to hide their diagnosis on official papers. We understand this and protect their privacy completely.”

Through all the challenges, Dr. Waheeb remains grounded by purpose. “What keeps me motivated is remembering why I chose this profession—to help couples achieve one of life’s greatest gifts, a child,” he says. “Success is not just in statistics but in emotion—the joy of seeing a couple hold their newborn for the first time.”

One story stands out: a man in his forties who had lived for two decades believing he was infertile. After testing revealed a few viable sperm, Dr. Waheeb performed IVF, and the couple conceived twins. “Watching their joy as they held their babies was unforgettable,” he recalls. “Moments like that remind me why I chose this field.”

As he looks to the future, Dr. Waheeb’s message is simple yet powerful: “Never lose hope. The psychological state is as important as physical health. Hope is the most powerful form of healing.”

Taiba Hospital is located in Sabah Al Salem, off of route 30 on Road 3. Call them 24 hours at 180 80 88. For updates and information, visit the website taibahospital.com, and follow them on Instagram @taibahospital.

DIGITAL CLEANUP DAY

Declutter your phone in 30 minutes.

By bazaar staff

Your phone should feel like a tool, not a crowded market. Give it a fast reset in three focused blocks: app triage, photo purge, and notification control. Set a timer for 30 minutes and move with purpose. You will finish with fewer taps, calmer alerts, and more storage.

MIN 0 TO 10: APP TRIAGE CHECKLIST

Goal: keep only what you use, surface what you need, and hide or remove the rest.

1.Sort by last used

Open your app list and sort by “Last opened” if your phone allows. If not, scan folder by folder.

·Keep: used in the last 30 days or essential for work, banking, ID, or travel.

·Archive or Offload: not used in 60 days but maybe needed later.

·Delete: duplicates, one time downloads, games you do not play, expired event apps.

2.Red flag scan

Any app with a free trial you forgot, an unknown developer, or excessive permissions goes. If you are unsure, check the App Store or Play Store page for recent updates. Dead apps can be security risks.

3.Home screen rebuild

Keep the first page clean. Place your top six apps on the dock and page one. Create two folders only:

·Daily: messages, calendar, maps, music, notes.

·Utilities: files, scanner, calculator, QR, authenticator. Everything else lives on page two or in the app drawer. The fewer choices you see, the faster you act.

MIN 10 TO 20: PHOTO PURGE POWER MOVES

Goal: clear duplicates, screenshots, and low value videos.

1.Smart filters

Open Albums or Search and use built in groups if available: Screenshots, Screen recordings, WhatsApp media, Bursts, Duplicates.

·Delete all screenshots older than 30 days unless they are legal or finance receipts you still need.

·Clear WhatsApp “Saved” and forwarded memes.

·Review Duplicates and merge exact matches.

2.Five swipe rule

Go to your main camera roll. For the next five minutes, swipe and make fast calls:

·Keep if it sparks joy or is a clear memory.

·Delete if it is a blink, blur, or ten near identical takes.

·Favorite the best version of an event so search works better later.

3.Video diet

Sort by size if possible. Delete large clips you will never watch again. Trim long kid or pet videos to the best 15 seconds and save over the original.

4.Final step

Empty Recently Deleted to free space immediately.

MIN 20 TO 30: NOTIFICATION SETTINGS THAT SANE PEOPLE LOVE

Goal: fewer pings, more focus, and alerts that actually mean something.

1.Silence by default

Turn off notifications for shopping apps, game apps, food delivery promos, and random news push. You can still see badges when you open the app.

2.Priority channels

Keep real time alerts for messages, calls, calendar, ride hailing, maps, banking, and two factor codes. For email, allow badges only, not lock screen banners, unless you are on call.

3.Summary windows

Use Scheduled Summary or Digest features if

available. Batch social media and newsletters into two windows per day, for example 12:30 and 19:30. Batches reduce constant context switching.

4.VIP list

Mark family, close friends, and key work contacts as Favorites or VIP. Allow them to break through Focus or Do Not Disturb. Everyone else waits.

5.Red dot check

Turn off badge counts for social media and shopping. Keep badges for inbox, calendar, banking, and tasks. Restart your phone to finalize updates, then take a screenshot of your clean home screen. Set a monthly calendar reminder titled “Digital Cleanup Day” for the same 30 minute ritual. Fewer apps, smarter photos, quieter alerts. Your phone will feel lighter and you will feel more in control.

made to measure

A MASTERPIECE OF POWER, PRECISION, AND DESIGN

Porsche Redefines Luxury Performance with the Cayenne

By bazaar Staff

The globally renowned luxury sports car brand Porsche continues to push the boundaries of automotive excellence with the Cayenne — an SUV that masterfully blends exhilarating performance, refined craftsmanship, and advanced technology, all embodied in a design that radiates power and sophistication.

With a series of comprehensive enhancements to its performance, driving dynamics, and design, the Cayenne sets a new benchmark for elegance and distinction in the luxury SUV segment. Its subtly refined exterior, driver-centric interior, and meticulous attention to detail transform every drive into a truly immersive experience.

Porsche Centre Kuwait, Behbehani Motors Company, proudly presents an exclusive lineup of Cayenne models in a selection of striking colors — available now at competitive prices. Customers can also enjoy zero-interest financing offers, making it the perfect opportunity for discerning drivers to experience the unmatched performance, innovation, and craftsmanship that define Porsche.

Cayenne: More than a luxury sports SUV

Since its debut, the Porsche Cayenne has proven to be far more than just a luxury SUV — it stands as a symbol of power, versatility, and precision engineering. Designed with everyday practicality in mind, it effortlessly adapts to diverse driving conditions, from smooth city roads to challenging off-road terrain, consistently setting new standards in the world of high-performance SUVs.

With a legacy spanning over two decades, the Cayenne has firmly established itself as one of Porsche’s most iconic and successful models worldwide. In the Middle East, it continues to dominate the premium SUV segment, leading regional sales for the second consecutive year.

Thanks to its distinctive combination of dynamic performance, modern luxury, and refined comfort, the Cayenne has earned its place as a true Porsche success story — and remains the SUV of choice for those who demand an exhilarating yet sophisticated driving experience.

Inside, the Cayenne redefines comfort and craftsmanship. The cabin has been meticulously designed for both driver and passengers, featuring fully adjustable sport seats that deliver exceptional support on long journeys. Every detail — from supple leather finishes and contemporary textiles to configurable ambient lighting and precision metallic accents — reflects Porsche’s dedication to creating an interior that is both sporty and luxurious.

A digitally equipped interior Digital technology integrates seamlessly into the cabin, placing everything the driver needs within easy reach. At the heart of the experience is a 12.3-inch high-resolution touchscreen that controls media, navigation, and vehicle settings with absolute clarity and precision.

Connectivity is equally intuitive, with ‘Apple CarPlay®’ and ‘Android Auto™’ ensuring effortless smartphone integration for a truly connected drive.

The Cayenne’s exterior commands attention: bold, dynamic surfaces, a wide and assertive front, and innovative LED Matrix headlights provide adaptive, highly efficient illumination. At the rear, a continuous light bar and sculpted wheel arches reinforce Porsche’s unmistakable sporty presence.

Luxury Interior with Digital enhancements

Once inside the Cayenne, both driver and passengers are surrounded by a seamless fusion of luxury, craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology, with refined comfort from every angle. The leather sport seats offer precision-tuned ergonomics and support - even on extended drives – complete with extensive adjustment options, integrated ventilation, and heating functions.

Features like the 12.6-inch passenger display complements the fully integrated Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system, ensuring superior connectivity through Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. For an immersive audio experience, select models are equipped with premium sound systems by Burmester® or BOSE®.”

Performance highlights

When it comes to performance, the Cayenne offers a range of powertrain options that masterfully balance power and efficiency. The lineup includes: Cayenne: 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine producing 353 hp

Cayenne S: 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine delivering 474 hp, 0–100 km/h in 5.0 s

Cayenne Turbo GT: Equipped with a 4.0-liter twinturbocharged V8 engine, producing 659 hp, 0–100 km/h in 3.3 s

All models feature ‘Porsche Traction Management’ (PTM) all-wheel drive and adaptive air suspension for supreme poise, comfort, and stability.

Advanced Safety:

Safety systems are engineered comprehensively for Cayenne owners, protected through their entire journey with ‘Lane Keeping Assist’, ‘Blind Spot Monitoring’, and ‘Adaptive Cruise Control’. ‘Night Vision Assist’ using thermal imaging to identify hazards in low visibility conditions.

Next-level driving experience

The Cayenne introduces a fully digital control concept, advanced suspension technologies, in addition to the Taycan-inspired Porsche Driver Experience system, designed to place key functions intuitively for maximum comfort, focus, and confidence.

Improved features:

Porsche’s latest upgrades for its third-generation Cayenne models include:

HD Matrix LED Headlights – to deliver precise, adaptive illumination in all driving conditions.

Cabin Air Purification System – to ensure a clean, healthy interior environment.

Front Passenger Entertainment Screen – allowing video playback without driver’s distraction.

New Steering Wheel Design – inspired by the iconic Porsche 911 to enhance the experience.

Toggle-Style Gear Selector – A streamlined control for intuitive, sporty gear changes.

12.6-Inch Curved Digital Instrument Cluster – A freestanding display with customizable viewing options.

12.3-Inch Porsche Communication Management (PCM) – with central touchscreen for seamless access to vehicle functions, with integrated Spotify and Apple Music support

Exterior

Refinement and Lighting Innovations

The Cayenne boasts a more elegant and assertive design, featuring a redesigned front fascia, sculpted wings, and a reimagined hood for a bolder presence. At the rear, the SUV is distinguished by new 3D tail lights, a refined rear bumper, and a fresh portfolio of wheels available in 20-, 21-, and 22-inch sizes.

Equipped with high-definition LED headlights, the Cayenne leverages intelligent light distribution technology — capable of adjusting up to 32,000 pixels per lamp — to optimize night-time visibility while minimizing glare for other road users.

Stronger Performance with Enhanced Suspension

Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) comes standard across all Cayenne models. The system actively and continuously regulates damping forces based on road conditions and selected driving mode — delivering reduced body movements and enhanced comfort for all occupants. Four settings are available: Normal, Sport, Sport Plus, and Off-road.

Further elevating ride dynamics, the enhanced adaptive air suspension features 2-chamber, loadbearing air-spring struts, offering an even more refined balance of comfort and sportiness — without compromising ride quality.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

The Cayenne is equipped with a range of intelligent assistance systems designed to enhance safety, comfort, and control, including:

Active Speed Limiter – Automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed to match detected speed limits.

Swerve Assist – Supports the driver during evasive manoeuvres in critical situations.

Cornering Assist – Enhances safety and visibility during turns and junction navigation.

Upgraded Porsche InnoDrive – Includes intelligent adaptive cruise control for smoother, more efficient driving across varying road conditions.

Personalization with Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur

For those seeking true individuality, Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur offers bespoke customization—from leather and fine wood or

carbon-fiber inlays to unique interior colorways— allowing every Cayenne to reflect the owner’s personality.

Exclusive offers, with personalized test drive opportunities

In a word from Mr. Hany Marie, General Manager of Porsche Centre Kuwait, said:

“We are proud to present our unique offer on the Porsche Cayenne models, giving our customers the opportunity to own a sports SUV that combines luxury and outstanding sporty performance –tailored to their needs. We invite all Porsche enthusiasts to visit our showroom in Shuwaikh, and experience the Cayenne for themselves, as we believe that a real-life experience is the best way to discover what a Porsche is truly capable of”.

“This is the ideal moment for Porsche enthusiasts to choose a car that mirrors their personality and lifestyle—enhancing every journey and turning time behind the wheel into an unforgettable Cayenne experience”, added Mr. Marie.

Test Drive Invitation

Porsche Centre Kuwait invites customers to visit the Shuwaikh showroom to explore the Cayenne firsthand and book exclusive test drives. A wide selection of models and configurations ensures every Porsche enthusiast finds his or her perfect match.

For more information or to schedule a test drive, contact Porsche Centre Kuwait at 1870 870.

Czar

WALKING AS A WORKOUT

How to turn 30 minutes into real fitness.

By bazaar staff

Walking is the most underused fitness tool you already have. With a few smart tweaks, 30 minutes can improve cardio health, build strength, and clear your head. The secret is cadence, intervals, and a plan you can repeat.

CADENCE: THE SPEEDOMETER YOU CAN HEAR

Cadence is steps per minute. It predicts intensity better than pace because it adjusts for height, terrain, and shoes.

· Easy recovery: 80 to 100 steps per minute. You can chat easily.

· Brisk, fitness building: 100 to 120 steps per minute. You can talk in short sentences.

· Push pace: 120 to 135 steps per minute. Talking is limited to a few words.

Use the talk test if you do not want to count. For a quick check, count steps on one foot for 30 seconds and double it. Aim to spend most of your workout in the brisk zone, with short visits to push pace.

FORM CUES THAT ADD POWER

· Stand tall, ribs stacked over hips, eyes on the horizon.

· Drive elbows back to 90 degrees. Quick arms equal quick feet.

· Short, quick steps are better than overstriding. Land under your hips.

· Keep feet quiet. Softer steps usually mean better mechanics.

THE 30-MINUTE INTERVAL BLUEPRINTS

Pick one and repeat it three times per week. Progress by adding a minute to the push intervals or trimming recovery by 15 seconds.

1. Classic Build

· 5 min warm up at easy cadence

· 4 x 4 min brisk + 2 min easy

· 5 min cool down easy

Why it works: long enough to improve endurance, short enough to feel doable on busy days.

2. Speed Pops

· 5 min warm up

· 8 rounds: 45 sec push pace + 75 sec easy

· 5 min cool down

Why it works: short surges raise heart rate without burning you out.

3. Pyramid

· 5 min warm up

· 1 min push + 1 min easy

· 2 min push + 1 min easy

· 3 min push + 2 min easy

· 2 min push + 1 min easy

· 1 min push + 1 min easy

· 5 min cool down

Why it works: varied efforts keep the brain engaged and build stamina.

4. Hill Strength (outdoor or treadmill incline 4 to 6 percent)

· 5 min warm up

· 6 rounds: 60 sec uphill push + 90 sec flat easy

· 5 min cool down

Why it works: hills train glutes and calves and boost cardiovascular demand.

RECOVERY AND ADD ONS

Do 2 minutes of ankle circles, calf stretches, and a gentle quad stretch after each session. Twice a week, add 10 bodyweight squats and 10 standing calf raises at the end to build lower body strength that feeds faster walking.

TRACK WHAT MATTERS

Record cadence zone, intervals completed, and how you felt on a 1 to 5 scale. If you felt worse

than the day before, stay easy. If you felt better, add one more push minute tomorrow.

PODCAST PLAYLIST MICRO-SIDEBAR

Here are some of our suggested podcasts to keep you engaged while you walk: Happier: Learn ways to find more happiness from Gretchen Rubin and Elizabeth Craft. 99% Invisible: Explores the hidden world of design and architecture in short, engaging episodes. Walking & Talking with Helen: Guided walking workouts designed to improve energy and reduce stress. 30 Minute Walking Meditation: A meditation specifically designed to be done while walking, focused on manifesting and self-love.

Lace up, pick a plan, and walk with purpose. In four weeks you will feel the difference in your lungs, legs, and mood.

The Revlon One-Step® Volumizer PLUS has been awarded by Allure: Best of Beauty Award 2025.

A BRIDGE BETWEEN WORLDS

An exclusive interview with perfumer Luca Maffei on LINK by CZAR Fragrances

Italian perfumer Luca Maffei is known for combining refined craftsmanship with bold, expressive creative vision. Born and raised in Milan, he grew up in a fragrance family and discovered early that he could memorize and recognize raw materials with ease. That intuition led him to formal training at Givaudan’s Perfumery School in Grasse under Françoise Marin, who mentored him in curiosity, creativity, and persistence. In 2007, Maffei composed his first fragrance, Cuoio Nobile for Pineider, at just 26. In 2011 he returned to Milan and co-founded Atelier Fragranze Milano (AFM) with his father, a creative house dedicated to niche perfumery that marries traditional Italian elegance with innovation and collaborates closely with French perfumer Antoine Lie.

The team from CZAR Fragrances and AFM worked hand in hand on LINK, a project that officially ignited in December 2024. In July 2025, the CZAR team visited the AFM headquarters and production facility in Milan to further strengthen the partnership and oversee the creative process firsthand. This collaborative journey paved the way for LINK’s grand release in October 2025 during the Kuwait Fall Perfume Expo at the Kuwait International Fairground.

In his recent collaboration with CZAR Fragrances, Luca has turned his creative focus to LINK, a fragrance project that began in December 2024 and officially launched during the Kuwait Fall Perfume Expo 2025. His visit to Kuwait coincided with the Italian Design Week, hosted by the Italian Embassy in Kuwait, where CZAR Fragrances proudly participated as a sponsor.

During his stay in Kuwait, Luca Maffei attended multiple events alongside His Excellency Lorenzo Morini, the Ambassador of Italy to Kuwait, celebrating the cultural and artistic bridge between Italy and Kuwait. He also made daily visits to the CZAR Fragrances booth at the Kuwait International Fairground Perfume Expo, meeting guests, media, and industry professionals. Beyond the exhibitions, Luca explored iconic Kuwaiti landmarks such as the Kuwait Towers, enjoyed traditional Kuwaiti cuisine, and experienced a warm and memorable welcome from the CZAR Fragrances team.

by Abdulwahab AlRefai

This visit marked a milestone for both AFM and CZAR Fragrances, deepening their creative and professional relationship. The CZAR team, including Dr. Talal AlBannai (Creative Director and Consultant), Abdulwahab AlRefai (CTO and Business Development Manager), CEO Abdulwahab AlSenan, Vice CEO Ahmed AlHeid, and COO Yousef AlHeid, extended their gratitude and appreciation for this partnership. They expressed their shared vision for continued collaboration and success in creating fragrances that connect cultures and redefine the art of perfumery.

CZAR Fragrances believes in creating perfumes that act as bridges between the East and the West, transforming culture, art, and emotion into liquid masterpieces. With LINK, this philosophy shines brightly, proving that perfumery can truly unite worlds through scent.

CZAR Fragrances started developing a new fragrance with Luca since December 2024 with Atelier Fragranze Milano, LINK debuts this October 2025 as Italian perfumer Luca Maffei visits Kuwait. In this feature, Abdulwahab AlRefai, CZAR Fragrances, speaks with Luca about his path, process, and the cultural dialogue inside the new scent.

Abdulwahab AlRefai, CZAR Fragrances: Luca, please introduce yourself, where you are from, how you entered perfumery, and a bit about your career path.

Luca Maffei: Hello everyone, I’m Luca Maffei, an Italian perfumer based in Milan, and founder of Atelier Fragranze Milano. I grew up in a fragrance family, my father led one of the world’s major fragrance companies, so scent surrounded me from childhood. I did not plan to be a perfumer, it happened naturally, the first day I smelled raw materials I could memorize and recognize them with ease, that pushed me to study perfumery in France. In 2011 I returned to Milan and opened Atelier Fragranze Milano to compose my own creations.

Abdulwahab AlRefai: Outside the lab, what do you enjoy, any favorite sports or players?

Luca Maffei: I train almost daily, CrossFit, paddle, and the gym. I love football and support Inter Milan, and I follow tennis, Jannik Sinner is doing an amazing job representing Italy. I also enjoy international cuisine, food can be great inspiration for new accords.

Abdulwahab AlRefai: What inspired LINK, how did the idea spark?

Luca Maffei: I wanted a real connection between Italy’s eau de cologne heritage and Kuwait’s rich fragrance tradition. Southern Italy gives the best citrus and bergamot, while Arabian perfumery offers warmth and depth. LINK is a bridge, when you smell it you feel embraced by both cultures.

Abdulwahab AlRefai: How has the collaboration between CZAR Fragrances and AFM been for you?

Luca Maffei: I am very proud, it is my first project with a Kuwaiti brand. CZAR allowed me to bring my style to your country, and our shared focus on craft and quality makes me confident this will be a long story.

Abdulwahab AlRefai: What do you see, CZAR and the future between international brands?

Luca Maffei: CZAR is an amazing brand. There is deep attention to detail, packaging, labeling, glass quality, and of course the fragrance itself. For LINK I selected the finest naturals and key modern molecules to build something rich and precise. With this level of quality and vision, I am sure CZAR can be a significant player in the global niche market, a strong partner for future international collaborations.

[Continued...]

Abdulwahab AlRefai: How do you see the perfume industry in the Gulf and Middle East?

Luca Maffei: The Middle East is one of the most important regions for perfumery, especially niche. The future is a strong relationship between European craftsmanship and Gulf taste, together they create truly unique fragrances.

Abdulwahab AlRefai: Tell us about the olfactive composition of LINK.

Luca Maffei:The top notes are Italian Bergamot, Ginger, Cardamom, Timur Pepper. Then we have the Heart notes which are Petitgrain, Clary Sage, Jasmine, Italian Chamomile.

Finally the Base notes are Vetiver Java, Oakmoss, Galbanum, Cedarwood.

It starts bright and spicy, moves to a green floral heart, and settles into an elegant woody mossy base, fresh yet powerful.

Abdulwahab AlRefai: Why should people try LINK, how does it perform, and is it unisex?

Luca Maffei: Traditional colognes are fresh but short lived, I wanted freshness that lasts. By pairing citrus and spice with ambery power and modern musks and ambroxan LINK keeps its brightness with real persistence. It is fully unisex, on a blotter it lasts over 24 hours, on skin around 10 to 12 hours.

Abdulwahab AlRefai: As CEO of AFM and a creator, how do you balance management and creativity?

Luca Maffei: Mornings are for creation when my nose and mind are fresh, usually after early sport, afternoons are for business and management. That balance keeps the company moving while protecting creativity.

Abdulwahab AlRefai: A lighter question, what cars do you love?

Luca Maffei: I love sports cars, Ferrari and Lamborghini are icons, and I am also a big fan of German cars such as Audi and Porsche, driving brings the same mix of precision and emotion I enjoy in composing.

Abdulwahab AlRefai: You visited Kuwait in October, how did you feel?

Luca Maffei: Very excited. Every trip gives a perfumer new perspectives. Kuwait inspired ideas for future creations with CZAR Fragrances.

Luca’s final message is that “LINK is not just a perfume, it is a connection between people and cultures, between freshness and depth, between Italy and Kuwait.”

As a thank you for reading, CZAR is extending an exclusive offer. Use code bzr on the CZAR website or mobile app to receive a special discount. Find your new favorite fragrance at czarfragrances.com. Follow @czar.kw, @lucamaffei and @atelierfragranzemilano, @embassyofitalyinkuwait on Instagram for the latest news.

THE JOY OF MAKING

Why using your hands lowers stress and boosts focus.

By bazaar staff

We live in a scroll-first world, but our brains were built for hands-on work—measuring, folding, stitching, planting, sketching. That’s more than nostalgia. Making things with your hands recruits sensory attention, gentle movement, and a clear feedback loop (I did this, and something changed), which together nudge the nervous system out of stress mode and back into balance.

The research is real. A landmark scoping review for the World Health Organization synthesized 3,000+ studies and concluded that arts engagement supports prevention and management of physical and mental health challenges across the lifespan—improving mood, resilience, and even healthcare use.

Gardening is a powerful example. In a randomized field experiment, participants completed a stressful task and were assigned to either 30 minutes of gardening or reading. Both activities reduced stress hormones, but gardening produced a significantly larger drop in salivary cortisol and fully restored positive mood— suggesting that gentle, embodied outdoor work is especially restorative.

Drawing and coloring can also quiet the mind quickly. In a controlled study, adults who spent 20 minutes coloring a complex circular design (a mandala) showed reduced anxiety compared with those coloring a plain design or doodling freely—

[Continued...]

an accessible, low-skill way to anchor attention and downshift stress.

Cooking and baking carry similar benefits through sensory focus, sequencing, and a built-in reward (you eat). A review of “cooking interventions” found preliminary but encouraging evidence for improved psychosocial outcomes—confidence, social connection, and reduced distress—especially when people cook with or for others.

Even repetitive needlework matters. Surveybased research on knitters links rhythmic, patterned movement with improved mood and calm—many participants described the motion as “hypnotic” and “restful,” pointing to a relaxation response during crafting. While more rigorous trials are needed, the self-reported effect is consistent with what makers describe.

Why does making feel so good? Part of the answer is attentional fit. Hands-on tasks create “just-right” challenge (not too easy, not too hard), producing a focused state that psychologists call

flow—time feels lighter, rumination quiets, and effort feels rewarding. Add mild physical activity (kneading dough, pruning basil, pinning fabric) and you get a double benefit: cognitive engagement plus light movement.

You don’t need hours. Think 20–40 minutes, two or three times per week. Keep the stakes low (practice, not performance), and optimize your space so the first step is easy: a clear corner, a basket with tools, a recipe card on the counter. The goal isn’t a perfect sweater or gallery wall; it’s a steady rhythm that helps you feel more like yourself.

Starter Projects (pick one this week)

Knit (rhythmic calm + tangible progress)

Project: Garter-stitch scarf or dishcloth.

Why it soothes: Repetitive rows = meditative cadence; visible progress lowers frustration. Beginner kit: Medium needles (5–6 mm), smooth light-colored yarn, yarn needle.

Time block: 20 minutes after dinner; stop mid-row

so it’s easy to restart tomorrow.

Make it social: Pair-and-stitch: swap 10-minute voice notes with a friend while you knit.

Safety note: Warm shoulders first; shake out hands every 10 minutes. (Survey research links knitting with mood lift and calm.)

Bake (sequencing + sensory reward)

Project: One-bowl olive-oil loaf or chocolate chip cookies.

Why it soothes: Stepwise tasks + aroma = built-in feedback and reward.

Beginner kit: Bowl, whisk, loaf pan or sheet pan, parchment.

Time block: 30 minutes active; rest while it bakes. Make it social: Deliver a slice to a neighbor or colleague—connection amplifies benefits. (Cooking programs show psychosocial gains, especially when shared.)

Garden (light movement + green exposure)

Project: Balcony herb box—mint, basil, parsley; or repot one houseplant.

Why it soothes: Gentle outdoor work + microsuccesses (new leaves) reduce cortisol and lift mood. Beginner kit: Pot with drainage, potting mix, seedlings, watering can.

Time block: 20–30 minutes, ideally in morning or late afternoon light.

Make it social: Trade cuttings with a friend; send “first sprout” photos. (Field experiment: gardening > reading for cortisol reduction and mood restoration.)

Draw (focus + quick win)

Project: 20-minute mandala coloring or simple linedrawing of objects on your table. Why it soothes: Structured patterns cue attention without performance pressure.

Beginner kit: Plain paper, fine-liner, a few pencils/ markers.

Time block: Set a 20-minute timer; stop when it dings.

Make it social: Share a weekly sketch in a tiny group chat. (Mandala coloring reduced anxiety in controlled trials.)

How to make it stick

Lower the threshold. Keep tools visible and ready: yarn and needles in a tote, a premeasured baking mix jar, a small caddy with pencils, or a watering day on your calendar. Friction kills momentum; staging invites you back.

Track feelings, not perfection. After each session, jot three words: before vs. after. Over two weeks you’ll see a pattern—less edgy, more grounded, clearer head. That subjective shift is

the point, and it’s what the large evidence base on arts and health keeps finding.

Use micro-rituals. Same playlist, same mug, same chair. Brains love cues; repetition speeds your path into calm focus.

Protect the time. Treat two 30-minute “making appointments” each week like meetings with yourself. Morning slots are great for drawing or knitting; late afternoon for gardening; evenings for baking. If you miss one, you didn’t fail—you resume at the next slot.

Keep stakes tiny. Start with projects that can be finished in one or two sittings. Finishing creates momentum; momentum keeps you practicing.

Invite a friend. Social craft nights (in person or on video) add accountability and joy, and social connection is itself a buffer against stress. When life is crowded, making something small and real reclaims a little agency. You become a person who can turn soft yarn into warmth, flour into a loaf, dirt into herbs, lines into a shape you like. The science says that matters for mood and health. Your hands will tell you the same thing—20 minutes at a time.

Photos by laura s and Veronika Scherbik on Unsplash.

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EXCEPTIONAL EXPERIENCES AND CULINARY DELIGHTS

Get ready for bespoke moments and signature flavors at Waldorf Astoria Kuwait

By bazaar Staff

From poolside grill nights under a velvet sky to chef-led menus that linger long after the last bite, Waldorf Astoria Kuwait is curating November as a month of taste, texture, and timeless service. Think Levantine flavors kissed by the grill at Oxio, a wellness membership that wraps recovery and results into your daily rhythm, and a new luxury catering service that brings the hotel’s signature finesse to your most important gatherings. It is hospitality made personal, plated beautifully, and delivered with quiet confidence.

LEVANTINE FLAVORS & GRILL NIGHTS AT OXIO

Oxio presents a new Levantine-inspired menu, inviting you to enjoy vibrant flavors in an openair setting under the stars. Complementing the menu is the Grill & Drink Night, a poolside experience every Thursday and Friday. Guests can savor expertly grilled dishes paired with refreshing drinks, while a live DJ sets the perfect backdrop for relaxed sophistication.

November 1 – 30, 2025 (Thursdays & Fridays)

6 pm – 11 pm

Reservations: +965 2477 4414

SPA & GYM CORPORATE MEMBERSHIP

Exclusively for corporate employees, the 6-month spa & gym membership offers full access to the serene wellness wet areas and state-of-the-art fitness center.

Privilege includes 30-minute Alpha-Sphere Sensory and Sway Relaxation experiences, complimentary pre-booked studio classes, Fitness center access from 6 am – 10 pm, unlimited use of spa facilities (10 am – 10 pm) and open-air pool (6 am – sunset), 10% savings on personal training, spa treatments, retail, and dining, 4 complimentary day passes for friends and family, curated welcome gift with sample products and complimentary valet parking.

This membership blends relaxation, wellness, and indulgence for a balanced lifestyle. Offer valid until November 30, 2025 | 750 KWD

Waldorf Astoria Kuwait introduces Luxury Catering by Waldorf Astoria Kuwait, a service redefining hospitality beyond the hotel. Combining timeless luxury with world-class culinary artistry, it brings Waldorf refinement to venues across Kuwait.

From intimate gatherings to grand indoor celebrations for up to 300 guests, each event is meticulously curated with bespoke menus and seamless execution. State-of-the-art food trucks ensure safe, elegant catering experiences anywhere in Kuwait City. Sustainability remains central, with healthy, locally sourced ingredients supporting local farmers and minimizing waste.

“At Waldorf Astoria Kuwait, every occasion deserves transformation into a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Saleh Bataineh, General Manager. “We are proud to launch Luxury Catering by Waldorf Astoria Kuwait, delivering signature Waldorf refinement directly to guests with the highest standards of service and exclusivity.”

For reservations and inquiries, call +965 24774444 or email events.kuwait@waldorfastoria.com.

COFFEE, BUT BETTER

Small upgrades for your daily brew.

By bazaar staff

Great coffee is not a mystery. It is a few precise choices made on repeat. Three tweaks will lift any home brew: grind size you can trust, a water to coffee ratio that matches your method, and easy milk hacks for iced drinks. Give yourself a week to try these and your morning cup will taste cleaner, sweeter, and more consistent.

GRIND SIZE 101: MATCH THE METHOD

Grind controls how fast water extracts flavor. Too fine and your coffee tastes bitter. Too coarse and it tastes weak or sour. Use this simple map.

• Extra coarse: cold brew. Feels like chunky sea salt. Coarse: French press. Feels like kosher salt. Medium coarse: Chemex and larger pour overs. Like rough sand.

• Medium: auto drip and cone pour over. Like sand.

• Medium fine: strong cone pour overs and AeroPress. Like table salt.

• Fine: espresso. Like powdered sugar. If your cup tastes bitter, go one step coarser. If it tastes thin or sharp, go one step finer. Consistency matters more than brand. A burr grinder is the best upgrade you can make because it produces even particles. If you use a pre-ground bag, store it airtight and buy smaller amounts more often.

NAIL THE RATIO: WATER TO COFFEE

Ratios keep you honest. Start with these baselines and adjust to taste.

• Pour over or drip: 1 gram coffee to 16 grams water. Example: 25 g coffee to 400 g water.

• French press: 1 to 15 for a fuller body. Example: 30 g to 450 g water.

• AeroPress classic: 1 to 12 concentrate, then top with hot water.

• Espresso: 1 to 2 by weight. Example: 18 g in, 36 g out in 25 to 30 seconds.

• Cold brew concentrate: 1 to 5. Dilute one part concentrate with one part water or milk when serving.

Use a small scale if you have one. If not, measure with tablespoons and cups, but keep your scoops level. Water should be just off boil for most methods. Aim for 92 to 96 C. For espresso, let your machine warm fully. For cold brew, steep 12 to 18 hours in the fridge, then strain.

WATER QUALITY

Your coffee is mostly water. If your tap water tastes strong or has mineral buildup, use filtered water. Too soft and coffee can taste flat. Too hard and it may taste harsh. Filtered middle ground is perfect.

ICED COFFEE MILK HACKS

Iced drinks get diluted by melting ice. You want body and sweetness without syrup overload. Try these easy moves.

• Half and half cubes: Freeze a tray of half and half or full fat milk. Use two cubes per glass to keep flavor steady.

• Sweet milk base: Shake 200 ml milk with 1 teaspoon sugar and a pinch of salt in a jar. The salt boosts sweetness so you can use less sugar. Pour over coffee and ice.

• Vanilla quick cream: Whisk 100 ml milk with 1 tablespoon cream and 1 or 2 drops vanilla. Adds texture without heavy foam.

• Oat milk tip: Use a barista style oat milk. It holds up to ice and espresso and does not split.

• Cold foam without a frother: In a jar, combine 100 ml milk with 1 teaspoon sugar. Shake hard for 20 seconds. Spoon the foam over iced coffee.

TRY IT TODAY

Pick one method you already use. Set the grind using the map above. Brew with a 1 to 16 ratio and filtered water. Taste, then adjust one variable tomorrow. For iced, make sweet milk base and freeze half and half cubes tonight.

Small steps, big flavor. With grind fit, steady ratios, and a smarter milk plan, your daily brew will taste like it came from a cafe, only calmer and made to your preferences.

SMALL KITCHEN, BIG FLAVOR

Pantry swaps that make everyday meals sing.

By bazaar staff

You do not need a chef’s pantry to cook food that tastes like you fussed. You need a few smart staples that do two jobs at once: add depth and save time. Stock these five and swap them into the recipes you already make. The payoff is instant flavor without extra

POMEGRANATE MOLASSES

Swap for: vinegar plus sugar in dressings and glazes. Why it works: It is tart, lightly sweet, and a little fruity, so it delivers balance in one pour. Use it like this: Whisk 1 tablespoon with 2 tablespoons olive oil, a pinch of salt, and black pepper for a fast salad dressing. Brush on roasted carrots or chicken in the last 5 minutes for a glossy finish. Stir a teaspoon into lentil soup to wake it up.

TAHINI

Swap for: heavy cream or mayonnaise in sauces and slaws.

Why it works: Tahini turns silky with water or lemon juice and carries spices beautifully. Use it like this: Blend 2 tablespoons tahini with 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon water, a small grated garlic clove, and salt. Drizzle on roasted vegetables, grain bowls, or grilled fish. For coleslaw, thin with extra water and toss with cabbage and herbs. Add a squeeze of honey for a quick sandwich spread.

HARISSA PASTE

Swap for: generic chili flakes or bottled hot sauce. Why it works: Harissa layers heat with tomato, garlic, and warm spices, so you get depth, not just burn.

Use it like this: Stir 1 teaspoon into tomato sauce for pasta, or mix with yogurt for a punchy marinade. Rub a spoonful onto shrimp before pan searing. Fold into scrambled eggs with a little butter. For a simple tray bake, toss chickpeas, onions, and peppers with olive oil, salt, and harissa, then roast.

PRESERVED LEMON

Swap for: lemon zest plus salt in dressings, stews, and tagines.

Why it works: Months of curing create an intense citrus flavor without sharp acidity. Use it like this: Rinse a wedge, scrape out the pulp, and finely chop the peel. Stir into tuna salad with olive oil and parsley. Add a teaspoon to pan sauces for chicken. Mince and mix with butter to top fish or steamed vegetables. Blend a little into hummus for a bright twist.

SMOKED PAPRIKA

Swap for: barbecue sauce or liquid smoke in rubs and stews.

Why it works: It adds gentle smoke and color without sweetness, so you control the balance. Use it like this: Combine 1 teaspoon smoked paprika with 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and salt for an all purpose rub for chicken thighs or

potatoes. Stir into bean soups and shakshuka. Mix with olive oil and drizzle over popcorn for a quick snack.

HOW TO STOCK AND USE SMART

·Buy small jars and finish them fast. Fresh spices and pastes taste brighter.

·Label lids with the open date. Most spices peak within a year; pastes keep several months in the fridge.

·Build sauces in a small bowl first. Taste, then add to the pan so you do not overdo it.

·Balance the big five: salt, acid, heat, fat, and texture. If a dish tastes flat, add a pinch of salt or a splash of acid. If it tastes sharp, soften with fat or a hint of sweetness.

TRY IT TONIGHT

Roast any vegetable with olive oil and salt. Toss in a spoon of harissa during the last 2 minutes. Plate and drizzle with tahini sauce and a few dots of pomegranate molasses. Finish with chopped preserved lemon and a dusting of smoked paprika. Small pantry, big flavor.

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STORIES WE MAKE TOGETHER

A celebration of stories, imagination, and the craft of children’s books

By bazaar Staff

At Promenade Culture Centre, words took center stage. Naktub Festival launched a warm, hands-on invitation to read, write, and make art together. Over three days, Palestinian writer-poet Anas Abu Rahma and illustrator-author Lubna Taha guided participants through the joyful mechanics of story and image, revealing how a tale begins, how pictures carry meaning, and how a finished book can feel like a small, beautiful world in your hands. The atmosphere was intimate and collaborative: tables strewn with paper and textures, children whispering ideas, adults rediscovering the courage to write from the heart. It was not about perfection. It was about belonging to language.

Anas and Lubna are a creative duo in life and on the page. Based in Ramallah, they have built a body of acclaimed Arabic children’s literature that travels across libraries, classrooms, and living rooms in the region and beyond. Anas is a poet and children’s author whose works have earned major recognition, including an Etisalat Award for Children’s Books for “A Story about S and L,” and the Children’s Book Publishers Forum Award for “The Yellow Corn Inn.” Lubna is

an award-winning illustrator and writer celebrated for intricate, emotion-rich visuals; she won the Etisalat Award for “Mama Bint Safi” and founded Dinason Publishing House for Children’s Books in Palestine. Together, they continue to publish and collaborate, most recently appearing on the International Award for Arabic Children’s Literature shortlist in 2024 for “Pillow.”

Naktub’s program was thoughtfully sequenced to welcome different ages and comfort levels.

The Book-Writing Workshop with Anas opened the festival with an engaging introduction to the art of children’s storytelling. Participants explored how stories take shape—from structure and voice to imagination and empathy—while learning the essentials of writing for young readers. More than technique, his focus was on ease: writing as a daily practice of noticing, documenting, and feeling, rather than striving for grandness on the first try.

Friday was for younger creators. Lubna’s Collage turned simple materials into characters with interior lives. Children built three-panel figures that unfolded into bold personalities, then anchored them in short narratives. At the same time, Anas’s Creative Writing and Imagination Exercises helped kids expand vocabulary, catch small observations, and claim ownership of their words. Reading, he reminded them, is the door to writing.

On Saturday, the two joined forces for Storytime and Art. Drawing from a story about two illustrators preparing an exhibition at home, they showed that artist and storyteller live in each of us. In the tale, mother and child render the same subject in different ways, each true. The workshop ended with a keepsake: a soft pillow of joint creativity that families could take home and cherish, a tiny exhibition traveling from fridge doors to bedtime rituals. Practical notes mattered too. Sessions were intentionally accessible: no prior experience required, nothing to bring beyond an open heart.

Naktub is also a cultural statement. Hosting Palestinian creators in Kuwait at this particular moment underscores why arts education and literary exchange are essential. Children’s literature preserves memory, language, and nuance. It carries tenderness and truth across borders, teaching empathy along the way. In Anas and Lubna’s practice, craft and care travel together: words meet images, ideas meet hands, and communities meet on the page. As their biographies remind us, this is work rooted in place and purpose. They live and create in Ramallah, and their partnership in life enriches their partnership in art.

For Promenade Culture Centre, Naktub Festival sets a clear direction: participatory learning, regional voices, and programs that leave families with skills they can keep using at home. It is an invitation to come back, to read together, to write without fear, and to make another tiny book. In a busy city, that is a gift.

Keep an eye on Promenade Culture Centre for upcoming programs and events by following @PCCKuwait on Instagram.

FRIENDSHIP IN YOUR 30S AND 40S

How to maintain real connection when life is full.

By bazaar staff

In your 20s, friendship felt effortless. People lived nearby, schedules flexed, and a spontaneous coffee could stretch into midnight. In your 30s and 40s, the plot gets richer and the calendar gets heavier. Work scales up, families grow or change shape, parents need more support, and sleep becomes a prized possession. The result is a quiet drift that almost no one chooses and almost everyone feels.

The fix is not grand gestures. It is smaller, steadier rhythms that fit inside real life.

Start by reframing what friendship looks like now. It is not the frequency of meetups but the quality of your touchpoints over time. Your goal is to be reachable, consistent, and specific. Reachable means people know how and when to find you. Consistent means you show up in small, reliable ways. Specific means you talk like a real person, not a highlight reel. When you approach it this way, connection becomes a practice, not a project.

CONVERSATION STARTERS THAT GET PAST “HOW ARE YOU”

Most adults say they want deeper conversations but default to the weather and work. Switch the script with questions that invite stories and do not feel like therapy.

Try these openers:

• What was the best small thing about your week and why did it matter.

• What are you quietly excited about in the next 30 days.

• What feels heavy right now and how can I be useful.

• Which habit is saving you this month.

• What would make next week 10 percent easier. If you are reconnecting after a long gap, keep it simple: I miss your voice. Can we swap three life headlines this week. One good, one tricky, one hopeful. Short, honest prompts make it easy to answer while standing in a grocery line. When you meet in person, bring a starter that looks outward. Make a two song playlist for each other on the spot and explain your picks. Trade top five lists: dinners you cook on repeat, shows that surprised you, places in Kuwait that feel like a reset.

MICRO-MEETUPS THAT FIT BUSY LIVES

The biggest friendship block is not distance. It is logistics. Design meetups that respect time and energy.

• The 30 minute walk. Choose a loop near both of you. Walk, talk, and stop. If someone cannot make it, walk alone and send a voice note.

• The errand date. Meet at the supermarket or mall with two items each. Shop together, grab a 15 minute coffee, and call it a win.

• The drop by with rules. One hour max, shoes on, no tidying. You talk at the table, pour tea, and leave.

• The parallel hang. Bring laptops, sit at the same table, and do quiet work for 40 minutes. Set a timer, then take a 10 minute chat break. Repeat once.

• The ritual. Pick a shared time window. Every first Thursday, juice bar at 7.30. Every second Saturday, kids at the park at 4. Put it on the calendar like a class.

Care turns into & Handwash

If distance is the barrier, try the 12 minute call. Set a timer so it never overruns. Trade three updates each. End with a plan, even if it is just, I will send a photo of my Sunday lunch.

LOW-PRESSURE HOSTING THAT ACTUALLY HAPPENS

Many of us avoid hosting because we imagine a spotless house and a perfect meal. Lower the bar and raise the frequency.

Host a bowl night. One base, two proteins, three toppings. Rice or noodles, chicken and chickpeas, cucumbers, herbs, chili oil. People assemble their own and help wash up.

Try bring one, build one. You provide bread and a big salad. Friends bring anything that goes on top. Cheese, olives, grilled vegetables, leftover roast. It becomes a grazing board that expands as people arrive.

Make a standing invite. Every other Sunday, tea from 5 to 6. Children welcome. No RSVPs. Whoever is free slips in for an hour.

Keep a hospitality bin. Paper napkins, extra cups, a neutral tablecloth, a candle. When friends pop by, you have a quick upgrade without a store run. The point is not to impress. It is to create spaces where conversation flows and no one worries about crumbs on the counter.

HOW TO BE A GREAT FRIEND ON A BUSY WEEK

Small signals travel far. Send a photo of something that reminded you of them. Record a 30 second voice note after a meeting. Forward an event link with a line that says, This feels like you. Want to go next month. When a friend shares hard news, reply with warmth and a practical offer. I am sorry you are carrying this. I can drop off dinner Tuesday or take the kids to the park for an hour. Which helps more. When they do something good, celebrate out loud. You showed up for that presentation and it showed. Proud of you.

SET LIGHT STRUCTURE AND LET IT RUN

Create a shared group that actually serves your life. A tiny three person chat beats a 20 person thread that never lands. Give the chat a purpose. Walks, recipes, school runs, book swaps. Rotate who proposes the next micro-meetup. Use polls to pick times so no one carries the mental load. If the group stalls, reset with a prompt on the first of the month. Three photos from the last 30 days that made you smile. Go.

REPAIR DRIFT WITHOUT DRAMA

All friendships drift. It is not failure. If you want to reconnect, acknowledge the gap without apologizing for a full page. Try, I have been thinking

of you and I do not want us to keep drifting. Are you up for a short call this week. If trust was dented, name one clear step. I should have told you sooner about the job change. Can we catch up tomorrow. I want to do better at staying in touch.

MAKE IT SUSTAINABLE

Friendship thrives on repeatable behaviors. Pick two habits you can keep. Maybe it is a 12 minute Thursday call and a monthly errand date. Maybe it is sending a voice note on your commute. Track nothing. Compete with no one. If you miss a week, start again. Consistency over intensity.

TRY IT THIS MONTH

Choose two friends you want to invest in. Send each a simple prompt today. What would make the next 30 days 10 percent better. Then schedule one micro-meetup in the next two weeks with clear start and end times. When you leave, set the next date on the spot. Friendship in this season is not a grand performance. It is a kind, steady rhythm. A life can be very full and still make room for the people who help you carry it.

SAVANNAH AT HOME WITH IKEA® SANDLÖPARE

How IKEA® turns play into everyday learning

By bazaar Staff

This November, as the world celebrates International Children’s Day on November 20, we turn our attention to the magic of play. We’re not just talking about having fun and staying entertained, because the power of “play” is truly how children learn, grow, and connect with the world around them. At IKEA, play is serious business. Behind every toy and every playinspired space is a deep belief that play shapes happier, more resilient families. Products are thoughtfully designed to be affordable, safe, and supported by research that highlights just how vital play is for children’s wellbeing.

The latest IKEA Play Report shows a quiet “play revolution” underway at home, where families are putting happiness and connection first. In fact, 95% of parents say their child’s happiness is closely tied to how often they play, and 90% of children say they feel happier when they play. More than half of parents also report spending more time playing with their kids than a few years ago. In a world that can feel “unfun,” play is the antidote that builds resilience, sparks imagination, and strengthens family bonds.

Why play matters now

Play is not a break from learning. It is how children learn to solve problems, manage emotions, and collaborate. The Play Report highlights three priorities families seek through play: less stress and more joy, stronger self-confidence and selfexpression, and deeper social connection at home. With children spending more time indoors, the home has become the epicenter of playful living, where ordinary spaces and everyday objects become

stages for discovery. IKEA believes that living with children is more than making space for play. It is about nurturing the heart of family life, where everyone feels seen, supported, and connected while building healthy relationships and better habits together. From shared moments cooking, learning, relaxing, and playing to multifunctional furniture and safe, playful spaces, IKEA products support the many activities that happen in a home with children.

MEET SANDLÖPARE: A SAVANNAH OF STORIES

Enter SANDLOPARE, a vibrant children’s collection inspired by the African savannah. Designed to invite open-ended, imaginative play, it turns everyday spaces into wild adventures through storytelling and exploration. From soft toys and textiles to stools, rugs, mats, room accents, and activity tools, each piece carries a real animal story that nudges kids to explore, pretend, and learn. True to the IKEA democratic design principles, form, function, quality,

sustainability, and affordability, most of the soft toys use 100% recycled materials and are rigorously tested for safety and durability. Inclusive and family friendly, SANDLOPARE builds curiosity, connection, and environmental awareness at home.

Giraffes, great for hugs and tall tales. The soft toy comes as a 70 cm adult or a 43 cm calf. Beyond the cuddle factor, their “perk of being tall” becomes a conversation starter about animal adaptation.

Cheetahs on the move. A day-time hunter and the world’s fastest sprinter, the cheetah appears with a cub, making a perfect duo for follow-the-leader games and outdoor adventures.

Swing like a chimp. With touch-and-close fastening on hands and feet, the chimpanzee can cling to a backpack strap, chair, or little shoulders, joining the action wherever it goes.

Quick, curious meerkats. Standing upright with help from its tail, the meerkat invites lookout roles and teamwork. There is also a mini version that clips to bags or keyrings, a subtle way for kids to “show their clan.”

Zebra stripes, made for hide-and-seek. Zebrapatterned stool covers turn FLISAT and MAMMUT stools into a playful herd, encouraging camouflage games and group play.

The collection extends beyond cuddle companions to transform the whole room into an animal kingdom. A cheetah-print hooded towel helps bath time end in character. A quilted floor mat softens hard floors for reading nooks or safari setups. Storage trunks hide treasures and dress-up kits, and sticker sets let kids add heads, tails, and patterns to furniture for instant pretend-worlds. Even bed linen plays along: one side signals “night in the savannah,” the other flips to “day,” creating a simple visual routine for sleep and wake.

For hands-on learning, the SANDLÖPARE activity book uses visuals instead of words to teach facts and prompt challenges, removing language barriers and inviting all ages to join. A long coloring roll becomes “active meditation” for the whole family, blending creativity with calm focus. Together, these pieces turn small moments, getting dressed, tidying up, and winding down into mini adventures.

Designed with care, made for real life IKEA soft toys are engineered for the rough-andtumble of childhood. Safety sits at the center of development, with rigorous pull, wash, chemical, and durability tests. Embroidered eyes replace beads to eliminate choking risks and, as designers discovered, add livelier expressions. Everything is machine-washable at 40°C, because mud puddles are part of the story. SANDLÖPARE also draws on expertise from Nordens Ark, a wildlife conservation partner. This collaboration helps ground illustrations and product details in real animal behavior while raising awareness for endangered species, deepening the learning behind the play.

International Children’s Day is an ideal moment to recommit to playful living at home. Choose a SANDLÖPARE friend and build a simple ritual around it: a nightly “safari story,” a weekend coloring challenge, or a room refresh with stickers and a quilted mat. Small, repeatable moments matter. They boost joy, build resilience, and make family bonds stronger, exactly what the IKEA Play Report calls for in 2025 and beyond.

This month, step into the savannah. Welcome a new companion from SANDLÖPARE, and let curiosity lead the way. Because when play comes first, learning follows close behind.

Shop now at IKEA the Avenues, IKEA the Warehouse (Sabahiya), IKEA 360, IKEA Assima, IKEA Khiran, online at www.IKEA.com.kw or the new IKEA app available for iOS and Android. For more information, please call 184 0408 or follow @IKEAKuwait on Instagram.

Start your 30-day free journey today

ROOFMAN

Genre: Drama, Comedy

Cast: Kirsten Dunst, Channing Tatum

Synopsis: A charismatic criminal, while on the run from the police, hides on the roof of a toy store. There, he adopts a new identity and becomes involved with an employee, beginning a relationship as unlikely as it is risky.

RICH FLU

Genre: Thriller

Cast: Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Lorraine Bracco

Synopsis: A strange and unexpected disease is taking the lives of the richest and most influential people on the planet. The pandemic threatens to reach the holders of any kind of fortune. No one knows where the limit is.

THE BLACK PHONE 2

Genre: Horror

Cast: Ethan Hawke, Mason Thames

Synopsis: As Finn, now 17, struggles with life after his captivity, his sister begins receiving calls in her dreams from the black phone and seeing disturbing visions of three boys being stalked at a winter camp known as Alpine Lake.

CHAINSAW MAN THE MOVIE: REZE ARC

Genre: Animation, Action

Cast: Kikunosuke Toya, Tomori Kusunoki

Synopsis: Denji encounters a new romantic interest, Reze, who works at a coffee café.

GREAT WHITE WATERS

Genre: Action, Thriller

Cast: Angela Cole, Ashton Leigh

Synopsis: When millions in cartel contraband go missing off Florida’s coast, the search turns savage as hungry sharks close in on anyone daring to claim the stash.

REGRETTING YOU

Genre: Drama

Cast:Mckenna Grace, Allison Williams, Dave Franco

Synopsis: Based on the bestselling book, Regretting You introduces Morgan and her daughter Clara as they explore what’s left behind after a devastating accident reveals a shocking betrayal.

FIVE IN A ROW FOR TOYOTA GAZOO RACING

A one–two finish seals the manufacturers’ crown, and the season is far from over

By bazaar Staff

At the Central European Rally, where the tarmac twists through Germany, the Czech Republic, and Austria, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing wrote another chapter in modern rally dominance. The World Rally Team clinched its fifth consecutive FIA World Rally Championship manufacturers’ title with authority, locking it in two rounds early and doing it in style with a one–two finish. Kalle Rovanperä, calm and razor sharp, stood on the top step after a weekend of precision and nerve. Elfyn Evans, relentless to the final stage, brought the GR YARIS Rally1 home in second to reclaim the lead in the drivers’ standings. It was the kind of disciplined, collective performance that turns a great season into an era.

Chairman Akio Toyoda did not hide his pride. He thanked every driver, co-driver, engineer, and mechanic, and he acknowledged the fans whose passion fuels the program. Five straight manufacturers’ titles tell a story of craft and consistency. They also speak to a culture that learns quickly, fixes quietly, and races hard. This is not only about winning events. It is about raising the bar, week after week, until greatness feels like the standard.

The numbers are staggering. This is the ninth manufacturers’ championship for Toyota in WRC history, one shy of the all-time record set by Lancia. For 2025, the GR YARIS Rally1 has stood at the center of a near imperious run, taking 11 wins across 12 rounds. Rovanperä and co-driver Jonne Halttunen anchored the result with a victory earned the traditional way, by withstanding pressure from the best in the business. For much of the rally, the Finns traded tenths with teammates Sébastien Ogier and Vincent Landais, a duel that lit up every split screen and kept engineers’ heart rates high on the service park monitors.

Close fights on asphalt are their own science. Grip evolves stage by stage. Cuts bring dirt onto the line. Weather shifts without warning. The GR YARIS Rally1 thrives in that uncertainty because the team has built a platform that is both explosive and forgiving. Drivers can lean on the front end, rotate the car with confidence, and fire out of slow corners without drama. Co-drivers can trust the package to respond to the notes, even when the camber and surface change midbend. That is how you survive a weekend where the margins are as thin as a page edge. Evans’ push to second was not only about pace, it was about judgment. The Welshman timed his charge to perfection and, by sealing the one–two, flipped the championship narrative back in his favor. That single result mattered on two fronts. It delivered the points that made the manufacturers’ title untouchable and it put Evans back in control of his own destiny. In a season this tight, momentum is currency.

Inside the team, that momentum is built on a shared philosophy. TOYOTA GAZOO Racing treats every rally as a test lab, and improvement is the currency that matters most. A small tweak to damper settings, a more efficient hybrid deployment, a note rewritten to suit late-day light. The WRT environment rewards these details and expects them every time the cars leave service. The result is a squad that can fight on snow in Sweden, rocks in Greece, and slick asphalt in Central Europe without changing its identity. Calm preparation, clean execution, a burst of speed when it counts. Repeat.

For fans in Kuwait, the story lands close to home. GR is no longer just a badge on a tailgate. It is Toyota’s racing soul made road legal. When you watch a GR YARIS Rally1 dancing through a downhill hairpin, you see the DNA that inspires the GR road cars on our streets. The commitment to lightweight, to sharp steering feel, to balance and control, is not marketing. It is the same thinking that carries a rally car across a crest and plants it on the next braking point. Motorsport is the proving ground where future showroom tech is born.

It is also a community. Rally connects people who love the sound of an engine at full song and the sight of a driver trusting their co-driver at 200 words a minute. At every Toyota victory, you see the hands behind the headlines: the mechanics who swap a gearbox under time pressure, the engineers who model tire temperatures, the logistics crews who make a tri-country event feel seamless. Akio Toyoda’s message of gratitude lands because it is the truth. Rally is a team sport disguised as individual bravery.

The Central European Rally gave us a little of everything: knife-edge battles, a power stage that demanded composure, and a final scoreboard that confirmed what the season has suggested from the start. This is a championship team. It wins big, it wins close, and it wins across continents. Five manufacturers’ titles in a row is a legacy in motion. Nine in total puts Toyota within touching distance of the most storied mark in WRC history. The chase continues. So does the standard.

If you felt the spark and want to connect that emotion to something you can drive, you already know where to look. Explore the GR spirit, place yourself in the driver’s seat at a local showroom, or simply follow the next round with a more tuned ear. Because once you have watched a GR YARIS Rally1 carve time out of wet asphalt, you will hear it the next time you turn your own steering wheel and settle into a perfect apex.

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing has made its point. Five straight titles, a one–two finish to seal the deal, and a drivers’ championship fight that remains electric. The cars are fast, the team is fearless, and the season still has chapters left to write.

For more information, visit toyota.com.kw, call 1803803, or follow @toyotakw on Instagram.

LIGHT PHONE III

For those craving simplicity, the Light Phone III strips back the noise. Its monochrome AMOLED display, 5G connectivity, and essential tools like calls, music, and navigation make it the perfect “digital detox” companion. It’s minimalism with just enough function to stay connected — the modern answer to smartphone burnout.

FIIO DESKTOP SPEAKER SYSTEM

FiiO steps into desktop audio with its newest speaker system designed for both casual listeners and audiophiles. Expect clarity, tight bass, and balanced detail wrapped in an understated chassis. Perfect for workspaces where music matters as much as design.

KEF LS50 META (NEW COLORWAYS)

KEF’s beloved LS50 Meta speakers now arrive in fresh Moss Green and Sand Shell finishes. Behind the new look lies the same immaculate sound — clean, detailed, and powerful for their compact size. For design-conscious audiophiles, this release proves great audio can also be beautiful.

CMF WATCH 3 PRO

From Nothing’s sub-brand CMF comes a smartwatch with serious upgrades: better GPS tracking, improved heart-rate sensors, and a vivid AMOLED screen that’s 10% larger than before. With AI coaching and multi-day battery life, the Watch 3 Pro feels like a flagship wearable — without the flagship price.

ONEPLUS WATCH 3

The OnePlus Watch 3 refines everything fans loved about its predecessor — sleek form, outstanding battery life, and accurate health tracking. Now with improved sleep monitoring and faster performance, it’s the smartwatch that quietly does everything right without shouting for attention.

ROBOROCK SAROS 10

Roborock’s latest robot vacuum is smarter, quieter, and more efficient than ever. With advanced mapping and low-clearance cleaning, it glides under furniture and handles Kuwait’s dust without fuss. Its redesigned docking system empties and charges automatically — because cleaning should always be effortless.

XCARE

Protection Beyond the Standard Warranty

By bazaar Staff

In a world where electronics and appliances have become essential to everyday life, the question is no longer “What should I buy?” but “How do I protect what I’ve bought?” That’s where Xcare — Xcite’s extended protection service — steps in. Designed to go beyond the standard manufacturer warranty, Xcare offers customers a range of coverage plans that keep their devices running smoothly long after the factory warranty expires. Whether it’s accidental damage, fire incidents, or unexpected mechanical failure, Xcare ensures that customers are never left without support.

Three Flexible Protection Packages

Xcare is available in three tiers, allowing customers to choose the coverage that best suits their lifestyle:

Basic – Extends the manufacturer warranty for up to five years, covering mechanical and technical failures with genuine spare parts and free repair services under warranty.

Plus – Includes everything in Basic plus one year of accidental damage protection, covering incidents like drops and liquid spills during normal use. Platinum – The most comprehensive package. Along with extended warranty and accidental protection, it offers reduced repair rates and a free TECHFORCE service coupon for technical assistance.

What Xcare Covers

Xcare goes beyond standard warranties to cover real-life mishaps and keep your tech running longer. Depending on the plan you choose (including Plus and Platinum), it protects you against mechanical failures after the manufacturer warranty ends, accidental damage like drops or liquid spills, and—exclusively in Kuwait—external accidental fire damage. You also get international warranty support with reimbursement for repairs completed abroad when you return to Kuwait. All fixes use genuine spare parts only (no third-party components), and claims are simple: visit an authorized service center or call 1803535 for support.

How to Apply for a Claim

Filing an Xcare claim is straightforward. For technical failures or accidental damage, bring your device and the original purchase invoice to any authorized service center. For fire-related claims in Kuwait, include supporting documents such as a fire department report and your ID. If you need service abroad under the international warranty, get the device repaired in the country you are in, keep the repair invoice, and request reimbursement from Xcite when you return.

What Isn’t Covered

Like any protection plan, there are exclusions, mainly for misuse, intentional damage, unauthorized repairs, tampering, or multiple suspicious damages. Routine cleaning and data loss are also outside coverage.

More Than Just Warranty — It’s Peace of Mind

The strength of Xcare lies in its flexibility and long-term value. With depreciation rates defined clearly for replacements under extended warranty — starting from 25% in the first year up to 65% in the fifth — customers know exactly where they stand.

From everyday accidents to rare emergencies, Xcare ensures that customers stay protected, supported, and informed. It’s not just about fixing devices — it’s about protecting investments and providing confidence long after purchase.

Stay updated on the latest events, monthly promotions and offers by subscribing to the monthly newsletter on xcite.com, follow X-cite’s social media channels on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and Snapchat, @xcitealghanim or Facebook at XcitebyAlghanim and win prizes with contests, or visit the online store at www.xcite.com.

OTHERWISE ENGAGED

By Susan Mallery, Fiction

When two mother–daughter duos cross paths at a wedding venue, long-buried secrets unravel and lives change forever. As old wounds resurface, Shannon and Victoria must face the ripple effects of choices made decades earlier — and discover whether forgiveness can bridge the gap between who they are and who they might have been.

MAY CONTAIN MURDER

By Orlando Murrin, Mystery

EVERYBODY WANTS TO RULE THE WORLD

By Ace Atkins, Thriller

Set in 1985 during “The Year of the Spy,” this darkly funny thriller follows teenager Peter Bennett, who suspects his mom’s new boyfriend might be a KGB agent. When a murder ties back to her workplace, Peter joins a mismatched crew of allies to uncover the truth — leading to a high-stakes Cold War conspiracy that’s anything but suburban.

THE KING MUST DIE

By Kemi Ashing-Giwa, Sci-Fi

BOOK OF LIVES: A MEMOIR OF SORTS

By Margaret Atwood, Autobiography

In her long-awaited memoir, the acclaimed author of The Handmaid’s Tale traces the winding path between the life she’s lived and the stories she’s told. From her untamed childhood in the forests of Quebec to the literary and political worlds she helped shape, Atwood reflects on memory, imagination, and the blurred lines between reality and art.

Source:

Chef Paul Delamare joins a luxury cruise that quickly turns from indulgent to deadly when a priceless necklace goes missing and a passenger ends up dead. As storms close in and secrets surface, Paul must uncover the truth before the ship — and everyone on it — goes down for good.

On the dying planet of Newearth, mercenary Fen loses everything to a ruthless ruler and joins forces with his heir in a desperate fight for survival. Torn between vengeance and rebellion, Fen must decide whether saving her world means destroying it first. A gripping tale of power, loyalty, and the cost of freedom.

DAYS AT THE TORUNKA CAFÉ

By Satoshi Yagisawa, Fiction

In a quiet Tokyo café tucked down a side street, strangers and regulars alike discover connection, comfort, and small miracles. As lives intertwine over coffee and conversation, each visitor finds that healing often arrives in the simplest moments. A tender, reflective tale about love, loss, and the beauty of starting over.

Enjoy our new Breakfast items exclusively at our Sharq branch

From 8:00 to 11:30 AM

www.maisalghanim.com

KHANEH

Two sisters, a passion project, and contemporary Iranian design, curated in Kuwait

By bazaar Staff

Whether you’ve walked past the Khaneh booth at a Qout market or perused the website, something familiar tugs at you. It is the warmth of a Middle Eastern home: stacked cushions, tactile rugs, handmade cups that feel good in the hand. Those of us from the region, register it instantly. It speaks to our roots. That feeling is not accidental. Khaneh, which means home in Farsi, is the passion project of sisters Elham and Fatima Qabazard, who are building an online store that bridges the beauty of contemporary Iranian design with everyday life in Kuwait and beyond.

The sisters have full time jobs, Elham works in HR while Fatima works at a multidisciplinary design studio. They came together and started sharing their vision of a shared dream: a small business that would celebrate the craft and creativity they grew up visiting in Iran with their mother. Family is woven into the business model. A cousin in Iran acts as their on-the-ground partner, checking pieces, confirming orders, and liaising with designers and suppliers so the sisters can bring a thoughtful edit to Kuwait.

Elham and Fatima share the work and the joy of building a brand together. Each one brings her skills, knowledge and ability to the table, and together they form a dynamic duo; Elham handles operations while Fatima, leads curation. They are drawn to young makers and the fresh, contemporary side of Iranian craft that many people have not seen. Most of us know Iran for heritage rugs and traditional techniques. Khaneh shows the wider spectrum. In the rug collection alone, you will find a spectrum of looks, from minimal to riotously colorful. Around the rugs are handmade ceramics, glassware, cushions, and a few unexpected delights, like baby accessories and small objects that carry cultural stories.

The Naser Charm is a character in one of these stories, he is a unibrowed figure who shows up as a cheeky charm. For Fatima, he is a favorite precisely because he is so specific and so familiar. He reminds her and customers of baba or the uncle we all know and adore. He might look stern and serious, but we all know he’s a huge softie in his heart. Elham gravitates to the Khorshid Khanoom cushions, all delicate stitching and clean details, a quiet luxury you can drop on a sofa and feel the room soften. Khorshid Khanoom also appears as a charm and a scented sachet so you can take her with you wherever you go.

Before Khaneh officially launched, the sisters tested the waters with a small shipment. The response encouraged them to scale up. Their first big moment came at last Ramadan’s Qout market in March, where they could see reactions in real time. People of all ages drifted in, surprised to learn that the vivid rugs and modern ceramics were made in Iran. Many told the sisters that the booth felt like home.

As an online store, Khaneh is intentionally light on overhead. The sisters participate in markets when the season allows so people can touch and see the pieces, but the core of the business is digital with worldwide shipping. In Kuwait, they make things easy with an order and return window, a nod to how personal purchasing for the home can be.

Best sellers tell an interesting story. The cups and little shot glasses go quickly, perhaps because a handmade vessel upgrades daily rituals with a small, affordable dose of craft. Rugs also move, including some of the bolder pieces that the sisters thought might be a risk. If there is one recurring challenge, it is scale. Homes in Kuwait skew large, while many of the rugs are produced in modest workshops by women whose own rooms are smaller, which naturally limits the maximum size. Khaneh is addressing this by exploring custom orders for interior designers and architects, and by helping clients layer multiple rugs for a collected look.

There is a clear ethos at Khaneh, a dedication to supporting small and medium-sized businesses and independent artisans. They view their relationship with the people who produce the products they stock, as a collaboration instead of a business transaction. Through thoughtful selection and curation, they want to help their clients reimagine traditional crafts in a modern context while preserving the techniques and skills that are a testament to thousands of years of heritage.

The long-game vision is bigger. A physical space is on the wish list, once the business reaches a point where the cost makes sense. The sisters also see opportunity in wholesale partnerships, styling projects for designers, and capsule collections that translate their curatorial eye into complete rooms. For now, they are building steadily, keeping the focus on quality, story, and service while they grow awareness across the GCC and internationally.

What makes Khaneh feel special is not only the product mix but the point of view. The sisters are not trying to recreate a museum of craft. They are showing how contemporary Iranian design lives today, in color and humor and careful workmanship, and how it can slide into a Kuwaiti living room or travel abroad in a box to London or Doha or Cairo. There is pride in the roots and joy in the remix.

That joy shows up in small details. A cushion that looks hand-drawn but is crisply stitched. A rug whose palette surprises without overpowering. A keychain that starts a family story. These are the pieces that make a home feel personal. And perhaps that is the quiet thesis of Khaneh: good design is not about collecting objects for the sake of it. It is about choosing a few things that carry meaning, made by people you know a little bit about, and placing them where you will touch them every day.

Khaneh began as a passion project. It still is. But it is also a practical, growing business run by two sisters who divide tasks, share vision, and keep each other in the loop. They are building a brand on warmth and trust. They are opening a window onto a creative scene that deserves to be seen. And they are inviting all of us to make our homes feel more like us, one considered piece at a time.

Add something beautiful that was made with love and an artisan’s skillful hands today by visiting khanehstore.com. Follow @khaneh.store for a regular dose of beautiful handmade pieces that will add beauty and joy to your scrolling experience.

6 YEARS WITH YOU WE’RE PART OF YOUR EVERYDAY

CHIME.IN

Step into a social space built on genuine connection, not algorithms. Chime.In brings back the community spirit of early internet forums, letting users join topic-based conversations, share ideas, and meet like-minded people without the chaos of modern feeds.

iOS and Android

ALTSTORE PAL

AltStore Pal gives users a new way to discover and install apps outside the usual stores. Its decentralized approach promotes indie developers, creative tools, and fediverseconnected experiences — refreshing freedom for those craving more choice and control over their devices.

iOS only

APPCOPILOT

Meet your next-generation digital assistant — one that doesn’t just respond, but collaborates. AppCopilot coordinates across your apps to help complete multi-step tasks, track progress, and keep everything running smoothly. Think of it as an intelligent autopilot for your phone, built to make multitasking effortless and productivity seamless.

iOS and Android

NOTEBOOKLM

Google’s powerful AI notebook tool is now mobile. NotebookLM helps you organize research, summarize sources, and even generate audio recaps — perfect for writers, students, and creators on the go. Your notes, insights, and inspiration now fit in your pocket.

iOS and Android

SORA 2

This experimental app reimagines video creation through AI. With Sora 2, everything you see is generated within the app — no uploads, no edits, just pure AI storytelling. It’s a bold glimpse into the future of entertainment, where creativity meets machine imagination.

iOS and Android

SPEAKTHAT!

A hands-free app that listens, transcribes, and acts on your voice. SpeakThat! turns everyday commands into quick results — perfect for multitaskers, creators, and anyone who prefers talking over typing. It’s your phone, finally fluent in your language.

Android only

SCORPIO

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

It’s your season, and clarity finally arrives. You’re seeing things — and people — exactly as they are. Use that insight to make a clean break or a bold start. Whether it’s love, career, or creativity, you’re the one steering now.

SAGITTARIUS

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Your spark is returning after a quiet spell. November brings momentum and maybe even a last-minute trip or opportunity. Say yes to what feels new and slightly scary — that’s where growth hides. Keep your optimism grounded in action.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You’re craving control, but this month’s energy rewards adaptability. Don’t resist change; redesign your plans around it. A conversation about money or partnership could bring a welcome breakthrough by month’s end.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You’re in visionary mode again, seeing possibilities others miss. Just be sure to follow through. Collaboration is your keyword — the right team or ally can turn your wild idea into something real. Don’t go it alone this time.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Your creative energy is flowing, but focus is tricky. Channel your feelings into something tangible — a project, a habit, or even a routine. Romance gets dreamy mid-month, but clarity will matter more than fantasy.

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You’re slowing down after a busy few months, and that’s progress, not pause. November is about pacing yourself and finding rhythm again. A small lifestyle tweak could lead to a big emotional reset.

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)

This month reminds you how good it feels to feel good. Revisit the things that ground you — nature, food, home comforts. Financial or career decisions made now will ripple well into next year, so act with calm confidence.

GEMINI (May 21 – Jun 20)

Less multitasking, more meaning. Streamline your commitments and you’ll feel lighter instantly. Someone from your past could resurface with a new offer or apology — listen, but don’t lose your balance.

CANCER (Jun 21 – Jul 22)

November turns your attention toward emotional security. You’re building something lasting, whether that’s love, work, or your own peace of mind. Say no to energy drains and yes to anything that restores your calm.

LEO (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You’re ready to shine again, but differently. Instead of chasing validation, you’re focused on purpose. A leadership opportunity could appear out of nowhere — take it, even if it feels slightly out of your comfort zone.

VIRGO

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You’re refining your systems, your space, and maybe even your social circle. A clear-out, literal or emotional, will free up space for something better. Keep an eye on your health and energy — balance is your anchor this month.

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You’re wrapping up the year with reflection. Relationships take center stage — what’s fair, what’s balanced, what’s worth it. A calm talk clears lingering tension. By the end of the month, you’ll feel lighter and more certain.