The news from the region you shouldn’t miss.
١. Audemars Piguet presents three new Royal Oak Offshore models
Audemars Piguet’s new Royal Oak Offshore collection showcases three bold models that merge daring design with cutting-edge technology. These timepieces blend stainless steel, black ceramic, and 18-carat gold, each featuring vibrant contrasts and luxurious finishes. The 37 mm version in pink gold is tailored for smaller wrists, with a sporty grey rubber-coated bezel and a rhodium-toned dial. The 43 mm models, including a self-winding and a Chronograph, highlight the collection’s robust yet refined aesthetic, with intricate guilloché dials and interchangeable straps. All three models house advanced self-winding movements, visible through sapphire case backs, reflecting Audemars Piguet’s commitment to precision and elegance.
٢. Bulldozer Group unveils Dragonfly, a new Japanese dining destination
Bulldozer Group is launching Dragonfly, a new Japanese restaurant at The Lana – Dorchester Collection, led by Chairman Aleksandr Orlov and Chef Reif Othman, with Chef Vladimir Kim heading the kitchen. The restaurant offers a unique blend of Japanese and Pan-Asian flavours, featuring signature dishes like Beijing Duck. Dragonfly will also showcase an extensive selection of sake, shochu, and Japanese whiskies, with plans to build a world-class wine program. The venue combines traditional Japanese elements with modern aesthetics, creating an immersive and vibrant dining experience.
٣. UAE’s First La Visage de La Mer Facial available at Casa Aire Wellness
Located in Dubai Marina, Casa Aire Wellness is a newly opened, female-exclusive beauty and wellness members club offering top-tier treatments in a luxurious two-level space. It is the UAE’s first and only club to offer the exclusive ‘Le Visage de la Mer™’ (The Sea Facial), which uses La Mer™’s renowned Miracle Broth™ to rejuvenate and hydrate the skin. The 90-minute facial combines cryotherapy, sound, and movement for a unique sensory experience. Casa Aire Wellness also features serene interiors, expert skin consultants, and a range of holistic treatments.
٤. BVLGARI and Mary Katrantzou introduce the ‘Calla’ collection for leather goods & accessories
Mary Katrantzou, in her debut as Creative Director of Leather Goods and Accessories for Bvlgari, introduces the “Calla” motif, inspired by the ancient mosaics of the Terme di Caracalla in Rome. This fan-shaped design, with its universal appeal and connections to the ginkgo leaf and calla lily, serves as the foundation of her first collection. Katrantzou seamlessly blends historical influence with Bvlgari’s craftsmanship, resulting in a series of luxury accessories that embody the house’s rich heritage and contemporary elegance.
٥. Unforgettable action takes Abu Dhabi at UFC Fight Night
Abu Dhabi witnessed a thrilling UFC Fight Night on August 7, 2024, at Etihad Arena, as the sport returned to Yas Island. The event, headlined by a clash between Cory Sandhagen and the undefeated Umar Nurmagomedov, captivated fans with intense MMA action. Nurmagomedov maintained his unblemished record with a unanimous decision victory. Other highlights included Shara Magomedov’s win over Michal Oleksiejczuk, Deiveson Figueiredo’s successful bantamweight debut, and Michael Chiesa’s submission win over Tony Ferguson. The night also saw Mackenzie Dern triumph in the women’s strawweight division, among other standout performances.
٦. Get ready for summer with Jean Paul Gaultier La Belle Paradise Garden fragrance
Following the success of last year, Jean Paul Gaultier reintroduces La Belle Fleur Terrible with a bold new partner, Le Beau. In 2023, these perfumes unite in a sensual paradise, embodying freedom and uninhibited youth. The campaign features Tess McMillan and Jonas Barros as the magnetic muses, symbolizing the seductive spirit of Gaultier’s vision. The fragrances, crafted by Quentin Bisch, offer an exotic olfactory experience: Le Beau’s aromatic woody notes blend with La Belle’s radiant vanilla, creating an irresistible duo that invites you into Gaultier’s Paradise Garden.
٧. Goshá Arts Launches a Summer Pop-up at Level Shoes
On August 9th, 2024, Level Shoes in Dubai launched a collaborative pop-up with GOSHÁ ARTS, an innovative concept by the luxury design brand Goshá. The pop-up, designed by Harry Nuriev of Crosby Studios, offers a series of creative workshops, such as terrarium making and flower pressing, led by expert instructors. These immersive sessions, running until September 9th, 2024, allow participants to craft unique pieces and explore new artistic mediums. This collaboration previews the upcoming permanent GOSHÁ ARTS space set to open in Abu Dhabi in September.
٨. Sandro Studio unveils exclusivities as part of their pre-fall collection
Sandro Studio has launched its exclusive pre-fall collection, highlighting a fresh take on seasonal fashion. Central to the collection is a striking burgundy hue, with the standout piece being a ribbed midi dress featuring cap sleeves and a front button closure, blending versatility with elegance. The collection also introduces cool, preppy tones and chic tracksuits in classic ecru and grey, offering a sophisticated yet comfortable urban aesthetic. These pre-fall exclusives underscore Sandro’s commitment to contemporary elegance.
٩. GUCCI unveils a new portrait featuring Jannik Sinner In Gucci Eyewear
Gucci continues to honour its rich heritage by blending luxury with leisure, reimagining classic eyewear with a modern twist. No. 1 ATP tennis player and Global Brand Ambassador Jannik Sinner is showcased in a striking photograph wearing acetate frames that capture the essence of Gucci. These sunglasses, with their bold squared shape, rivets, and distinctive Gucci logo, reflect both Sinner’s partnership with the brand and its core values of elegance and lifestyle. This portrait beautifully highlights the synergy between Gucci’s timeless style and Sinner’s dynamic journey.
