fact Qatar April 2026

In Qatar We Trust

“Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise.”Victor Hugo “

Ithought I knew what safety was, until I came to Qatar. Here, it reveals itself in the smallest gestures: leaving your belongings unattended, walking alone at midnight, never once looking over your shoulder. Little by little, Qatar became my reference for what it means to feel safe. So, when the bombardments began, one question came up: are we still safe in the safest country in the world? When the first alert flashed on my phone on February 28, my instinct was classically Western: move, stock up, fill the car... Outside, the calm felt almost surreal. ‘Kheir Inshallah’, my Qatari friends kept saying. Just as quickly, that sense of ease returned. Nothing in the streets suggested that, only kilometres away, Qatari Armed Forces were working day and night to protect the country, while the Ministry of Interior was threading a nearimpossible needle: informing without alarming, issuing messages that both called for caution and offered reassurance. Amid the uncertainty, Qatar moved as a single body: alert, composed, unshaken. Back in France, everyone kept asking the same question: when was I planning to leave? The thought never really crossed my mind. What I felt wasn’t fear, but something closer to pride, trust and gratitude. Because a country that can hold itself together like that, with such composure, clarity and strength, can only be heading towards something greater. At fact, we did everything to make this issue feel like any other. We looked for places to breathe across Qatar, while supporting those building local things from scratch. Many events are cancelled this month but Hot Wheels Speed City is back at Katara. The Fontana Show Cirque du Liban is set for late April, we’re glad it’s going ahead. We found ourselves eating at SUSHISAMBA, The Cellar, Chicago Rare, and spoke to key voices from the hospitality industry, at a time when running a hotel or restaurant here is increasingly challenging. For Art & Culture, we chatted to Qatar-based Sudanese film maker Eiman Mirghani to learn about her story. On the road, we got behind the wheel of the new Mitsubishi Destinator, designed with Middle Eastern families in mind. Indifferent to context, fashion moved on. Spring/summer trends dropped and that’s exactly the point of this cover story: a normal issue, against all odds. Stay safe!

Sirine Boudjadi Editor fact Qatar editorial@fact-magazine.com

FACT Magazine

Qatar Edition

• APRIL 2026

PUBLISHER

RAMI KHALIL

PUBLISHING DIRECTOR

CHIRINE HALABI

GROUP EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

LIZ O’REILLY

DIGITAL ASSISTANT DIRECTOR

MAYA MAKKI

EDITOR

SIRINE BOUDJADI

DIGITAL TEAM

FAREEDA ABDULLA

ROHITH TR

SALES TEAM

ANUSH MKRTUMIAN

GENE SOLANZO

ART DIRECTOR

SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN

PHOTOGRAPHIC CONSULTANT

HADY SAMAHA

PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION

AJIT KUMAR

NEIL MAHMOOD

EDITORIAL & SALES ENQUIRIES

chirine@fact-magazine.com

CONTRIBUTORS AMS

APPLE SHARMA

GARETH WOODS

PRINTED BY QATAR NATIONAL

PRINTING PRESS

DISTRIBUTION

DAR AL SHARQ

VOLUME 12, ISSUE 10 All Rights Reserved. Opinion expressed within does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publisher. All efforts have been made to ensure accuracy of the information within this publication. However, FACT M.E. Publishing cannot accept legal responsibility for any erroneous content or omissions.

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SWAP SCREEN TIME FOR STORY TIME

A new reading-focussed pop-up is arriving at Doha Festival City, as Qatar Reads expands its family literacy programme into public spaces.

Looking for something a little more low-key (and screen-free) to fill an afternoon? There’s a new reading-focussed pop-up worth checking out. Running until April 22, Qatar Reads (an initiative under Qatar National Library) is setting up an interactive family booth at Doha Festival City, with a programme designed to make reading feel a bit less like homework and a bit more like something you’d actually choose to do. At its core, the activation is tied to the Family Reading Program, a structured initiative aimed at helping parents build regular reading habits at home. But rather than presenting it as something overly instructional, the setup leans into hands-on activities: think storytelling sessions, reading challenges and creative, literacybased games that give kids a reason to engage beyond just flipping through pages.

The idea is to show how reading can slot into everyday family life without turning it into a chore. Expect curated book selections tailored to different age groups, along with guided activities that help children explore them in a more interactive way. It’s less about sitting quietly with a book and more about creating

an environment where reading feels social, playful and part of a wider routine.

You’ll also find the Qatar Reads team on hand throughout the three-week run, ready to walk parents through how the programme works and what it actually involves. If you’re curious, you can sign up on the spot, get a sense of the structure and figure out whether it’s something that fits into your own schedule, rather than committing blindly online.

Placing it inside Doha Festival City makes it an easy add-on rather than a standalone trip, something you can drop into between errands or use as a quieter break from the usual mall circuit. It also builds on similar activations seen last year, as part of a broader push to bring reading initiatives into everyday public spaces rather than keeping them confined to more formal settings like libraries.

NEW ON THE MENU

Qureshi Bukhara, one of India’s iconic dining destinations, brings the rich flavours of the northwest frontier to Dusit Hotel & Suites Doha and this month there are new occasions to look forward to. An evening brunch launches on April 23, running from 6.30pm to 11.30pm. Expect a lavish Indian buffet featuring live cooking stations, classic Indian beverages, signature kebabs, biryani and select curries served at your table, accompanied by a variety of traditional breads and live music performances. It’s priced at QR199 with soft drinks and QR299 with special beverages. Then, on April 24, there’s a new brunch concept with tandoor classics, aromatic curries and an array of authentic dishes in a celebration of India’s culinary traditions. Brunch runs from 1pm to 4.30pm and is priced at QR189 with soft drinks and QR249 with special beverages. ✤

GO: CALL 4004 4052 OR WHATSAPP 3070 1295 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.

THINKING CAPS ON

Looking for an excuse to show of your obsessive knowledge of trains, the solar system or animals of the Okavango Delta? You’re in luck. Though many events have been postponed, The Red Lion Doha, at Al Mansour Suites Hotel, is planning one of its popular quiz and curry nights at Thirsty Thursday on April 10. Expect a great atmosphere with plenty of gentle competition, all-night Lucky Hour and prizes for the winning teams. ✤

GO: CALL 3337 7602 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

STEP BACK IN TIME

If you love a bit of old-school music, this is for you as Rockaway Retro II promises a night filled with sounds of the 1950s, ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s.

From the rock ‘n’ roll era, with its Teddy Boys and girls, to the halcyon disco days of the ‘70s, with their sequins and flares and the new romantics of the 1980s, you’ll find them all here. And dressing the part is strongly encouraged. There are prizes for the best costume from each decade.

Rockaway Retro II features sounds from The Carbs, Studio974, The Exiles and a special guest DJ, so you’re in for a night of great sounds.

Takes place at the Irish Inn, Al Saad, from 7pm on April 10 ✤

GO: CALL 7780 2211 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK YOUR SPOT.

A HIGH-SPEED TAKEOVER

Looking for something louder than your usual mall trip? Hot Wheels Speed City is rolling into Katara Cultural Village with karting, stunt shows and just enough chaos to keep kids (and adults) entertained.

If your weeks are starting to feel a bit samey, here’s something that might shake things up. Until May 2, Qatar Calendar is rolling out Hot Wheels Speed City at Katara Cultural Village’s South Parking, and yes, it’s as loud, bright and fast as it sounds.

Think less static fairground, more mini petrolhead playground. The space is being turned into an immersive Hot Wheels universe, with multiple zones designed to keep kids (and, let’s be honest, plenty of adults) busy for hours. There’s go-karting in the Kart Arena, stunt shows with professional drivers pulling off drifts and jumps, and plenty of interactive zones to keep everyone busy. This kind of activation isn’t exactly new for Doha. The city has been steadily building a reputation for large-scale, familyfriendly pop-ups, but the Hot Wheels branding adds a layer of nostalgia that could pull in more than just the under-10 crowd. If you grew up collecting the tiny cars, there’s a decent chance you’ll end up more invested than your kids. Beyond the obvious racing elements, organisers are leaning into the full ‘day out’ formula. Expect themed zones like Loop Land and Turbo Tracks, plus a Central Plaza, food options at the Fuel Café, and retail corners selling branded merch (inevitable, but probably hard to resist). It’s clearly designed so you can linger rather than rush through.

Timing-wise, it fits neatly into Doha’s evening rhythm. The event runs daily from 4pm until midnight on weekdays, stretching to 1am at weekends, ideal to avoid the daytime heat as summer creeps in. Tickets are relatively accessible. General admission is set at QR35 on weekdays and QR50 on weekends. If you’re coming as a group, the family bundle is where it starts to make more sense: four paid tickets plus one free, working out at QR140 on weekdays and QR200 on weekends. It’s a small saving, but enough to justify rounding up a few extra people. There’s also an upgraded Fast Pass option (QR100 on weekdays and QR150 on weekends) which gives you priority access across all activities. In practical terms, that means skipping queues for the karting and more popular zones, which could be a game-changer if you’re visiting during peak evening hours or over the weekend rush. Worth considering if patience isn’t high on your list of family virtues. You can book through Virgin Megastore, Platinumlist or Q-tickets. ✤

THE ART OF Mediterranean Seafood

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A CIRCUS, BUT MAKE IT WATER

Qatar’s lineup of large-scale live entertainment continues to grow, with Cirque du Liban’s Fontana Show introducing a water-based circus production at Hyatt Plaza.

If your idea of a night out could use a bit more drama, water and mid-air acrobatics, there’s a new show heading to Doha that

leans fully into all three. From April 30 to May 31, Qatar Calendar is bringing Cirque du Liban’s Fontana Show to the city, setting up at Hyatt Plaza in a purpose-built circus tent.

If you haven’t come across it before, Fontana isn’t your typical circus. Instead of the usual ring format, the show is built around a large choreographed musical fountain, with water, light and sound effects doing as much of the storytelling as the performers themselves. Expect aerial acts, acrobatics and plenty of theatrical flourishes, all timed to a shifting mix of music and visuals. The combination of circus performance and water effects keeps things accessible, even if you’re not usually drawn to traditional big-top shows. The setting plays its part too. A dedicated tent at Hyatt Plaza gives the production a more contained, theatrical feel, closer to an immersive stage show than an open fairground-style event.

Tickets are split across several seating tiers, depending on how close you want to be to the action. Entry-level seats start at QR95 (Green), rising to QR145 (Blue) and QR180 (Red). If you’re after a clearer line of sight, Silver tickets are priced at QR250, while the top-tier Gold seats come in at QR360. Details on show timings are available via Platinumlist, where bookings are open. ✤

GO: VISIT HTTPS://DOHA.PLATINUMLIST.NET/EVENTTICKETS/104916/FONTANA-CIRCUS-QATAR FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS.

ALL THE MORE FUN

Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha has gone one better on its all-inclusive offering by adding exclusive access to Meryal Waterpark to the mix.

Running throughout April, the deal promises to be the ultimate family staycation and starts at QR949 for two adults and two kids under six. For that you get a whole lot.

What’s Included?

● Exclusive access to Meryal Waterpark

● Free upgrade to Sea View accommodation (subject to availability)

● Early check-in + breakfast

● Late check-out until 6pm + lunch

● 50% off spa treatments

● Pool and beach access from 8am to sunset

● Use of one Cabana (subject to availability)

● Sports classes and access to the Rixy Kids Club and arcade. ✤

GO: CALL 4429 8888 OR VISIT @RIXOSGULFHOTELDOHA FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.

A giant waterslide and adventure park. More pools than days of the week. And restaurants from all over the world. With villas, rooms and suites made of dreams and where dreams are made. All on kilometres of private and pristine beaches. Welcome to an out of this world oasis on Qatar’s sunset coast.

Book your escape at hilton.com/salwabeach

SEASON OF EASE

Sun-warmed palettes, generous proportions and textures you want to reach out and touch: this season, the runways make a compelling case for dressing down without ever dumbing down.

EARTH TONE ESCAPISM

Forget the maximalist moment: fashion is going back down to Earth, quite literally. This season, the palette takes its cues from the landscape: sand, camel and olive dominate the runways, conjuring sun-bleached deserts and quiet forests. It's a shift that feels less like a trend and more like a collective exhale. Brunello Cucinelli leans into flowing silhouettes and natural materials that let the warmth of neutral tones speak for themselves, while Burberry weaves heritage textures and rich browns into its signature vocabulary with effortless ease. Menswear tells the same grounded story. Zegna and BOSS by Beckham build monochromatic looks in olive and sand, where relaxed tailoring and tonal layering do the talking. Qasimi strips things back further with pared-down silhouettes set against natural landscapes, reinforcing fashion's deepening dialogue with the environment. Paul & Shark, COS and Mango round out the movement with refined casualwear in muted shades that sit comfortably between urban polish and open-air ease.

PRINTED EXPRESSIONS

Prints are back and they mean business. This season, decorative motifs move from accent to protagonist, with full looks built around patterns that bring energy, movement and a welcome dose of personality to the runway. ETRO leans all the way in, deploying its signature decorative language across vibrant, layered looks that land somewhere between art and wardrobe. Qasimi takes a similar stance, while Brunello Cucinelli takes the softer path, pairing natural-toned patterns and delicate florals with relaxed summer silhouettes for a result that feels refined rather than restless. In menswear, the approach is characteristically understated. Zegna integrates patterned fabrics into lightweight suits and fluid silhouettes, adding visual interest without disturbing the collection's quiet authority. H&M Atelier chooses graphic stripes and relaxed separates, a clean, modern take that keeps print feeling sharp and season-ready. Zimmermann doubles down with vibrant florals and decorative patterns that remind you exactly why prints earnt their protagonist moment this season.

MODERN TAILORING

The suit is having a rethink. This season, tailoring sheds its armour, no more rigid shoulders or boardroom severity, in favour of something altogether more liveable. Silhouettes soften, trousers widen and the entire proposition shifts toward a wardrobe that works as hard at dinner as it does at the desk. Jil Sander distils the idea to its purest form with elongated cuts and restrained detailing. Tom Ford takes a more seductive route, blurring masculine and feminine codes through sleek tuxedo lines that earn their moment after dark. Ralph Lauren reinterprets classic suiting through long coats and clean tailoring with a quietly contemporary hand. In menswear, the evolution is just as compelling. Zegna presents fluid suits in natural fabrics that feel as effortless as they look refined, while H&M Atelier confirms that relaxed proportions and modern tailoring are no longer a contradiction in terms. BOSS leans into the same territory, softening structured silhouettes through lightweight fabrics and proportions that feel anything but boardroom.

BOHEMIAN SPIRIT

Free-spirited dressing is back, and this time it has grown up. The bohemian references on this season's runways are rooted in the expressive energy of the 1960s and ‘70s, but the execution is altogether less festival field and more considered wardrobe. At ETRO and Adolfo Rodriguez, the aesthetic arrives in its most full-blooded form: richly patterned dresses, layered fabrics and intricate detailing that feel like a love letter to eclectic heritage. Brunello Cucinelli refines the spirit through relaxed silhouettes and artisanal textures that speak the language of understated luxury. Ralph Lauren, meanwhile, revisits vintage-inspired patterns and flowing shapes, capturing the romantic ease that has always been at the heart of bohemian dressing.

SHEER SENSUALITY

There is an art to revealing and concealing in equal measure, and this season's designers have mastered it. Sheer fabrics, mesh and delicate layering emerge as some of the most considered tools with movement and texture doing much of the heavy lifting. Tom Ford embraces the moment through bodyskimming silhouettes and delicate mesh that celebrate the female form with characteristic sophistication. Jil Sander and COS approach transparency with architectural discipline, producing sheer pieces that feel as precise as they are poetic. ETRO, meanwhile, weaves translucent layers into its signature vibrant prints, adding both depth and an almost weightless sense of movement. Mango offers a softer entry point: fluid fabrics and body-skimming silhouettes that carry the same sensual energy with a more everyday ease.

EFFORTLESS SUMMER STYLING

Gone is the idea of summer dressing as purely decorative: this season embraces a more relaxed, instinctive elegance. Across collections, silhouettes feel lighter, looser and deeply connected to a sense of movement and ease. At Zimmermann, flowing dresses and soft draping evoke a romantic, sun-drenched escapism, where fabric moves freely with the body. This same fluidity translates into menswear at Zegna, where relaxed tailoring, open silhouettes and lightweight layering reimagine summer suiting with a pleasingly nonchalant edge. Meanwhile, Brunello Cucinelli reinforces this effortless mood through natural tones and breathable textures that feel as unhurried as a long afternoon. Even in more structured looks, as seen at BOSS and Mango, the styling remains soft and unforced, leaning into quiet sophistication over anything that remotely resembles rigidity.

QUIET MINIMALISM

Less has never looked more considered. Minimalism this season moves well beyond the austere cool of the ‘90s, softening into something more tactile, more luxurious and altogether more wearable. The emphasis falls on construction, on fabric, on the quiet confidence of a silhouette that needs no embellishment to make its point. Jil Sander remains the benchmark, presenting sculptural shapes and monochromatic palettes where restraint reads as the ultimate refinement.

H&M Studio Collection brings the sensibility within everyday reach through oversized knits and relaxed tailoring built for long-haul elegance, while COS relies on texture rather than embellishment. In menswear, the message translates into clean lines and tonal dressing. H&M Atelier focusses on refined essentials and carefully constructed basics, pieces that understand modern luxury as something felt rather than seen. BOSS, COS and Mango speak the same language: clean lines, neutral tones and pared-back silhouettes that make restraint look quietly radical.

RICH TEXTURES

This season, it is all about what you feel before you even reach out to touch it. Texture steps forward as a design statement in its own right. The collections draw the eye through layered fabrics, intricate embroidery and surfaces that catch the light in all the right ways. At ETRO , sheer textiles and layered patterns give each look an almost tapestry-like depth. Tom Ford turns up the heat with glossy leather silhouettes and fluid eveningwear that play with reflection as much as form. Brunello Cucinelli offers the softer counterpoint through delicately textured dresses. In menswear, texture elevates what might otherwise read as restrained. Zegna presents refined tailoring in softly structured fabrics that add quiet depth, while Burberry and Tom Ford bring a contemporary edge to classic staples through leather and pieces with a glossy, modern finish. Zimmermann adds its own chapter through fluid draping and glossy finishes that give each look an unmistakable sense of occasion.

MODERN UTILITARIAN

Workwear has had a wardrobe upgrade. Utility dressing revisits its functional roots this season but arrives considerably more polished with cargo trousers, overshirts and sleeveless vests reimagined in lightweight fabrics and relaxed silhouettes that feel right for the city as much as anywhere else. At Zegna, the utilitarian aesthetic integrates seamlessly with the brand's signature elegance through structured outerwear and relaxed tailoring in earthy tones. H&M Atelier takes a more pared-back approach with cargo trousers, technical vests and layered looks drawn from contemporary workwear codes. Qasimi and Paul & Shark push the outdoor dimension further still, presenting garments that merge urban sensibility with exploration-ready practicality.

TOTAL MONOCHROME

One shade. Head to toe. No distractions. Tonal dressing asserts itself as one of the most quietly confident directions in contemporary menswear this season, stripping the look back to let cut, fabric and construction take all the credit. At Zegna, fluid suits and relaxed silhouettes move through cohesive palettes from olive to deep burgundy with the kind of ease that looks entirely effortless. Tom Ford brings monochrome into after-dark territory through sharply tailored eveningwear in rich fabrics and saturated tones. Brunello Cucinelli and H&M Atelier distil the concept into clean, minimalist outfits where tonal harmony does the talking, while Qasimi goes all-out with flowing silhouettes, texture and monochrome styling.

PURCHASING WITH PURPOSE

With the situation across the country remaining uncertain, there’s never been a better time to pull together and show we’re still very much a tight-knit community. It’s the perfect opportunity to show support for local businesses, so, we’ve come up with lots of options, from health and beauty brands to fashion, homewares and, of course, yummy locally-produced foods to help you do your bit for the local economy.

BEAUTY AND WELLNESS

Botany - Proudly Qatari, with an international slant, Botany says: “We travel the earth connecting and collaborating with sustainable farmers, artisans and communities to create ethical products based on nature’s botanical-wisdom.’’

From face oils and mists to body scrubs and skincare, every product is created from wild-crafted ingredients and every collection is handmade in small batches. Botany believes in the importance of sustainability, it’s not just a brand, it’s a way of thinking – fully vegan, with all plants, spices and herbs grown organically.

From candles to facial sprays, the concept of Botany is to highlight ancient medicinal ingredients and Middle Eastern spices that are proven to heal, nourish, feed, rejuvenate, replenish, hydrate and restore the health of the skin—our biggest organ.

Botany offers a range of skincare as well as beauty tools such as face rollers and Gua Sha pieces and slogan totes. There’s also a range of treatments available at the Botany Lab for both men and women.

GO: Visit bo-ta-ny.shop or @bo_ta_ny for more information.

Haneen Alsaify – Entrepreneur and influencer Haneen Alsaify brings her background in chemical engineering to the beauty industry. Founded in 2020, By Haneen Alsaify is a beauty brand rooted in clean formulations, cultural identity and purposeful innovation.

With a philosophy of ‘Beauty with Meaning’, the brand offers cosmetics for lips, face and eyes, including a massive range of lash solutions. There are also accessories such as make-up bags and pouches, alongside a hugely popular turban range and a selection of scarves.

GO: Visit haneenalsaify.com or @haneensalsaify for more information.

Pexora – If you’re seeking next-generation, carefully curated skincare that’s also hot on ethics and cruelty-free, Pexora is a good place to start. Alongside make-up bag staples like lip stains and lipsticks to complement numerous skin tones, the brand also specialises in AI-powered personalised skincare. You take a short quiz to determine what’s best suited to you and are offered solutions designed to work with the local climate, addressing areas of concern such as anti-ageing, acne and hydration. The products promise lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas that provide hydration without heaviness and the range includes cleansers, serums and moisturisers alongside lipsticks, foundation and BB creams. Delivery is fast from the online store.

GO: Visit pexorabeauty.com or @pexora_beauty for more information.

STAY. DINE. REVITALISE

HALF BOARD STAY FOR 2 FROM QR 590

Inclusions :

Stay with complimentary bed, breakfast and dinner for 2

Complimentary upgrade to the next available category

Early check in and late check out

Kids up to 12 years old stay for free Access to Purovel Spa & Sport

• Complimentary 30-minute personal training session for 2

• Complimentary access to the thermal facilities (sauna, steam & jacuzzi)

• 50% discount on spa treatments during stay

• Maximum capacity 2 adults and 1 child (0-12 years old) per room

• Kids up to 12 years old stay for free on existing beddings

• Complimentary upgrade, early check-in and late check- out subject to availability

• Valid for from 1 April to 18 May 2026

For more details, call: +974 4000 8800 www.swissotelcornichedoha.com

FARM-FRESH FOODS

Blessed Land Farm – A proudly Qatari concern that believes farming is about more than growing food; it’s about nurturing health, community and a sustainable future for generations to come.

Offering organic, sustainable, pesticide-free produce and poultry, Heritage eggs and duck eggs from birds that have room to roam, cow ghee, raw cream, raw unsalted butter, raw cow’s milk and laban, mushrooms (in season), organic soaps and cleaning products, a wide range of veggies (locally grown, some organic), a range of dates in season, herbs and Sidr honey.

You can visit to discover the truth of the saying that they’re more than a farm, they’re a community, adopt a beehive or order online.

GO: Visit blessedland.com.qa or @blessed.land.qa for more information.

Flow Farms – Fresh, local, sustainable – traditional plus vertical farming supplying salad leaves and more to local shops and restaurants. Described as the future of food, hydroponic vertical farming uses advanced technology to grow fresh, pesticide-free, soil-free produce that takes around 90% less water than traditional methods. You can also order from them for the home – cut and delivered the same day – and there’s the option for self-harvest (pick your own), which can be arranged for groups of up to 10 people – truly farm-to-table.

GO: Call 6000 4461 or visit flowfarms.qa for more information.

Torba Farm – Found in Al Khor, Torba is the brainchild of twins Mohammed and Fatma Al Khater and specialises in sustainable agriculture, crafting 100% pure, therapeutic-grade botanical products. Here, you’ll not only find tasty organic foods, great chocolate and Sidr honey but also beauty products, oils and more. There are barefoot walks, yoga sessions, a cool natural pool to paddle in, regular farmers’ markets and so much more.

Torba is a haven for wildlife and organic production that’s built a community of enthusiasts and sustainable entrepreneurship.

GO: Call 3116 6707 or visit @torba for more information.

Heenat Salma Farm – Also making an appearance in our places to relax feature, Heena offers organic seasonal vegetables, yoghurt, fresh labneh, bread and yummy mozzarella.

GO: Call 5096 0007 or visit @heenatsalma for more information.

FASHION & JEWELLERY

Ghada Albuainain Fine Jewelery – Originating in Doha from the young Qatari designer Ghada Rashid Al Buainain, this brand showcases peerless, urban creations inspired by the region. Ghada believes jewellery has a transformative quality whatever the outfit and she combines her innovative thinking with unconventional materials to create unique pieces. For example, her first collection, Pipe In Gold, was inspired by industrial pipes, while the Digital Garden Collection focusses on the captivating charm of flowers. You can find her classics and pieces with a regional twist on notjustalabel.com.

GO: Follow @ghadaalbuainainofficial for more information.

1309 Studios – A Qatar-based ready-to-wear label, presenting collections inspired by and in celebration of women. The brand’s aesthetic is described as ‘contemporary romance’, as imagined by founder and creative director, Ghada Al Subaey.

The looks are minimalist but still feminine, merging seasonal trends with a design perspective informed by the brand’s Qatari roots. Clean silhouettes, bold colours and artful prints are hallmarks with inspirations taken from art, nature and global culture. The pieces, including several abaya options, are modest with a contemporary edge and very adaptable. As well as 1309 Studios, Ghada is also the founder of The Cutting Studio, which is involved in fashion consultancy and garment production.

GO: Visit 1309studios.com or @1309studios for more information.

Yasmin Mansour – This eponymous contemporary fashion label is one of the biggest names on the Qatari design scene, with founder Yasmin having won the Fashion Trust Arabia award for evening wear in 2024. She blends traditional Qatari roots with sustainable, modern silhouettes and is known for tailored blazers, sleek suits and structured dresses. With inspiration taken from the local architecture, desert landscapes and pieces found in the National Museum of Qatar, her brand champions sustainability by upcycling leftovers and using deadstock fabrics. The latest collection is available now and she also creates one-off commission pieces.

GO: Visit yasminmansour.com or @yasminmansouroffical for more information.

HOMEWARE

Clay Encounters – A studio-workshop where you can take pottery classes that also sells gorgeous ceramics, all made right here in Qatar.

In 2017, founder Reema Abu Hassan returned to Qatar after earning a degree in architecture. During her studies, she’d been introduced to working with clay and, when she couldn’t find a pottery studio, she decided to start her own. Following an MFA in design at Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar, she set up Clay Encounters.

These days, the studios at The Pearl and Old Doha Port offer a multitude of classes, where you can create your own pieces, and also sell a selection of gorgeous homewares, designed and made in Qatar, to brighten any space.

GO: Visit clayencounters.com or @clay_encounters for more information.

Endow Crafts – Founded by Safra Nizam, Endow Crafts produces a whole range of personalised goodies from mugs for Teachers’ Day, patriotic hoodies for National Day and named onesies for that new baby in your life to journals, picture frames, totes, diffusers and more. They’re very hot on women’s empowerment and also run workshops in Cricut – a specialised cutting machine for personalisation – for which Safra is a Middle East Regional Ambassador.

Head here for great gifts or to treat yourself – we all need a bit of pampering now, right?

GO: Follow @endow_crafts for more information.

M7 – Located at Msheireb Downtown, M7 is Qatar’s epicentre for fashion, design and entrepreneurship. Here you’ll find FROMM, a luxury contemporary furniture and accessories brand founded in Msheireb and Milan, creating the ideal fusion of design and manufacturing. It’s also home to Studio 7, a gorgeous concept store that showcases the work of local and regional creatives. Look out for traditional sadu weaving, ceramics and clothing pieces both in exhibitions and for sale. As well as the chance to support Qatari talent, it’s a great opportunity to spot up-and-coming designers before they hit the big time.

GO: Visit m7.org.qa or @m7.qatar or @studio7.qa for more information.

BRINGING PRACTICAL LUXURY TO A FAMILY SUV

fact experienced Mitsubishi’s all-new Destinator to see how practicality, comfort and versatility come together in one family-focussed SUV.

There was something reassuringly straightforward about the way the new Mitsubishi Destinator introduced itself to us. No theatrics, no overcomplication – just a clear sense of purpose from the moment we approached it. Designed with Middle Eastern families in mind, this seven-seat SUV set out to balance everyday usability with long-distance comfort. During our test drive, it became clear this was a vehicle built to fit into real life. Whether navigating city traffic or stretching its legs on the highway, the Destinator felt like it delivered exactly what was needed, without overcomplicating the experience.

Proportions That Work

From the outside, the Destinator carried a presence that felt confident without trying too hard. Mitsubishi’s ‘Gravitas & Dynamism’ design translated into a wide, planted stance with sculpted lines that added just enough movement. The large grille and sharp LED headlights gave it a modern face, while the proportions leaned firmly into SUV territory – upright and practical. We appreciated the elevated driving position, which offered a clear view of the road ahead. The 214mm ground clearance added to that sense of capability, especially when the road surface became less predictable. The panoramic sunroof added a sense of openness, while the hands-free tailgate added convenience – with the overall cohesion standing out most. It looked at home everywhere – from daily errands to weekend getaways.

Room to Relax

Stepping inside, the Destinator shifted its focus towards comfort for everyone on board. The three-row layout offered genuine space across all seven seats and, during our time with it, sitting in the back row never felt like drawing the short straw. The synthetic leather seats featured an anti-temperature-rise treatment – a thoughtful touch in this climate – while dual-zone climate control, paired with vents for the second and third rows, kept everyone comfortable. We also noticed how many storage spaces had been integrated throughout the cabin. Twenty-five, to be exact – although we stopped counting after finding a place for everything from sunglasses to snacks to that one cable we always carry but never use.

Folding the second and third rows revealed a generous cargo area, making the Destinator just as capable of handling a family trip as it was an airport run with more luggage than planned.

Tech Without Fuss

Technology in the Destinator felt accessible, which meant we spent more time driving than figuring things out.

The 12.3-inch Smartphone-link Display Audio was clear and responsive, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto providing seamless connectivity. Paired with an eight-inch digital instrument cluster, the setup presented information in a clean format. One of the highlights during our drive was the Yamaha premium audio system. It delivered rich, balanced sound that made everything from podcasts to playlists more engaging –although we’ll admit we spent more time selecting songs than we did selecting routes.

Ambient lighting added a subtle sense of occasion during evening drives, while wireless charging and multiple USB ports reinforced the Destinator’s family-first approach.

Smooth and Steady

Under the bonnet, the Destinator was powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine producing 161hp and 250Nm of torque. On paper, those numbers suggested efficiency with a hint of enthusiasm – and on the road, that’s exactly how it behaved. Acceleration felt smooth and progressive, particularly in urban driving where the CVT transmission kept things refined. On the highway, the Destinator settled into a comfortable rhythm, delivering steady performance without feeling strained. It wasn’t trying to be a performance SUV – and it didn’t need to be.

With five drive modes, including gravel and tarmac, the vehicle adapted confidently when the surface changed. Active Yaw Control added stability through corners, giving the impression the vehicle was quietly helping out.

On the highway, the Destinator settled into a comfortable rhythm, delivering steady performance without feeling strained.”

Peace of Mind

Safety systems in the Destinator worked exactly as we’d expect – present, effective and never intrusive. Features like blindspot warning and rear cross-traffic alert added reassurance in busier traffic.

The 360-degree camera proved especially useful when manoeuvring in tighter spaces – a feature we quickly became reliant on. Parking sensors and additional driver aids further contributed to a sense of ease behind the wheel. What mattered most was how naturally these systems integrated into the drive. They supported rather than interrupted, allowing us to stay focussed while adding confidence.

Ready for the Road Ahead

By the end of our time with the Mitsubishi Destinator, one thing became clear: this is a vehicle designed for real-world living. It didn’t rely on gimmicks. Instead, it focussed on delivering comfort, practicality and capability in a way that felt honest and well executed.

It handled daily driving with ease, adapted to changing conditions without complaint and offered enough space to keep up with modern family life. For those looking for a dependable, wellrounded SUV that fits seamlessly into both routine and adventure, the Destinator sits comfortably in that space. ✤

A CLASSY INTERNATIONAL LAUNCH

The new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class receives the most extensive update in its history, elevating luxury to an even more exclusive level.

Recently launched in Stuttgart, the new, more sculptural interpretation of the Maybach grille – now 20% larger and available with a luminous surround – sets the tone. In selected markets, the Maybach emblem on the C‑pillar and, optionally, even the upright Mercedes Benz star atop the bonnet, are gracefully illuminated. For the first time, the Maybach wordmark is subtly illuminated within the grille frame. The double‑star headlamps are accentuated by touches of rose gold. All forged wheels in silver finish now feature a perfectly aligned Mercedes Benz star that’s always upright. The redesigned interior blends high craftsmanship with the graceful modernity of the MBUX Superscreen. New open‑pore wood, including beautifully grained oak, is paired with soft light, deep materials and smooth digital surfaces.

For the first time, a leather-free upholstery graces the interior in a range of colours, including the new high grade Mirville textile with its natural-fibre look, complemented by deep white piping and an exclusive open quilted diamond stitched graphic.

MANUFAKTUR Made to Measure offers personalisation without boundaries in terms of colours, finishes, wheel trims and more. Automatic comfort doors, Executive rear seats, a dedicated refrigerated compartment and silver‑plated Robbe & Berking flutes reinforce the feeling of curated indulgence.

The new electrified eight- and six-cylinder engines offer commanding yet effortless performance, supported by mild‑hybrid technology for smooth response and energy recuperation. In selected markets, the celebrated V12 remains available.

The latest MBUX generation, (the brand's infotainment system) makes its Maybach debut with the warmth of Maybach specific graphics, an enhanced Zero Layer and the MBUX Virtual Assistant powered by generative AI. Regular OTA updates evolve with time.

A sophisticated sensor suite combined with a powerful new computing architecture enables advanced driving and parking assistance.

The Night Series design package introduces a darker, more contemporary interpretation of Maybach elegance.

The combustion range has been extensively re‑engineered and readied for future emissions regulations. At the summit of the lineup sits the latest evolution of the eight‑cylinder (M 177 Evo) in the Mercedes Maybach S 680, delivering 450kW + 17kW and 850Nm + 205Nm of torque for greater power and sharper response. Technical upgrades and the mild hybrid technology (ISG 2.0) ensure agile, linear power delivery.

In the Mercedes Maybach S 580, the now more powerful V8 develops 395kW + 17kW and 750Nm + 205Nm of torque. And in the Mercedes Maybach S 580 e with EQ Hybrid Technology, the revised six‑cylinder petrol engine (M 256 Evo) responds with greater immediacy.

Customers benefit from an all-electric range of around 100km, along with stronger electric mid‑range acceleration thanks to increased torque in partial‑load situations. ✤

LOVE ON THE ROCKS

Jeep Middle East has introduced the Wrangler Rockslide as the next drop in the Twelve 4 Twelve programme – the year-long celebration of the brand’s heritage, capability and culture that coincides with its 85th anniversary.

The Rockslide offers a new expression of the iconic off road SUV that pairs rugged capability with distinctive design details. Striking exterior contrasts include an Anvil roof and grille surround with Blue Agave accents and a new Indigo and Denim interior paired with Wrangler’s full colour palette for added personalisation.

Following the February drop of the Jeep Wrangler Willys 392, the Twelve 4 Twelve programme continues with the introduction of this latest configuration. The series presents a new interpretation of the Wrangler each month, bringing fresh design elements while staying true to the model’s legendary capability.

Built on the Wrangler Sahara and Rubicon platforms, the Rockslide configuration combines bold exterior contrasts with a fresh interior treatment, offering drivers a distinctive take on the legendary Wrangler.

On the exterior, the model features an Anvil roof and grille surround, complemented by contrasting accents against the body's colour. The configuration is available across Wrangler’s full colour palette, giving customers the flexibility to personalise the vehicle to their preferred style.

Inside, Rockslide introduces a unique Indigo and Denim interior, delivering a modern look that adds a distinctive feel to the cabin while complementing Wrangler’s bold exterior. Together, these elements create a Wrangler that feels both rugged and expressive, combining the legendary off road capability the Jeep brand is known for with a new level of style and individuality. Wrangler Rockslide marks the March drop in Twelve 4 Twelve.

GCC residents can now register their interest in the model through the Twelve 4 Twelve Middle East website.

For nearly 85 years, Jeep has been a global leader in SUVs, delivering legendary off road capability, advanced technology and exceptional versatility for those who seek fun and adventure. With a commitment to innovation, the Jeep brand offers a diverse lineup of vehicles powered by internal combustion engines, hybrid technology and all electric drivetrains. Built on a heritage of freedom, adventure, authenticity and passion, Jeep continues to set the standard for rugged and refined vehicles designed to conquer it all. ✤

GO: VISIT MIDEAST.JEEP.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

DINING

• Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (set menu)

• Mr. Tailor set menu included

• Crust: 8:00 AM – 2:00 AM + snacks (11:00 AM – 6:00 PM)

LEISURE

• Pool & Beach Access (8:00 AM – Sunset)

• 1 Cabana (subject to availability)

• Sports classes, Rixy Kids Club & arcade

EXCLUSIVE BENEFITS

• Complimentary Access to Meryal Waterpark

• Free upgrade to Sea View (subject to availability)

• Early check-in + Breakfast

• Late check-out until 6 PM + Lunch

• 50% OFF Spa Treatments

ADDED VALUE

• 25% OFF Mr. Tailor & Room Service

• 20% OFF your next stay

A FUSS ABOUT NOTHING

The world's fastest-growing smartphone and consumer audio brand, Nothing, has launched its Phone (4a) in the region.

The brand also unveiled the Headphone (a), a playful addition to its over ear audio lineup, designed for a generation that requires tech products that look, sound and feel different.

The Headphone (a) comes in four bold colour options: pink, yellow, white and black and is packed with new features including an industry-leading five-day battery life on a single charge.

The Phone (4a) is available in black, white, blue and pink. The upper section of its transparent design highlights a central camera, red recording light and the brand new Glyph Bar, emphasising functionality, while the lower section reveals internal structures beneath transparent glass. Enhanced metal buttons, a reinforced camera bump and a strengthened frame deliver greater durability, with IP64 protection and custom submersion support up to 25cm for 20 minutes.

Masterful Photography

The Nothing Phone (4a) delivers a best in class camera system, featuring a 50MP 3.5x OIS periscope lens, a 50MP OIS main sensor, a versatile Sony ultra wide and a 32MP wide angle selfie camera. Capture every detail from 0.6x to 70x zoom, from expansive landscapes to true to life portraits. Powered by the flagship TrueLens Engine 4, Phone (4a) brings cutting-edge computational photography with AI, including Ultra XDR photos co developed with Google, enhancing highlights and shadows for natural contrast, now also supported in motion photos and directly shareable on Instagram. A fully reimagined camera experience includes expert-designed presets, finely adjustable professional settings, AI Photo Eraser to remove unwanted objects and seven new Nothing watermarks for creative expression.

The Latest Snapdragon 7 Series Platform

Powered by the latest Snapdragon 7s Gen 4, the phone offers 7% faster CPU and graphics, and 10% better power efficiency than its predecessor. It also delivers significantly faster data speeds. Its AI performance is up to 92.5% faster than the Phone (2a), utilising the

Snapdragon Neural Intellect and 6th gen Qualcomm AI Engine. Gamers benefit from smooth performance, with BGMI running at 120Hz and PUBG at 90Hz.

The Evolution of the Glyph Interface

The Nothing Phone (4a) introduces a refined Glyph Bar with 63 mini LEDs in seven square light zones, each square precisely controlled for pure, uniform illumination up to 3,500 nits, 40% brighter than the Glyph Interface on Phone (3a).

Nothing OS 4.1, based on Android 16, delivers a cleaner, more intuitive interface with redesigned icons, a refreshed lock screen and a deeper dark mode. Multitasking is easier with floating apps and resizable Quick Settings, while widgets are more flexible than ever. Customisation now includes hiding apps and creating lightweight widgets via the Playground, helping you stay productive, creative and in control every day.

A Flagship Display

The Nothing Phone (4a) features a 6.78 inch AMOLED display with 1.5K resolution (1224 × 2720) and 440PPI, delivering exceptional detail across every inch. With peak brightness of 4,500 nits (HDR) and 1,600 nits (HMB), content remains clear even under direct sunlight, while Ultra HDR photos and videos shine with brilliant highlights and deep AMOLED blacks. A 120Hz adaptive refresh rate and 2,500Hz touch sampling ensure smooth interactions and instant responsiveness, while 2,160Hz PWM dimming reduces eye strain. The screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 7i.

Listen, Watch, Create and Play

The Nothing Phone (4a) is powered by a 5,080mAh battery, supporting up to 17 hours of mixed use for music, video, gaming and messaging. Rapid 50W Fast Charging refills the battery to 60% in just 30 minutes. ✤

GO: VISIT INTL.NOTHING.TECH FOR MORE INFORMATION.

MIRROR, MIRROR

The latest in future health tech is a smart mirror that can tell how you’re really feeling.

Recently shown at CES (Consumer Electronics Show) in Las Vegas, the NuraLogix Anura Magic Mirror can calculate a range of health-related data, just by looking at your face. The gadget comes in the form of a 21.5 inch table top mirror screen that analyses facial blood flow information to accurately calculate a host of vital signs and risk assessments through a 30 second facial scan. The device works by using its onboard camera to detect vascular blood flow under the facial skin, then transferring that data to NuraLogix’s patented cloud based Affective AI engine, Deepaffex, to generate dozens of health parameters.

Areas analysed include pulse rate, irregular heartbeat, breathing rate, body temperature, blood pressure and vascular capacity. With the data obtained, it can calculate your risk for conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, stroke, fatty liver disease and various heart conditions. It can also provide information on the mental stress index.

The device works alongside an app and also provides an overall wellness score based on the most essential vitals. ✤

GO: VISIT NURALOGIX.AI FOR MORE INFORMATION.

WEIGHING UP YOUR HEALTH

The Withings BodyScan 2 is a super-smart system that promises to reveal the invisible, so you can fix the reversible.

It claims that, in just 90 seconds, with 60+ biomarkers, you’ll be able to decode the silent signals your body sends, reverse bad trends, enhance resilience and vitality and secure your future. Using information such as hypertension notifications, deep metabolic and cellular assessments and advanced cardiovascular analysis – the most predictive biomarkers for longevity – it produces your Health Trajectory, a personalised predictive model that helps you track and visualise how your daily choices may affect your healthspan.

Deep metabolic and cellular analysis provides an in depth assessment for the early detection of metabolic slowdown or inflammation. A six-zone breakdown of muscle and fat distribution, early detection of glycaemic impact, cellular age assessment and pre diabetes prevention area are all covered. BodyScan 2 also utilises an array of ultra high frequencies sent through a sophisticated network of electrodes embedded in both the retractable handle and the tempered glass plate. This multi point measurement system creates a complete circuit through the entire body – arms, torso, abdomen and legs – allowing it to penetrate cell membranes for unparalleled precision. By evaluating key indicators of cardiovascular health, BodyScan 2 provides a comprehensive overview, showing how lifestyle factors (chronic stress, inactivity and more) may affect your heart and helping you spot risks to optimise longevity. Core heart signals are analysed in real time and the machine

promises the power of breakthrough sensors working in sync. At a glance results are available via an LCD display and there’s a dedicated companion app for digging into your metrics. ✤

GO: VISIT WITHINGS.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

THE ULTIMATE FLOORSTANDING SPEAKERS

Bang & Olufsen has introduced the very limited edition Beolab 90 Monarch, a speaker with unprecedented power and acoustic performance.

Forged from Scandinavian aluminium and oak, these high end floor standing speakers seamlessly adapt to your living space and music preferences. They are shaped to optimise performance and carefully engineered for the best possible sound every time.

Active Room Compensation acoustically optimises the sound with technology analysing your space to adjust for speaker placement, as well as walls and furniture, to ensure a sensational listening experience.

Beam Width Control gives you the power to control the sound dispersion to suit your needs. A narrow sound beam offers precise delivery to a particular listening spot. Wide is perfect for movies, while 360 degree omnidirectional sound is superb for parties. And Beam Direction Control has been created for flexible living spaces enabling you define one of five directions as the acoustic front. Eighteen state of the art Scan Speak drivers are placed in carefully defined positions for maximum performance. Each speaker packs a combination of 14 channels of the latest generation ICEpower amplifiers and four class D amplifiers.

The main cabinet itself weighs 65 kg and is solidly cast aluminium which is then clad in an elastic and semi transparent fabric that lets you have a glimpse of all the drivers.

The crowns are crafted from solid aluminium rods, pulled,

stretched, anodised and polished to accentuate the unique suspension of the fabric covers.

For connoisseurs there’s the option to customise your speakers and you can connect them to any TV with Beoconnect Core. ✤

GO: VISIT BANG-OLUFSEN.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

SOUNDS GOOD, LOOKS GREAT

The latest turntable release from Technics is a sharp looking beast thanks to a collaboration with New York fashion and lifestyle brand Aimé Leon Dore

The Technics SL 1200M7ALD is a special edition of the existing SL 1200MK7 direct drive turntable, which was released in 2021. Aimed at audiophiles and DJs, it boasts the highest possible sound quality and wide ranging DJ functions.

The turntable offers audiophile grade signal to noise ratio, rotational accuracy and powerful torque with a newly developed direct drive motor, turntable platter, chassis and other components. Digital motor control technology allows torque and brake speed to be adjusted individually on four levels, including the pitch control function and the reverse play function. Technics says this deck is one of its best yet and thanks to the collaboration with Aimé Leon Dore, it’s presented in the brand’s signature deep green finish, along with bespoke gold detailing. The partnership adds a cool edge to the tech brand’s offering with Aimé Leon Dore recognised for its classic New York City street style looks influenced by hip-hop and basketball.✤

GO: VISIT US.TECHNICS.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

In Conversation with… Paris Aktypis

The new GM of Banyan Tree Doha talks team development, service benchmarks and plans for the future.

Congratulations on your promotion to General Manager. You’ve been with Banyan Tree Doha since the pre-opening stage, what were the major challenges you faced at the beginning?

Opening a 341-key, mixed-use property required synchronising construction timelines, recruitment and brand standards simultaneously. In the first 12 months, our focus was stabilising operations, onboarding and training a large team and establishing service benchmarks. The strong support and partnership of our owning company, Doha Oasis, was instrumental during this phase. Achieving consistent guest satisfaction while operating in a ramp-up environment was the main challenge, but within the first operational, year we successfully established the foundation for sustainable performance and brand delivery.

What are the major changes you’ve observed over the five years of operation and what are you proudest of?

Over five years, the hotel has moved from an opening phase to a stable luxury operation with stronger brand recognition and commercial performance. We have significantly strengthened guest experience metrics, improved operational efficiency and built a more cohesive leadership culture. What I am most proud of is the development of our team and the consistency of service delivery, which continues to position Banyan Tree Doha as a distinctive urban sanctuary in the city.

What are your plans for the hotel going forward – are there any upcoming changes or developments you can share with us?

Our focus moving forward is on three pillars: commercial growth,

brand positioning and guest experience innovation. We are strengthening distribution strategies, enhancing our wellness and culinary offerings and repositioning certain outlets to better align with market demand. At the same time, we remain committed to maintaining Banyan Tree Residences Doha as one of the city’s most luxurious residential addresses, while introducing new F&B (food and beverage) concepts to further enrich the hotel’s lifestyle and dining experiences. These initiatives aim to strengthen revenue performance while preserving the sanctuary ethos of the Banyan Tree brand.

Over a 20-plus-year career, you’ve worked in various areas of hotel operation. Which would you go back to for a day, and why? If I could return to one department for a day, it would likely be the front office. It is where the guest journey begins and where service culture is most visible. The front office requires precision, emotional intelligence and operational awareness, and it provides immediate insight into guest expectations and satisfaction.

On a more personal note, you originally studied music. What made you move into the hospitality field and do you still play?

Although I originally studied music, I was drawn to hospitality for its dynamic, people-centric nature and the opportunity to create memorable experiences. In many ways, both fields share a similar foundation, which is attention to detail, rhythm and the ability to connect emotionally with an audience. While my professional path evolved, music remains a personal passion and I still enjoy playing whenever time allows. ✤

WHERE FUSION AND RITUALS COMBINE

Mohamad Sleiman, Executive Chef at The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl Qatar, talks about feeling at home in the kitchen and combining local and international ingredients.

What is your earliest kitchen memory and is this something that formed your decision to become a chef?

My earliest kitchen memory goes back to my childhood, standing beside my family in the kitchen, watching simple ingredients transform into something that brought everyone together. I remember the aromas, the patience and the respect given to food, nothing was rushed, nothing was wasted. Even at that age, I was fascinated by how cooking could create emotion and connection. That experience stayed with me and naturally shaped my path. Becoming a chef wasn’t a sudden decision; it was a gradual realisation that the kitchen felt like home.

Those early moments taught me that cooking is not just about technique, but about care, discipline and storytelling and that philosophy continues to guide me in my career today.

Please tell us about the outlets at The St. Regis Marsa Arabia?

If you had to choose, which would be your favourite that most represents your style of cooking?

The St. Regis Marsa Arabia outlets are: Zorba, which celebrates Greek and Mediterranean cuisine; Bay View for international cuisine and breakfast for guests; Lobby Lounge and Sailors Lounge which support the St. Regis brand rituals – afternoon tea,

refined social gatherings and evening relaxation; and Bay View

Pool Bar, a relaxed, resort-style extension of the Bay View dining experience, designed to capture the spirit of laid-back luxury by the marina and poolside.

Of course, we also offer room service with a curated international menu, allowing guests to enjoy breakfast, all-day dining selections and late-night options without leaving their rooms.

And the Banquet and Events operation at The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island plays a central role in delivering bespoke culinary experiences for weddings, corporate events, social gatherings, and private celebrations.

As the Executive Chef of The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, the outlet that most represents my personal style of cooking is Bay View. It’s an international cuisine outlet where the menu is built on fusion dishes inspired by both imported products and local ingredients. What defines this outlet for me is the way we take highquality international products and inject them with a strong local identity, particularly through the use of locally sourced vegetables from Al Safwa Farm. This approach allows us to truly embrace a farm-to-table philosophy within a luxury hospitality environment. My cooking style is ingredient driven, focussed on freshness, seasonality and respect for the product. Bay View gives me the flexibility to express this philosophy by creating dishes that are globally inspired, yet grounded in the local landscape.

If you could choose anyone, living or dead, who would be your ideal dinner guests and what would you cook for them?

Alain Ducasse represents discipline, restraint and absolute respect for the product. For him, I would cook something very pure and precise – a perfectly cooked line-caught fish, lightly seasoned,

with seasonal vegetables sourced locally and a delicate sauce. Massimo Bottura represents emotion, creativity and storytelling through food. For him, I would cook a modern reinterpretation of a traditional dish – something rooted in memory and heritage but presented in a contemporary way. The dish would connect past and present, tradition and innovation, which is a philosophy I deeply believe in.

Nobu Matsuhisa, from Japan, represents balance, restraint and the harmony between technique and flavour. His cuisine shows how simplicity, when executed correctly, becomes luxury. For him, I would cook a clean, refined seafood dish – perhaps line-caught fish lightly cured or grilled, paired with seasonal vegetables and subtle Middle Eastern accents.

What is your signature dish? How was it developed, and what, in your view, makes it popular?

My signature dish is Safi Fish with Moghrabieh, Saffron Bisque & Dried Lime Espuma. It was developed as a way to combine local ingredients and regional flavours with classical French technique. Safi is a delicate local fish, so it’s cooked gently to preserve its natural flavour and texture. Moghrabieh, which is traditionally rustic and comforting, is reworked into a smooth French-style bisque to bring depth and elegance. The dried lime espuma adds acidity and aroma, lifting the richness and creating balance. What makes the dish popular, in my view, is its contrast and harmony. Guests recognise familiar regional elements, but experience them in a refined, contemporary way. It feels authentic yet sophisticated, with clean flavours, strong identity and a clear sense of place – something that resonates with both local and international guests. ✤

THREE DIRECTIONS, ONE TABLE

At SUSHISAMBA Doha, Sirine Boudjadi experiences a confident mix of Japan, Brazil and Peru that actually makes sense once it lands on the plate.

Beyond the fact that it sits inside Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail (so yes, it’s polished), SUSHISAMBA Doha doesn’t do ‘quiet dinner’. This is a highenergy spot with a very clear, confident identity: Japan, Brazil and Peru in one menu, delivered as small plates you’re meant to share, steal, argue over and reorder. We can tell straight away, just from reading through it. The contrasts are obvious: crisp next to charred, citrus cutting through richness, clean flavours sitting beside something smoky or bold. No big ‘fusion’ speech, just combinations that genuinely make sense. And the room moves at that same pace.

Everything is warm-toned and boldly designed: amber-toned palette, wood textures and metallic finishes, sculptural columns and perforated details that throw moving patterns across the room. At the centre, a tree-like structure above the bar instantly draws our eye. The terrazzo floor keeps things graphic, the lighting stays golden and the open kitchen and sushi counter bring a constant sense of movement. It’s also not the kind of restaurant that relies on the playlist alone. The night we visited, a violinist was doing the rounds and the entertainment shifts depending on the night (DJ sometimes, saxophonist other times).

Translation: SUSHISAMBA Doha stays loud, lively and switched on, even if you’re just here for dinner.

Made For Sharing

There’s barely time to figure out who ordered what before hands start reaching across the table. Suddenly it’s less ‘one plate each’ and more a free-for-all. First on, the Pão de Queijo (round cheese breads). Warm, chewy, properly cheesy, they're gone in seconds. But the real hook is that truffle honey butter. Sweet, earthy, slightly over the top, in the best way. The Wagyu Gyoza come in right after and shift the mood. The bottoms are crisp and golden, the filling is juicy and that kabocha purée softens everything just enough so it never tips into heavy.

The Lobster Taquitos switch up the texture completely. Crunch first, then soft lobster and avocado, then that honey-chipotle kick that lands sweet before it turns smoky. Messy, seriously addictive, impossible to stop at one. We also try one of the newer menu additions, the King Crab salad, and it might be the smartest order on the table. Not the loudest, but the one that keeps it all balanced. Delicate crab, fresh vegetables, creamy Japanese mayo. Clean, light and exactly what we need between indulgent bites.

Once the starters are out of the way, we move on to two of the newer mains. From the Robata section first, we try the Tenderloin with foie gras and it arrives like it knows it’s the main character. The beef is ridiculously tender, the pâté melts straight into it, and the spicy soy cuts through with just enough salt and heat to keep it from feeling too rich. From the Large Plates section, the Braised Lamb leans full into comfort mode. Soft to the point of falling apart, balanced by Peruvian corn and fragrant garlic rice… it's very easy to keep eating even when we’re technically full already. Desserts keep the momentum going. The Burnt Cheesecake looks sharply structured: thick, dense, creamy, topped with sharp shards of dark tuile and crunchy caramelised cancha. It’s all about contrast: smooth vs crisp, rich vs bitter. The Lemon & Yuzu Pie goes the opposite direction. Lighter, brighter, more delicate. Mango

sauce pooling underneath, citrus notes coming through first, then that soft cream that rounds everything out. It feels fresh, almost like a reset after the heavier plates, which is kind of risky… Because suddenly, a round two doesn’t sound like a bad idea at all! ✤

GO:

A DOHA FAVOURITE FOR SPANISH DINING

We stepped into a space that felt as though a corner of Spain had been carefully transported to Doha. The Cellar leans into a rustic, cellar-inspired aesthetic with exposed brick walls, dark timber beams and shelves lined with bottles that catch the light. Warm, ambient lighting illuminated the wooden tables, while patterned tiles and subtle Spanish touches brought the space to life. It genuinely felt like a little piece of Spain in Doha, easily one of the most authentic spots in the city.

We were immediately welcomed by our server, Yin, and shown to our table in a quiet spot beside the window. Shortly after, Chef Adria came over to introduce himself. Originally from Valencia, he explained he had been in Doha for nearly two years, bringing with him a clear sense of pride in his work. There was an easy confidence in how he spoke about the menu, grounded in tradition but with a sense of creativity that keeps things interesting. Yin, our friendly waitress, guided us through the menu with a natural rhythm, allowing each dish to arrive and settle before the next. We began with warm bread served alongside romesco and garlic, a simple starter that reflected the kitchen’s approach to flavour. The bread was soft with a light crust, while the romesco, made from roasted peppers, delivered a deep, slightly smoky richness, sharpened by the edge of garlic.

Tapas Done With Care

The Padrón Peppers followed, lightly salted, their skins gave way easily while retaining just enough structure. Alongside them, the Gambas al Ajillo arrived still gently sizzling, the oil fragrant with garlic and a hint of chilli. The prawns were tender with a slight bite, picking up the flavour of the oil without feeling too heavy. A plate of Queso Manchego introduced a firmer, more savoury note. The slightly crumbly Spanish classic had a nutty depth that built gradually. Alongside it, the Beef Croquetas were crisp on the outside with a smooth, velvety filling. The beef was folded through the potato interior, adding flavour and umami. The Pulpo, an octopus dish, was cooked with care, avoiding the chewiness that often occurs. A light char on the outside added a subtle smokiness that worked well with the natural sweetness of the meat, while still staying soft and delicate. Around this point, we paused and took in the room more fully. A business lunch was being served, drawing a mix of residents and regular diners who moved easily between the stations and their tables. The restaurant itself is laid out in sections: a slightly elevated non-smoking section suited to families, a lower section where smoking is permitted, and a line of high stools beside the kitchen that lend themselves to a more casual style of dining, ideal for sharing smaller plates and conversation. We were seated at a standard table, but it was clear that The Cellar offers a range of experiences depending on how you want to spend your time there.

Technique Over Excess

As we moved on to the mains, the Carrillera de Res (slow-cooked beef cheek) arrived and immediately stood out. This was the high

point of the afternoon. The meat had been slow-cooked until it fell apart under the fork, tender and silky, with each bite rich but not heavy. The sauce had clearly been reduced over time, concentrating flavour into something deep and rounded, coating the beef rather than masking it. There was a quiet confidence in the way it had been handled, no excess, no unnecessary embellishment, just excellent technique.

The Paella Negra anchored the table. The rice was cooked really well, each grain staying separate while taking on the squid ink and stock. The flavour had a clear taste of the sea, slightly salty and mineral, but it built gently rather than hitting you all at once. It was simple, but done with care.

We finished with desserts that stayed true to the restaurant’s understated approach: a cheesecake that was smooth and lightly set, and a sponge cake that offered a softer, more airy contrast. Nothing over the top, just well balanced and a lovely way to round off the meal.

The Cellar has long been part of Doha’s dining fabric, a familiar name, particularly among Qatar Airways crew and those who have spent years in the city. Yet it hasn’t slipped into complacency. The energy in the kitchen, driven by Chef Adria, and the ease of the service keep it feeling current. It remains a place people return to not out of habit, but because it continues to deliver, standing comfortably alongside the best tapas-style restaurants in Doha. ✤

IN PRAISE OF A PROPER STEAKHOUSE

Big cuts, bold flavours, no half measures. Sirine Boudjadi heads to Chicago Rare and finds a steakhouse that plays it right.

There are very few places in Doha I'll visit without much convincing and Four Seasons Resort and Residences at The Pearl-Qatar is one of them. Blame it on Chef Pâtissier Nicolas Rouzaud's Maison de Haute Pâtisserie and its outrageously good cookies, but this time I had a different reason to make the trip: Chicago Rare, the hotel's steakhouse. I'd brunched here before and liked it well enough, but dinner is a different story entirely. Even the atmosphere is different. The main dining space is all deep crimson walls, tufted burgundy banquettes, amber-lit gold curtains and oversized Art Deco chandeliers that look like they were plucked straight from a 1920s Chicago supper club. Black-and-white photographs line the walls, showing jazz musicians, street scenes and portraits, the effect is less themed restaurant and more genuine time capsule. Then there's the dryageing cabinet near the entrance, a glass-fronted showcase crowned with a bull sculpture, where cuts are hung and displayed. Wednesday through Saturday evenings, a live jazz band takes over for Swing & Sizzle nights, where the music is as carefully considered as the menu.

Speaking of the menu, it spans both à la carte options and a daily chef's selection. On this occasion, the kitchen put together a bespoke mix of dishes. First up, the Red Endive Salad with caramelised nuts, goat cheese, peaches, pomegranate and honey dressing. Endives and I have never really seen eye to eye, but this version changed things. The bitterness is kept in check by the sweetness of the peaches and pomegranate, the creaminess of the cheese, and a honey dressing that is genuinely good.

Another signature starter here is the Veal Bone Marrow, Chicago style, served with giardiniera pickles and brioche toast. For the uninitiated, bone marrow is the soft, fatty tissue found inside the bone, roasted until it melts into something deeply savoury and indulgent. The giardiniera condiment cuts through the richness nicely and the brioche toast is the perfect vehicle for all of it. It’s now time for the main event: the USDA Prime Meat Board. And what really makes it stand out is the variety. You’ve got tenderloin, striploin, flank steak and a beautifully barbecue-smoked brisket, all on one board, each cut bringing its own personality. The tenderloin melts in the mouth, buttery and delicate. The flank delivers that satisfying chew and deeper, beefier flavour. And the brisket? Pure smoke and comforting. On the side: onion rings, fries and a mac and cheese that honestly deserves its own spotlight. Golden, bubbling, perfectly rich… I could’ve easily ordered it as a main and walked away completely satisfied, no hesitation. The garlic mayo deserves a special mention too. Supposedly for the onion rings, but let’s be real, it ends up everywhere. For something even more indulgent, the Willis Burger is an obvious choice. A 170g Wagyu patty, topped with American cheddar, lettuce, tomato, red onion. Nothing excessive, just a lineup that makes sense. On the side, the truffle duck fat fries bring the extra touch. To wrap things up, two desserts we probably don't need but are never going to pass on. The Chicago Style Cheesecake arrives in a properly generous slice, very much designed for sharing.

Topped with a honey blueberry compote and confit lemon zest, it leans rich and jammy, balanced by a smooth, creamy base. The lemon cuts through to keep things from tipping too far. A classic, done exactly right. But the real standout is the Sticky Toffee Pudding. The warm toffee sauce is poured tableside, soaking

straight into the sponge, which somehow stays light and tender. On top, a brown butter banana ice cream slowly melts into the heat, folding into the sauce as it goes. The perfect end to a meal that’s been indulgence from beginning to end.

Tea in hand, things start to slow down. The table, once full, is cleared, the meal giving way to something lighter. It’s a good moment to take stock: what began as an easy excuse to return ended up far more convincing. Safe to say, it won’t just be the pâtisserie pulling me back next time. ✤

10 SPOTS TO UNWIND IN QATAR

With everything going on at the moment, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed or unsettled. Taking a step back, even briefly, can help you regain some balance. Here are 10 spots in Qatar to pause, breathe and reset.

ARTIST CAFE

If you need to switch off without overthinking it, Artist Cafe makes it easy. You grab a coffee, pick up a brush and just start. No pressure, no rules. Between painting sessions, workshops and a relaxed setting, it’s less about the result and more about zoning out for a while, exactly what your mind needs.

GO: CALL 7476 8111 (WEST BAY BRANCH), 6690 6770 (PEARL QATAR) OR VISIT @ARTISTCAFE_QATAR ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

BRAVA STUDIO

When your mind feels overloaded, moving your body can help shift things and there’s nothing like dance to boost those feel-good endorphins. Located at 22 La Croisette, Porto Arabia at The Pearl, Brava Studio offers a wide range of classes, from salsa, jive and tango to commercial dance, ballet and even aerial silks, perfect for releasing tension and helping you reset.

GO: CALL 4002 2000 OR VISIT @BRAVASTUDIO.CO ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

HEENAT SALMA FARM

If you’re craving a proper break from the city, head about 30 to 45 minutes outside Doha to this eco-farm set across 50 hectares. Between sustainable agriculture, farm-to-table meals and regular yoga sessions, it’s an easy place to slow your pace, breathe a little deeper and reconnect with something quieter and more grounding.

GO: CALL 5096 0007 OR FOLLOW @HEENATSALMA ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART PARK

Just next to the Museum of Islamic Art, MIA Park is one of the easiest places in the city to slow things down. Framed by I.M. Pei’s striking architecture and stretching out towards the water, the park opens onto wide lawns, palm-lined paths and uninterrupted views of the Gulf. You can move between the museum’s calm, contemplative galleries and the outdoors, then extend the moment with a gentle walk along the Doha Corniche, letting the sea breeze and open horizon do the rest.

GO: VISIT @MIAQATAR OR WWW.MIA.ORG.QA FOR MORE INFORMATION.

BOULDER

To stay active while clearing your mind, head to Boulder at iCONIC 2022, Qatar’s first indoor climbing gym. With dedicated bouldering walls, coaching sessions and routes for all levels, it’s designed to challenge both your body and your focus. The mix of physical effort and problem-solving makes it easy to stay present, exactly what you need to disconnect for a while.

GO: CALL 4490 9096 OR VISIT @BOULDER.QA ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

MUD POTTERY STUDIO (GATE MALL)

Need a break from the news? MUD Pottery Studio is all about slowing things down. Weekly classes cover handbuilding, wheel-throwing and glazing, with support all along the way. It’s hands-on, messy in a good way, and surprisingly calming. You focus, you breathe and for a while, everything else seems to fade out.

GO: CALL 3035 7801 OR VISIT @MUDSTUDIO.QA ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

OLYMPIC CYCLING TRACK

If you need to clear your head, this is one of the most effective ways to do it. Located along Al Khor Road, the Olympic Cycling Track stretches for around 33km and holds a Guinness World Record as the longest continuous cycle path in the world. Whether you go for a long ride or a short spin, the fully dedicated, traffic-free route allows you to settle into a rhythm and switch off completely.

GO: VISIT WWW.QATARCYCLING.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION.

SOULHIIT

If your brain won’t switch off, move your body. At SoulHIIT, it’s not just about pushing hard, it’s about balance. One day you’re letting it all out through fast-paced sessions, the next you’re slowing things down and resetting your mind with yoga, stretching and even sound healing.

GO: CALL 3301 4448 OR VISIT @SOULHIIT ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

OXYGEN PARK

Tucked inside Education City, Oxygen Park was designed with well-being in mind. Think shaded paths, green spaces and gently contoured terrain that naturally encourages slow walks and mindful movement. Perfect when you need to clear your head without going too far.

GO: CALL 4454 0284 OR VISIT WWW.QF.ORG.QA/ COMMUNITY/OXYGEN-PARK FOR MORE INFORMATION.

QATAR READS (READING SPACE AT DOHA FESTIVAL CITY)

The current climate feels overwhelming, and it’s not just adults who feel it, children do, too. Qatar Reads’ interactive booth at Doha Festival City offers a calm, engaging space where families can slow things down together. With storytelling sessions, reading activities and a focus on building simple routines at home, it’s a gentle way to create a sense of comfort and connection during uncertain times.

GO: VISIT WWW.QATARREADS.QA OR @QATARREADS ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

FASHION CAPITALS OF THE WORLD

Some cities are known for their food, their history or their skylines, but if style is your travel inspiration, then look no further than the Big Four – Milan, New York, London and Paris. The undisputed top fashion destinations of the world, each city has its own attitude, its own rules and its own style statement. From elegant boutiques and historic fashion houses to buzzing street trends, explore the capitals shaping how the world dresses!

MILAN, ITALY

Few cities live and breathe fashion quite like Milan. Yes, it's Italy’s financial hub, but it’s also its style capital, where ‘la bella figura’ – the art of making a good impression – is a way of life. Home to some of the biggest names in fashion, including Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Armani and Versace (the list goes on), style here is all about precision and elegance. Think beautifully cut tailoring, fluid dresses, polished leather shoes and structured handbags, worn with a relaxed confidence that only Italians seem to master. Coffee bars become informal catwalks in the morning with people stopping for a quick ‘caffè al banco’ (espresso at the counter) before work.

At the heart of the city lies the Quadrilatero della Moda, Milan’s luxury fashion district bordered by four main shopping streets – the chic Via Montenapoleone, the beautiful pedestrian-only Via della Spiga, the fashionable Via Alessandro Manzoni and the elegant Corso Venezia. Nearby, Via Sant'Andrea and Via Gesù are just as good with polished façades and boutique window displays that are practically art installations. Even a casual afternoon stroll here can feel like a fashion show. A short distance away, the glass-domed Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world's oldest shopping arcades, is a must, blending historic architecture with luxury retail (and impeccably dressed locals).

Yet Milan's appeal goes beyond glamourous labels. For a different perspective, head to the charming Brera district, where you'll find independent ateliers, family-run leather shops and emerging Italian designers, alongside contemporary galleries and a lovely botanical garden.

For a deeper look at Milan’s design legacy, the Armani/Silos fashion museum charts the evolution of Giorgio Armani, while the Fondazione Prada merges contemporary art with fashion culture. In Milan, dressing well isn’t showing off – it’s just expected.

Don't Miss: Milan Design Week 2026 | Runs from April 20 to 26.

NEW YORK, USA

If Milan is refined, New York thrives on bold individuality. From luxury department stores along Fifth Avenue to Brooklyn streetwear labels, the city's fashion scene is constantly evolving with an exchange of cultures, ideas and influences, making it one of the most dynamic fashion capitals in the world.

Midtown is still the classic shopping destination, with department store icons like Bergdorf Goodman and Saks Fifth Avenue home to some of the biggest American brands, including Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Michael Kors and Tory Burch. But further downtown, neighbourhoods like SoHo, Nolita (North of Little Italy) and the Lower East Side have evolved into creative hotspots filled with independent boutiques, vintage stores and concept spaces where upand-coming designers experiment freely.

Twice a year, the city also plays host to New York Fashion Week, one of the most influential dates on the fashion calendar. Designers debut their latest collections, while outside the venues, the pavements become a spectacle of their own, with street-style photographers capturing editors, influencers and models between shows.

Away from the catwalks, The Costume Institute at The Metropolitan Museum of Art is not to be missed, with exhibitions exploring fashion past and present. And then there's the famous Met Gala, which transforms the museum steps into fashion's most photographed red carpet once a year.

What defines New York fashion is its freedom of expression – it isn’t about fitting in; it’s about standing out.

Don't Miss: New York Bridal Fashion Week | Runs from April 8 to 10.

LONDON, UK

Edgy, experimental and unpredictable, London has always done things differently. One part Savile Row tradition and two parts Camden punk rebellion, the city's fashion identity cannot be contained in a box. This contradiction has produced some of the industry’s most influential designers, including Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood and Stella McCartney – designers who built their reputations by challenging conventions and pushing boundaries.

It’s no wonder that London’s fashion style reflects a creative diversity like no other. In Mayfair, Savile Row remains the global home of heritage tailoring, while nearby Mount Street brings together some of the city’s top luxury brands. Knightsbridge has Harrods and the designer-lined Sloane Street. Marylebone High Street is quieter and more curated,

great for independent boutiques away from the chaos of Oxford Street. Further east, Shoreditch and Hackney are where the cool kids are, with vintage markets, streetwear labels and young creatives pushing style in new directions.

One of London’s most influential retail spaces is the legendary Dover Street Market – a concept store based on the renowned Kensington Market – popular with fashion insiders. It features avant-garde designer collections and streetwear in ever-changing immersive installations and pop-ups, blending fashion and art.

Of course, we can't talk London fashion without mentioning Central Saint Martins, the art college that's launched more big-name designers than we can count. Its King's Cross campus hosts public exhibitions and graduate shows throughout the year and is worth a visit to catch the next generation of fashion talent in action. For a deeper look at fashion’s past, the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) houses one of the world’s most significant collections of textiles and fashion.

At its core, London style is fearless and unpredictable. It doesn’t follow trends – it sets them.

Don't Miss: V&A Exhibition – Schiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art | Runs until November 8.

PARIS, FRANCE

When it comes to fashion, Paris still leads the way. The French capital has shaped global style for centuries, its reputation firmly intact as the birthplace of haute couture. The big names - Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton - take the spotlight, while smaller ateliers continue to keep Paris’ bespoke traditions very much alive.

The best of Paris luxury is clustered in a surprisingly walkable area - the Golden Triangle of Avenue Montaigne, Avenue George V and the Champs-Élysées - where fashion houses, Michelin-starred restaurants and five-star hotels sit almost side by side. The equally renowned Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré is just around the corner, and even if you never step inside a single shop, a slow stroll here is an experience in itself.

But Paris isn't all grand boulevards. Le Marais is the city at its most charming with cobbled streets, quiet cafés and a brilliant mix of independent labels, vintage shops and concept stores worth getting lost in. The Palais-Royal is another one to know, its beautiful colonnaded arcades hiding some of the city's chicest boutiques.

Every year, Paris Fashion Week closes the international fashion month circuit, drawing editors, buyers and industry leaders from around the world. During this time, the city’s pavements are watched as closely as the runways.

What Paris does better than anywhere else is make it all look easy. Locals just seem to get it right – impeccable tailoring, luxurious fabrics and timeless silhouettes worn with an effortless instinct. This signature balance of elegance and confidence is why Paris still sets the global pace for fashion.

Don't Miss: Atelier d'initiation au stylisme (Fashion Design Introductory Workshops) | Runs April 20 to 24. ✤

FOR HER

fact brings you the latest must-haves from the beauty and grooming world… from skincare to scents and make-up.

ILIA

Lip Sketch Hydrating Crayon

Inspired by the nostalgia of wooden pencils used in art and architecture, these lip crayons, with three new shades, combine the comfort of lipstick with the precision of a liner. Housed in a classic cedar pencil, the creamy, lightweight formula glides on effortlessly for rich, 12-hour long-lasting colour and a demi-matte finish – visibly hydrating, smoothing and plumping with every wear.

HOURGLASS COSMETICS

Illusion Luminous Glow Foundation SPF 30

Fusing high-performance makeup with innovative skincare, this breakthrough formula perfects, protects and visibly lifts skin in as little as 14 days. Powered by Advanced Hydra-Smooth Technology, its hyaluronic microspheres lock in hydration, delivering even coverage with instant radiance for up to 12 hours and long-term skin improvement. Available in 32 luminous shades, it’s transfer- and crease-resistant.

KOSAS

Shiny Objects Wet Glisten Powder Highlighter for Face + Eyes

A wet-pressed powder highlighter designed to melt seamlessly into the skin for a transparent, glistening finish that is never chalky, glittery or opaque. Infused with antioxidant-rich passion fruit extract, the clinically proven formula for the face and eyes reduces dryness and improves skin texture and smoothness, while maintaining a skin-like glow. Available in five radiant shades.

LAURA MERCIER

Bath & Body Collection

Elevate your self-care routine with these bath and body essentials that refresh, replenish and transform the skin. From exfoliating body washes to rich creams and aromatic oils, this new line of high-performing formulas is designed to deliver long-last hydration and glow throughout the day. Available in three fragrances: Ambre Vanille, Almond Coconut and Vanille and the latest, Néroli du Sud.

MOONGLAZE

Make-Up Line

This Saudi beauty brand by Yara Al Namla (one of Sephora’s beauty faces from its 2020 regional campaign) comes full circle, with its exclusive debut at Sephora Middle East, bringing its glow-focussed aesthetic to a wider audience. Featuring highlighter and blush sticks to bronzer pods, lip tints and a multi-use brush designed to create a luminous finish, the products are loved for their lightweight textures and ability to deliver a natural, second-skin effect that enhances rather than masks.

FOR HIM

DIPTYQUE

Orphéon Body Lotion

A scented body lotion that moisturises the skin while depositing a delicate sheen. Presented in a bottle with twisting contours inspired by wooden furniture, its milky, nonsticky texture leaves behind a gentle, pleasing finish. The refined fragrance opens with bright citrus, moves through spicy juniper berry, then settles into soft florals, anchored by a warm base of woody cedar and musk.

CAROLINA HERRERA

Stallion Leather Sirocco

A limited-edition fragrance featuring a sunwarmed richness and salty leather note that highlights mineral facets, enriched with the sweetness of date liqueur and layered with Akigalawood’s woody, floral and spicy tones. Housed in a golden, faceted bottle with an artist-designed cap, it leaves a rich, textured trail and doubles as a striking collector’s piece.

BRICKELL MEN'S PRODUCTS

6 in 1 Gel Face Moisturizer

This multifunctional gel face moisturiser not only hydrates the skin but also tackles wrinkles and dark spots on the face, calms shave irritation and reduces eye bags. Packed with powerful science-backed anti-ageing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, Vitamin C, peptides and MSM, it restores and protects the skin, all while leaving a natural matte finish.

DIOR

Sauvage Hydrating Shampoo

This hydrating and nourishing shampoo is designed to cleanse and soften hair without drying it out. The creamy texture transforms into a fine, generous foam, infused with cactus extract to help maintain hydration. Finished with the fresh, powerful notes of Dior Sauvage fragrance line, it leaves hair clean, shiny and lightly scented.

DYSON

Amino Leave-In Scalp Bubble Treatment

An instant, foam-to-serum leave-in treatment, dermatologically tested for all scalp types and routines. It is powered by Dyson's Amino11 blend with barley to restore balance for a healthy scalp and fuller-looking hair. The delicate fragrance combines citrus notes, green tea and pear for a fresh, clean scent.

RUNNING IN STYLE

With the weather heating up, it’s time to ditch the sweats and grab some new hot-weather running gear to give your motivation a little boost.

H&M MOVE is a new running collection for men and women, created for the demands and triumphs of long-distance running and training, prioritising performance and endurance without compromising on style.

Though our peak running season has passed, fitness doesn’t stop just because the sun’s up earlier. Training embraces shared routes, early mornings and long runs that become part of a routine, either individually or with friends or a club.

“Raising the standard of accessible performance wear starts with precision in the design process. From fabric weight and performance to pocket and seam placement, every detail is considered to ensure pure comfort over long distances," says Marie Fredros, Head of Design at H&M MOVE. "These details were the starting point for our Spring 2026 running collection, supporting runners across different routes and moments."

The design team focussed on every element of the running experience. Each piece in the collection has been carefully engineered with lightweight materials and high-performance DryMove fabric to deliver breathability and durability across every distance. Premium trims, reflective prints, perforated details, internal pockets and thoughtfully designed accessories bring a refined, soft-luxury aesthetic to the assortment.

A core palette of black, white and light grey is paired with soft seasonal tones, including blush pink, amazonite blue and butter yellow, creating a harmonious and stylish look. Silhouettes are minimalistic yet performance-driven, ranging from wide and fitted shorts to lightweight tanks, supportive bras, technical vests, caps, sunglasses and tops with removable sleeves, designed for long distances and changing weather conditions. The collection has just launched across the region. ✤

GO: FOLLOW @HM_MOVE ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

THE ARTIST BEHIND THE CAMERA

We chatted to Qatar-based, Sudanese film maker Eiman Mirghani to learn about her story and how her projects are developed.

When and how did you first become interested in filmmaking?

Ever since I was young, I have had a fascination with films. Going to the cinema felt like a very special occasion to me where I would leave everything behind and get engrossed in a new world – it was exhilarating to me! By the time I was a teen, I started to discover more films (ones that had a particular impression on me at the time were City of God, Caramel, Goodfellas, La Haine and more). I became obsessed with one question: How can anyone think of such stories? Where did they even begin to make such works? My interest only grew and by the time I finished high school, I knew I wanted to get into filmmaking.

It’s not an easy field to enter. How did you get your start?

I graduated with a BA in Film & Media Studies from the University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus. After that, I came back to Doha (where I was born) and entered a scriptwriting workshop with the Doha Film Institute (DFI). I made myself known and showed them that I was eager to be on set and learn on the job. Eventually, I joined DFI as an intern for some months. I built a very good relationship with the DFI team and soon after, I was hired as their in-house production coordinator and assistant director.

You are both producer and director (and sometimes writer), please outline the difference in the roles and explain how you separate them.

The director is essentially the creative force that leads a film. The director is the person who dictates the cinematography, production design, costume and acting style of the film among other major things. The producer, on the other hand, is the person who ensures that all the conditions, logistics, funding and crew are made available to make the director’s vision come true. If a film set were to be a ship going on a journey, the producer would be the navigator, but ultimately, the director is the captain.

What first brought you to Doha and how do you find the film scene in the city, is it supportive?

I was actually born and raised in Qatar. I did my school studies here until 2011, when I left to pursue film studies in Malaysia. I have been back in Doha since 2015, working on various projects since then from short films and documentaries to TVCs (commercials), music videos and news reports. Since my introduction to DFI in 2015, I have been lucky to meet many other filmmakers and production houses in Qatar and beyond (such as in Sudan and Egypt), which I have also collaborated with. My relationship with DFI is still on-going now, and they continue to support my work, which I am very grateful for!

I understand your latest film, Villa 187, is inspired by the change in visa status that has led to your family’s departure from Doha. Can you please tell us a bit about that and how the production has unfolded?

My father has been working in Doha as a doctor since 1989. In the last few years, there was always a tension that my parents would experience each year to find out if my father’s contract would get renewed or not – since he had already passed the retirement age. The news ultimately came in 2020, where he was let go after

over 35 years of service in Doha. The news, although somewhat expected, was still very difficult for our family to handle. We were pushed to leave the house my parents had made our home, the home where me and all my sisters were born and raised. It was a challenging time for me, but something inside me felt like it was important to document this period. I wanted to preserve our memories in that house and documenting them was therapeutic to me. Six weeks after we received the news, we had left the house and stayed somewhere else until we could figure out our next steps. In the meantime, I had joined a documentary film residency with the Doha Film Institute, where I was eventually able to complete Villa 187

As a Sudanese woman, much of your work draws on the challenges facing women and girls in your homeland. How do you decide the topics you will tackle and find people to speak to you about the more difficult issues?

An important lesson I have learned when scriptwriting or developing ideas for a film is that the most personal is usually the most honest and universal, and these are the types of films I would most like to make. I want to highlight the issues, challenges and emotions that women like myself, my Sudanese friends, my mother, my aunt, relatives, etc., go through because they are important and often underrepresented.

Which of your projects so far are you most proud of and why?

I am proud of each project I have done for different reasons because every experience brings on its own new challenges and lessons. Among those projects is Al-Sit, the short film directed by my friend and collaborator Suzi Mirghani, which I would say is one of the largest, independent films I have contributed to as a producer. I am also extremely proud of my short films Villa 187 and The Bleaching Syndrome, because they both cover extremely personal, but universal subjects – which have touched many audiences.

Perhaps your best known film, as a producer, is Al-Sit which has received many international accolades. Please tell us a bit about the film and the effect its success has had on your career going forward.

Suzi, the director of Al-Sit, came to me with her script for the first time in 2017. I instantly knew that this project was going to be very special. It was not an easy project, which required many months of planning ahead before going to shoot in Sudan, which at the time had just come out of a revolution and the film scene was extremely young/non-existent. But through Suzi’s hard work and our incredible crew and network of collaborators, we were able to complete the gruelling production phase as an independent production – which has taught me so much about leading a team and preserving a creative process despite major challenges. This has definitely helped in putting my name out there but, more than anything, I learned so many valuable lessons that I have carried with me into my subsequent projects after that.

What’s next for you?

Right now, I am working on putting my film Villa 187 out there, it will soon have its international premiere and have a run through

the international festival circuit. I am also developing my next film project… but more on that later!

On a side note, you’re also the lead vocalist with Goodbye Divas, please tell us about that side of your artistic life. Music has always been an important part of my life and a big source of inspiration, especially when I develop my films. I always say if I hadn’t pursued a career in film, I probably would have been in music. I have been dabbling in music since I was in high school but only seriously started to get involved with the rock scene in Doha since 2022, when I started to book gigs with local musician friends. Through this network of musicians, I came to meet the band Goodbye Divas, who were holding auditions for a new lead vocalist. Thankfully, I got in! And we have been jamming together since 2025. It has been such a fun experience working with them, which I personally love for the artistic release it gives me. ✤

Quick-Fire Five

If you could work with any actor past or present, who would it be? He’s not an actor, but chef and TV personality Anthony Bourdain. He’s a genius whose style of storytelling was as fun as it was humbling and eyeopening. I would have loved to follow him with a camera on his adventures.

What’s on your bucket list for 2026? Finish 20 books, watch 100 films, visit three new countries.

What’s your favourite food? I am always happy with any variation of a Chinese takeout… give me dumplings, hot and sour soup, crispy chilli chicken any day.

Most-loved song of all time? It always changes depending on my mood and environment. For the moment, I would say Wahdi by Maryam Saleh.

Three things you never leave the house without? Phone, my rollies and headphones.

RETHINKING VISIBILITY

Filmmaker, curator, founder: Sheikh Khalifa Bin Abdulla Al-Thani refuses to pick one. What he will commit to is this: Arab artists deserve infrastructure as strong as their vision. Intajat (a creative platform and online shop) is his answer.

You've built a career across cinema, curation and the arts. What finally pushed you to create a platform of your own, and why plant it here in Qatar?

Doha naturally brings creatives together, so the idea was simple: make it easier for artists who don’t want too much exposure to still be seen and supported. Intajat started as an online shop with that in mind.

Doha has become one of the most exciting cultural capitals in the world over the past decade. How does Intajat fit into that bigger story, and what can a homegrown platform offer that international ones simply can't?

What’s happening here is already strong. Intajat just builds on it from within, making things more connected and accessible for artists locally.

The ‘Intaj’ series you developed with the Doha Film Institute reimagined regional narratives through immersive formats. What did that experiment teach you about how Arab audiences want to experience art today?

A lot of voices in the region are still underrepresented, and we wanted to highlight them in a way where people could actually see themselves in the history and the work. The first edition focussed on Qatar, looking at TV and theatre and documenting that moment. It was less about making something overly complex or technical, and more about making it engaging, fun and impactful. Something people can connect to easily. It was also very community-driven, with a lot of collaborators, partners and loaners involved across the board.

What role do you see Intajat playing for the next generation of Arab artists?

It’s about contributing to the ecosystem and building on what’s already happening. Just finding ways to support artists, especially after working in this space for over 15 years. I genuinely just love being part of this industry.

How do you protect the specificity, the Qatari-ness, the Arabness, of the work that passes through Intajat?

We don’t dilute anything. The Qatari and Arab identity is the strength, not something to adjust.

You wear a lot of hats: filmmaker, curator, founder. Which one feels most like home?

My role sits at the intersection of everything, from cinema to film to art, all of it. I don’t really like to label myself into one thing. I just enjoy being part of the industry as a whole.

Who was the first artist or creative that made you think: this person needs a platform, not a gatekeeper?

A lot of artists just want to create and stay low-key. No social media, no exposure. We step in there. There are many, but Sheetal Dandekar comes to mind. Her work is beautiful and she’s based in Souq Wakif.

What's the last piece of art that genuinely stopped you in your tracks?

Recently, Sarah Sze’s piece in Venice. I couldn't get it out of my head.

What's the Qatari or Arab story you feel the world still hasn't heard?

Qatari cinema is just getting started with feature films, and there’s a lot coming. With the ecosystem growing through Qatar Film Commission, Media City Qatar, places like Katara Studios, The Edge Picture Company and Doha Film Institute, support is shifting in a big way.

Ten years from now, if Intajat has done everything you hoped, what does the creative life of this region actually look like, day to day, for the artists living it?

It’s still early for Intajat. Right now, it’s about building the online shop and reaching more people. We took a hiatus. There’s a lot coming soon, we’ll share more in the summer. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.INTAJAT.NET OR @KHALIFAHALTHANI ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Director: Aaron Horvath, Michael Jelenic

Cast (voices): Chris Pratt, Charlie Day, Anya Taylor-Joy

Following the global success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Nintendo and Illumination expand their animated universe with a new instalment widely reported to draw inspiration from the Super Mario Galaxy games. This sequel takes Mario and Luigi beyond the Mushroom Kingdom into a cosmic adventure, introducing iconic elements such as interstellar travel and the mysterious Rosalina.

TALESFROM’85

Director: Phil Allora Cast (voices): Odessa A'zion, Lou Diamond Phillips, Janeane Garofalo, Robert Englund

Director: Matt Bettinelli-Olpin, Tyler Gillett

Cast: Samara Weaving, Kathryn Newton, Sarah Michelle Gellar

A direct sequel to the cult horror hit Ready or Not (2019), Ready or Not 2: Here I Come reunites the original filmmaking duo, continuing Grace’s story after her violent, escape from the Le Domas family. As Grace is once again drawn into a life-or-death game, the stakes grow both more personal and more systemic, deepening the film’s satirical edge on wealth, privilege and inherited power.

Director: David Frankel

Cast: Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, Stanley Tucci

Nearly two decades after the original film became a defining portrait of ambition and power in the fashion industry, The Devil Wears Prada 2 reunites its core players for a sequel shaped by the transformations of the modern media landscape. The story revisits Andy Sachs, now an established editor, as she crosses paths once again with Miranda Priestly, still presiding over Runway in an era marked by digital disruption and the decline of print publishing.

APPLE TV+ CRIMINALRECORD (SEASON2)

Directors: Joelle Mae David, Ben A. Williams

Expanding the universe of Stranger Things, Stranger Things: Tales from ’85 takes the form of an animated spinoff. The series returns to Hawkins in the winter of 1985, where Eleven and her friends are drawn into a new supernatural mystery following a brief moment of calm. The show adopts a stylised animated format while preserving the franchise’s core identity: a blend of adventure, horror and coming-of-age storytelling.

Cast: Peter Capaldi, Cush Jumbo, Luca Pasqualino, Luther Ford, Lyndsey Marshal

Following the success of its first season, Criminal Record returns with a second chapter that deepens the fraught dynamic between its two central detectives. Set in contemporary London, the series continues to explore tensions between experience and reform within the police force, as a new investigation is sparked by a violent incident at a political event. Netflix STRANGERTHINGS:

KONNAKOL

By Zayn

With KONNAKOL, Zayn Malik steps into a more ambitious artistic phase, five years on from his last album. Drawing from the intricate vocal rhythms of Carnatic music, the album blends contemporary R&B with electronic textures and percussive experimentation. Balancing introspection and sonic exploration, the former One Direction member delivers a dense, intimate record that pushes further away from mainstream pop expectations.

THEGREATDIVIDE

By Noah Kahan

Scheduled for release on April 24, The Great Divide is the fourth studio album by Noah Kahan and was written and developed across multiple locations, including Vermont, where Kahan grew up, and Nashville, a central hub of the American music industry. The project follows his previous releases while introducing new collaborations, notably with producer Aaron Dessner, known for his work with Taylor Swift and The National. Its songs explore recurring themes in Kahan’s work, including long-distance relationships, a sense of place and home, and emotional strain.

NIGHTLIFE

By Honey Dijon

Honey Dijon returns this April with her first album since Black Girl Magic (2022), marking a new chapter in her club-focussed discography. Released on Classic Music Company, the project brings together a wide range of collaborators including Chlöe, Bree Runway and Greentea Peng. Across 14 tracks, the Chicago-born artist explores house music through a vocal-driven approach, combining dancefloor energy with a strong emphasis on contemporary club culture. Some great new sounds for you to check out this month.

FULLY BOOKED

THRILLER

The Girls Trip

By Ally Condie

What begins as a long-overdue getaway quickly turns into something far more unsettling in The Girls Trip. The novel follows a group of women who reunite for a trip meant to reconnect them years after their lives have taken very different paths. When the trip takes an unexpected turn, the atmosphere shifts from nostalgic to tense, and the women are forced to confront not only what’s happening around them, but what they’ve been hiding from each other, and from themselves.

NONFICTION / HISTORY

Ghosts of Sicily

By Mark Harmon & Leon Carroll Jr.

Part history, part true-crime intrigue, Ghosts of Sicily dives into one of World War II’s most unexpected alliances: the collaboration between American intelligence and the Sicilian Mafia. Co-written by NCIS star Mark Harmon, the book brings a cinematic edge to real events, tracing how shadow networks, backroom deals and unlikely partnerships shaped the Allied advance in Italy.

What We’re (Still) Talking About?

Have a Break… or a Heist?

If Willy Wonka had a slightly dodgy cousin, this would be his magnum opus. In late March, a truck loaded with roughly 12 tonnes of KitKat bars simply… vanished, somewhere between central Italy and Poland. Not just any KitKats, mind you, this was a flashy Formula 1-themed range, shaped like racing cars. The sheer absurdity of it all had people convinced it was an April Fool’s stunt. But in a followup Instagram post, the brand insisted it was very real, cheekily adding that the culprits may have taken ‘Have a break’ a touch too literally. As things stand, the chocolate haul remains at large. The brand

even launched a Stolen KitKat Tracker, so you can check whether your snack has a criminal backstory. Meanwhile, social media has been having an absolute field day. Domino's Pizza UK offered their ‘thoughts and condolences’… before casually announcing a brand-new KitKat pizza. KFC apologised, claiming they were merely testing a 12th herb and spice. Ryanair posted a plane with a mouth crammed full of KitKats. In the comments, Adobe chimed in with a dramatic: ‘First the Louvre… now KitKat’. One thing is certain: somewhere out there, someone is having the best break of their life.

Football Royalty

In a campaign that mixes pure nostalgia with all-star energy, LEGO pulls off a dream lineup: Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Vinícius Júnior and Kylian Mbappé. This time, they’re all gathered around a LEGO-built World Cup trophy. The idea? Each player tries to add their piece to finish the trophy, like, ‘I’ve got this’. Plot twist: none of them can pull it off. Then a kid casually steps in, snaps in the final piece and boom, done. No drama, no ego. And yeah, it’s hitting hard, the campaign has already racked up over 400 million

views and 35 million likes. It’s also part of LEGO’s bigger game plan ahead of the 2026 World Cup, with everything from collectible minifigures to display sets and football-inspired builds for both kids and grown-up fans. The casting does a lot of the magic too. Messi and Ronaldo bring that legendary rivalry that shaped a whole era, while Mbappé and Vinícius Jr. represent the next wave. Putting them all together? That’s a crossover football doesn’t really give us anymore, and that’s exactly what makes it so enjoyable.

Peak Internet Absurdity

Imagine Love Island , but replace the contestants with flirtatious bananas, jealous grapes and scandal-prone strawberries. That, in essence, is Fruit Love Island , a wildly viral AIgenerated series that has taken over TikTok. Launched in March, the show uses artificial intelligence for everything from visuals to voices and scripts, producing short episodes in just a few hours. Despite, or perhaps because of its absurdity, it exploded, with episodes reaching

nearly 40 million views. The format mimics reality TV perfectly: coupling ceremonies, betrayals, dramatic recouplings, except it’s all performed by anthropomorphic fruit with names like Bananito, Orangelo and Cherrita. Critics call it ‘AI slop’, raising concerns about quality, ethics and even environmental costs. Yet viewers can’t look away. Because somehow, against all logic, a cheating mango and a heartbroken grape have become… compelling television.