US-Iraqy beauty mogul Huda Kattan donates $100,000 to Gaza aid efforts

Huda Kattan recently took to social media to speak out about the current bombardment of Gaza. Instagram
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Updated 27 June 2021
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US-Iraqy beauty mogul Huda Kattan donates $100,000 to Gaza aid efforts

DUBAI: US-Iraqi makeup mogul Huda Kattan has taken to Instagram to reveal that she and her sisters have donated $100,000 to Doctors Without Borders in Gaza.

“Gaza may not be trending anymore, but the reality is the people there still need our help,” the Huda Beauty founder wrote on Instagram.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Huda Kattan (@huda)


“My sisters and I donated $100,000 to @doctorswithoutborders. I chose them because I know they are on ground and I can see where my money is going.  I know we all want to help make a difference so let’s do it together by bringing awareness and aid to those who need it most,” she added.

Kattan recently took to social media to speak out about the current bombardment of Gaza by Israel and the forced evictions faced by Palesntians.

In an Instagram video, Dubai-based entrepreneur and founder of the Huda Beauty brand, and skincare label Wishful, Kattan said: “I am really annoyed at some of the things that have been happening on some of the social media platforms.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Huda Kattan (@huda)

“There have been very unjust things going on in Palestine right now. Hopefully, most of you have been able to experience the opportunity to buy your own home, and I just recently did. I can’t imagine somebody coming into the home that I built and telling me I have to leave and taking it away from me.”

The 37-year-old makeup artist also accused Instagram of hiding or “completely” deleting posts about Palestine. “It is really disappointing, because a lot of these outlets have outwardly said, ‘we are going to allow fake news.’ But they won’t allow us to post or protest?” she added.

“One of the gifts of social media is the equal opportunity to spread news and to spread the things of how we see them. But that’s not actual, it depends on which side you are fighting actually. Because if you are on the wrong side, it will get hidden, or deleted, or nobody is going to see it.

“I know I have a beauty brand and I am not supposed to talk about politics or whatever, but it is unjust, and I want to stand for what’s right whether or not it makes me unpopular,” Kattan said.


Top fashion trends for 2025: From power suits to parachutes and animal print everything

Updated 09 January 2025
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Top fashion trends for 2025: From power suits to parachutes and animal print everything

DUBAI: From power suits to parachutes and animal print everything, Claire Carruthers looks at what this year’s Spring/Summer collections have in store 

Powder pink 

Rather than the bold Barbie-inspired hot pink trend of recent years, 2025 will see a softer, playfully versatile shade with greater staying power and easier wardrobe integration. Simone Rocha quashed any antiquated gender rules with a spring/summer collection that proposed relaxed tailoring for the boys in a subtle blush, while Alaïa presented cocoon candy floss pelts, shimmering oyster mesh dresses and puffy quilt skirts in the palest pink. Loewe subverted the norm and pink’s traditionally sweet associations with larger-than-life shapes and floral print bell-shaped dresses. The collective result suggests an air of both optimism and nostalgia — fashion simply made for embracing joy. 

A look by Carven. (Getty Images)

Working overtime  

If professional endeavours top your New Year resolutions lists, make sure your wardrobe complements your ambitions. Stride into boardrooms with cool self-assurance in sharp tailoring, served up best by Anthony Vaccarello’s outstanding SS25 collection for Saint Laurent (pictured): think iterations of statement suiting paired with leather bomber jackets or Wall Street trench coats — an Eighties power dressing redux complete with shirt, tie and oversized eyewear. At Bottega Veneta, silhouettes were languid and relaxed, tapping into one of the year’s most wearable micro trends: artful layering. Experiment with pants under asymmetrical wrap skirts, topped with tunic shirts or supersized suit jackets. Remember, new-look office wear aims for balance — masculine with feminine — and contrasting fabrications, always worn with confidence. 

Saint Laurent takes statement suiting to the next level. (Getty Images

 
Animal instincts  

While its cultural cachet may have fluctuated over time — from Hollywood starlet to gaudy, It-girl status, to sartorial sin and back again — animal print has remained a constant in fashion’s consciousness. Iconic moments made all the more memorable due to its presence include Naomi Campbell wearing head-to-toe leopard print in Guy Laroche’s autumn/winter 1991 show; Kate Moss showing the world how a leopard print coat can look great with just about anything; and Scary Spice claiming big cat prints as her girl-power signature. 2024 was a big year for leopard (the streets were flooded with the predatory motif), and for 2025, designers have added other abstract animal prints to the pack: see snake shift dresses, coats and bags at Dries Van Noten; zebra pencil skirts, loafers and mules at Jacquemus; and elevated spots on modern silks at Nanushka. 

A look by Tory Burch. (AFP)

Parachute parade 

From a palette inspired by light clouds set against a blue sky to swaths of dramatic drapery, fashion’s antidote to ‘hard times’ comes in the form of maximalist bubble-hem dresses and eclectic separates reminiscent of deployed parachutes. Unlike last year, which looked at the trend through an Eighties lens (puffballs galore), 2025’s offerings focus on shape and form, with outfits primed to inspire escapism and elation. Look to It brands such as Chloé, Issey Miyake (pictured), Loewe and Stella McCartney for ice-cream toned skirts and enveloping trains, flowing parka jackets, and plenty of exaggerated draping on maxi dresses. 

Issey Miyake's runway creation. (AFP)

Make mine a mocha  Pantone’s Color of the Year 2025 — Mocha Mousse — is a deliciously evocative brown that blends shades of toffee, cacao and coffee. Think of it as the perfect balance between comfort and luxury. Seasonless, genderless and a breeze to mix with existing pieces of your wardrobe (pair with pale yellow, or with other earth tones including burgundy and olive green), Mocha Mousse also taps into the ‘polished minimalism’ movement that has dominated runways over the past couple of years. For SS25, the shade was used by Tod’s, Max Mara and Hermès (pictured) via tonal tailoring, suede jackets and soft leather accessories. Pantone describes it as a reflection of our connection to the natural world, “infused with an inherent sophistication and earthy refinement.” 

For SS25, the shade was used by Tod’s, Max Mara and Hermès (pictured). (Getty Images)

Balance your checks 

Threatening to replace animal as the reigning print of 2025 is plaid, which may be synonymous with fall, but its presence in the spring collections takes on a contemporary charm. Acne (pictured) did it best via soft check blazers, bow-detail skirts paired with button-up shirts in contrasting colors and spliced maxi dresses overlayed with sheer white chiffon. Elsewhere, designers including Dior coupled checks with a throwback Nineties palette and styling — a nod to a rebellious Nirvana-inspired spirit, perhaps — or embraced a classic, sophisticated tweed (Chanel). Looking for something to pair with slouchy denim? Take your cue from Bottega Veneta and add an over-oversized check shirt. 

Threatening to replace animal as the reigning print of 2025 is plaid. (Getty Images)

Luck be a lady 

The jacket silhouette and twee signatures that Chanel (pictured) has held strong for decades serve as a foundation for this year’s ladylike look. Faux-fur coats and polka dot twinsets (Valentino), retro chunky stripes (Max Mara) and pussy bow blouses (Louis Vuitton) signal a return to refinement — just add a modern pillbox hat (Chloé, Marni and Loro Piana), a top-handle bag, a feather or lace collar, gloves and peep-toe heels (although not all at once). While SS25’s ladylike look may nod to a 1950’s tradwife uniform, this is clothing designed through a thoroughly modern gaze — a nuanced interpretation with an intangible coolness.  

The jacket silhouette and twee signatures that Chanel (pictured) has held strong for decades serve as a foundation for this year’s ladylike look. (AFP)

Elevated athleisure 

Luxury fashion and sportswear brands began collaborating in the Eighties and ever since have enjoyed a mutually beneficial relationship, thriving through traded creativity and profitability. Almost every season, designers offer a new spin on athleisure and SS25 is no exception. Anoraks, parkas and hoodies were everywhere on the runways, often paired with a cocktail dress (Prada, Rabanne), or something equally elevated. The high-low contrast will be key this year. At Dior, Maria Grazia Chiuri wanted to emphasize intention and function when it comes to dressing, and reinvented various pieces from the house’s archive in a way that allows the wearer to move freely. Think of a luxury take on leotards, tracksuits and relaxed tailoring. 

Ralph Lauren is known for its athleisure. (AFP)

 


Recipes for success: Chef Massimiliano Blasone shares insights as L~ARIA pop up delights Riyadh foodies

Updated 09 January 2025
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Recipes for success: Chef Massimiliano Blasone shares insights as L~ARIA pop up delights Riyadh foodies

  • The head chef of L~ARIA offers advice and a tasty seafood pasta recipe 

RIYADH: Last month, the Mandarin Oriental Al-Faisaliah in Riyadh welcomed an exclusive pop-up of L~ARIA, from its sister property on the shores of Lake Como in Italy’s Lombardy region. Along for the ride was chef Massimiliano Blasone, who heads the kitchen at L~ARIA and oversaw the launch of the pop-up, which runs until Feb. 26.  

L~ARIA, according to a press release, “fuses traditional Italian dishes with strong Oriental influences. Japanese cooking practices and techniques enhance the finest seasonal ingredients…” 

L~ARIA pop-up restaurant. (Supplied)

The menu at the Riyadh pop-up includes lobster tempura, truffle taglioni and A5 Wagyu, as well as artisanal gelato for dessert.  

Here, Blasone discusses early errors, love for lemons, and comfort cuisine. 

When you started out, what was the most common mistake you made? 

Trying to add in too many elements. It just disrupts the harmony of flavors and confuses the palate. 

What’s your top tip for amateurs cooking at home? 

Base your cooking on fresh and balanced ingredients that will maintain freshness and lightness. Your dishes will then be a celebration of both those things. 

What one ingredient can instantly improve any dish? 

Lemon. It’s so versatile. You can use its lemon juice or lemon zest to add flavor to salads, to seafood dishes, and even to desserts. 

What’s the most common issue that you find in other restaurants when you go out to eat? 

A lack of communication between the staff. In the restaurant industry, mistakes are inevitable, so the real challenge lies in minimizing them through continuous refinement. The focal point of my attention is always constant training and timely communication. Communication is the key to smooth and immediate coordination: every detail, every need must be shared clearly and promptly, so that every team member is aligned towards the common goal of providing a flawless culinary experience, without hesitation or misunderstandings.  

What’s your favorite cuisine?  

I am a passionate fan of comfort food — that type of cuisine that embraces the soul. So I’m always looking for dishes that are fresh, natural, and full of authenticity — qualities that only the most genuine dishes can convey. 

What’s your go-to dish if you have to cook something quickly at home? 

Risotto. I’m a true Italian, and risotto is one of the most beloved and versatile dishes in our cuisine. It’s a dish that, despite its simplicity, lends itself to countless interpretations, seasons, and ingredients. 

What customer request or behavior most annoys you? 

I always try to maintain a balanced, positive attitude; that’s just my natural inclination, professionally. But I do find it quite annoying when I sense signs of impatience from guests. 

What’s your favorite dish to cook and why?   

Right now, while I’m in Riyadh, my favorite dish to cook is salt-crusted sea bass. It perfectly embodies the harmony between simplicity and sophistication. It is a dish that respects the quality of the ingredients and enhances every nuance of their flavor. 

As a head chef, what are you like? Are you a disciplinarian? Do you shout a lot? Or are you more laid back? 

I’d say that, as a head chef, I’m the result of all the experience gained from working with professionals of great precision and discipline. I think my leadership is based on a foundation of rigor, but, at the same time, I firmly believe in the importance of serenity and clear communication, and, above all, balance. 

Chef Massimiliano’s maccheroncini with shellfish recipe 

Chef Massimiliano’s maccheroncini. (Supplied)

(Serves 6) 

Dry pasta maccheroncini  

400 gr  

Ingredients: 

Lobster Bisque 

Lobster meat 

Shrimp meat 

Spring onion 

Tomato coulis 

Tomato concasse 

Sun-dried tomatoes 

Almond pesto 

For the Bisque: 

Ripe tomatoes 

Celery 

Carrots 

Onion 

Fennel 

Double concentrated tomato paste 

Leeks 

Non alcoholic white wine 

Garlic 

Shells (lobster carcasses) 

Basil 

Thyme 

Instructions: 

Roughly chop the vegetables. 

Toast the lobster heads. 

Sauté the vegetables and garlic. 

Deglaze with non alcoholic white wine. 

Add the tomatoes and the toasted lobster heads. 

Add ice and water to cover, along with the aromatic herbs. 

After 45 minutes, remove the shells and vegetables and strain the bisque through a fine mesh strainer. 

Let the bisque reduce over low heat, then strain it again through a fine mesh strainer. 

Tomato Coulis (for 1 portion): 

Ingredients: 

Date tomatoes (300g) 

San Marzano tomatoes (300g) 

Spring onion (100g) 

Garlic cloves, without the germ (20g) 

White onion (80g) 

Instructions: 

Chop the spring onion and white onion finely. 

Crush the garlic cloves. 

Sauté the garlic, then add the tomatoes, cut into large pieces. 

After 40 minutes, add salt to taste. 

Remove the garlic and infuse the basil in the sauce for 10 minutes. 

After 10 minutes, remove the basil, then blend the mixture using a Thermomix (or similar blender), adding extra virgin olive oil slowly in a thin stream while blending. 

Almond Pesto 

Ingredients: 

Cow’s ricotta (300g) 

Toasted, skinless almonds (150g) 

Confit tomatoes with thyme (30 pieces) 

Vegetable broth (200g) 

Garlic clove, without the germ (1 piece) 

Maldon salt (3g) 

Cooked basil, squeezed dry (150g, from cooked basil) 

Extra virgin olive oil (200g) 

Instructions: 

Prepare the broth by simmering carrots, celery, and onions that have been charred. 

Blanch the garlic 3 times in boiling water, using 3 different pans each time. 

Blanch the basil, then cool it in ice water and squeeze out any excess moisture. 

Combine the liquids (which should have been previously frozen as a cream), along with the confit tomatoes, almonds, garlic, and salt. 

Finally, add the ricotta, making sure not to overheat the mixture. 

Place the mixture in the Pacojet and freeze it. 

Blue Lobster Cooking Method 

Ingredients: 

1 kg Blue Lobster 

100g Leek 

100g Carrot 

100g Celery 

80g Fresh Parsley 

100g Lemon Juice 

10g Black Peppercorns 

Procedure: 

Prepare the vegetable broth: In a large pot, combine the leek, carrot, celery, and parsley. Add water and bring to a gentle boil, allowing the vegetables to release their flavors and aromas. Season the broth with black peppercorns and lemon juice for a delicate balance of freshness and heat. 

Cook the lobsters: Once the broth is simmering, carefully tie the lobsters in pairs, securing them upright to maintain their shape during cooking. Gently immerse the lobsters into the boiling broth and cook for exactly 5 minutes, ensuring the flesh remains tender yet firm. 

Cool and extract the lobster meat: After 5 minutes, immediately remove the lobsters and allow them to cool in the cooking liquid to preserve their flavor. Once cooled, carefully extract the lobster meat from the shells, preserving the delicate flesh. Store the lobster meat in the refrigerator until ready for use, ensuring it remains fresh and juicy. 

Dish Preparation 

Use a sauté pan made of stainless steel, with a height of 7 cm and a diameter of 20 cm, to allow for perfect emulsification of the pasta. Begin by gently sautéing the garlic in extra virgin olive oil, making sure not to burn it, to extract the flavors in a balanced way. Next, add a finely chopped mix of confit tomatoes, along with a spoonful of fresh tomato concassé, peeled and seeded, for a touch of freshness and sweetness. Cook gently over low heat, allowing the flavors to blend harmoniously. 

Deglaze with a slight splash of lime juice to add freshness and a subtle acidity. At this point, add the lobster bisque and allow it to reduce gently until a rich, flavorful sauce forms. Then, incorporate the tomato coulis, which will add an additional layer of freshness and depth to the sauce. 

Add a handful of chopped parsley, a few finely sliced basil leaves, and a small pinch of Espelette pepper, which will provide a mild spicy note without overwhelming the other flavors. Keep the sauce warm so it can meld together perfectly. 

Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil for cooking the pasta. Cook the pasta al dente, then drain it and transfer it directly into the sauce, stirring gently to allow the pasta to absorb the flavors. If necessary, add a bit more lobster bisque to adjust the sauce's consistency. 

Remove from heat and add the previously cut lobster meat, making sure the residual heat warms it through without overcooking. Finish the dish with a final sprinkle of fresh parsley, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon juice to balance and enhance all the flavors. 

Pomodori Confit Preparation 

Ingredients: 

1 kg San Marzano tomatoes 

100 g Extra virgin olive oil 

100 g Fresh basil 

60 g Fresh thyme 

80 g Garlic, in the skin 

Procedure: 

Blanch the tomatoes: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Immerse the San Marzano tomatoes for about two minutes. Once the time has passed, quickly remove the tomatoes and transfer them into ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve their color and freshness. 

Peel and seed the tomatoes: Carefully peel the tomatoes, removing the seeds as well to obtain a clean pulp, ready for slow cooking. 

Prepare for the confit cooking: Arrange the tomatoes, well-spaced, on a steel baking tray. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, add the garlic cloves (still in their skin), a few fresh basil leaves, and sprigs of thyme to create an aromatic bouquet that will enhance the flavor. 

Slow cooking: Place the tray in a static oven set to 70°C (160°F) for a prolonged period of 6 hours, allowing the tomatoes to slowly dehydrate and concentrate their flavors without overcooking. 

Cooling and storage: Once the cooking is complete, let the tomatoes cool in the tray, then store them in the refrigerator to preserve their freshness and delicate flavors. 

 

 

 


Review: Wallace & Gromit make a cracking return in ‘Vengeance Most Fowl’

Updated 09 January 2025
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Review: Wallace & Gromit make a cracking return in ‘Vengeance Most Fowl’

DUBAI: It’s been a little over 16 years since we were last treated to a new “Wallace & Gromit” film from the brilliant stop-motion animation studio Aardman Animations. But now the eccentric UK inventor and his loyal, put-upon dog are back in a feature-length film that will delight fans old and new.

“Vengeance Most Fowl” is a straightforward enough story: Wallace, thinking he’s helping Gromit out, invents a robotic “smart gnome” called Norbot to help the dog with his gardening. Gromit isn’t impressed, but the neighbors are, and soon Wallace has set up a new home improvements business to help alleviate his financial struggles. Meanwhile, the duo’s arch-enemy, the villainous penguin Feather McGraw, whom they caught stealing the famous Blue Diamond from the city museum (back in 1993’s “The Wrong Trousers”), is serving a life sentence behind bars (in a zoo). But when he spots a news report about Wallace’s new invention, he sees a chance to take revenge. His plan starts with hacking Norbot and ruining Wallace’s new business — while making Wallace the prime suspect in a crime spree — and also involves breaking out of captivity.

Plot complexity isn’t — and never has been — the main draw of creator Nick Park’s “Wallace & Gromit” works, though. Their beauty lies in their extraordinary craftsmanship, gentle social commentary (this time, much of that focuses on our obsession with, and reliance on, tech, gadgets and AI), throw-away comic observations, and the sweet portrayal of the relationship between the main protagonists — long-suffering, stoic Gromit and his often-oblivious, exuberant owner. It’s a relationship in which the roles are often reversed; Gromit having to be the ‘adult’ taking care of the day-to-day tasks while Wallace loses himself in his own imagination. And, as ever, Wallace pushes Gromit’s patience to the limits before remembering that his dog is the only one who never loses faith in him.

The stop-motion animation skill displayed with Gromit, especially — given that he must convey everything with, basically, his eyes, ears and brow — is breathtaking, but then so is the whole world of “Wallace & Gromit.” It might all be constructed from clay, but it’s more authentic and engaging than 90 percent of what is put out with actual human actors.

 


Riyadh’s literary havens: Where coffee meets the love of books

Updated 08 January 2025
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Riyadh’s literary havens: Where coffee meets the love of books

  • City’s book cafes offer serene spaces for quiet reflection
  • Carefully curated selections of Arabic and English titles on offer

RIYADH: Riyadh’s cultural landscape is undergoing a quiet transformation, where the love of coffee meets the timeless allure of literature.

Book cafes are carving out a niche as spaces where readers, thinkers, and coffee enthusiasts converge.

These havens of creativity and reflection offer retreats for the mind and soul, providing a sense of community in an increasingly fast-paced world.

A cozy nook where greenery and natural decor invite visitors to unwind with a good book.  (Instagram: @coffee_trees20)

The Book Club: Where stories find their home

Nestled in the Al-Yasmin district, The Book Club is a tranquil retreat for bibliophiles, particularly those passionate about Arabic literature.

Its shelves brim with carefully curated Arabic titles, from classics to contemporary gems, complemented by a modest selection of English books.

HIGHLIGHTS

• In Riyadh’s Al-Narjis district, Wathbah Coffee and Book’s floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, vintage-inspired decor, and intimate corners create a haven for readers and thinkers alike.

• Coffee Trees, tucked away in the Al-Rayan district, offers a sanctuary that blends greenery with literary charm.

The minimalist interior, adorned with soft lighting and intimate reading nooks, creates an atmosphere conducive to focus and relaxation.

What sets The Book Club apart is its browsing policy. Visitors are welcome to skim books for three minutes before deciding to purchase, with additional purchases granting extended reading time.

A serene entrance invites book lovers and coffee enthusiasts to step into a world of stories and community at The Book Club. This Riyadh gem blends literature with culture. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)

During Arab News’ visit, the cafe hosted a stimulating talk with Saad Al-Bazai, titled, “Historical Fiction: Why Do They Believe in the Imagined?”

Al-Bazai told Arab News: “These gatherings bring together a diverse audience and provide them with the opportunity to meet researchers.

“This undoubtedly supports cultural life as it creates a platform for dialogue that differs from social media platforms — it is vibrant, direct, and involves personal presence.”

Sophia: A library, a cafe, and a place to connect

Sophia has become a cornerstone of Riyadh’s literary scene, acting as a hub for knowledge, creativity, and meaningful connections.

Its towering wooden shelves are filled with a rich collection of Arabic and English books, carefully curated to cater to a diverse audience.

Sophia blends intellect and leisure, offering visitors a serene space to read and reflect. (Instagram: @sophia.alriyadh)

Beyond being a library, Sophia also serves as a publishing house, amplifying the voices of local and regional authors, bringing their stories to the forefront.

What sets Sophia apart is its dedication to fostering intellectual growth and cultural exchange.

The space regularly hosts book launches, discussion panels, and thought-provoking dialogue sessions that bring together writers, readers, and thinkers from various backgrounds.

The inviting ambiance, complete with warm lighting and cozy seating, creates the perfect backdrop for these events, making each visit an enriching experience.

Aminah Al-Hassani, a loyal visitor, captured the essence of Sophia. She said: “The place is calm and serene, and it has never let me down with a bad book.

“Every book I’ve read here has been better than the last. Their selections are beautiful, and the events they organize are always beneficial and enjoyable.”

The calming ambiance of Coffee Trees, a perfect escape to enjoy ethically sourced coffee and literary treasures. (Instagram: @coffee_trees20)

Coffee Trees: A green sanctuary

Coffee Trees, tucked away in the Al-Rayan district, offers a sanctuary that blends greenery with literary charm. The cafe’s lush decor, accentuated by vibrant plants and natural elements, transforms the space into a botanical retreat.

Though its library is modest, the curated selection of books is perfectly aligned with the cafe’s serene ambiance.

Patrons often find themselves lost in thought or pages, surrounded by the aroma of ethically sourced, expertly brewed coffee.

Whether it’s the tranquil environment or the commitment to sustainability, Coffee Trees is a favorite escape for those seeking a moment of calm in the city.

The timeless charm of Wathbah, with its floor-to-ceiling bookshelves and vintage-inspired decor. (Instagram: @wathbah_cb)

Wathbah Coffee & Book: Where timeless charm meets literature

In Al-Narjis district, Wathbah Coffee & Book exudes intellectual allure. Its floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, vintage-inspired decor, and intimate corners create a haven for readers and thinkers alike.

The carefully selected collection spans genres and eras, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Wathbah’s ambiance is perfect for quiet reading, reflective conversations, or simply soaking in its aesthetic beauty.

As Sara Al-Ebraheem, a loyal patron, said: “There’s a certain magic in time spent in the company of good books, with a perfectly brewed coffee.”

The warm, minimalist interior of Ons, perfect for a quiet read or reflective moments away from the city’s buzz. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)

Ons Coffee Roasters: Where simplicity meets serenity

Ons Coffee Roasters offers a minimalist haven for those who crave peace and simplicity. Its clean design, complemented by tasteful art and cozy seating, creates a calm environment perfect for unwinding.

While its library may be small, the books displayed are thoughtfully chosen to inspire reflection and curiosity.

Ons Coffee Roasters is as much about quality as it is about serenity. Its expertly brewed coffee elevates the experience, making it an ideal retreat for anyone seeking a quiet corner in Riyadh.

Ons’s small literary touch: A charming collection of books graces the walls of Ons, where simplicity meets creativity in every corner. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)

A cultural renaissance in Riyadh

The emerging popularity of book cafes is providing spaces where literature, art, and community thrive. The cafes cater to a growing audience of residents and visitors who value meaningful connections in an increasingly digital world.
 

 


Elyanna hypes up Coldplay show in Abu Dhabi

Updated 08 January 2025
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Elyanna hypes up Coldplay show in Abu Dhabi

DUBAI: Palestinian Chilean singer Elyanna is excited to open for British rockers Coldplay as they get ready to take to the stage in Abu Dhabi, on Jan. 9, 11, 12 and 14 at Zayed Sports City Stadium.

“Still can’t believe I’m opening for @coldplay’s Music of The Spheres tour. Abu Dhabi,” she posted on Instagram.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Elyanna (@elyanna)

“Yanna Merch coming your way soon,” she added, crediting artists Nadine Ghannoum and Fairdose.

Elyanna’s formal introduction to Coldplay took place when she was invited to collaborate on their track, “We Pray.”

Elyanna also released her own Arabic-language version of the track on Sept. 20 last year.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Elyanna (@elyanna)

Elyanna is set to perform live with Coldplay again when the band heads to Abu Dhabi for four shows in the UAE capital. The band will perform as part of the “Music of the Spheres World Tour” on Jan. 9, 11, 12 and 14.