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BÉZIER DESIGN MARCIO KOGAN / STUDIO MK27
RELATIONSHIPS
Relationships are invisible bridges, threads that connect places, people, and visions. In this issue, we celebrate the value of true connection — one that stems from mutual respect and the desire to share beauty and innovation between Italy and the United Arab Emirates.
We begin with Giorgio Armani, the ultimate symbol of Made in Italy, among the frst Italian designers to choose Dubai to express his idea of timeless elegance. With him, we remember a way of interpreting fashion as a universal language of balance and harmony, and a bond with the city that refected his philosophy: looking ahead with poise and courage.
The same spirit inspires H.E. Abdulla bin
Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy of the United Arab Emirates, whom we met in Milan during Investopia Europe. His words outline the map of a growing collaboration, building tangible relations between enterprises, institutions, and talents — all guided by innovation and sustainability. We speak of relationships also through design, with twenty selected pieces that embody the excellence and intelligence of Italian style. Creations able to converse with space as only the Old Money aesthetic can: discreet, refned, eternal.
And then there is time — the one Auro Montanari turns into art. His Time on Show was born from friendship, from a shared passion that brings together collectors and visionaries under the banner of pure elegance. That same elegance lives on in the silk foulards of Italy’s most iconic maisons, symbols of grace and savoir-faire, and in the hospitality of the fnest restaurants in DIFC, where taste and design meet to tell the story of an ever more cosmopolitan city.
And since every relationship is also a gaze, in this issue we turn our eyes to the sky to rediscover Dubai from above — between hot-air balloons and panoramic fights — letting ourselves be enchanted by a city that never ceases to amaze, just like a friendship that deepens over time.
I LOVE CULTURES THAT ARE DIFFERENT AND DISTANT FROM OUR OWN, AS THEY ALLOW ME TO LEARN SO MUCH AND BROADEN MY PERSPECTIVE
SEE YOU ON THE PLANE!
FROM MILAN TO THE REST OF THE WORLD WITH TRAVEL CREATOR FIAMMETTA GATTO
How did you manage to turn your passion for travel into a career?
Consistency, perseverance, and a desire to improve were essential. At first, it was just a hobby, but as my community grew and brands started showing interest, I realized it could become a real career. For a year and a half, I balanced both my corporate job and my role as a content creator, but eventually, I had to make a choice.
What are the key ingredients to becoming a successful travel creator?
Curiosity, initiative, and the drive to improve every day are fundamental. I love exploring new places and cultures, and I believe this curiosity shines through in my content.
How do you choose the destinations you visit, and what do you look for in a new journey?
Several factors come into play when choosing a new destination. I always put myself in my community’s shoes and try to understand what might interest them the most at that moment – or what they may not know yet but would enjoy discovering. I particularly love cultures that are different and distant from our own, as they allow me to learn so much and broaden my perspective.
Has there been a travel experience that changed you the most?
Japan. I love this country – it’s my favorite in the world –and after four visits, it feels almost like home. Yet, every time I go, I discover something new and wonderful. Their culture fascinates me deeply, and getting to know it better has helped me grow.
Have you ever been to the Emirates?
Yes, of course – both Dubai and Abu Dhabi. What was the most incredible experience you had in Dubai that you would recommend to first-time visitors?
Without a doubt, scuba diving with Deep Dive! They offer packages for both certified divers and first-timers. The instructors are extremely thorough, explaining everything in detail before the dive, so even as a beginner, I felt completely safe. It was an exhilarating experience that I will remember forever.
What did you enjoy about Abu Dhabi?
I was very impressed by the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the largest in the United Arab Emirates, dedicated to its founder. I also visited the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a museum with unmistakable architecture. It’s the first universal museum in the Arab world! I highly recommend visiting – it’s also captivating to see the play of light inside the building.
@FIAMMETTAFIORE_
THE ITALIAN SPIRIT IN DUBAI
ROBERTA DE SANTIS LEADS THE ITALIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES, COMBINING BUSINESS AND LIFESTYLE
text Teresa Favi
One year after your appointment as Director General of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in the United Arab Emirates, what is the most significant achievement you have accomplished?
We have strengthened the image and role of the Chamber as a point of reference for Italian businesses, developing new institutional and strategic partnerships without staff turnover. We also expanded our focus to new areas such as industry, green business, and the Oil & Gas sector.
Which sectors of Made in Italy are experiencing growth in the UAE?
The agri-food industry remains the cornerstone. Design and furnishings are expanding thanks to growing interest in Italian interior design across residential, hospitality, and industrial sectors, with a focus on sustainability. This diversification brings Made in Italy in the UAE to a contemporary, innovative dimension.
What are the future opportunities for bringing Italy and the UAE closer?
Strengthening the Chamber’s presence in Abu Dhabi to make it an even stronger point of reference for relations with Italy, creating concrete opportunities for meetings. We will focus more on young entrepreneurs, start-ups and female leadership, while investing in projects that unite education, tourism and culture.
Your Dubai in a roundup?
For shopping, Dubai Mall, the European-style City Walk and the new Dubai Hills Mall. For Italian cuisine, Il Borro Tuscan Bistrot, Roberto’s, La Bussola and Antica Pizzeria da Michele. To relax, the Jumeirah beach clubs or a stroll at La Mer. Dubai Creek Harbour shows the city’s vibrancy, while Dubai Sustainable City, Al Barari, The Farm and the green areas of Mushrif Park and Al Qudra reveal its sustainable side. I also deeply love Abu Dhabi.
The best guide to Dubai?
My Dubai by Hala Gorani, which describes the city through the people who live there and its cultural influences. For a practical approach, the Lonely Planet guides.
What place embodies the bridge between Italy and the Emirates?
A BEAUTIFUL, ELEGANT AND MAJESTIC CITY, PERFECT FOR FAMILY LIFE AND FOR THOSE SEEKING STABILITY, BALANCE AND QUALITY OF LIFE
The Opera District with the Dubai Opera Theatre and Palm Jumeirah, where the Italian presence is very strong.
What is the most relevant trend in Dubai?
The most iconic one: the weekend brunch. Outdoor activities along Dubai Marina Walk, or desert tours. Mindfulness activities in green spaces, such as Zabeel Park. All experiences that combine sports, networking moments and personal growth paths.
@IICUAE
SIMPLE
Apparently this will be the next obsession: farewell to large, extravagant bags, hello to simple pouches carried in one hand. Casual, carefree elegance by Prada, seen on the runway and destined to take over the streets and our hearts. prada.com
Stefano Ricci travel bag, handcrafted using % calfskin with gorgeous tone-on-tone diamond motif. The specific size and shape make this an unconventional choice for your travels. stefanoricci.com
VOYAGE
SHINING
New style reflections are mirrored on sandals adorned with feathers, sequins, precious inlays and gold. By Valentino, truly special sandals to light up the night. valentino.com
CANDIES
Practically candied, with lacquered beauty and stiletto heels to accentuate the contrast between seduction and pure colour. The Resort SS 6 Collection from Chanel reinterprets the brand’s classic themes with a bright, playful slant. chanel.com
HERITAGE
The Vara Bow is an expression of utter originality: created almost by accident from an idea by Fiamma Ferragamo, in time it has become one of the label’s best-loved emblems. Now it stars in a new celebratory project. ferragamo.com
WILDLIFE
Slim-fit long-sleeved shirt in silk twill with Wild Cats print, a reinterpretation of an archive print depicting the animal kingdom, enriched with zebra and leopard patterns Designed by Versace versace.com
THE ART OF FLOWERS
A vintage year for gardening. Flowers blossom even on the finest jewellery, with precious corollas, enamelled petals and rhinestone blooms. Gold ring by Dolce&Gabbana dolcegabbana.com
A TRIBUTE TO GIORGIO ARMANI
THE MEMORY OF AN EXTRAORDINARY EVENT AND A PRECIOUS CONVERSATION, OUR LAST INTERVIEW WITH GIORGIO ARMANI
Giorgio Armani (11 July 1934 – 4 September 2025) was an Italian fashion designer and founder of the Armani fashion house. Widely regarded as among the most influential designers in contemporary fashion
One Night Only Dubai, in 2020: 10 years of Armani Hotels celebrated with a fashion show and an exclusive live perfomance by Chris Martin
Giorgio Armani’s passing - just a few days before the celebrations for the 5 th anniversary of the Fashion House, with the exhibition at the Pinacoteca di Brera opening its doors to the fashion world for the frst time and the sharing his extraordinary Archive - has left a void that goes far beyond the universe he belonged to, fashion. Heads of state, international entrepreneurs, celebrities and fashion models from every era came together around the family and the company, having only words of esteem and sincere admiration for him.
A positive and touching wave, perhaps stronger than the pain. And while all communication channels broadcasted his blue actor-like eyes, the impeccable fashion shows, pictures of Richard Gere’s outfts in American Gigolo, we realized once again that Giorgio Armani had freed us from useless embellishments and extravagances, bright colors and glitter, replaced by a timeless and never boring elegance, and always prioritizing the person over fashion.
opening of the Armani hotels in Milan and Dubai, on the occasion of Expo .
“The Expo has always represented a boost to human inventiveness: I witnessed it frsthand in Milan with the inauguration of the Armani/Silos.
Now I am in Dubai: Expo again, but this time with the opportunity for me to celebrate the 10th anniversary of my hotels with a special One Night Only. I am happy and proud to be here now: the Middle East is the cradle of a new concept of luxury, synonymous with continuous evolution and experimentation, able to draw from the roots and the magic of a rich and profound culture to give life to a new creative energy,” Giorgio Armani said on the occasion of the event.
GIORGIO ARMANI HAD
FREED US FROM USELESS EMBELLISHMENTS AND EXTRAVAGANCES, BRIGHT COLORS AND GLITTER, REPLACED BY A TIMELESS AND NEVER BORING ELEGANCE, AND ALWAYS PRIORITIZING THE PERSON OVER FASHION
Something exceptional for a man who had made work his life, Giorgio Armani had chosen Dubai a long time ago, in , for the opening of the Armani Hotels in Milan and Dubai. In , he returned to Dubai after years to celebrate, with a new stop of the One Night Only - a traveling event that brings the Armani universe to the most important cities in the world - the tenth anniversary of the
The One Night Only Dubai took place at the Armani Hotel Pavilion; the fashion show was followed by a live performance by Chris Martin of Coldplay.
The event was conceived with the intention of creating minimal environmental impact, in line with the philosophy of Mr. Armani, who hoped to leave a mark defned by ‘commitment, respect and attention.’
All things that are part of reality rather than fashion. Mr. Armani succeeded, as he did with this lovely June interview that we are publishing again.
Our way of celebrating the person and his universe, even bigger than the designer who made the world fall in love with the ‘Made in Italy’.
1. 3. 6. The Armani/Archivio project
2. Giorgio Armani and Sergio Galeotti (courtesy of Giorgio Armani)
4. Richard Gere in American Gigolò
5. Giorgio Armani by Aldo Fallai
Giorgio Armani backstage 2002
(ph. Roger Hutchings)
The celebrations for the 50th anniversary of the Fashion House, with the exhibition at the Pinacoteca di Brera
What vocation and what stimuli led Giorgio Armani to become the symbol of Italian design?
I had no idea that I would become a symbol nor did I set it as a goal. What I wanted was to express the changing times through fashion. It was not simply a matter of introducing a new cut or new color trends, but rather of identifying needs and accompanying change and the social evolution that was taking place back then. And this is, I believe, what I’m still doing today.
Who was your muse?
There is a type of woman – brunette, inquisitive, intense, with a deep gazewhich I chose to represent the Armani style throughout the eighties. I believe that she was the woman who inspired me and had some characteristics that reminded me of my mother.
Milano: we would like to describe it now through your favorite places and your deepest passions associated with the city.
‘THE MIDDLE EAST IS THE CRADLE OF A NEW CONCEPT OF LUXURY, SYNONYMOUS WITH CONTINUOUS EVOLUTION AND EXPERIMENTATION, ABLE TO DRAW FROM THE ROOTS AND THE MAGIC OF A RICH AND PROFOUND CULTURE TO GIVE LIFE TO A NEW CREATIVE ENERGY’
I was 4 years old when I saw Milan for the frst time. My parents had decided to move there after the war to rebuild their life. Milan represented the future, the many possibilities of change, the hope that such a metropolis, although in bad shape and devastated, could offer. I discovered the city and fell in love with its culture and history, its character. It’s the place where I chose to live and where I invented my job, starting from the Rinascente period, when the word ‘designer’ was hardly heard of. This is the place where the ‘prêt-à-porter’, which has made Italian fashion known all over the world, was born. This is the place where, in January , I will bring high fashion back, focusing all my attention on the initiatives which Milan is always able to offer.
40th Anniversary Armani Silos
31 March to 2 April 2026
The fifth edition of Investopia will take place in Abu Dhabi, from
VISIONS IN CONNECTION
THE WORDS OF HIS EXCELLENCY ABDULLA BIN TOUQ AL MARRI, UAE MINISTRY OF ECONOMY, IN MILAN DURING INVESTOPIA EUROPE
There is a fne – yet rock-solid – thread linking Italy to the United Arab Emirates. It is the thread of excellence, born of the meeting between vision, beauty and the ability to innovate.
Within this context lies Investopia, a global platform based in the UAE, dedicated to accelerating the growth of the new economy and building bridges between investors, business leaders and institutions worldwide.
Launched in November by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, together with His Excellency Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy, Investopia has quickly established itself as a leading international reference point for economic and strategic dialogue.
The mission is clear: accelerate global growth by fostering partnerships and creating connections between emerging and established economies.
An appointment that promises to be not only a forum for debate, but a true global laboratory of innovation, championing sustainability, digitalisation and inclusion.
And it is precisely in this spirit of openness to dialogue that Investopia Europe was created, the platform’s European extension, with a key role entrusted to Italy.
‘ITALY IS A KEY PARTNER FOR US ON THIS JOURNEY OF TRADE EXCHANGES. A DYNAMIC RELATIONSHIP THAT IS BUILT NOT ONLY ON TRADE, BUT ABOVE ALL ON MUTUAL INVESTMENT’
H.E. ABDULLA BIN TOUQ AL MARRI
The next stop on this journey will be Abu Dhabi, from 31 March to 2 April 2026, when the ffth edition of Investopia will take place: three days devoted to ideas, projects and visions that look to the future of the world economy.
Since , Milan has hosted the European edition of Investopia, confrming the country’s strategic role as a crossroads between the Middle East and Europe. The choice is no accident: Italy has long stood as a model of artisanal and industrial excellence, and a privileged interlocutor for Emirati culture, which has viewed ‘Made in Italy’ for years as a natural partner in beauty, design and innovation.
The renewed agreement between the UAE Ministry of Economy and EFG Consulting, led by its Chairman Giovanni Bozzetti, a strategic marketing and internationalisation consultancy, gave life to a new edition of Investopia Europe, which returned on May last in the prestigious setting of Palazzo Mezzanotte, home of the Milan Stock Exchange, in the presence of UAE Ministers His Excellency Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri and Her Excellency Alia bint Abdulla Al
H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy, during Investopia Europe
From Investopia Europe 2025, in Milan: Giovanni Bozzetti, President EFG Consulting; H.E. Alia bint Abdulla Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Entrepreneurship; Valentino Valentini, Deputy Minister of Enterprises and Made in Italy; H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy
Mazrouei, Minister of State for Entrepreneurship, and the Undersecretary for Investment H.E. Mohammad Alhawi, alongside numerous members of the Italian government.
“Italy is a key partner for us on this journey of trade exchanges”, said H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy, during the event in Milan, “and our presence here today demonstrates and confrms our commitment and our determination to strengthen and expand this partnership. A dynamic relationship that is built not only on trade, but above all on mutual investment. We are also pleased to work together on next-generation priorities such as digitalisation and artifcial intelligence. Our shared goal is not only to talk about opportunities, but to generate them. The UAE is choosing to build bridges, not barriers, precisely through our global economic partnerships.” The relationship between the United Arab Emirates and Italy continues to grow, thanks to common factors that “have enabled our exchanges to rise to . billion”, the Minister continued. En-
INVESTOPIA IS A BRIDGE: A PLACE WHERE INSTITUTIONS, ENTREPRENEURS AND INVESTORS MEET TO BUILD CONCRETE SYNERGIES
ergy, AI, space, biotech and agritech are among the leading sectors in which the Emirati market is keen to sign new partnerships; in recent years investments have also focused on logistics and aerospace “At the frst edition in , people took part,” the Minister concluded. “Last year we rose to , while in we reached 8 attendees. This year, too, our delegation met many Italian companies, but we look to the whole continent, and for this reason Investopia, where representatives from across the European Union are present, is an important event, since the union is a strategic partner with whom we wish to strengthen cooperation.
“Investopia in Milan”, comments Giovanni Bozzetti, Chairman of EFG Consulting and among the leading experts in internationalisation strategies towards the Emirates, “is increasingly an essential meeting point for pursuing concrete business and investment opportunities. We are honoured that this renewed synergy with the UAE Ministry Of Economy is becoming ever more a driver of development and economic growth in our markets.”
Auro Montanari, a point of reference on the collectible vintage Haute Horlogerie scene (ph. Andrea Dughetti)
TIME AS A FORM OF BEAUTY
THE GURU OF INTERNATIONAL COLLECTING AURO MONTANARI OFFERS US AN UNFORGETTABLE LESSON ON THE VALUE OF VINTAGE TIMEPIECES
Some moments from Time on Show 2024 exclusive event at the Bologna Fair, held on the same days as the Auto e Moto d’Epoca exhibition
Auro Montanari stands as a pivotal fgure in the world of collectible vintage haute horology. Since the 97 s, he has pursued watch collecting with a passion guided by aesthetics and an unwavering quest for quality. His expertise allows him to fully appreciate the timeless elegance of the most prestigious pieces by Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Cartier. With his clear vision and profound knowledge of the feld, he is regarded as one of the most authoritative watch collectors on the global stage.
In , together with Pier Luigi Santi and Paolo Borgomanero, he brought to life an exclusive fair dedicated to vintage watches: Time on Show. This niche event – partnered with the emblem of top-tier yachting, the Italian house Riva – draws the world’s leading collectors, who vie for some of the fnest and rarest timepieces, driven by a passion for beauty that defes time and, indeed, gains strength and allure from it, carrying with it a story.
son in the art of vintage watch collecting. You used to be an engineer with a passion for watches. How would you defne yourself today?
I’m a pensioner with a passion for watches! (smiling, ed.). What do you think about collecting today?
Today there are three different types of characters: the collector, the investor and the collector-investor. The reality is that increasingly higher values are at stake, and rightly so, you also have to be careful about how you ‘invest’ your money. Furthermore, precisely because of their value, lately it has also become diffcult to wear some particularly well-known models. The security issues are the same in every part of the world. Then there is a blurred line between investment and speculation.
THE FAMOUS ITALIAN COLLECTOR AURO MONTANARI TOGETHER WITH PIER LUIGI SANTI AND PAOLO BORGOMANERO, THEY BROUGHT TO LIFE
AN EXCLUSIVE FAIR DEDICATED TO VINTAGE WATCHES: ‘TIME ON SHOW’
Originating in Bologna – a beautiful and strategically signifcant Italian city long attentive to luxury, quality, and detail – as a spin-off from the country’s longest-running classic car and motorcycle fair, Time on Show quickly captivated Paris and New York, where it is poised to debut in partnership with the Rétromobile Salon. A global showcase with international partners, the fair transforms, each time, the very spring of collecting into an extraordinary experience of encounters and commercial exchange. We meet this remarkable ‘guru’ for an unforgettable les-
The bubble we saw in recent years is defating and we are returning to normality.
Is vintage taking a sort of ‘revenge’ on contemporary models?
In the end, vintage collection has always remained fairly stable if not growing, even during other ‘crises’ - from the 7 fnancial crisis to that at the beginning of the 99 s, which involved the collecting of period models. I remember a friend of mine used to say “buying Patek Philippe is like buying Generali shares: they are stable and grow slowly, but they grow”.
Maybe it’s also the story of the Daytona that has seen constant growth since the 80s?
Even the Daytona has had its moments of decline, but it
Paolo Borgomanero, Pier Luigi Santi and Auro Montanari (ph. Andrea Dughetti)
Breguet, retrograde perpetual calendar, white gold
Auro Montanari, with his Berneron Mirage (ph. Andrea Dughetti)
Rolex Chronometer Kew teddington
is undeniable that its growth has been continuous and that even today it is experiencing a decidedly interesting moment.
Daytona or Speedmaster?
I like the Speedmasters, I fnd them more classy. Nautilus or Royal Oak?
Royal Oak, always. It was my frst luxury watch when I was very young. I bought it as a boy, used, in steel, the frst reference released, paying one and a half million lire for it. It was the end of the 7 s and I saw the Nautilus as a Swiss-German model. Was that Royal Oak already a collector’s item back then, or did you use it normally? I used it normally because it was and still is a very beautiful, pleasing watch to wear on the wrist, moreover it is the one that ‘best supports’ complications. It is no coincidence that we’ve seen everything inside its case, from the chronograph, to the tourbillon, to the minute repeater... it has become an extra-thin, one Grand Complication has even hosted comic strips! The Nautilus gives its best exclusively in the time-only version. When did you begin collecting?
STARTED
Your frst ‘little watch’?
I still have the frst watch I bought by myself from an antiques dealer in Bologna, a chrono with three Art Deco lugs, a reference 8 . New, with just one previous owner. I used my pocket money and it cost me , lire. Today it’s worth about / , euro. An anecdote related to that period?
IN ITALY AND MADE IT TO PARIS, DUBAI, AND NEW YORK
‘TIME ON SHOW’ CELEBRATES THE ENDURING BEAUTY OF VINTAGE WATCHES — WHERE PASSION, RARITY AND TIMELESS ELEGANCE MEET
My father who said “Listen to me, buy only Patek Philippe and Rolex, they’re serious brands. Don’t buy Cartier, they’re hairdresser’s watches”! Luckily, I didn’t follow his last piece of advice, and today I have some fantastic Cartiers in my collection. Do you see young people approaching the world of watch collecting?
In 978. At that time, my parents, collectors of ancient art, took me with them to the various fairs held in Europe. I was bored to death and so every time, to cheer me up, my father would say: have a look around and buy yourself some “little watches” if you want, they’re cheap enough now with the arrival of quartz.
Italians, even if they want to, often can›t afford them. I was in Singapore at a talk organized by some friends. Shortly after, all these guys arrived driving their Lamborghinis in the most absurd colours, wearing € , sneakers, Supreme t-shirts... One of them, wearing a Richard Mille with a confetti-coloured dial, looks at my wrist and asks: What is this? I answer: An old Patek Philippe! From that moment on, we stayed in touch and after a few months he wrote to me: I also bought myself an old Patek Philippe, do you like my 8?
One last question: what are you wearing on your wrist today?
A 97 white gold Tank Cintrée by Cartier London.
Al Noor Mosque
BEYOND THE DUNES
A JOURNEY ALONG DUBAI’S NORTHERN COAST, WHERE CULTURE, NATURE, AND TIMELESS BEAUTY MEET BY THE SEA
text Cecilia Berardi photo Marco Morelli
1. The Butterfly House
2. Al Noor Mosque
3. OVO Art Installation
4. Umm Al Quwain Kite Beach
5. Al Majaz Waterfront
6. Mangrove Beach
Just a short drive from Dubai, the road opens to a different rhythm. As you head north, cultural richness and natural beauty reveal what happens when human craftsmanship meets heritage, creating wonders. As you head north, you will be surprised by how much green can thrive within lands mostly known for their desert landscapes. So sit back and relax, this is a journey through time, into landscapes that tell their story. At the frst stop, what will immediately strike you is how Al Noor Mosque shines as one of the most iconic landmarks in the area. Rising beside Khalid Lagoon, the mosque stands serenely by the water’s edge. Commissioned by Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of the Ruler of Sharjah, Al Noor Mosque draws inspiration from the timeless elegance of Ottoman architecture, echoing the grandeur of Istanbul’s Blue Mosque. Two slender minarets rise 52 meters high, framing the entrance like silent sentinels of faith and beauty, while a cascade of 34 domes crowns the structure, culminating in a magnifcent central dome that soars above the prayer hall, a luminous symbol of art and grace. Still along what is known as the Sharjah Corniche, the city’s scenic waterfront promenade, stands one of the emirate’s cultural gems. Here, a small piece of Arab history, and therefore of our own, is enclosed within the corridors and halls of this temple of the
FROM SHARJAH’S LUMINOUS MOSQUES TO ITS MUSEUMS OF WONDER, THE NORTHERN COAST UNFOLDS STORIES OF FAITH, ARTISTRY, AND HERITAGE IN EVERY CURVE OF ITS SKYLINE
past. The Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization invites visitors on a journey through centuries of knowledge and artistry. Astrolabes, manuscripts, ceramics, and ancient coins all compete for your attention, but a few treasures stand out: the gold-embroidered curtain that once adorned the door of the Ka’ba, and the breathtaking mosaic beneath the central dome, where the zodiac constellations shimmer in eternal motion. Lose yourself among its galleries, and knowledge will quietly open its doors to you.Leaving behind the echoes of the past, the road leads to the vibrant heartbeat of modern Sharjah. At Al Majaz Waterfront, the city opens up in a different light: cafés spill onto fower-lined promenades, joggers move along the lagoon’s edge, and the scent of the sea mingles with the rhythm of everyday life. As the sun sets, fountains dance to music and lights shimmer on the water. A few steps from the lively rhythm of Al Majaz, the pace slows and the sounds soften. Welcome to Al Noor Island, an oasis of peace devoted to what restores the spirit and the mind: nature and art. Here, the Butterfy House shimmers like a glass cocoon, while art installations such as. Torus by David Harber, Flutter by Chris Wood, and OVO by ACT Lighting Design emerge among palm trees and sculptural cacti.
The Butterfy House stands out as a luminous glass
An extraordinary view over the Al Noor Isalnd (Sharjah) a scenic destination that offers a perfect blend of nature, art and entertainment through unforgettable experiences
AL Majaz Waterfront covers an area of 231,000 square feet, featuring stunning scenery overlooking the Khaled Lagoon
Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization
1. Al Noor Mosque
2. The Butterly House
3. Al Majaz Waterfront
4. Al Noor Island
5. Mangrove Beach
6. Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization
Al Noor Island
pavilion where hundreds of butterfies futter among tropical plants and fltered sunlight. Stepping inside feels like entering a living artwork. It’s a place that invites stillness and wonder, where nature’s most delicate creatures remind us of beauty’s feeting perfection. It’s surprising how a place so close to the city can feel worlds away as a green sanctuary, where time slows down and serenity takes the lead. Continuing our journey and leaving Sharjah behind, our eyes fll with green at the sight of Mangrove Beach, a long stretch of sand overlooking Al Yafra Creek and gently blending into a forest. This area has an ecosystem of its own, sustained by the very presence of the mangroves, home to famingos and herons that glide gracefully above the water. The true experience here is to circle the area by kayak and take it all in from the creek. At sunset, this expanse of calm water turns pink and red, mirroring the glow of the setting sun. In this corner of the coast, there’s a place for those moments when you need to slow down, clear your thoughts, and breathe in the sea air. Umm Al Quwain Kite Beach is a serene and unspoiled haven, a favorite among kite surfers yet still peaceful and authentic. Its charm lies in its simplicity, marked only by the inviting Kite Beach Center, where guests can stay overnight or spend the day enjoying cabanas, shaded lounges, and an easy tropical rhythm. At the Beach
Restaurant & Café, dishes crafted by the resident chef celebrate the fnest local ingredients, sourced in close collaboration with regional growers, a tribute to freshness and authenticity, served just steps from the waves.
The journey fnds its perfect conclusion at the Arabian Tea House Restaurant, a small temple of culture where Levantine and Mediterranean infuences intertwine both in the cuisine and in the design. Its turquoise benches, lace curtains, and white rattan chairs create an atmosphere of timeless charm. Here, favors tell stories: fragrant biryanis, fresh salads, and mezze platters come together with regional spices and Mediterranean notes, refecting the crossroads of cultures that defne the Emirates. More than a restaurant, it’s a place where hospitality becomes an art, a space to slow down, share, and savor the essence of this land. Sitting here, amid the soft chatter and the aroma of cardamom tea, it’s easy to see how daily life and tradition blend so effortlessly. This quiet corner captures what this journey has been all about: connection, and the simple beauty of slowing down. Sometimes, to truly know and experience this place, all it takes is to get in the car and drive- towards the mosques of Sharjah, the mangrove forests of Umm Al Quwain, to breathe in its culture and walk along its shores. That’s how Dubai and the Emirates are truly discovered.
Meandering Bridge a pedestrian bridge from the Al Noor Mosque in the Buhaira Corniche area to the Al Noor Island
FASHION CATWALKS
New Age Haute Couture
A new era is upon us, one that looks at the essence of an art which transforms dreams into extraordinary garments, while adapting to today’s needs. A precious fashion expressed in fabrics, workmanship, embroidery and cuts. Bold and rigorous. Fall Winter 2025/26
FeaturebyMartaInnocentiCiulli
Rami Al Ali
Maison Margiela
Ronald van der Kemp
Chanel
Armani Privè
Dior Haute Couture
Iris van Herpen
MADE IN ITALY FASHION
AN ENDURING ICON
A foulard is an extraordinarily versatile square of lightweight fabric which can be tied and worn in countless ways: around the neck, as a head covering, a top or a belt, or as a luxury addition to a handbag.
In the past two years it has returned to centre stage, appearing in every collection as a genuine emblem of brand style.
The word foulard comes from the Provençal word foulat , which in turn is derived from the verb foular or follar, a technical term indicating a specifc process to render the fabric more compact and resistant.
But let’s take a look at the history of this ubiquitous accessory. Foulards have been around for a very long time, as we know from discoveries in ancient Oriental civilisations, where experts have spotted them in a number of Chinese sculptures dating back to BC. Meanwhile, in the Western word, foulards were worn by female farmers and rice workers as protection from the sun. They were also used by several armies as a sign of membership or rank. Over the course of time, the foulard began to be used as a symbol to identify and distinguish the wearer’s social status. Reli-
gion played a large part in making it a distinctive accessory: the obligation to wear one during church services actually led both men and women to seek out increasingly attractive foulards, not merely to cover the neckline or the hair, but also to embellish the Sunday outft and as a form of personal decoration. The modern foulard – used not only for practical purposes but also as an accessory for more elegant, sophisticated looks – emerged in the th century, and in particular from the 9 s onwards. Hermes was the frst fashion house to commercialise it, and in doing so became the quintessential creator of iconic foulards. In Italy, versions by Gucci, Ferragamo and Roberta di Camerino were celebrated from the outset. And the fashions of the 5 s and 6 s confrmed the foulard’s popularity, thanks to stars such as Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, Catherine Deneuve and First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, who famously wore it knotted under the chin and paired with sunglasses. The following pages present a gorgeous roundup of this season’s Made in Italy foulards.
Dolce&gabbana
VERSACE
CHANEL
GUCCI
COVER STORY
FENDI
PRADA
PUCCI
Founded in 1998 by Marco Palmieri (here), the luggage brand Piquadro has transformed travel accessories into objects of contemporary high engineering
DOUBLE YOUR PERFORMANCE
IN A WORLD WHERE SPEED IS SYNONYMOUS WITH EVOLUTION, PIQUADRO EMBODIES THE MOST REFINED ESSENCE OF PERFORMANCE
Backpacks, trolleys, and work accessories are transformed by Piquadro into indispensable companions for those who live on the move, combining performance and style.
For the second consecutive year, Piquadro is the Official Luggage Partner of the Visa Cash App Racing Bulls Formula One Team
FASHION EXPERIENCE
Each of its creations is born from the encounter between design and engineering, between aesthetics and functionality, between the precision of a technical gesture and the lightness of a creative intuition. Founded in 998 by Marco Palmieri, Piquadro has transformed travel accessories into objects of contemporary high engineering.
Backpacks, trolleys, and work tools become allies for those who live in motion, capable of combining technology, comfort, and style in perfect balance.
But behind every clean line and functional solution lies a responsible vision: Piquadro is carbon neutral for Scope and emissions, and subjects every product to rigorous quality and durability tests.
An approach to design culture that blends sustainability and precision, with the same rigor that defnes the engineering mindset.
RACING BEYOND LIMITS:
PIQUADRO X VISA CASH APP RACING BULLS
In the world of Formula , where every second is a victory and every detail a matter of precision, Piquadro defnes performance beyond the track.
For the second consecutive year, the brand is the Offcial Luggage Partner of the Visa Cash App Racing Bulls Formula One Team, an alliance that celebrates the same drive for excellence that powers the fastest cars on the planet.
Across a calendar spanning four continents and twenty-four races, travel becomes an extreme test of effciency and endurance. The Piquadro backpacks and trolleys, developed in collaboration with the team, are designed to withstand continuous travel with lightness, durability, and impeccable organization ,the same philosophy that drives Formula 1: optimizing every gram, every shape, every function.
“We are honored to be partners of the Visa Cash App RB Formula One Team because we share a deep affnity for the same values: constant research, precision, and the determination to surpass every limit,” says Marco Palmieri,
founder and President of Piquadro. “Creating products that travel alongside a Formula team means measuring ourselves against extreme standards and proving that quality, functionality, and style can coexist harmoniously.”
THE GRAND PRIX LIVERIES: SPEED AS DESIGN INSPIRATION
Every new special livery of the Visa Cash App Racing Bulls Formula One Team becomes, for Piquadro, a project dedicated to the drivers, a visual and material reinterpretation of speed. For each signature race of the season, the brand creates exclusive gear inspired by the car’s graphics and colors, turning the energy of the track into functional design pieces. From the vibrant Miami livery, to the bold Austin Edition celebrating the spirit of Texas, up to the spectacular Las Vegas design, the last special livery of the year, each product tells a story of movement, power, and style. Every item created for the drivers is a tangible extension of the racing spirit precision, strength, and elegance in motion.
PIQUADRO X DUCATI: TWO SOULS OF THE MOTOR VALLEY
Alongside Formula , Piquadro expands its vision of movement through a collaboration with another icon of speed, Ducati. In 5, the two Italian excellences presented two exclusive capsule collections, celebrating the mechanics of performance and Italian design.
Backpacks and crossbody bags in water-resistant rubberized fabric, along with trolleys in polycarbonate and a limited aluminum model numbered to just pieces, reinterpret Ducati’s identity with the precision and functionality typical of Piquadro.
Every detail is a tribute to dynamism and balance, blending energy and discipline, form and function.
“I am particularly proud of this collaboration that unites two brands symbolizing Italy’s Motor Valley,” says Palmieri. “We wanted to create products that interpret movement as freedom and passion.”
1 CHANEL Strange days chanel.com thedubaimall.com
2
Almost classic versace.com
3
SNEAKERS AT THE GOURMET RESTAURANT, SPARKLING ACCESSORIES DURING THE DAY, FUR AT THE PARK, FLOWERS IN THE OFFICE… FREEDOM IS THE LATEST TREND THIS SEASON
GUCCI Logo shoes gucci.com thedubaimall.com
EMPORIO ARMANI Style and seduction armani.com thedubaimall.com
INSPIRATION FROM THE PAST, GLANCES INTO THE FUTURE. EAGERLY-AWAITED REAPPEARANCES AIN SHORT, THERE ARE PLENTY OF SURPRISES!
VERSACE Animalier versace.com
7
VALENTINO GARAVANI Seventies
PRADA New style prada.com thedubaimall.com
FERRAGAMO
only office ferragamo.com thedubaimall.com
Officine Gullo presents Ocean Flow an exclusive collection which redefining the concept of the kitchen and bar area in the world of luxury yachting
CLASS DESIGN
ITALIAN CRAFTSMANSHIP AND CONTEMPORARY VISION
TAKE THE SPOTLIGHT ONCE AGAIN AT
by Teresa Favi
DUBAI
Natuzzi Italia
Memoria by Karim Rashid reshapes the reassuring lines of the past into an even more comfortable ergonomics. Every detail of this sofa warmly invites you to sit and relax, in a heartfelt tribute to Mediterranean hospitality that extends gracefully into the night area as well.
Savio Firmino
The coffee table 3694, feature natural brass and exclusive Calacatta Macchia Vecchia marble, whose pure white background is adorned with veins ranging from orange to gold.
Valcucine and Nice
Alongside Valcucine, Nice brings its elegant and intuitive smart home into a collaboration where design and technology become allies of everyday well-being, offering solutions that combine aesthetics, functionality, and innovation.
Ethimo
Patio collection designed by Zanellato/Bortotto expresses outdoor living through the art of weaving, combined with the authentic beauty of natural teak.
Kartell
The new Albert table emerges from Ludovica Serafni and Roberto Palomba’s intention to pay homage to the past. The table’s design is inspired, infact, by the theme of the sinuous leg, pioneered by André Charles Boulle, a French artisan from the late 7 s.
Minotti
A distinctive silhouette, characterised by overlapping rounded volumes with a clear 6 s and 7 s infuence, brings the Coupé seating system by Giampiero Tagliaferri to life. The reference to the aesthetics of th-century modernism is encapsulated in the soft forms, and in the precious couture-inspired details, such as the longitudinal stitching, intentionally tone-on-tone.
Cantori
Cantori, in collaboration with Cantiere delle Marche, interprets three iconic spaces of a Flexplorer 46 yacht. The theme From Land to Sea guided the design process, inviting a translation of domestic comfort and aesthetic language onto the water. The result is ten projects of outstanding quality, capable of blending functionality, aesthetic research, and storytelling. This lounge, conceived as an embrace, is part of Progetto CMR – A Journey Home, inspired by the myth of Ulysses and Penelope.
Interni Now
Spheric armchair is the reslut of a continuous search for balance between lightness and fullness, signifcant volumes and sinuous shapes that become the common thread of the entire collection. Here, Carrara marble takes centre stage, assuming characteristics that do not naturally belong to it.
Porada
Comfortable and functional, Koji sofa is a modular sofa with linear, soft and generous shapes; each volumes, which allow for multiple confgurations, are aesthetically characterised by a solid wood detail that becomes the main element of the product.
Poltrona Frau
Leplì is the new collection of chairs by Poltrona Frau designed by Kensaku Oshiro, who wanted to blend the brand’s sartorial workmanship with couture suggestions. What distinguishes these chairs and armchairs with a romantic allure are, in fact, the classic stitching and soft pleats, which enhance the cozy shapes of Leplì, which seems to fall just like a dress on feminine curves.
Desalto
Clip family consisting of chaise longue, armchair and ottoman. All converge on a single guiding principle: designing the essential. Upholstery designed to last thanks to the straps that weave into a durable inner frame that provides the necessary support, while their elasticity ensures maximum comfort.
RAK
Calacatta Gold Lux reinterprets the world’s fnest marbles with exceptional elegance and refnement. Its glossy surfaces and golden veining transform any setting into a timeless expression of luxury. It combines the natural beauty of marble with the superior performance of porcelain stoneware — offering resistance, durability, and easy maintenance for interiors of sophisticated and contemporary style.
MisuraEmme
Shibuya is a sideboard of sophisticated charm, where elegance and lightness meet in perfect balance. Inspired by the refned atmosphere of the 97 s, it embraces precious materials and luminous details in a design that evokes the pleasure of ritual and hospitality.
Illulian
Taraxacum is the carpet born from the collaboration with the Fondazione Achille Castiglioni. It rug is named after the iconic 988 lamp and pays homage to the creative brilliance of Achille Castiglioni, one of the most infuential fgures in th-century Italian design. The rug’s foral motif and dynamic play of light translate the lamp’s essence into a textile masterpiece.
Rever
Levante collection combines metal, fabric, and ropes in a design with an international look and an Italian soul. Its colors and unique shapes evoke the quiet magic of dawn.
Simple and clean, Amanda is a comfortable chaise longue designed for reading, sleeping, and relaxation.
Villa Project designed by Olsen&Partners and deliverded by If Hub.
Devon&Devon
Precious and elegant, The Thirties bathtub is destined to grace the bathrooms of the most luxurious hotels, as well as the most exclusive private residences.
Antonio Lupi
Oasis is a complete project, which just as the name indicates, fts within a built space offering relaxation and well-being.
Serafni
Piano revolutionizes the entire concept of traditional aesthetics and functionality, offering an innovative and captivating design experience. By breaking conventional patterns, this sink transforms the bathroom into a futuristic and surprising space.
Llardó
This global leader in artistic porcelain, introduces Cascade, its new lighting collection created in collaboration with renowned British designer Lee Broom.
Dolce&Gabbana Casa
The famous Italian fashion house launches a line of bed linen featuring animal prints, including leopard patterns and other nature-inspired designs. These products stand out for their bold and luxurious aesthetic, in keeping with the renowned style of the brand.
ph. Mattia Aquila
Flou
Toshi is an elegant and refned bedside table, part of a collection designed to enhance the bedroom with harmony and contemporary style. Its soft, rounded shapes blend with clean lines and balanced proportions. The polished metal rings — available in gold, black nickel or chrome fnishes — set between the drawers create a refned play of depth and refections.
Dubai Design Week, over a decade of global success as the region’s premier design festival
INCUBATOR OF IDEAS
text Francesca Lombardi
The 2025 edition of Dubai Design Week explores a central theme of ‘Community’, in response to the UAE’s wider ‘Year of Community’ initiative
Dubai Design Week celebrated its th edition in November coincided with the UAE’s Year of Community
The event is held in strategic partnership with the Dubai Design District (d ) and this year’s programme refects this theme through a focus on social cohesion, participation and shared experiences. Design has been explored not only as a practice of innovation, but as a social connector, and as a civic and cultural tool that can shape how we live together, communicate, and build lasting systems of care. Since , Dubai Design Week has grown into a global platform with a strong emphasis on cross-cultural exchange and on amplifying voices from West and South Asia, as well as the wider Global South (encompassing countries across Africa, Latin America, most of Asia and Oceania). Through exhibitions, fairs, large-scale installations, talks and workshops, the festival engages with the narratives of our time, creating a space for dialogue, experimentation and progress, harnessing its position as a regional melting pot and creative hub. Key venues are located across d , a global creative ecosystem dedicated to design, fashion, architecture and art. In line with Dubai’s position as the leading business destination for the region and beyond, d is an industry-pioneering concept that enables people and businesses to grow and co-create whilst simultaneously providing a solid platform for creativity. Strategically located in the heart of Dubai, d is one of the city’s lifestyle and business districts that challenges thousands of people to rethink the regular.
PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS
Urban Commissions
Urban Commissions is Dubai Design Week’s annual competition open to proposals from global practices, giving international architects and designers the opportunity to shape public spaces through thoughtful, community-driven design. Under the theme ‘Courtyard’, Urban Commissions called on practitioners to refect on this shared spatial form and explore its multifaceted role as a gathering place and community-led urban infrastructure.
DUBAI DESIGN WEEK BRINGS TOGETHER DESIGNERS AND CREATIVE PRACTITIONERS TO EXCHANGE IDEAS, COLLABORATE AND EXPLORE THE EVOLVING ROLE OF DESIGN IN SHAPING A BETTER COLLECTIVE FUTURE
Abwab 2025 Abwab, meaning ‘doors’ in Arabic, is a long-running feature at Dubai Design Week. Newly expanded to welcome applicants from across West, South and East Asia, as well as the African continent, it refects an ongoing commitment to surfacing design perspectives that can be often underrepresented on global platforms. This year’s theme, ‘In the Details’, invited practitioners to create immersive spatial experiences, exploring ornamental details and engaging with historic cultural forms. The winners of this editions were Latifa Alkhayat and Maryam Aljomairi, architects and founders of Maraj, an architecture and design studio Exhibitions, Installations, Workshops, Activations, Marketplace
The Festival’s programme of exhibitions serves as a platform for cultural organisations, educational institutions, collectives and individual designers to express unique cultural, social and environmental perspectives, showcasing cutting-edge design solutions across disciplines. Outdoor installations from designers, architects, collectives, creative practitioners, and design-led
brands, will explore design’s potential to foster inclusive, community-focused environments through the use of sustainable and socially responsible methods and materials. Independent makers and cultural and educational institutions will host the festival’s programme of workshops held at Maker Space, offering visitors of all ages and skill levels the opportunity to engage and experiment with a diverse range of artistic mediums.
Alongside this, the activations programme unveiled innovative and immersive projects, cross-disciplinary collaborations, pop-ups, and special presentations. Marketplace offered a curated retail experience featuring high-quality and original products by the region’s fnest artisans, entrepreneurs and small businesses, alongside food experiences, children’s activities and live performances.
Downtown Design
Downtown Design, the Middle East’s leading fair for high-quality and contemporary design, returned to the d Waterfront Terrace, showcasing the latest collections and design innovations from around the world.
Returning exhibitors including Lasvit, Kartell, Poltrona Frau, Obegi Home, Venini, and Vitra presented new concepts alongside new participants Roche Bobois, Stellar Works, FRAMA, Porada and Desalto. At the heart of Downtown Design, the UAE Designer Exhibition, supported by Dubai Culture, returned with an evolved format after fve editions of signifcant
growth, expanding mentorship for emerging creatives and international showcase opportunities. Details will be announced in September.
Editions Art & Design
Following a successful debut in , Editions , the region’s frst fair dedicated to limited-edition art and design, taked place in the same days of the fair, at the d Waterfront Terrace. Editions presented local and international galleries, design studios, and collectives across a diverse range of mediums including: artist multiples, ceramics, photography, works on paper, prints, editions, and contemporary design. Editions joins an expanding creative ecosystem that enhances access to quality art and design through varied price points and mediums, and engages the region’s collector network through disciplines not widely showcased in the region.
d3 Architecture Exhibition
The d3 Architecture Exhibition, organised by d3 in partnership with Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) aligns with Dubai Design Week’s theme in response to the UAE’s wider ‘Year of Community’ initiative and taked place in a dedicated space in the creative district. Rooted in the UAE’s values of resilience, ambition, and openness, the Year of Community is dedicated to fostering a united and empowered society. It aims to inspire behaviours that strengthen family and social ties, encourage shared responsibility, and unlock potential for sustainable growth.
Downtown Design, the Middle East’s leading fair for high-quality and contemporary design
1. 2. 3. Dubai Design Week. This year’s festival will also see the return of the Abwab and Urban Commissions initiatives, designed to foster emerging talent and new voices in design and architecture.
4. 6. Editions, the region’s first fair dedicated to limited-edition art and design, taked place in the same days of the fair, at the d3 Waterfront Terrace
5. Marketplace offered a curated retail experience featuring high-quality and original products by the region’s finest artisans
DUBAI, A SPECTACLE FROM THE SKY
BREATHTAKING EXPERIENCES TO EXPLORE THE CITY FROM NEW HEIGHTS text Virginia Mammoli
With The Dubai Balloon you can experience the thrill of flying silently over the city (courtesy
The Dubai Balloon at Atlantis, The Palm)
1. A taste experience at The View Palm Jumeirah
2. A view from Dubai Frame
3. Aura Skypool is the world’s highest 360° infinity pool, located 210 metres up on the 50th floor of The Palm Tower
4. Inside Burj Al Arab opens the doors of one of the world’s most recognisable symbols
5. Sky Views Observatory offers the once-in-a-lifetime experience of walking above the city
CITY EXPERIENCES
Everything in Dubai reaches upwards. This is a city that has learned to work with the heavens, mirrored in the sea, its glass skyscrapers refecting the light of the desert. Seen from above, Dubai reveals its most astonishing side: perfect geometrical shapes, curves that extend to the horizon, islands designed as works of art. Every visit to the city merits at least one experience of awestruck silence suspended between architecture and the clouds. Alongside rooftop lounge and panoramic hotel suites, there are a number of ways to get a bird’s eye view of the city. Observatories, infnity pools, helicopters and hot air balloons: each reveal a different angle of Dubai, all are equally thrilling.
Seeing Dubai from above is much more than a mere tourist attraction, it’s access to the visionary heart of the city, where every experience is designed to challenge the limits of imagination.
Don’t miss the opportunity to look up and let the Dubai skyline tell you its story, the story of a place that learned to dream vertically.
BURJ KHALIFA
At metres and storeys, Burj Khalifa is the tallest building on the planet. The journey up is a trip to the future, on board one of the world’s fastest lifts. Depending on your ticket, you can visit the Observatory on the th and th foors at metres (At The Top experience, open every day from am to pm, AED ), ascend to the th foor at metres (At The Top Sky, am to pm, AED ), or treat yourself to the thrill of the record-breaking Lounge on foors , and (The VIP Lounge, am to pm, AED ). Each level offers -degree views, with outdoor terraces where the breeze tastes of altitude and freedom. And the scenery? Simply spine-tingling.
BURJ AL ARAB
ence opens the doors of one of the world’s most recognisable symbols, where luxury meets myth, but also fabulous views: every step, every window and every angle offers a privileged perspective over Dubai and the ocean. The guided tour takes guests on an exclusive route that begins at the private bridge before ascending to the th foor, where you can admire the Royal Suite and visit the Experience Suite, which tells the inside story of this engineering marvel in interactive visual installations, its huge windows wide open on the most iconic skyline in the Middle East. The tour lasts or minutes, including the ascent in the panoramic lift, and can be extended with a series of special experiences (open every day from am to pm, from AED adults and AED children aged - ).
SEEN FROM ABOVE, DUBAI REVEALS ITS MOST ASTONISHING SIDE: PERFECT GEOMETRICAL SHAPES, CURVES THAT EXTEND TO THE HORIZON, ISLANDS DESIGNED AS WORKS OF ART
SKY VIEW DUBAI
metres above the ground on foors and of Address Sky View hotel, the -metre-long glass foor of the Sky Views Observatory offers the once-in-alifetime experience of walking above the city (open every day from am to pm, AED adults, AED children aged - ). And if that’s not exciting enough, there’s the glass slide, a transparent tube connecting the two foors, a thrill that’s only for the truly brave (AED supplement). But most extreme of all is The Edge Walk: harnessed and hands-free, you’re literally walking on the edge of the sky, with nothing between you and the urban landscape ( . am to pm, AED ). An experience to set the legs trembling and the heart pounding.
AURA SKYPOOL
A journey into a legend. The Inside Burj Al Arab experi-
Swimming among the clouds, literally. Aura Skypool is the world’s highest ° infnity pool, located metres up on the th foor of The Palm Tower. Here water and horizon merge in spectacular views of Palm Jumeirah, the Persian Gulf and the Dubai skyline. Ticket prices depend on the time of day, each with its own appeal (AED
from to am or to pm; AED from am to pm; AED from to pm; AED for the whole day, from am to pm), and the experience you choose, including the relaxing Wellness in the Sky (Monday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, AED ). This place encapsulates the very essence of Dubai: elegant, sensuous and indefnable.
THE VIEW PALM JUMEIRAH
metres above the ground, the nd foor of The Palm Tower offers the most spectacular view of Palm Jumeirah. From above, the famous artifcial archipelago makes a perfect fan shape in the blue sea, set between the Persian Gulf and the sky and traversed by the monorail that runs from one end to the other.
Entry includes the Palm Jumeirah Exhibition, a tribute to the boldness and vision that gave rise to this wonder (AED adults, AED children). For a more exclusive experience, head up to The Next Level at metres (AED adults, AED children), or treat yourself to a gourmet coffee (open every day from am to . pm and to . pm, AED adults, AED children), brunch (Friday and Saturday from to pm, AED adults, AED children) or lunch (open every day from to pm, AED adults, AED children) with a view at Lolli restaurant or Madeleine et Marcel coffee shop.
DUBAI FRAME
through time, from the Dubai that was once a dream to the real-life city of today (open every day from am to pm, AED adults, AED children aged - , free for under- s).
THE DUBAI BALLOON
THERE ARE A NUMBER OF WAYS TO GET A BIRD’S EYE VIEW OF THE CITY.
Looking for freedom without wings? The Dubai Balloon is the city’s only fying -degree observatory, rising to metres, approximately the height of a -storey building. Located near Atlantis, The Palm, it offers spectacular views of Palm Jumeirah, the iconic skyscrapers and the Gulf. Balloon rides are available with options including the classic -minute experience (Regular Pass, AED adults, AED children aged - , free for under- s), exclusive VIP rides (Private Flight, price on request) and special early-morning trips (Sunrise Pass, AED adults, AED children aged - , free for under- s).
OBSERVATORIES, INFINITY POOLS, HELICOPTERS AND HOT AIR BALLOONS: EACH REVEAL A DIFFERENT ANGLE OF DUBAI, ALL ARE EQUALLY THRILLING
A gigantic golden structure metres tall in the heart of Zabeel Park frames the city: ancient Dubai from one side, the modern metropolis from the other. In this experience past, present and future intertwine, beginning with the ground-foor museum devoted to the city’s history, and then travelling to the panoramic observatory in a lift that covers foors in seconds, before descending the other side of the rectangle to another museum that imagines the Dubai of tomorrow. Crossing the glass walkway suspended between the two towers feels like walking
The fight engages all the senses: the wind in your face, the scenery unfolding in every direction, the city laid out below in all its glittering movement. The experience is suitable for everyone: families with kids, couples in search of sunset magic, photographers looking to immortalise the scenery from above and anyone wishing to turn a special moment into an unforgettable memory.
HELICOPTER FLIGHTS OVER DUBAI
If you’re looking for an adrenaline-packed high-altitude experience, there’s nothing more spectacular than a helicopter tour. Pass close to iconic sites including Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab and The World Islands, and explore Dubai from an unprecedented angle.
The leading operator, HeliDubai, offers a range of different routes and durations (from AED for a -minute fight).
A spin of the propellers and the city becomes a mirage between the desert and the ocean.
Above: The View Palm Jumeirah is on the 52nd floor of The Palm Tower (240 metres above the ground)
Below:Dubai Frame is a gigantic golden structure 150 metres tall in the heart of Zabeel Park
A spectacular view of Palm Jumeirah, from The View Palm Jumeirah
Bab Al Yam, Jumeirah Burj Al Arab
DREAM BREAKFASTS
WHERE TO START THE DAY AMONG LAVISH BUFFETS, SIGNATURE DISHES AND SWEEPING VIEWS OF THE ARABIAN GULF text Martina Olivieri
Above: Jou Jou Brasserie, Four Seasons Resort
Below: Bab Al Yam, Jumeirah Burj Al Arab
Between glittering skylines, golden beaches and peerless vistas over the Arabian Gulf, the city’s hotels turn breakfast into an experience to remember – where discreet luxury meets culinary creativity.
From grand buffets to sky-high spreads, from bohemian nooks by the sea to refned Mediterranean settings, each hotel offers a journey through international favours, artisanal pâtisserie and signature plates, celebrating the cosmopolitan lifestyle that makes Dubai unique.
JUMEIRAH
BURJ AL ARAB
At Al Bab Al Yam, inside the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab , breakfast becomes a full-sensory ritual with a front-row view of the Arabian Gulf. Reserved exclusively for in-house guests, the restaurant welcomes you into a bright, polished space where the open kitchen deftly blends Middle Eastern and European infuences. Between abundant buffets and à la carte options, every bite feels like a small masterpiece: think caramelised French toast and lobster vol-au-vent , Egg Truffle Toast and a delicate Truffle Feuilleté . Here, breakfast is not simply the frst meal of the day – it is a ceremony of comfort, craft and quiet indulgence.
FOUR SEASONS RESORT DUBAI AT JUMEIRAH BEACH
On Saturdays, Jou Jou Brasserie at Four Seasons Resort Dubai turns into an ode to taste and ease with its iconic Saturday Brunch. Sunlit interiors with a Mediterranean touch open onto a greenerylined terrace, setting the stage for generous buffets and made-to-order plates: premium cuts of meat and fsh from live stations, unexpectedly moreish arancini, family-style pastas and silky risottos. To fnish, a show-stopping spread of pastries and desserts by Chef Nicolas Lambert. Live music underscores the mood, elevating the occasion from a simple meal to a chic, vibrant and unforgettable weekend ritual.
IN A CITY THAT NEVER STOPS SURPRISING, BREAKFAST TURNS INTO A FEAST FOR THE SENSES – A MOMENT OF LIGHT AND FLAVOUR AMONG PANORAMIC VIEWS, MEDITERRANEAN SCENTS AND COSMOPOLITAN FLAIR
ARMANI HOTEL DUBAI
At Armani Hotel Dubai, breakfast is a study in style and favour. At Armani/ Lounge , minimalism and fnesse meet cinematic views over the Dubai Fountain. The à la carte menu focuses on light, wholesome plates, artisanal pastries and expertly prepared coffee – perfect for easing into the day between relaxation and urban contemplation. Next door, Armani/Mediterraneo stages a pan-Mediterranean breakfast journey: seasonal fruit, freshly pressed juices, artisanal baking, live cooking and
1. 5. Cordelia
The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm (ph. Rinu Anantharaman)
2. Jou Jou Brasserie, Four Seasons Resort
3. 4. Armani/Mediterraneo, Armani Hotel Dubai
6. French Riviera Beach, Jumeirah Al Qasr
Above: Armani/Lounge, Armani Hotel
Below: French Riviera Beach Jumeirah Al Qasr
generous buffets spanning Italian, Greek and Levantine favourites. Both venues embody Armani’s timeless elegance, turning every morning in Dubai into a moment to savour.
JUMEIRAH AL QASR
At French Riviera Beach by Jumeirah Al Qasr , breakfast invites you to start the day in a state of unhurried calm – sun warming the sand, waves providing the soundtrack. Expect just-baked breads, Bircher muesli , Avocado Toast and signature creations such as Pain Perdu Crème Brûlée or Norwegian Salmon Benedict ; pair with fresh juices or coffee for a gentle lift. This season, the experience is elevated by Balloons at the Palace , a pop-up suspended on the hotel’s f fth f oor, where breakfast f oats between charm and wonder: warm pastries, seasonal plates and breathtaking panoramas that turn each morning into a polished adventure.
MANDARIN ORIENTAL JUMEIRAH
made for slow beginnings and quiet pleasure. This bohemian beachfront corner blends dining, art and entertainment in an atmosphere that is lively yet laid-back.
SKYLINE MORNINGS,
From Friday to Sunday, guests can enjoy oven-fresh viennoiserie, signature dishes, aromatic coffee and freshly squeezed juices – just steps from the water’s edge of the Arabian Sea. Every detail is designed to transform waking up into an elegant, evocative ritual where f avour, outlook and lightness meet for a daybreak to remember.
THE ST. REGIS DUBAI, THE PALM
On Dubai’s immaculate shoreline, Casa Amor at Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah offers a breakfast
At The St. Regis Dubai , The Palm , breakfast is a moment of understated luxury framed by the inf nity pool and the city skyline. Open to hotel guests only, the buffet at Cordelia restaurant balances comfort, quality and a touch of timeless elegance. Those craving an even gentler start can linger by the poolside beverage area with coffee and fresh juices, bathed in morning light and the incomparable views of Palm Jumeirah.
Casa Amor, Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah
The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm
Above: Bvlgari Caffè, Bvulgari Resot Dubai
Below: Riviera by Jean Imbert, The Lana
BVLGARI RESORT DUBAI
At Bvlgari Caffè within the Bvlgari Resort Dubai , breakfast is a ritual of Mediterranean elegance poised between sea and sky. Overlooking the private marina of Jumeira Bay Island, the caffè welcomes guests with natural light, pale woods and signature Italian design. Luxury here reveals itself in simplicity: perfectly frothed cappuccinos, faky croissants and tropical fruit, served on terraces that seem to foat above the ocean. With yachts glinting in the sun and a soft Gulf breeze, it is the place to begin your day – Dubai at its most sophisticated and serene.
THE LANA
refned awakening, accompanied by morning light that plays across the glittering water. At Riviera, breakfast becomes a sensory tableau where taste, view and a distinctly Mediterranean atmosphere combine for a chic start to the day.
ONE ZA’ABEEL
ICONIC HOTELS, PANORAMIC BRUNCHES AND ARTISANAL PASTRIES TELL THE STORY OF DUBAI’S MOST REFINED LIFESTYLE
Riviera by Jean Imbert restaurant at The Lana pours Mediterranean charm along the shores of Marasi Bay Marina. Breakfast – served daily – celebrates freshness and lightness, weaving international infuences with the favours of the Middle East. From classic continental choices to local specialities, each plate is crafted to deliver an elegant,
High above the city at The Link in One Za’abeel , breakfast – and brunch – scale new heights. Among nine culinary concepts, the lifestyle café NETTE by Haider Madani stands out, uniting French and Japanese sensibilities in wholesome, fnely tuned plates: think soy-glazed ribeye with noodle salad or tomatoponzu gel brightening a delicate dish. At the Coffee Lab , specialty brews, artisanal pastries and distinctive beverage – Spanish cortado, coconut latte – complete the morning with fair. From a thoughtful, sustainable approach to carefully sourced ingredients, every detail turns breakfast into a moment of poised, contemporary ease – with a sweeping view of Dubai’s ever-evolving skyline.
One Za’abeel
of flavors and memories
Alessandro Miceli (above and below), chef at MamaBella, brings the warmth of Italian cuisine to Dubai, turning every dish into a story
A TASTE OF HOME
ALESSANDRO MICELI TALKS ABOUT MAMABELLA, A PLACE WHERE WHOLESOME INGREDIENTS, FAMILY RECIPES, AND CONVIVIALITY CREATE A LITTLE CORNER OF ITALY
text Martina Olivieri
Alessandro Miceli, chef at MamaBella, brings the warm authenticity of Italian cuisine to Dubai, transforming every dish into a story of favours and memories. With select ingredients, family recipes, and a touch of international experimentation, MamaBella is more than just a restaurant: it’s a laboratory of conviviality, a little corner of the Italian home in the heart of a cosmopolitan city, where culture, favour, and emotion meet.
How would you describe the philosophy that guides MamaBella in a few words?
MamaBella stems from a desire to bring the authenticity of Southern Italian cuisine — and beyond — to the table, emphasizing simplicity, quality ingredients, and a passion for authentic favours. We want to tell stories through our dishes, making every guest feel at home. Our space is a small workshop reminiscent of a home kitchen, where you can cook together, eat, or simply enjoy a coffee together and experience the warmth of Italian conviviality also in Dubai.
In a cosmopolitan city like Dubai, how important is it for you to bring the authenticity of Italian tradition to the table?
It’s essential. In an international city like Dubai, offering authentic, simple dishes creates a bridge between cultures and offers a warm experience. Italian cuisine, with fresh ingredients and traditional techniques, conveys emotion and family ties. The difference is made by the ingredients and the knowledge handed down by our grandmothers and mothers: gestures and products still little known here, which allow diners to discover new favours and enhance cultural diversity.
You’ve worked in Italy, London, and Dubai: how is this experience refected in MamaBella’s international menu?
Each experience has enriched my vision: Italy gave me
roots and tradition, London taught me innovation and openness to an international audience, while Dubai represents the meeting of different cultures. In MamaBella’s menu, all of this translates into light, contemporary dishes that are authentic yet refned, able to surprise without losing the warmth and familiarity of home cooking.
MamaBella also aims to be a meeting place for cultures. What culinary infuences do you enjoy exploring?
I’m fascinated by subtle infuences, those that enrich without distorting the identity of Italian dishes. I love experimenting with spices, herbs, or cooking techniques from other traditions, while always maintaining a balance of favours. The goal is to create a dialogue between cultures, offering new experiences without losing our roots.
The Cucina Mamma experience brings together women from diverse cultures to share their recipes. How did this idea come about, and what message does it convey?
The idea originated with a desire to bring to light the favours and emotions of home kitchens, involving the true protagonists of our lives: mothers, grandmothers, and even fathers. We want to create a space where recipes, memories, and loving gestures can be shared. The goal is to help customers relive those authentic feelings of home.
How do you select and deliver Italian products to Dubai, and what role do small producers play in your culinary story?
We work directly with Italian suppliers and small producers, because quality comes from those who put heart and dedication into their food. Every ingredient tells a story: from four to mozzarella, from tomatoes to preserves. Bringing them to Dubai means bringing the authenticity of our land to life and creating a bridge between cultures.
Alaya
THE ART OF DINING
A GUIDE TO DIFC’S MOST ICONIC RESTAURANTS WHERE CUISINE MEETS ARCHITECTURE ALLOWING YOU TO DISCOVER THE CITY THROUGH ITS FOOD
text Martina Olivieri
Above: Amazónico Below: Alaya
In Dubai’s most iconic district with its modern and top design architecture, the world of dining takes on new forms. The Dubai International Financial Centre is a cosmopolitan melting pot of styles and favours, a place where many restaurants — each with its strong identity — tells the story of distant cultures with a contemporary touch. Here is a list of the best ones.
ALAYA
Located in the heart of the DIFC, Alaya offers cuisine which combines the Mediterranean and the Middle East in a perfect mix of favours, fragrances and design. The restaurant features an elegant balance of art deco and Middle Eastern details: the ideal location for a style of cuisine that celebrates the best of two worlds. Dishes such as Wagyu Carpaccio or Chilean Bass Spetsiota recount stories of distant lands, and their desserts ranging from Kunafa to Alaya Tiramisu are the perfect sweet ending to the dining experience.
AMAZÓNICO
AVLI BY TASHAS
An oasis of warmth and authenticity where Greek tradition is combined with Mediterranean cuisine following a contemporary touch. Inspired by the Athenian roots of its founder Natasha Sideris, the Avli by Tashas offers dishes prepared with passion and love for her country of origin such as the meze and slowly cooked fsh and meat dishes, as well as iconic desserts such as Baklava Sundae . The design evokes Mediterranean courtyards with steel arches, terrazzo foors and unique artistic details. The ideal choice for a business lunch or dinner with friends. The Avli celebrates the culture, art and soul of Greece, turning every meal into a convivial occasion.
FROM FINE DINING TO FUSION CONCEPTS, THE DIFC IS WHERE GLOBAL GASTRONOMY MEETS
Three levels of pure energy and tropical charm: Amazónico is one of the most iconic locations of DIFC offering Latin American fne dining in an Amazonian rainforest setting. Amidst lush plants, exotic furnishings and warm lighting, the dining experience becomes a real sensory journey. The menu showcases Amazonian culture with vibrant dishes from sushi to grilled meats and fsh, with strong favours and colourful food presentation. Choose the frst foor to admire the chefs at work thanks to the open kitchen design or the beautiful terrace with breathtaking views of the city for an aperitif with Latin music in the background.
CIPRIANI DUBAI
Cipriani Dubai has brought the elegance of Venice directly to Dubai. Featuring polished wood interiors, steel fnishes and brown leather seats. The restaurant is a blend of nautical style and a refned vintage atmosphere evoking the 95 s and 96 s. The cuisine celebrates Italian tradition: fresh local ingredients and products imported directly from Italy to create simple, perfect and timeless dishes. From the famous Carpaccio alla Cipriani to the iconic desserts, each dish is homage to the original Harry’s Bar opened in 9 by Giuseppe Cipriani in Venice.
GAIA
Gaia makes its guests feel like they are in Greece with an experience that combines warmth, elegance and harmony. From the lounge with its soft lighting to the frenetic open kitchen, each area is a tribute to Mediter-
Above: Cipriani
Below: Il Gattopardo
Above: Zuma
Below: Chic Nonna
Above: Avli by Tashas Below: Gaia
ranean conviviality. Reserve the -seater Chef’s Table for an exclusive experience between authentic favours and a family atmosphere. The main room, illuminated by the light coming from the wood fre oven enriched by a creative beverage corner and fresh fsh display, celebrates the joy of the dining experience. Between sunny terraces and rooms furnished with great attention to detail, GAIA is a cosy restaurant where every meal becomes a convivial occasion to discover the authentic essence of Greek cuisine.
CHIC NONNA
Chic Nonna brings to Dubai all the elegance and favor of fne Italian dining. In a refned setting that blends classic design with contemporary touches, the restaurant offers a gastronomic experience that celebrates tradition with an innovative spirit. The expertly crafted menu features fresh pasta, premium meats, and exquisite seafood prepared with top-quality ingredients. Each dish pays homage to Italian culinary culture, complemented by a curated selection of fne wines. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
LA PETITE MAISON
As soon as you enter La Petite Maison , you will feel like you have reached a mini Côte d›Azur in the heart of Dubai: a terrace scattered with bougainvillea and olive trees where the hustle and bustle of the fnancial centre seems to be light-years away. The menu features fresh and natural ingredients, combined with creativity: shared dishes enhancing authentic and surprising favours. The beverage area occupies almost the whole
wall and is a real attraction to discover a variety of unique terroirs. LPM is an invitation to relax and enjoy the favours and pleasure of the meal in an atmosphere of Mediterranean refnement and conviviality.
ZUMA DUBAI
At the Zuma Dubai in the dynamic centre of DIFC, dinner becomes a multi-sensory experience where Japanese tradition meets contemporary creativity. Located on two levels with a modern lounge and an elegant dining room, the restaurant offers dishes to share prepared in three different kitchens: the main one, the sushi worktop and the robata grill. Authentic and original, each dish is prepared with quality ingredients and decisive favours to offer a unique dining experience rich in style, taste and conviviality.
IL GATTOPARDO
Located on the ffty-frst foor of the ICD Brookfeld Place, Il Gattopardo enhances the art of Italian cuisine with breathtaking views of the Dubai skyline. Opened after the success of the Mayfair in London, the restaurant is a refned tribute to Italy, a location where elegance and passion are in perfect harmony. The menu is a gastronomic tour of the Italian regions with many great classics reinterpreted with contemporary taste and authenticity. From an aperitif at sunset to a business lunch, from the lively dinners to the late night events with DJ sets, Il Gattopardo is a place where time seems to stop and every moment becomes an occasion to celebrate life — as living here really feels like La Dolce Vita
La Petite Maison
DUBAI ITALIA EXPERIENCES ISSUE PARTY
Mercury Rooftop at Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, with its breathtaking views of the city, was the scene for a very special evening to launch the new number of Dubai Italia Experiences, with an exclusive tasting of beverage from Mazzei.
Alessia Forcelati, Lorenzo Triniterra, Edoardo di Luca
