FEATURE
InsideArtonCapital’s elitemembership
ArtonCapitalxDubai Sotheby’salliance
HOROLOGY
Hublotcelebratestwo decades
PatekPhilippe’s eight-dayCalatrava
AUTOMOTIVE
Bugatti’sbespoke Brouillardunveiled
AudiA5Sedan’s timelessdesign
DESTINATION Musandam’shidden coastalfjords
RasAlKhaimah’s mountain retreats
EMPOWERING ACCESS. REDEFINING FREEDOM.
In a world where true wealth is measured by freedom, Arton Capital and The VIP Global unite to offer an unparalleled membership, reserved for the world’s most discerning.
A seamless fusion of global mobility, sovereign freedom, and bespoke luxury, crafted exclusively for those who command the extraordinary.
This is your invitation to life without boundaries.
A.-L. Breguet redefined the art of horology with his inventions. His pursuit of perfection continues to inspire those shaping the future. The Tradition Quantième Rétrograde 7597 celebrates this extraordinary legacy.
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In Business Bay, the city’s commercial heart, OMNIYAT continues to shape Dubai’s modern identity through buildings and office spaces that merge innovation with artistry. The Opus, LUMENA and LUMENA ALTA represent two decades of vision brought into focus.
Each masterpiece stands as proof of a philosophy built on curiosity and ambition. Together they form a portrait of a company that views architecture as a cultural contribution, an idea conceived and lived. After twenty years, OMNIYAT remains guided by the same creative force that began its journey, imagining without limit and giving those ideas lasting form.
more exhilaration. You can feel it. Hear it. Sense it Every moment you’re behind the wheel
One incredible ambition: to raise the bar in supercar performance and engagement. To a brand new level.
Some build empires of steel, some build them in art. Why choose?
Own a limited-edition apartment in one of the world’s most iconic real estate destinations, Dubai, with DAMAC Properties at Couture by Cavalli. Each residence enjoys their own private pool in a tower featuring a seemingly endless lagoon, celebrations in the sky and haute Italian finesse all around. This feels like home…because it is.
LONGINES SPIRIT PILOT FLYBACK
COVER
20 BOTSWANA’S VISIONARY PATH FORWARD
FEATURE
24 INSIDE ARTON CAPITAL’S ELITE MEMBERSHIP
26 ARTON CAPITAL X DUBAI SOTHEBY’S ALLIANCE
30 TORY BURCH’S MISSION TO EMPOWER WOMEN
30 YVON CHOUINARD’S PURPOSE OVER PROFIT
46 HUBLOT CELEBRATES TWO DECADES
50 PATEK PHILIPPE’S EIGHT-DAY CALATRAVA
52 GERALD CHARLES’ GEM-SET MASTERLINK
54 BOVET’S AWARD-WINNING CELESTIAL TIMEPIECES
56 VYNTAGE HOROLOGY’S DAY-TO-NIGHT DESIGN
58 BUGATTI’S BESPOKE BROUILLARD UNVEILED
62 PORSCHE CAYENNE GTS REFINED PERFORMANCE
66 TESLA MODEL Y PERFORMANCE TESTED
70 AUDI A5 SEDAN’S TIMELESS DESIGN
80 BOTSWANA LAUNCHES IMPACT CITIZENSHIP
82 PHILANTHROPY ENTERS A NEW ERA
86 LUXURY HOMES BUILT FOR WELLBEING
88 EXPLORE THE BLUE ZONE LONGEVITY
34 SARAH AL SAMAN’S COSMIC ART JOURNEY
104 ZURICH’S FESTIVE WINTER ESCAPES
110 MUSANDAM’S HIDDEN COASTAL FJORDS
110 RAS AL KHAIMAH’S MOUNTAIN RETREATS
STYLE
112 DESIGNING THE MODERN HOME ATELIER
114 LUXURY ESSENTIALS FOR GLOBAL TRAVELLERS
116 INNOVATION-LED FITNESS AND PERFORMANCE GEAR
120 TIMELESS STAPLES FOR REFINED LIVING
TECH
122 APPLE’S ULTRA-SLIM IPHONE AIR
124 AIRPODS PRO 3 REDEFINE SOUND
126 BANG & OLUFSEN’S ELEVATED AUDIO DESIGN
Dear Readers,
November invites reflection on where we’ve been, what we’ve built, and the kind of legacy we aim to leave. In this issue, we look at transformation through different perspectives: a nation redefining its future, brands shaping impact through creativity, and individuals proving that purpose and progress can move together.
From Botswana’s renewed leadership to Hublot’s evolving design language and Patek Philippe’s timeless precision, each story highlights innovation grounded in intention. Our journey extends from Zurich’s festive streets to the calm of a modern home atelier, exploring how design, culture, and vision continue to shape the world around us.
As the year draws to a close, this issue is both a reflection and a reminder that progress is most meaningful when it’s intentional, steady, and rooted in human connection.
PUBLISHER Tarek Al Kaaki
EDITOR IN CHIEF Andrea Antal
COPY EDITOR Sameer Denzi Hala Ahmad
CREATIVE Fierce International Art Team
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Enjoy the read!
Andrea Antal Editor-in-Chief, Global Citizen
PUBLISHER
Fierce International
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Copyright 2025 Fierce International. All rights reserved.
Neither this publication nor any part of it may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the permission of Fierce International. Where opinion is expressed it is that of the author and does not necessarily reflect the editorial views of the publisher or Global Citizen All information in Global Citizen is checked and verified to the best of the publisher’s ability, however the publisher cannot be held responsible for any mistake or omission enclosed in the publication.
From Harvard to the presidency, Duma Gideon Boko is shaping a bold new future for Botswana, built on diversification, sustainability, and a legacy of peace
When Duma Gideon Boko reflects on his journey from Harvard Law School to State House, he credits those formative years with instilling a sense of confidence that has guided his leadership ever since. “One of the things they told us on our first day at Harvard was; when you leave this place, you’ll be able to look the best in the world in the eye, stand next to them, and consider them no better than your equals,” he recalls. “I took that to heart. I believed fervently that I could be the very best for my country and for the people of Botswana.”
At 55, Boko became one of Botswana’s youngest presidents. His path was far from straightforward. He contested national elections three times before his coalition’s resounding victory in 2024, ending nearly six decades of one-party dominance. “The overwhelming endorsement was truly humbling and spectacular,” he reflects. “With their support, commitment, and passion, there’s no way we can fail.”
For decades, Botswana’s prosperity has been tied to its diamond industry. But as global markets shift, Boko is determined to chart a more diversified and sustainable course. The country, he argues, must move from being merely resource-rich to value-adding.
“We should have diversified within the gemstone industry long ago by bringing cutting and polishing into the country. Beyond diamonds, we have vast mineral wealth—iron ore, copper, gold, silver, and more—that we are now beginning to fully exploit,” he explains.
Tourism and agriculture remain central to this diversification drive, but Boko points to digitalisation as the crucial pivot. With Botswana’s strategic position— “landlinked, not landlocked”—the nation has access to a market of over 500 million people within a thousand-kilometre radius. Coupled with the African Continental Free Trade Area, the opportunities are immense. “Intra-Africa trade today is under 20%. In Europe, it’s around 80%. That gap is an opportunity we cannot ignore.”
Central to Boko’s agenda is the Impact Investment Programme, designed to accelerate job creation through large-scale infrastructure projects and tackle housing shortages through an ambitious funding initiative. Railways connecting Botswana to Zambia, Mozambique, and Namibia are already underway, with the Trans-Kalahari line set to provide streamlined access to international ports. “Infrastructure development is the key driver,” he says. “It creates jobs in the short term and boosts trade in the long term.”
Agriculture is also being reimagined. Known globally for its beef industry, Botswana is now working towards organic certification to secure higher international premiums. Meanwhile, the government is targeting a 50/50 energy mix between fossil fuels and renewables, with new interconnectors enabling Botswana to become a key player in Southern Africa’s energy market.
Boko acknowledges that past bottlenecks have stifled progress. “There was too much red tape and government entities worked in silos. Some did exceptionally well, but in isolation from a malfunctioning apparatus.” The Economic Transformation Programme, he insists, will change that. Its focus is on execution, speed, and accountability. “Investors must come to one place, spend the shortest amount of time, and be able to start their projects. That will revolutionise our economy.”
Nowhere is this transformation more evident than in Selebi Phikwe: a former industrial hub brought low by mine closures. The reopening of Tati Nickel and other operations, alongside a citrus farming initiative, has accompanied the site being designated as a special economic zone. To ensure success, government has committed to buying 30% of all production from manufacturers in the region. “It’s about revival, jobs, and restoring dignity to communities,” says Boko.
The same principle applies to mineral beneficiation. New refineries and processing plants are being established to keep more value within the country. For investors, stability is the greatest draw. “Our biggest asset is peace and predictability. An investor knows their capital is safe here, and that certainty sets Botswana apart.”
For Boko, development is inseparable from social wellbeing. The Health First Botswana Fund was launched to tackle chronic shortages and inflated supply chains in the health sector. A digitalised procurement system will track medicines from manufacturer to patient, reducing shortages and costs, while investments are being channelled into hospitals and healthcare facilities.
There is also an eye on medical tourism. “South Africa is inundated with patients from the region. Botswana can position itself to absorb that demand, offering care that is accessible and affordable, while also boosting our economy through tourism.”
Botswana’s democratic credentials have long been admired on the international stage. Since independence in 1966, the nation has maintained stability and peace, even through moments of historic political change. The peaceful handover of power in 2024, after 58 years of single-party rule, stands as a testament.
“Batswana are naturally peaceful people. Our tradition of consensus through the kgotla system has shaped our democracy. The events of October 2024 cemented our reputation: change can happen here without chaos,” says Boko. “In fact, even advanced democracies could learn from Botswana.”
As President Boko leads Botswana into its next chapter, his vision is both ambitious and grounded. Economic diversification, social investment, and a culture of peace are the key pillars of his strategy. Above all, he wants the world to see Botswana not only as a country rich in diamonds, but as a nation rich in resilience, opportunity, and humanity.
Fast Facts – Botswana’s Diversification Drive
Diamonds Still Shine: But beneficiation and local processing are the new priority.
Mining Wealth: Vast deposits of iron ore, copper, gold, and silver remain underdeveloped.
Tourism Expansion: From the Okavango Delta to the Tuli Block, diversifying attractions beyond the northwest.
Agriculture Reimagined: Organic beef certification in progress to secure premium global markets.
Energy Future: Targeting a 50/50 split between fossil fuels and renewable energy by the end of the decade.
Global Investment Flows: Programmes like impact investment and investment migration are helping channel new sources of capital into Africa’s most stable markets.
Arton Capital has unveiled its new exclusive, by invitation only membership community. This oneof-a-kind membership has been carefully crafted for individuals whose lives move across borders and cultures – a truly global membership that offers access not only to exceptional concierge services, but also to countries themselves. It is a membership built around legacy, freedom, and access.
The Global Citizen Club membership combines benefits from Arton Capital, the world’s leading advisor in global mobility and investment migration, and The VIP Global, twice recognized as the UAE’s Best Luxury Concierge Service, and is built for people who value freedom, access and being part of a global community of investors.
In today’s world, true wealth is measured not just by assets, but by the freedom to live, invest, and thrive anywhere. Members of the Global Citizen Club are supported by a dedicated senior advisor at Arton Capital, who can guide them towards a life that moves easily between countries and opportunities.
Each relationship begins with an in-depth understanding and advisement of what is most important – whether it is family, asset management, tax optimization or legacy planning. Beyond advisory support, members get access to a world of experiences through The VIP Global’s network.
From securing a last-minute reservation at a Michelin-star restaurant to coordinating private jet travel or curating a bespoke celebration, every experience is delivered with exceptional attention to detail.
Members of The Global Citizenship Club enjoy a portfolio of privileges designed to bring ease, access, and distinction to every aspect of their lives.
Exclusive Access to New Residency and Citizenship Opportunities: Gain early access to select, government-approved residency and citizenship programs available only through Arton Capital’s global network.
Strategic Connections: Through ArtonCapital and its partners, members gain introductions to influential business, government, and diplomatic circles that open doors to new opportunities.
Concierge and Lifestyle Services: 24-hour assistance for travel, dining, events, and reservations, handled with efficiency and discretion.
Travel and Hosting Benefits: Priority treatment at leading hotels and restaurants, private aviation, yacht charters, and VIP hosting at major global events.
Private Gatherings: Invitations to investor dinners, retreats, and select events with Arton Capital’s senior leadership.
In addition, members are welcomed into the Global Citizen Forum, an annual gathering that brings together world leaders, change-makers, and cultural icons. They also have the opportunity to contribute to Global Citizen Magazine discussions and initiatives that promote social and environmental impact around the world.
The Global Citizen Club is more than a collection of benefits. It is a community of select individuals who share the belief of being a Global Citizen – where borders disappear to create access, opportunity and lasting legacy.
“Our partnership ensures that freedom is not abstract. It is delivered with precision, elegance, and absolute discretion.”
Armand Arton, Founder & CEO, Arton Capital.
“This collaboration brings together privilege and purpose, transforming access into influence, and journeys into legacies.”
Karim Gharbi, Founder & Managing Director, The VIP Global.
Currently, membership to The Global Citizen Club is by invitation only, and by recommendation from existing members. To request consideration, please visit www.globalcitizenclub.org.
The alliance between Arton Capital and Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty
Arton Capital and Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty have come together with a shared goal: to help clients invest wisely, live freely, and plan for the long term. The collaboration brings together Arton’s experience in global advisory and Sotheby’s International Realty’s unmatched reach in luxury real estate. For clients, it means access to new opportunities that connect financial planning with property ownership around the world.
This is not about simply buying homes or diversifying portfolios. It’s about creating a structure that allows families to protect their wealth, enjoy their lifestyle, and build a lasting legacy wherever life takes them.
The partnership is designed for individuals and families who move and blend easily across countries and cultures. They are entrepreneurs, investors, and decision-makers who want simplicity and expertise in one place.
Through Sotheby’s International Realty, clients gain access to some of the most desirable properties on the market, from luxury properties to homes that hold both financial and emotional value. Arton Capital complements this with global advisory services that support inheritance planning, wealth protection, and cross-border investment strategies. Each client works with a dedicated Senior Advisor at each respective company, who manages every step of the process, ensuring it is discreet, compliant, and tailored to their goals.
For Sotheby’s International Realty’s clients, this partnership adds real value to their wealth and real estate planning. It brings residency and citizenship into the conversation as essential parts of estate and portfolio management. With Arton Capital’s guidance, clients can structure their investments wisely, protect family wealth, and plan for the future with clarity and confidence.
For Arton’s clients, it opens a direct line to Sotheby’s trusted property experts and curated global listings. It is a relationship that makes decision-making easier, turning complex financial and lifestyle goals into clear, practical steps.
Both firms believe that real value goes beyond numbers. It lies in continuity, security, and the ability to create something that lasts. Together, they are helping clients connect opportunity with purpose and turning international complexity into clarity.
“Our partnership with Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty allows clients to view wealth and mobility as parts of the same strategy. By aligning property ownership with global access, we help them protect, grow, and move their wealth seamlessly across borders.”
“We see this collaboration as an evolution of how we serve our clients. Today, luxury is not only about property. It is about access, security, and legacy. Partnering with Arton Capital allows us to offer that complete experience.”
George Azar, Chairman & CEO, Sotheby’s International Realty (Dubai, UK, KSA & Abu Dhabi)
The partnership extends across Arton’s ecosystem, including Global Citizen Magazine, Passport Index, and the Global Citizen Forum. Through these platforms, Sotheby’s International Realty’s properties reach an audience of internationally minded investors, policymakers, and entrepreneurs who are shaping the future of global citizenship.
For clients, it all comes back to trust, access, and simplicity. The partnership between Arton Capital and Sotheby’s International Realty brings together the best of both worlds, giving clients the expertise to plan wisely and the network to live beautifully.
How Tory Burch is helping women turn ideas into enterprises
Tory Burch built a global brand on polish and practicality, but her most enduring design may be the engine she has built for women’s economic power. “Supporting women was not part of my business plan, it was my business plan,” she says, a mantra that explains why the Tory Burch Foundation now sits alongside her runway as a core expression of the brand.
Launched in 2009, the foundation targets the barriers that most reliably slow women entrepreneurs: access to capital, education, and community. In partnership with Bank of America, its Capital Program has channelled affordable loans through a national network of community lenders, a quiet fix to a noisy problem. By April 2024, the programme had deployed more than 100 million dollars to over 5,500 women business owners through Community Development Financial Institutions — a milestone that reflects both scale and staying power.
Burch’s bet is that capital works best when it travels with knowledge. Last year, the foundation and Bank of America launched a free virtual learning hub, the Business Webinars programme, designed to be one of the largest open educational resources for women founders in the United States. It extends support beyond loan closing, linking practical workshops with on-demand content that demystifies topics from pricing to cash flow.
The Fellows Program is the community’s heartbeat. According to the foundation’s FAQ, approximately 120 Fellows are selected from across the United States and territories, then plugged into a year of concentrated learning, mentorship, and peer networks that often outlast the curriculum. That network has become a pipeline of women who scale, hire, and advocate, proving that credibility compounds when shared.
Culture matters as much as credit. The Embrace Ambition campaign and its Summit bring artists, athletes, policymakers, and founders onto one stage to tackle bias and broaden the definition of leadership. The 2022 edition returned to New York as a hybrid convening, a reminder that ambition is not a personality flaw — it is a resource to be stewarded.
The numbers are catching up with the narrative. In May 2025, Burch announced a pledge to generate more than one billion dollars in economic impact by 2030 through the entrepreneurs the foundation backs. Media tallies around that announcement noted that, over 15 years, the foundation had supported nearly 400 women whose collective revenue exceeded 340 million dollars — a signal that its approach is converting ideals into measurable outcomes.
All of this sits within a fashion business that has been steadily sharpening its creative point. Since 2019, Burch has served as executive chair and chief creative officer, while her husband, Pierre-Yves Roussel, a former LVMH executive, has led as chief executive. The shift freed Burch to return fully to design, a move credited by fashion press with energising the collections and broadening the brand’s appeal to a new generation without losing its original polish.
What distinguishes Burch is how neatly these worlds connect. The brand sells confidence as a silhouette; the foundation builds it as a balance sheet. By stitching together low-cost capital, open education, and a peer community that celebrates ambition rather than side-eyeing it, Burch has built a model that recognises the reality of entrepreneurship — that the cheque and the checklist must arrive together. Her language is inclusive and pragmatic, and her programmes are structured for repeatable impact rather than one-off headlines.
The result is a persuasive blend of style and purpose. Whether a founder is seeking her first loan to purchase inventory, a webinar to refine pricing, or a fellowship cohort that evolves into an advisory board, the foundation’s ecosystem is built to close gaps with precision. It is not charity in the traditional sense but a form of infrastructure, an investment in women who are reshaping business from the ground up. Burch has transformed purpose into practice, creating a legacy that mirrors her design aesthetic: thoughtful, confident, and built to last.
Inside Patagonia’s transformation from billion-dollar brand to global cause
Yvon Chouinard never wanted to be a businessman. He said so himself, plainly, in a letter the day he revealed Patagonia’s radical new ownership model in September 2022. “I never wanted to be a businessman. I started as a craftsman,” he wrote, folding five decades of iconoclastic leadership into one disarming line.
What he did next rewrote the playbook for corporate stewardship. Instead of selling Patagonia or taking it public, Chouinard transferred 100 percent of the company’s stock into two entities designed to protect its purpose in perpetuity. All voting shares went to the Patagonia Purpose Trust, which safeguards the company’s mission and values. The non-voting shares went to the Holdfast Collective, which receives every dollar not reinvested back into the business to fund environmental action. In his words, “Instead of going public, you could say we’re going purpose.”
The move was calibrated for impact. Patagonia indicated the structure would generate roughly 100 million dollars a year for the fight against climate change, a recurring flow rather than a one-off gesture. That annual figure matters in a world where most corporate philanthropy is episodic. It turns commerce into a revenue stream for river restorations, biodiversity, and policy advocacy, while management continues to run the business as usual under CEO Ryan Gellert.
Chouinard’s distaste for billionaire status is well documented. When he appeared on a rich list, he bristled that the label “really, really pissed me off,” a visceral reaction that tracks with a life spent in beat-up cars and surf breaks, not boardrooms and private jets. The Patagonia founder has long preferred tools over titles, and purpose over polish. The act of giving away a company valued around 3 billion dollars was less a pivot than the logical conclusion of a philosophy he has been refining since the 1970s.
Mechanically, the design is elegant. The Patagonia Purpose Trust holds 100 percent of the voting stock to anchor governance. The Holdfast Collective holds 98 percent of the economic interest via non-voting shares and channels dividends into climate and community initiatives. It is a version of steward-ownership adapted to a global brand, and it ensures that growth does not dilute the mission. The family retains control over values, not profits.
Context matters too. Patagonia had already hard-wired activism into its DNA, from B Corp certification to its “1% for the Planet” commitment, the network Chouinard co-founded in 2002 to push businesses to give one percent of sales to environmental causes. The 2022 transfer amplified that ethos at scale and with permanence.
For fashion and luxury, the symbolism was seismic. Here was a founder converting brand equity into planetary equity and inviting others to compete on responsibility, not rhetoric. “We’ll use the wealth Patagonia creates to protect the source of all wealth,” he said, collapsing the supposed divide between commerce and conservation with a single sentence.
Critics will argue that philanthropy cannot substitute for regulation, and they are right that markets alone cannot solve the climate crisis. Yet structural generosity of this kind does something undeniably powerful. It sets a benchmark for what is possible when governance, finance, and values are aligned. It offers an answer to the most urgent question in corporate life today. What are profits for?
Chouinard’s answer is characteristically unadorned. Profits are for rivers that still run cold. They are for people who will never know his name but will feel the difference. They are for a company that can stay interesting precisely because it refuses to be ordinary. The rest of us can see it for what it is. One of the boldest philanthropic acts in recent history, built not on a press release but on a durable structure that converts success into stewardship year after year.
When the Hublot Big Bang debuted in 2005, it didn’t just disrupt the watch world. It unsettled it. This was not another polite nod to heritage. It was louder, sharper, and more experimental than anything else on the market.
Built around a philosophy Hublot called the Art of Fusion, the Big Bang fused materials that previously had no business together: gold and ceramic, rubber and titanium, sapphire and carbon fibre. It looked and felt like the future.
Two decades later, the Big Bang isn’t resting on legacy. It has become one of the few 21st-century watches that genuinely shifted culture. You’ll find it on artists, athletes, collectors and creatives alike. It isn’t a symbol of arrival. It’s a signal of intent.
The first Big Bang didn’t aim for quiet luxury. With its open screws, layered case, and confident proportions, it looked like it came from another design universe entirely.
Critics were divided. Fans were obsessive. Either way, it refused to fade into the background. Since then, Hublot has stayed allergic to repetition. It introduced Magic Gold, the first scratch-resistant 18k alloy.
It cracked the science of coloured ceramic. It made sapphire feel wearable, not fragile. These weren’t stunts. They were material experiments reimagined as lifestyle pieces.
To mark 20 years, Hublot releases five new editions. They nod to the past but aren’t weighed down by it. Each version is built around the in-house Unico chronograph, but the materials and design cues shift.
Titanium Ceramic & King Gold Ceramic bring back the early Big Bang textures with upgraded refinement.
All Black remains deliberately unreadable, focusing on form rather than flash.
Magic Gold continues to question what gold should be.
These aren’t reissues. They’re reinterpretations: precise, limited, and deliberate.
From Watch to World
Part of what has kept the Big Bang relevant is its refusal to stay inside the display case. It has crossed into football stadiums, art fairs, music festivals and haute cuisine.
Hublot hasn’t followed culture. It has inserted itself into it, with an unapologetically modern tone. As CEO Julien Tornare puts it, “The Big Bang isn’t just what we’ve built. It’s what we’re building next.”
Twenty years in, the watch remains confident in its identity. There is no nostalgia, no retreat. Just the same creative tension that made it impossible to ignore in the first place.
The Patek Philippe Calatrava 8-Day Ref. 5328G shows how evolution in watchmaking can be subtle yet significant. It refines one of the brand’s most recognisable designs, combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design language.
The first impression is all about detail. The grained midnight-blue dial, luminous Arabic numerals, and hobnail-fluted case band create a balanced look that feels both classic and modern. The result is a Calatrava that fits seamlessly into Patek’s lineage while appealing to a new generation of collectors.
Inside, the Calibre 31-505 8J takes the spotlight. This hand-wound movement delivers an eight-day power reserve through twin barrels and features silicon components that enhance precision and reduce friction. The day and date change instantly at midnight, a feature that reflects both technical mastery and aesthetic restraint.
Flip the watch over and the craftsmanship reveals itself in layers. The movement’s sweeping bridges, polished bevels, and classical layout echo Patek Philippe’s pocket-watch heritage, executed with the clean precision of modern engineering. Every element has purpose, from the symmetry of the bridges to the fine Geneva finishing.
The Calatrava 8-Day isn’t about nostalgia or novelty. It’s about refinement, proportion, and performance. Patek Philippe hasn’t reinvented the icon; it has elevated it, making the experience of winding and wearing it part of the pleasure.
The Gerald Charles Masterlink Gem-Set is everything you’d expect from a design that traces its lineage back to Gérald Genta, and more. Unveiled at Geneva Watch Days 2025, it’s a confident return to form for the brand, celebrating asymmetry, proportion, and a touch of eccentric opulence that only Genta could have conceived.
Originally created as a bespoke piece for a royal family in Sarawak, Malaysia, the Masterlink stood out for its daringly unbalanced silhouette. The 12 o’clock side of the bracelet featured flat links, while the 6 o’clock side curved in rhythm with the case. It was both playful and precise, a design quirk that blurred the line between jewellery and horology. Two decades later, Gerald Charles revives that spirit with a trio of limited editions available in blue sapphire, red sapphire, or vivid green tsavorite.
Each version pairs a stainless-steel case with an 18K white-gold gem-set bezel, creating a striking contrast between cool industrial tones and radiant colour. The same gemstones mark the hours on the dial, which features layered cut-outs and a vertical sunburst finish that plays with light from every angle. It’s a masterclass in subtle flamboyance, luxury expressed through proportion and restraint rather than scale.
At 38 millimetres wide and 7.99 millimetres thick, the Masterlink Gem-Set feels perfectly judged for modern tastes: slim enough to slide under a cuff but wide enough to make an impression. Powering it is a Vaucher-made micro-rotor movement, the calibre 1.0, based on the celebrated VMF 5400 used by Parmigiani Fleurier. Its finishing has been reimagined exclusively for Gerald Charles, ensuring that the watch looks as refined beneath the surface as it does above it.
With only ten pieces made in each colour, the new Masterlink is as rare as it is distinctive. It’s not just a revival of a lost design; it’s a reminder of how true luxury can feel effortless, eccentric, and meticulously considered, all at once.
Bovet has built a reputation for creating watches that feel more like kinetic art than instruments of time. Under Pascal Raffy’s direction, the brand’s approach to watchmaking is architectural, expressive, and deeply intentional, favouring movement design that tells a story rather than simply marking the hours.
The Récital 22 Grand Récital, recipient of the Aiguille d’Or at the 2018 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève, captures a miniature universe beneath its domed sapphire crystal. A hand-painted Earth turns once every 24 hours, illuminated by a spherical Moon and a gold-plated flying tourbillon symbolising the Sun. The result is a living, three-dimensional orrery that measures not just time, but celestial rhythm. With its nine-day power reserve, retrograde displays, and flawless symmetry, it remains one of the most intricate and evocative examples of modern horology.
The Récital 28 Prowess 1, which won the 2023 GPHG Mechanical Exception award, takes a different path. It reimagines the world time complication through 24 rotating city rollers that automatically adjust for Daylight Saving Time across every region. The system is both logical and theatrical, merging mechanical innovation with intuitive readability. The perpetual calendar and ten-day power reserve reinforce its sense of control over the chaos of global timekeeping.
Together, these two timepieces illustrate Bovet’s distinct language: one cosmic, one cerebral. They are feats of engineering that manage to feel emotional, transforming the measurement of time into an art form that is as much about perspective as precision.
The twin releases from Vyntage Horology, the Monograph Dawn and Purity Dusk, continue to define the brand’s understated identity, a meeting point between classic Swiss mechanics and the energy of Dubai’s urban culture. Introduced under the umbrella of Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons, the independent brand has since evolved beyond its debut moment, with these models standing as two of its most refined and distinctive creations.
The Monograph Dawn represents the pulse of morning, brought to life through a 40-millimetre steel case and a hand-wound monopusher chronograph. The hand-hammered salmon dial is the real draw, rich in texture and punctuated by recessed registers and polished Roman numerals that shimmer against its warm tones. The design evokes the first glow of the city as it stirs to life, soft, tactile, and quietly confident.
The Purity Dusk takes a more contemplative approach. At 39 millimetres wide and just 10.8 millimetres thick, it houses a manual-wind movement with a 90-hour power reserve visible through the sapphire caseback. Its smoked green dial fades from emerald to deep forest, echoing the subtle drama of evening light bouncing off glass towers. The silver arrowhead markers and deep aubergine strap add contrast and depth without overpowering the composition.
Together, these two pieces encapsulate the brand’s guiding idea of modern horology for modern life, a balance of movement, mood, and meticulous craft. The Seddiqi family’s seven decades in fine watchmaking are evident here, not through overt heritage cues but through precision, proportion, and purpose.
Neither watch chases trends or extravagance. Instead, they offer a grounded elegance that speaks to collectors who appreciate design that evolves without losing clarity. From the blush tones of Dawn to the dark allure of Dusk, Vyntage Horology has captured what makes city life endlessly fascinating, the beauty found between the rush and the stillness.
When Bugatti unveiled the Brouillard, it did more than add another hypercar to its legacy. Making its European debut at the Wheels Mariënwaerdt Concours in the Netherlands, the one-of-one masterpiece marked a new era for the marque, where design, craftsmanship, and individuality converge through Programme Solitaire, Bugatti’s most exclusive custom division.
Finished in a deep metallic green, the Brouillard’s silhouette is defined by aerodynamic precision and sculptural balance. Among more than 30 historic Bugattis from the Perridon Collection, it drew admiration not through extravagance but through its refined sense of proportion and control. Beneath the surface lies the brand’s formidable 8.0-litre W16 quad-turbo engine, producing 1,600 PS of seamless, measured power.
“The Brouillard’s perfect balance of beauty and speed, heritage and innovation, makes it not only an outstanding showcase of Bugatti’s design capabilities but also a reflection of the vision and passion of our customers,” said Hendrik Malinowski, Managing Director of Bugatti Automobiles.
That philosophy defines Programme Solitaire, which extends the boundaries of customisation far beyond the marque’s Sur Mesure line. Each commission is developed in collaboration with the owner, drawing inspiration from the grand coachbuilding era while embracing modern technology and materials.
The result is an object of motion that feels timeless. With the Brouillard, Bugatti has distilled its century-long pursuit of performance and artistry into a single, unmistakable form, an elegant statement of what happens when power meets precision.
The 2026 Cayenne GTS combines power, control, and everyday usability
The 2026 Porsche Cayenne GTS refines one of Porsche’s most capable SUVs into a sharper, more engaging drive. It is designed for drivers who expect sports car dynamics from an SUV without giving up space, technology, or comfort.
Power comes from a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 that produces 493 horsepower and 487 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with an eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission and Porsche’s all-wheel-drive system. The result is acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in about 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 275 km/h. The standard Sport Chrono Package improves throttle response and shift mapping, while Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus and an adaptive air suspension tuned specifically for the GTS give the car precise handling and stability, even at high speeds.
The chassis sits 10 millimetres lower than the Cayenne S, improving aerodynamics and cornering grip. Braking power comes from six-piston front and four-piston rear callipers with large ventilated discs, while the optional Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes reduce fade during heavy use. Drivers can choose between Normal, Sport, Sport Plus, and Individual drive modes to tailor suspension, engine, and transmission settings.
On the outside, the GTS has distinctive details such as black trim elements, tinted lights, and dark sport exhaust tips. Standard 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels complete its athletic stance, while the front air intakes and sculpted bonnet give the SUV a clean but assertive look.
Inside, the cabin follows Porsche’s driver-focused layout. Alcantara-trimmed sport seats feature integrated headrests and GTS embroidery. Brushed aluminium accents, a dark interior palette, and a thick-rimmed steering wheel reinforce the car’s sporty character. A curved 12.6-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch central touchscreen control navigation, media, and vehicle settings. Optional features include a 10.9-inch passenger display, head-up display, Burmester 3D sound system, and rear-seat entertainment screens.
The infotainment system integrates Porsche Connect and supports wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa voice control. Dolby Atmos sound, ambient lighting, and four-zone climate control enhance comfort, while safety and convenience systems include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, park assist with a 360° camera, and night vision assist.
The Cayenne GTS is built for drivers who want precision, speed, and practicality in equal measure. It is powerful, responsive, and refined, true to Porsche’s engineering standards but ready for everyday use.
The Tesla Model Y Performance is what happens when an electric SUV decides it doesn’t want to play nice. It looks understated at first glance, but beneath that clean, aerodynamic shell is one of the most entertaining daily drivers on the road.
Dual motors power all four wheels with instant torque, launching the Model Y from zero to 100 km/h in roughly 3.5 seconds. There’s no drama, no engine roar, only a sudden, effortless surge that pins you to the seat. The handling is precise and confident, helped by a low centre of gravity that makes it feel more like a sports sedan than an SUV.
The design stays true to Tesla’s minimalist aesthetic. The Performance trim adds 21-inch Uberturbine wheels, red brake calipers, and a carbon-fibre spoiler that quietly signal its capability. Inside, the cabin feels futuristic but calm, free of buttons and clutter, anchored by a single 15inch touchscreen that handles everything from navigation to temperature control. The panoramic glass roof opens up the space, while the materials strike the right balance between luxury and utility.
Driving the Model Y is less about brute force and more about movement. The acceleration is addictive, but what stands out is how easy it is to live with. Adaptive cruise control, Autopilot, and regenerative braking make city driving smooth and intuitive. On the highway, it’s quiet and composed, with over 500 kilometres of range on a full charge when driven efficiently.
Charging is still Tesla’s biggest advantage. With access to the Supercharger network, the Model Y Performance can add hundreds of kilometres of range in minutes, turning long journeys into brief coffee stops.
This isn’t a concept car or a statement piece. The Model Y Performance takes Tesla’s trademark speed and software and packages it into something genuinely usable. It’s not here to reinvent the SUV—it’s here to prove that the electric one can finally be the most fun to drive.
The Audi A5 Sedan carries itself with quiet confidence. Its sculpted body, taut proportions, and precise character lines give it a sense of motion even at rest. Every curve serves a purpose, from the crisp shoulder line to the signature Singleframe grille that anchors the car’s athletic stance. It is a sedan that balances elegance and energy in equal measure.
Beneath its refined exterior lies the Premium Platform Combustion, engineered for agility and stability. Drivers can choose from a range of efficient powertrains, including the 2.0-litre TFSI engine paired with Audi’s mild-hybrid technology. The S tronic dual-clutch transmission ensures seamless gear changes, while the available quattro all-wheel drive system keeps the car composed and confident across changing conditions.
Inside, the cabin reflects Audi’s talent for restraint and precision. Every element is positioned with intent, from the driver-oriented dashboard to the continuous arc of digital displays that curve elegantly across the cockpit. Premium materials, soft-touch surfaces, and subtle ambient lighting create an atmosphere that feels both contemporary and calm.
Out on the road, the A5 Sedan strikes a balance between composure and excitement. Steering is direct, with just enough feedback to engage without fatigue. The suspension feels taut but never harsh, offering a sense of control that invites long drives and winding roads alike. It is a car that feels as sure-footed in the city as it does on the open highway.
Technology plays a central role in the experience. The Audi Virtual Cockpit, intuitive infotainment system, and advanced driver-assistance features come together to make driving effortless and connected. The car responds with intelligence and grace, never overwhelming, always adapting to its driver.
The A5 Sedan is a study in subtle strength. It doesn’t rely on excess or spectacle to make an impression. Instead, it represents a kind of luxury defined by balance, proportion, and purpose. It is an enduring expression of Audi’s belief that precision is the truest form of performance.
During the week of the United Nations General Assembly’s 80th session (UNGA80), global leaders, investors, and policymakers gathered at the Baccarat Hotel in New York for a landmark event. Hosted by Arton Capital, the evening marked the official unveiling of Botswana’s Impact Citizenship Program, a national initiative aimed at attracting purpose-driven investment to support the country’s long-term development goals. The exclusive event took place in the distinguished presence of Advocate Duma Gideon Boko, President of the Republic of Botswana, and Armand Arton, Founder and CEO of Arton Capital. Together, they announced a bold new chapter for the nation, one that reimagines citizenship as a force for sustainable growth, social progress, and shared prosperity.
For Botswana, the launch signals the beginning of a new chapter. Long recognized for its diamond-driven success and political stability, the country is now looking beyond natural resources to shape a more diversified economy. The Impact Citizenship Program invites individuals to contribute between USD 75,000 and 90,000, directly supporting high-priority national initiatives that deliver measurable benefits for the people of Botswana. From education and healthcare to conservation and innovation, each contribution directly supports sustainable growth and social advancement. Applications for the program are expected to open in early 2026, with limited spaces available for the first cohort of global citizens.
Since the announcement on September 26, 2025, the Botswana Impact Citizenship Program has attracted exceptional global attention. In less than one month, there are now over 1,000 registrations of interest from nearly 100 nationalities across six continents, reflecting strong early confidence in the program’s vision and global appeal.
49 percent of re spondents are ap plying for them selves, while 39 percent are inquiring on behalf of their families.
29 percent of interested individuals report a net worth between USD 1 million and 10 million, and 6 percent exceed USD 10 million.
The program has attracted global engagement, with 33 percent of registrations from Africa, 24 percent from Asia, and 21 percent from North America and the Caribbean.
The United States leads with 14 percent of registrations, followed by Zimbabwe (10 percent), India (8 percent), and South Africa (8 percent).
Interest has also been strong from established financial hubs such as the United Kingdom, Canada, and Germany, as well as from emerging markets across Africa and Asia.
The Impact Citizenship Program will begin accepting formal applications in early 2026. The first phase will be limited, with a select number of investors invited to participate.
For Botswana, the launch represents more than a new citizenship model. It tells of a wider ambition to attract global capital that creates measurable social and economic value. For investors, it offers a chance to contribute to a nation with plans for sustainable growth, social advancement, and global strength. Currently ranked #4 in Africa on Arton Capital’s Passport Index, Botswana is aiming for #1 by 2027, signaling a push to broaden visa-free access to major markets.
To register your interest or learn more about the program, visit BotswanaCitizenship.com
How philanthropy in the GCC is evolving from generosity to structure, purpose and impact
Philanthropy in the Gulf is entering a new era. What was once defined by tradition and individual generosity is becoming organised, collaborative and designed for lasting outcomes. The focus today is not only on donation but on strategy, measurement and systemic change. As the Boston Consulting Group explains in Flavors of Ambition, “the Middle East is undergoing a momentous shift. While deeply rooted in cultural and religious traditions, it is now evolving into a more strategic, structured, and impactful force for change.” This reflects a growing conviction that capital must work harder, connecting values, governance and results.
Several leading foundations in the GCC embody this approach. In Saudi Arabia, Alwaleed Philanthropies has built global partnerships with the World Health Organization and the Gates Foundation, focusing on health, empowerment and youth. Its founder has stated: “I founded Alwaleed Philanthropies because I strongly believe we all have a responsibility to do what we can do to improve our world.” This sense of duty has been matched by frameworks for accountability and long-term planning.
In the UAE, the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI) consolidate dozens of programmes under one governance structure, creating visibility, scalability and continuity in education, healthcare and humanitarian work. Similarly, the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation for Education has committed to multi-year funding and digital learning platforms, reflecting the idea that philanthropy should build future capacity rather than provide only short-term aid.
Philanthropy in the Gulf increasingly plays a role in supporting innovation ecosystems. MIT Sloan research highlights how donor programmes are backing startups in health technology, renewable energy and food security. Support comes not just in grants but in mentorship, accelerators and blended finance models that combine philanthropic and investment capital. The King Khalid Foundation in Saudi Arabia exemplifies this approach, funding social enterprises and capacity-building programmes that strengthen civil society while encouraging entrepreneurship. These efforts show how philanthropy can create economic and social impact simultaneously.
The Pearl Initiative, in its Beyond Giving white paper, notes that strategic philanthropy must “involve the purposeful allocation of resources to create lasting change.” This requires governance, accountability and alignment with global goals. It also means confronting challenges such as donor fragmentation, duplication of effort and the difficulty of measuring true outcomes.
Building robust evaluation systems and adopting long-term, patient capital strategies are not always easy, but they are essential for credibility and effectiveness. As Gulf philanthropists increasingly focus on legacy, the conversation is shifting toward how today’s giving can shape opportunities for the next generation.
To deepen the impact of philanthropy in the region, several priorities stand out:
Collaborative platforms that pool capital and share knowledge. Impact measurement systems embedded into projects from the outset. Regional intermediaries that coordinate strategies across borders.
Catalytic capital models that blend grants, challenge funds and investment. Youth engagement to ensure continuity and innovation.
Philanthropy in the GCC is being redefined by structure, partnership and purpose. With institutions such as Alwaleed Philanthropies, MBRGI, the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation and the King Khalid Foundation leading the way, the region is showing that generosity can be more than symbolic. It can be strategic, transparent and transformative, creating a legacy of impact that will outlast wealth itself.
For years, luxury developments relied on predictable amenities: a swimming pool, a gym, perhaps a spa tucked away on the ground floor. Today, the picture is changing. Across the globe and increasingly in the Gulf, wellness is no longer treated as an accessory to real estate. It is being designed into the very structure of homes and communities.
A vivid example lies in Alibaug, a coastal enclave just south of Mumbai that has become a favoured weekend destination for India’s elite. Known for its beaches, tropical greenery and proximity to the city, it has recently attracted new waves of investment in wellness-led living. One project in particular, Ananta by Avas Wellness, is built entirely around health and longevity.
Here, villas are designed with open floor plans, seamless indoor-outdoor transitions, and landscaping that takes up half of each plot. Natural materials, abundant light and ventilation, and views into curated gardens are integral to every residence. The wider community is anchored by a wellness centre offering integrative therapies, thermal suites and hammams, as well as dining shaped around seasonal produce. Sports facilities extend beyond the usual, with a racquet club for padel, tennis and pickleball, a golf simulator, and a dedicated recovery space with cryotherapy and hydrotherapy.
What sets such developments apart is not the range of features, but the way they are conceived as part of daily life. A walk through a landscaped trail, a restorative spa ritual or a chef-prepared meal based on fresh produce becomes routine rather than occasional. Wellness moves from being an indulgence to an expectation.
The resonance with the Gulf is immediate. The region’s luxury real estate is increasingly defined by this same philosophy, whether through spa-focused communities in Ras Al Khaimah, branded residences in Dubai with longevity clinics, or coastal retreats in Abu Dhabi that prioritise nature and walkability. As the market matures, buyers are seeking homes that feel restorative, sustainable and future-focused, as well as architecturally striking.
In this new era, true luxury is not measured only by design or location, but by how a home supports the rhythm of life within it. Developments like those in Alibaug highlight the direction of travel: spaces that nurture health, balance and connection every single day.
Where real estate and well-being converge Across the Emirates, luxury living is being redefined by communities that place wellness at their heart. Rather than offering spas and gyms as optional extras, these projects weave health into the fabric of everyday life.
On the coast between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, AlJurf has been envisioned as a “healthy living destination.” Villas are framed by shaded pathways and wild landscaping, encouraging a closer connection to nature while ensuring privacy. The development’s design favours balance: restorative green corridors, access to the sea, and a sense of retreat just beyond the city.
In Dubai, wellness is shaping branded residences that pair contemporary architecture with medical and lifestyle expertise. Homes with on-site diagnostic clinics, longevity programmes and curated wellness services are appealing to buyers who expect healthcare and luxury to sit side by side.
Further north, Zoya Health & Wellbeing Resort in Ajman offers a boutique example of this philosophy. Surrounded by mangroves, the resort incorporates nutrition, integrative therapies and fitness into residential life, showing how smaller-scale projects can deliver meaningful well-being.
Together, these developments signal a new direction. Wellness is not a service to book, but a way of living designed into each home and community. For the region’s most discerning buyers, it has become the defining measure of modern luxury.
Inside the world’s longest-lived communities — and why the UAE is looking closely at their secrets
There are rare places in the world where life flows at a different pace. Villages where people rise with the sun, walk hillsides to tend gardens, share meals of lentils and greens, and gather with family as evening falls. These are the famed Blue Zones — Okinawa in Japan, Sardinia in Italy, Ikaria in Greece, Nicoya in Costa Rica and the Adventist community of Loma Linda in California — and they hold the distinction of harbouring the highest concentration of centenarians on the planet.
The secret, it turns out, is not a single ingredient or magic bullet. Instead, it is a mosaic of habits and environments that, taken together, shape a culture of longevity. Researchers have distilled these into what is known as the Power 9. Movement is natural, woven into daily life through walking, farming and household tasks. Meals are largely plant-based, with beans, vegetables and whole grains forming the foundation, while meat is consumed sparingly. Eating often stops at the eighty per cent mark, a ritual that prevents overindulgence.
Equally important are purpose and connection. In Okinawa the concept is ikigai, in Nicoya it is plan de vida. Having a reason to rise each morning is linked to longer life expectancy. Stress is eased not with grand gestures but with daily rituals: a pause for prayer, an afternoon nap, a simple gathering with neighbours. Family bonds are paramount, with elders cared for at home, and social circles reinforce positive behaviours rather than erode them.
In the UAE, the appeal of this philosophy is impossible to ignore. A nation that has already committed itself to the National Strategy for Wellbeing 2031, the Emirates is exploring how communities can be designed for health as well as luxury. Developments such as Al Jurf, a coastal retreat between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, are being billed as “healthy living islands”, where walkability, green spaces and wellness-oriented amenities set a new benchmark for residential life.
The wider shift is visible across the region. From wellness resorts in Ras Al Khaimah to a surge in plant-forward dining in Dubai, the language of longevity is entering everyday life. Even as scholars caution that the Blue Zone model is not easily transplanted, there is a growing sense that the underlying principles — simplicity, belonging, balance — can be adapted to suit modern urban living.
The lesson from these distant communities is ultimately disarmingly simple. Live with purpose. Eat modestly. Prioritise family. Stay connected. Create moments of stillness. Amid the pace of modern life, these rituals offer a quieter rhythm, and perhaps the most enduring definition of wealth.
Sarah Al Saman on transforming science, nature, and space into immersive art
Born in the UAE in 1999, visual artist Sarah Al Saman belongs to a generation reshaping what it means to experience art. Working across large-scale installations, film, and textile, she invites viewers to look closer, beyond the visible surface, into the intricate systems that connect science, nature, and human perception. Drawing inspiration from the natural environment, from desert light to ocean depths, her practice seeks to dissolve the distance between artwork and audience, creating immersive encounters that engage all the senses. As an Experience Designer at Louvre Abu Dhabi, she continues to expand the boundaries of visual storytelling, transforming the unseen into experiences that are both tangible and transformative.
It all began, she says, with curiosity. “I watched a film that sparked my thinking and sent me spiralling into a mission to understand, to know the how and why of things, and why science seems to connect to almost everything.” That single moment set her on a path of discovery, translating her fascination with the recurring patterns of nature into a lifelong artistic dialogue between observation and imagination.
“I approach the artwork as a space of exchange rather than a static object,” she explains. “I want the audience to reach out and feel the work, to move, sense, and respond to it.” For Al Saman, the act of viewing is participatory. She designs her installations as living environments, spaces that invite reflection, touch, and curiosity. “The goal is to dissolve the distance between observer and artwork,” she says, “allowing the viewer to become part of the experience.”
Much of her creative language is shaped by her surroundings. “Nature here has always felt both vast and intimate to me,” she reflects. “The desert, the sea, the stillness, and the light all carry their own rhythm.” The subtle shifts in wind, texture, and light guide her process, reminding her that everything in nature is in motion. “Nature teaches me that nothing is still,” she adds. “Everything moves and connects. My work tries to echo that continuous change.”
Her exploration of connection extends far beyond Earth’s horizon. Al Saman often draws parallels between the deep sea and outer space, two realms that, despite their distance, share a quiet symmetry. “Both hold a sense of mystery and remind us how little we truly know,” she says. “The silence, the darkness, the lightness—they mirror each other in structure and rhythm. The currents of the ocean and the orbits of planets both reveal invisible systems that shape existence on different scales.”
Every concept in her practice dictates its own form. “The concept always guides the medium,” she explains. “Some ideas call for space and movement, which become installations or films. Over time, I’ve grown my practice into textile art as a way to translate ideas through touch, rhythm, and materiality.” Textile, for her, is an emotional medium, one that engages both the mind and the senses. “Texture is a language in itself. Physically it engages the senses, inviting touch and close attention. Emotionally it carries memory and intimacy. Texture becomes a bridge, connecting the unseen patterns I explore with how the audience experiences and feels them.”
Her work has travelled far, from Tokyo to New York to Abu Dhabi, exposing her to different modes of perception. “Exhibiting across different cultural contexts has shaped how I think about audience and perception,” she says. “Each place has its own way of expression, and experiencing that has made me more intentional about communicating universal ideas while still grounding my practice in where I come from.”
Her professional experience at Louvre Abu Dhabi has also become an extension of her creative philosophy. “Working as a designer at the museum has given me a deep awareness of how people engage with space and narratives,” she explains. “It has taught me to consider movement in ways that make experiences immersive and meaningful.” The insights she gains in the museum environment naturally inform her own artistic process, enriching her understanding of how people interact with art beyond the visual.
As part of a growing community of UAE-born artists, Al Saman views her work as part of a larger cultural dialogue. “I see my practice as part of a larger conversation about how contemporary art in the UAE can reflect both local roots and global perspectives,” she says. “By exploring unseen systems, patterns in nature, and immersive experiences, I aim to expand how people encounter and think about art here, contributing to a narrative that is experimental, reflective, and deeply connected to our environment and culture.”
Looking ahead, Al Saman continues to explore how the invisible can be made visible through movement, light, and form. “Audiences can expect immersive work that explores the unseen, inviting them to move, to feel, and to connect,” she says. “I hope it sparks curiosity and encourages people to notice the patterns and connections often overlooked in nature and daily life.”
Sarah Al Saman’s art offers a quiet counterpoint to constant visibility. Through light, texture, and movement, she transforms the invisible into something that can be felt, reminding us that the most powerful experiences often exist just beyond sight.
As December drapes Zurich in frost and light, the city transforms into something between an old-world fairytale and a masterclass in winter refinement. From markets lined with glimmering chalets to day trips into snow-sculpted peaks, this is a winter escape curated with Swiss precision.
Begin on Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich’s iconic luxury avenue and one of Europe’s most exclusive retail stretches. With boutiques, jewellers and flagship stores set in grand façades, it is the city’s festive catwalk of lights. Pause at Paradeplatz for an espresso at Confiserie Sprüngli, then wander into the Old Town’s cobbled alleys, where medieval architecture glows with seasonal lanterns. When the cold bites, slip into Café & Conditorei 1842, the city’s oldest café, or warm up with inventive vegetarian fare at Hiltl, the world’s longest-running vegetarian restaurant.
From late November through Christmas, Zurich hums with festive markets. The Wienachtsdorf market at Sechseläutenplatz frames the Opera House with more than 100 stalls of artisan goods and seasonal treats. At the Christkindlimarkt in the main station, a towering tree draped in Swarovski crystals presides over a hall of gift stalls.
The Singing Christmas Tree at Werdmühleplatz is a highlight, where choirs perform nightly from a tiered stage shaped like a tree. Children flock to the Märlitram, a fairy-tale tram that winds through the city with storytelling on board. Musical advent traditions continue at the Opera House, where short concerts begin at dusk throughout December.
Zurich’s location makes alpine escapes effortless. Within 90 minutes, Flumserberg offers skiing, sledging and snowshoe trails with views of the Churfirsten mountains. Closer to the city, the Uetliberg hill is an easy train ride away, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of lake and Alps dusted in white. For a classic winter scene, the Dolder open-air ice rink glitters on the hillside, its 6,000 square metres of ice glowing beneath floodlights. Candle-dipping at Bürkliplatz and evening strolls along the lakefront add local rituals to the season.
As night falls, Zurich takes on a cosy elegance. Fondue chalets spring up across the city, where bubbling cheese is served with dark bread and crisp white wine. The Dolder Grand Spa, perched above the city, offers thermal pools, indulgent treatments and sweeping views of lake and forest. Museums provide another kind of retreat: the Kunsthaus Zürich for masterpieces and the Swiss National Museum for cultural history. Between outings, pause for roasted chestnuts or thick hot chocolate in a candlelit café. Zurich in December is a city of contrasts: crisp alpine air and soft candlelight, glittering boutiques and hushed galleries, ancient traditions and contemporary refinement. It is winter at its most elegant, a season written in light, music and snow.
Where Oman’s dramatic coastline becomes a private seascape of cliffs and calm
Just beyond the familiar skyline of the UAE lies Musandam, Oman’s rugged northern exclave. Known as the “Norway of Arabia,” its jagged cliffs descend into sapphire waters, forming narrow inlets, or khors, that resemble fjords more than typical Gulf coastline. Khasab, the principal town of Musandam, acts as a gateway for travellers seeking a refined escape into nature.
In December, the climate offers a welcome relief from coastal heat. Days are mild, skies clear, and the waters calm—conditions ideal for navigation, diving and luxury cruising. This is the season when Musandam reveals itself fully to discerning travellers.
The heart of the Musandam experience is aboard a dhow. Luxury operators run cruises that weave among the khors, passing cliffs, hidden coves and fishing villages perched on steep slopes. Guests pause for dolphin-watching, snorkelling or a leisurely lunch served on deck. At Six Senses Zighy Bay, the region’s most celebrated resort, the maritime journey continues aboard its handcrafted Dhahab dhow. The experience covers coastal gems such as Haffa, White Rock and Lima, offered as day trips or overnight voyages that blend seafaring with indulgence.
One of Zighy Bay’s signatures is its paragliding arrival. Guests begin from a launch point nearly 300 metres above the resort, gliding over the Hajar Mountains before landing softly on the beach. For others, the ascent through mountain roads in a 4×4, followed by descent to the bay, sets the stage for the sense of arrival.
After the motion of sea or sky, the setting itself offers calm. Villas built from natural stone and timber echo the geology around them, with private pools, shaded terraces and views that stretch across both ridges and shoreline.
Wellness is central to the appeal. Spa rituals draw on indigenous minerals, hammams are carved into stone, and menus highlight seasonal produce from nearby farms. The rhythm of the place is simple: activity in the morning, stillness at dusk.
Beyond the resorts, Musandam’s history and culture offer depth. provides a glimpse of the region’s maritime past. Inland, hiking trails and rugged roads lead to remote villages, some reachable only on foot or by boat.
Each night, the silence becomes its own luxury. The waters still, the stars appear over the ridges, and a coastline that astonishes by day softens into shadows and reflection.
Musandam may sit just across the UAE border, but its spirit feels far away. It is a place to slow down, to sail quietly, and to lose track of time among cliffs and sea. For travellers in search of privacy, wellness and atmosphere, Oman’s hidden fjords are a destination apart.
Luxury retreats in the UAE’s mountain escape
An hour north of Dubai, the landscape changes. The desert plains give way to rocky ridges and the Hajar Mountains rise sharply against the horizon. At nearly 2,000 metres, Jebel Jais is the highest peak in the UAE, and it is here that Ras Al Khaimah has quietly created a new chapter in Arabian luxury.
The emirate has long attracted thrill-seekers with its winding mountain roads and world-record zip-line, but today the appeal is equally about seclusion and style. Resorts perched on ridges offer private villas with infinity pools, open terraces with firepits, and spas that frame the mountain air as part of their therapy. The design ethos favours natural stone, warm timber, and unobstructed views that stretch for miles.
Morning begins with yoga at sunrise or a hike through wadis shaped by centuries of water and wind. By late morning the cooler climate at altitude invites cycling and guided nature walks. Jebel Jais continues to draw adventurers with its zip-line and via ferrata, while evenings bring stargazing sessions or a chef-prepared picnic under wide skies. Wellness has become central to the RAK mountain offering. Several retreats feature thermal suites inspired by European spa traditions, hammams built into stone interiors, and menus that highlight produce from nearby farms. The rhythm is striking: activity and adrenaline early in the day, quiet restoration as evening arrives.
The mountain resorts are not a replica of European alpine retreats. They are shaped by their setting, with architecture that respects the terrain and a hospitality culture rooted in the Arabian sense of welcome. Interiors reflect the tones of sand, stone and sky. Many properties have introduced sustainability commitments, from renewable energy to reduced plastics, aligning modern luxury with environmental responsibility.
Ras Al Khaimah is investing heavily in positioning itself as a wellness destination by 2030, and the mountain resorts are central to that ambition. They offer something that coastal cities cannot: altitude, silence, and space.
The most compelling moment comes at dusk when the sun drops behind the Hajar peaks. The air cools, the mountains glow rose-gold, and the coastline shimmers faintly in the distance. It is a luxury defined not by excess but by atmosphere, where space and stillness take precedence.
For travellers who know the UAE for its towers and skylines, Ras Al Khaimah offers a new perspective. The mountains promise a different rhythm, one shaped by altitude, serenity and understated refinement.
An edit for those who values stillness and design in equal measure. The home becomes a personal atelier, a place to retreat, reflect, and recharge with taste that speaks in whispers, not logos.
Italian-woven indulgence that transforms quiet mornings into ritual.
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From bespoke luggage to digital precision, this edit celebrates the art of moving beautifully, where each object is both practical and poetic.
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An icon of engineering and elegance, offering performance optics in precious metal frames.
The ultimate cold-therapy ritual, engineered for resilience, recovery, and mind-body mastery.
These are the foundational pieces every discerning man should own. Understated, impeccably made, and effortlessly functional, they form a study in refinement built on tactile materials, sensory indulgence, and enduring form.
MODERN COMFORT
Brunello Cucinelli
Suede Slides
Minimal yet masterfully made, offering pure indulgence for the discerning homebody.
ICONIC CLASSICS
Saint Laurent Vintage Cap
A timeless piece that pairs effortless charm with quiet luxury.
Assouline “The Impossible Collection of Cars”
A coffee-table masterpiece that turns automotive obsession into art.
Berluti Shadow Knit & Leather Sneakers
Sporty elegance handcrafted wit the brand’s signature patina finish.
Diptyque Feu de Bois Candle
Smoky wood and winter warmth that captures the elegance of a fireside evening.
Smythson Mara Panama Diary
The ultimate companion for though and travel, defined by croc-effect leather and impeccable craftsmanship.
The iPhone Air is Apple at its most confident. Just 5.6 millimetres thin, it feels like a design experiment perfected. The titanium frame adds strength without weight, while the matte glass back sits comfortably in your hand. It is minimalist, sharp, and unmistakably premium, the kind of phone that looks as refined as it performs.
At its core is the A19 Pro chip, paired with the N1 wireless chipset and C1X modem. The combination delivers faster speeds, cooler performance, and improved battery life. Whether you are streaming, editing, or multitasking, everything feels smooth and consistent. The redesigned internal layout also makes room for a larger battery, complemented by iOS 26’s Adaptive Power Mode for all-day endurance.
The 6.5-inch Super Retina XDR display continues Apple’s pursuit of visual perfection. With 120 Hz refresh and 3,000 nits of peak brightness, it stays vivid in any environment. Ceramic Shield 2 adds protection, while the titanium edges reinforce the phone’s balance of toughness and elegance.
The 48-megapixel Fusion camera captures sharp detail in every frame, adapting effortlessly to different light conditions. The 18-megapixel front camera with Center Stage and dual-capture functionality gives creators the flexibility to film from both sides at once, making it ideal for vlogging, calls, and content creation.
Apple has also moved fully to eSIM, offering simpler global connectivity and a cleaner, more compact design. Colour options include space black, cloud white, light gold, and sky blue, subtle yet distinct finishes that complete the phone’s modern aesthetic.
The iPhone Air is not built to impress through size or specifications alone. It is designed for those who appreciate precision, restraint, and innovation that feels purposeful. Every detail serves a function, resulting in a device that is balanced, capable, and unmistakably refined.
The AirPods Pro 3 mark a new chapter in Apple’s audio story. Compact and familiar at first glance, these earbuds hide a surprising amount of engineering beneath their polished surface. The redesigned acoustic architecture, powered by the H2 chip, delivers a noticeably wider soundstage with deeper bass and crisper detail. Whether you’re streaming, calling, or mixing playlists on the go, the sound feels immersive and balanced. Noise cancellation has evolved too. Apple’s latest system offers up to twice the active noise control of its predecessor, while new foam-infused ear tips in five sizes create a better acoustic seal. Transparency Mode and Adaptive Audio work together to sense your environment, adjusting automatically between focus and awareness so you can move seamlessly from a busy street to a quiet workspace.
One of the standout upgrades is health tracking. The AirPods Pro 3 now include built-in heart-rate sensors that measure pulse and calorie burn during workouts. Combined with IP57 resistance to water, sweat, and dust, they are designed to keep up with active lifestyles without compromising comfort. Battery life has also been extended, now reaching up to eight hours of continuous listening with noise cancellation on, and even longer with the charging case. The case itself supports MagSafe and USB-C, making it easier to stay powered wherever you are. Apple has also introduced a smart translation feature that allows real-time interpretation of spoken languages in supported pairs. It’s an early glimpse of how Apple Intelligence will merge everyday wearables with advanced functionality.
The AirPods Pro 3 fit neatly into the Apple ecosystem, integrating with the Fitness app, conversation boost tools, and new hearing-health metrics. For users already invested in Apple’s world, they feel like the missing link between sound, wellness, and intelligent design. Sleek, intuitive, and tuned for the modern listener, the AirPods Pro 3 redefine what “Pro” means in a pair of earbuds.
Bang & Olufsen introduces a new standard in premium audio design with the latest release in their acclaimed range
Danish audio house Bang & Olufsen has brought forward an intriguing addition to its high-end lineup, a model that combines sleek aesthetics with serious acoustic engineering. The new product features a minimalist form factor that stays true to the brand’s rich heritage while embracing modern demands for compactness and performance.
At the heart of the design is the marriage of refined materials, including brushed aluminium, natural fabric finishes, and precision-milled detailing, with a finely tuned driver system. The result is an audio experience that feels spacious, clear, and richly textured. Whether listening to a jazz quartet, cinematic soundtrack, or deep-bass electronic tracks, the detail and depth carry through. Soundstage width and imaging benefit from careful acoustic tuning, with special attention paid to distortion suppression and harmonic accuracy.
Connectivity and control reflect today’s expectations, with seamless pairing across devices, sophisticated DSP (digital signal processing) modes, and intuitive touch or gesture interfaces. A newly incorporated transparency or ambient mode allows the listener to remain aware of their surroundings, an important capability in urban environments, while still enjoying immersive sound when desired.
Battery life and portability have not been neglected either. The system offers extended use between charges, and the carrying case or docking station aligns stylistically with the main unit, a design choice that underlines Bang & Olufsen’s belief that accessories should feel like part of the experience rather than an afterthought.
From a finishing perspective, the new release offers a palette of muted tones such as deep slate, warm bronze, and soft ivory. Each colour reflects the brand’s philosophy that audio hardware should sit well in the home as a part of interior décor, not hide behind it. The tactile detailing, including knurling, soft-touch surfaces, and subtle branding, adds to the sense of craftsmanship.
The new Bang & Olufsen launch does not simply upgrade the previous generation; it realigns expectations for what premium audio hardware can look and feel like. It targets audiophiles who care as much about design and materials as they do about frequency response and driver specs. For those seeking a statement piece that delivers sound and style in equal measure, this one firmly hits the mark.
