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A premium fashion e-commerce platform, IZEL launches in the UAE. Offering a stunning array of modern and elegant modest wear, the brand caters to women across the globe. The sophisticated design range includes abayas, blazers, co-ord Sets, shirts, pants, and dresses for today’s fashion-forward women. Each piece of clothing is a masterpiece, handcrafted with a blend of intricate embroideries, colored stones, and exquisite embellishments in a range of subtle and classy hues. Founded by the talented duo Hafna and Ziya, IZEL was born with an aim to cater to women who seek stylish yet modest options and experience limited availability. Their shared vision is to empower women and enable them to exude confidence in expressing their best looks with elegance and grace. The brand offers a wide range of styles, from classic and traditional to modern and trendy, ensuring that there is something for everyone. The clothing is designed to be easy to mix and match, making it perfect for any occasion, whether casual or formal. The brand offers diverse silhouettes to accommodate a variety of styles and suit all body shapes and sizes. Speaking on the launch, Hafna Sakhaf, Co-Founder and Managing Director at IZEL said, “We are super excited to be a part of such a premium and diverse fashion market that is known for its glamour. At IZEL, we cater to all women without compromising on style as well as comfort. Our clothing line includes vogue trends and designs suitable for every woman’s taste. Fashion is what defines these women and we wish to be a part of their dazzling personality.” Ziya Mariyam, Co-Founder and Managing Director at IZEL expressed her excitement, “At IZEL, we want to create a statement that is modest and modern at the same time. Trends are continuously evolving considering multi-cultural residents present in this region and women don’t want to miss out on them. IZEL is for those women who want to move forward but in a classy and modest style.” IZEL’s team is bringing their passion to reality and aiming to empower women through their venture. From the design process to the production, women are involved in every aspect of the brand’s operations. Not only does this ensure that the clothing is designed with a female perspective in mind that understands unique tastes and preferences, but also creates a supportive work environment for the company’s employees. IZEL’s designs can be found at www.izelfashion.com and are available for shipping worldwide. For daily updates about the brand, please visit @izel.fashion #IZEL

AlUla Desert Blaze The sold-out inaugural AlUla Desert Blaze, which took place on Saturday, 26th August, 2023, has been deemed a resounding success with an impressive turnout of 174 runners. Hailing from all around the globe, runners from 39 nations faced the ultimate racing challenge during the hottest month of the year amidst the ancient monuments and breathtaking desert landscape of AlUla. The first edition of AlUla Desert Blaze showcased the spirit of endurance and sporting camaraderie to establish the Saudi city as a burgeoning destination for premier sporting events. Elite male and female runners from as far afield as Ethiopia, Morocco, Spain, Germany and Oman, embarked on a first of its kind experience as temperatures soared to 43 degrees Celsius, making AlUla Desert Blaze one of the most demanding endurance races within the GCC, and on a par with similar extreme global challenges. Rami Almoallim, Vice President of Destination Management & Marketing at the Royal Commission for AlUla, said: "As with any ambitious first endeavour, we spent a considerable amount of time prior to the race giving thought as to how AlUla Desert Blaze would unfold, especially considering that runners would be challenged by some of the toughest conditions in the region. I take great pride in stating that the event surpassed all expectations, a testament to our belief in AlUla as an exceptional sporting destination and a tribute to the remarkable athletes who came here to be part of it. “It was awe-inspiring to witness the spirit of AlUla Desert Blaze burn bright within the global athletes who took on this challenge with unwavering determination to demonstrate their passion for pushing themselves to the absolute limit. The success of this sporting event adds a new chapter to AlUla's legacy, inviting adventurers, sportspeople and enthusiasts alike to become part of AlUla’s extraordinary voyage of achievement, discovery and exploration." Spanning distances of 5km, 10km, 21km, and 42km, athletes of varying fitness levels pushed themselves to their physical and mental limits to emerge victorious. Winners across the categories included Hana Zemedkun from Ethiopia, who secured her triumph in the 42km female category with a time of 3:00:29, and Chakib Lachgar, who claimed victory in the 42km male race winning in 2:23:39. Malika Benderbal from Algeria triumphed in 1:21:42 in the 21km female category, while Robert Kimutai Ngeno from Kenya stood out in the 21km male category for his time of 1:05:09. Ruth Danies Albert Jbet from Bahrain and Yousef Al Asiri from Saudi Arabia clinched victories in the 10km adult female and male races respectively. Canada’s Carla Korpijaakko and Saudi Arabia’s Abdulaziz Al Ghamdi earned top accolades in the 5km adult female and male categories. Tia Watson from the UK, and Amin Noor from Afghanistan were victorious in the 10km junior female and male races respectively, while Saudi’s Mohammed Al Mutairi took the top prize in the 5km junior male category. Young Tia Watson ran as part of Team Angel Wolf, the well-known racing team made up of her parents Nick and Delphine Watson, and her brother Rio, who has a rare chromosomal disorder. As a family, they have championed inclusivity by participating with Rio in competitions across the globe. They said: “When you have an adult child with disabilities and travel, especially somewhere new, it is always filled with natural worry, concern and apprehension on logistics. But we have to say our visit to AlUla blew us away and proved that any of our concerns were completely unneeded. From the moment we landed in AlUla, we could see and feel how welcomed, accepted and embraced our son Rio was by the people of AlUla. “We made our participation in AlUla Desert Blaze a real inclusive team effort. Nick, Delphine and Tia pushed Rio in his disability running chair around the 10km trail track. Rio absolutely LOVED this race, he was so happy being amongst all the other participants and treated as an equal athlete, being in such beautiful natural surroundings and doing his passion in life - inclusive racing. The race was very well organised, with a fun sport spirit. We loved this race and would definitely want to return to participate again … it should be on every athlete's ‘must do race wishlist’! Seasoned runner Loui Blake, who has previously participated in four ultra-marathons and two marathons, was thrilled to complete AlUla Desert Blaze’s 42km race. He said: “The AlUla Desert Blaze experience was truly unique. The landscape is unlike any I have ever seen, which made the race itself so much more enjoyable despite the challenging temperatures. It was incredibly well-organised and supported, and I loved the fact that there were ice baths available at the end! I will definitely be back next year.” Avid marathoner Mohammed Dakhil, who has a half marathon, a full marathon and one ultra 50K trail run under his belt, was pleased to add AlUla Desert Blaze to his list of accomplishments. He said: “This to me was much more than a 42k run, this was a chance for me to push my physical and mental capacity and truly explore the unfamiliar territory of running for an extended period of time in extremely hot weather under the August sun. “Not to mention a perfectly designed route, which presented us with various challenging hills, picturesque backdrop, breathtaking landscape, and unexplainable energy that I truly believe does not exist anywhere but in AlUla’s rock formations. This event was exceptional and a true testament to what it means to far surpass expectations. Gratitude to the Royal Commission for AlUla, organisers, medics, and ushers for curating this unparalleled experience and I can't wait to be back for the next one.” Set amidst the visually stunning landscape of the historic region of AlUla, the route saw athletes traversing opposite the ancient monuments of Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. As temperatures soared, the safety of participants remained paramount, with comprehensive medical services and facilities widely available to runners; safety measures included paramedics, nurses, physiotherapists, and water stations every 2.5km, alongside replenishment stations stationed at every 5km point with ice buckets, hydration drinks, gels, fruits, and snacks. AlUla Desert Blaze is the latest in an exciting roster of sports events that take advantage of the city’s unique landscape, which includes sandstone cliffs, lush oases, and fertile farmlands. From hosting the AlUla Camel Cup and the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup to the prestigious Saudi Tour, AlUla has championed sustainable development across its sports and adventure offerings, paving the way for a future filled with exceptional experiences. #AlUlaDesertBlaze

In a first for the region, Qatar National Library partners with the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions to strengthen library services and enhance regional collaboration Qatar National Library has been designated as the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Regional Office for the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), marking a historic first for the region. The announcement was ratified on the sidelines of the 88th edition of the IFLA General Conference and Assembly in Rotterdam. The announcement comes as a testament to the Library’s achievements over the years, particularly in providing insights into questions of equal access, creativity, and cultural development, further cementing the Library’s position as a leading cultural institution. Ms. Tan Huism, Executive Director of Qatar National Library, said: “We are truly privileged to have been chosen as the first IFLA Regional Office for the MENA region. We see this as acknowledgement of Qatar National Library’s continuous efforts in advocating for the work of libraries in the region. Together with IFLA, we are excited to collaborate with regional colleagues to strengthen the library field.” Abeer Al Kuwari, Director of Research and Learning at Qatar National Library, added, “This designation is not merely an honor but a responsibility that we embrace with great enthusiasm. It highlights the Library’s commitment to fostering cultural exchange, creativity, and inclusivity. Our collaboration with IFLA allows us to take these initiatives to a regional level, aligning with our broader goals for positive societal impact." IFLA, the leading international body representing the interests of library and information services and their users, said that Qatar National Library's involvement would contribute to ongoing efforts to bolster regional activities and to strengthen connections with key stakeholders across the MENA region. Since its inauguration in 2017, Qatar National Library has been instrumental in promoting international cultural exchange, deepening understanding between nations and their citizens. Its track record includes organizing over 3,000 events attended by more than 150,000 individuals. In IFLA's recent announcement, they emphasized the crucial role regional offices play in strengthening regional and national library sectors. With collaborative action plans set to unfold soon, both IFLA and Qatar National Library anticipate a fruitful partnership that will enhance regional library landscapes. #QatarNationalLibrary

MEEZA, the leading managed IT and data center service provider in Qatar, has successfully listed its shares on Qatar Stock Exchange's (QSE) main market on August 23, 2023, in the presence of a group of distinguished guests, MEEZA top management, representatives from regulatory and supervisory authorities, investors and other stakeholders. The bell rang at 9:30 am to mark the commencement of MEEZA’s shares trading on the Qatar Stock Exchange. The company was listed with the ticker MEZA with the ISIN code QA000PK2KD10 following a successful subscription for its shares through Initial Public Offer (IPO). MEEZA targets a share capital of QAR 648,980,000, comprising 648,980,000 shares with a nominal value of QAR 1.00 per share. The first day of trading in MEEZA stock closed at a price of 2.30 Qatari Riyals, representing a market capitalization of 1.49 billion Qatari Riyals. From the first day of trading, eligible investors for trading in the shares include all Qatari and non-Qatari investors permitted to trade in the shares in accordance with the Qatar Stock Exchange Rulebook, the Qatar Financial Market Authority Listing Rules, and the Qatar Central Bank regulations. Commenting on the successful listing, Sheikh Hamad bin Abdullah Al Thani, MEEZA Chairman, said: “Today marks a significant milestone in the MEEZA transformation journey as the company’s shares were successfully listed for trading on the Main Market of Qatar Stock Exchange. This unprecedented step in the managed end-to-end IT services sector will give the investment community a promising investment option to grow their wealth and contribute to Qatar’s digital economy industry. I also take this opportunity to express our sincere appreciation to all the regulatory and supervisory authorities for their cooperation that culminated in this achievement, which will enhance MEEZA’s exceptional track record.” Eng. Ahmad Abdulla Al-Muslemani, MEEZA Chief Executive Officer, said: “I am elated today to see MEEZA successfully listed on the Qatar Stock Exchange main market. This milestone will provide a great opportunity for us to bolster the Company’s already strong capital by increasing its shareholder base, which will support its ambitious growth and development targets. MEEZA’s transformation to a publicly listed company provides an opportunity for the investors to take part in the Company’s journey and achievements, as it looks to continue its strong financial performance and revenue growth.” MEEZA, a Qatar Foundation joint venture, is an established end-to-end Managed IT services and solutions provider based in Qatar with the mission of becoming the leading provider in the Middle East and North Africa. MEEZA is helping accelerate the growth of Qatar and the region through the provision of world-class Managed IT Services and Solutions. #MEEZA #QatarStockExchange

“Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail is a love story, thoughtfully captured and stunningly projected onto the canvas of a Rolls-Royce motor car. It is an expression of the deep and passionate partnership between a husband and wife who are the heads of a prominent international family - to be part of their remarkable story is a privilege. Furthermore, La Rose Noire Droptail stands as a testament to our brand’s relentless pursuit of perfection, where artistry and the vision of a single client truly harmonise. In every detail of this historic commission, there are echoes of both Rolls-Royce’s rich heritage and the commissioning clients' character, from its captivating yet formidable form to its flawless and elegant romantic gestures. La Rose Noire Droptail, like the remarkable clients who dared to make such a potent and contemporary statement, will be written into Rolls-Royce history forever.” Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars “Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail stands as one of the most progressive expressions of Rolls-Royce Coachbuild ever conceived. In capturing the romantic and glamorous spirit of the commissioning clients, our design team explored bold new artisanal processes and highly complex creative gestures in their pursuit of a deeply personal language of luxury. The remarkable execution of the wood elements of La Rose Noire Droptail in particular are a clear statement that time-honoured exquisite crafts have a place at the pinnacle of modern design. Indeed, the ambition of the marque’s clients, and the peerless capabilities of its designers signal a long and exciting future for Rolls-Royce Coachbuild and its standing as the leading creative force in applied art at its highest level.“ Anders Warming, Design Director, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars “Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail is glamour distilled. The guiding inspiration for this dark, bold and powerful commission was the Black Baccara rose, which was a significant point of affection for the client and a source of fascination for the design team. Its rich and complex character informed our creative exploration, influencing the palette, composition, and intricate detailing of the motor car. It led us to blend radically modern design concepts with age-old exquisite craft techniques, while using materials that subtly reinforce the clients’ deep connection to France. Our shared commitment to shaping a meaningful and progressive design statement have culminated in a deeply significant expression of the patron’s character and a new pinnacle for contemporary craftsmanship.” Alex Innes, Head of Coachbuild Design, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars LA ROSE NOIRE: THE FIRST DROPTAIL Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is privileged to present Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail, a dark, daring and dramatic coachbuilt masterpiece, symbolising the distillation of experiences, significant moments and objets d’art cherished by its owners – an international family that exemplifies connoisseurship and luxury of the very highest order. Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail is inspired by the allure of the Black Baccara rose, an intense, velvet-like flower that originates in France. The dark pomegranate colour of its petals appears almost black in shade, but in direct light, a red, pearlescent shimmer is revealed on the dark surface. These two colours form the primary palette of La Rose Noire Droptail. The first red shade is named ‘True Love’ in recognition of the romance the client wished to capture in this commission. The darker tone is named ‘Mystery’, inspired by the mysterious nature of the rose, which appears to change colour when viewed from different angles. The exterior coachwork is finished in the lustrous True Love red, and like the Black Baccara rose, appears to change colour depending on the point it is examined from. To achieve this rich variation, surface finish specialists developed a completely new paint process, which was perfected over 150 careful iterations. The commissioning clients’ passion for detail is exemplified on La Rose Noire Droptail’s Pantheon grille vanes. In a discreet embellishment, True Love paint is hand-applied as an accent on the reverse surface of the vanes themselves - a refined detail that is only visible by way of indirect reflection. This subtle flourish continues into the intricate lower front air intake. This highly detailed piece was digitally designed and 3D printed in a lightweight composite and incorporates 202 hand-polished stainless-steel ingots, each hand-painted in the True Love hue. Another significant exterior element is the treatment of the striking alloy wheels. Featuring the dark Mystery paint, from afar the finish appears to be black, but upon closer examination, the sunlight reveals shimmering dark red undertones. The duotone theme also extends into the motor car’s brightwork with its dark finish, named Hydroshade due to its liquid quality, having been developed specifically for this project. A removable hard top has been designed to give Droptail two distinct characters: without its roof Droptail is a lithe, open-top roadster; with the roof installed, it becomes a formidable and dramatic coupé. The completely Bespoke roof also features an electrochromic glass section, which instantly transitions to a near-translucent shade at the touch of a button, inviting patrons to explore the world above. LA ROSE NOIRE: GLAMOUR DISTILLED The most remarkable element of this extraordinary motor car is its cocooning interior. This reveals the most complex expression of parquetry ever created at Rolls-Royce – the product of nearly two years of development, intense experimentation and hand craftsmanship. The artwork represents an abstract expression of falling rose petals, formed using 1,603 pieces of black wood veneer triangles. Enveloping the motor car’s occupants, stretching from the rear shawl panel through the doors and onto the expensive fascia, the highly complex pattern is formed with 1,070 perfectly symmetrical elements forming the background, and 533 asymmetrically positioned red pieces representing the rose petals. Made from Black Sycamore wood sourced in France as a subtle tribute to the French provenance of La Rose Noire, each triangle is cut, sanded and precisely positioned by hand. The assembly of this work of art required such intense concentration that the single craftsperson tasked with creating it spent weeks working in absolute silence in a sound-insulated space to mitigate against any potential distractions and could only work in one-hour sessions for no more than five hours total per day, to ensure they maintained the focus required for perfect execution. A SINGULAR TIMEPIECE The fascia of Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail is provisioned with an integrated one-off timepiece by Audemars Piguet, which was specially commissioned by the client. The 43mm Royal Oak Concept Split-Seconds Chronograph GMT Large Date is powered by a unique self-winding Calibre 4407 movement, featuring a flyback chronograph and a split-seconds mechanism. Masterfully matched to La Rose Noire’s colourway, it incorporates red counters and a red inner bezel, providing a bright contrast to the black ‘openworked’ dial highlighted with rhodium-toned bevels. Integrating the timepiece presented a significant challenge: the clients requested that it should both be mounted in the motor car and also be removable, so that it can be attached to a strap and worn. This was realised with a powered clasp mechanism that gently presents the timepiece at the touch of a button. Once the timepiece has been removed, the aperture in the fascia is covered with an elegant titanium openworked blank head watch highlighting a white-gold coin displaying a rose engraving, hand-sculpted by Audemars Piguet artisans. Subtle rose engravings on the motor car’s Bespoke Audio speaker frets mirror this motif. Each of the pieces were meticulously crafted by hand in the Swiss brand’s atelier and represent the only literal expressions of the Baccara Rose in the whole motor car. A COMMISSION TO CELEBRATE To celebrate their Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail the owners commissioned an exclusive vintage of Champagne de Lossy, one of their favourite wine properties. This is of particular significance given the special wine created for La Rose Noire Droptail is one of only a precious handful of vintages produced by the Chateau in its 160-year history. As the perfect staging point, the commissioning family requested a unique Rolls-Royce Champagne Chest. Replete with hand-blown crustal champagne flutes, appointed with matching rose petal parquetry and coordinated to match the colour palette and materials of the motor car, it is the product of the same meticulous attention to detail as the clients’ coachbuilt Rolls-Royce. LA ROSE NOIRE DROPTAIL: TAKING ITS PLACE IN THE ROLLS-ROYCE LEGEND This bold and historic motor car is a romantic celebration of the couple who created it, characterised by passion and a restless desire for meaningful experiences. In commissioning this extraordinary expression of Droptail, this remarkable family has not only shaped their own legacy but also participated in the legend of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. #ROLLSROYCE

The unique and exclusive stage of The Quail – where every summer, connoisseurs and enthusiasts from all over the world gather on the Monterey Peninsula to celebrate outstanding automotive design and engineering – hosted the world première of Maserati's new creation: MCXtrema, a veritable “beast” designed for the track – with no type approval to be driven on the road – is ready to unleash 730 hp of power, enclosed in a design as refined in the harmony of its lines as it is disruptive, in terms of the audacity of its forms. The Trident's new creature has been conceived as being out of the box: only 62 units of this limited-edition super sports car have been produced, dedicated to a selected, highly discerning clientèle in terms of performance, sophistication of design, luxury – all the hallmarks of a Made in Italy product – and extreme driving experience. Presented as the Modena-based brand's most powerful track car, the Maserati MCXtrema is a courageous and exceptional car from all points of view, designed for purist collectors and for the loyal customers of the brand, who wish to add a new “toy” to their garage that can swallow up the kerbs of the most exciting tracks during private tests. This latest creation from the Italian luxury brand stems from the creative and engineering partnership between the Centro Stile and the Maserati engineering team; it reflects the desire to create a racing car capable of passing on the legacy of the glorious Maserati MC12 in the world of competition, to inspire the Trident's future racing production. In the words of Davide Grasso, Maserati CEO: "Maserati MCXtrema was created with the aim of offering an incredibly exclusive product that can set a new paradigm for our track cars. The project is dedicated to a selected clientèle who are particularly attentive to distinctive details, ranging from the most refined and innovative design to exceptional performance. MCXtrema embodies the sporting spirit typical of Maserati's DNA, a declaration of a new pathway for our brand, devoted to superlative manufacturing and able to stand out in the world of luxury engine production with uncompromising performance". #Maserati #MCXtrema #MaseratiMCXtrema

Al Hashemi: Support of the wise leadership is the primary reason for Abu Dhabi’s global prominence in MMA His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has inaugurated the 4th IMMAF Youth World Championships, being held in Abu Dhabi under His Highness’ patronage from August 2-5 at Mubadala Arena in Zayed Sports City. His Highness presented medals to the winners of Thursday’s competitions, praising the level of talent exhibited by athletes participating in the tournament. HH also commended the efforts of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation in strengthening the UAE's position on the global sports map by growing the appeal of the sport, nurturing new talent and showcasing Abu Dhabi’s infrastructure and facilities that make it an ideal destination to host major international competitions. Also present were His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Sultan bin Hamdan Al Nahyan; board members of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation; and government officials. His Excellency Abdel Moneim Al Hashemi extended his gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Khaled, thanking him for his patronage of the championship and his participation in crowning the winners. He emphasized that the UAE athletes are fortunate to have the unwavering support of their leaders, which serves as the greatest guarantee of Emirati success and achievement. His Excellency added, “The competitions of the IMMAF Youth World Championships have been nothing short of extraordinary. The talent displayed by the athletes from around the world is a testament to the growing popularity and global appeal of MMA. Abu Dhabi’s hosting of the World Championship for the second consecutive year reflects the unwavering trust it enjoys from the IMMAF and showcases its superior organizational capabilities and advanced sports infrastructure. Over the past two decades, Abu Dhabi has successfully organized and hosted numerous world-class tournaments in various combat sports, attracting thousands of talented athletes, renowned stars, and influential personalities from around the globe.” #MMA

Get ready for a test of grit and strength in AlUla. On August 26, the ancient Saudi Arabian city will unleash the ultimate racing event: the first AlUla Desert Blaze. Athletes from the region and around the globe will put themselves through one of the newest, hottest and most intense endurance races, going head-to-head with other extreme challenges held around the world. Online registration is now open, with cash prizes worth SAR110,000 (US$30,000) in sum to be won. Prepare to embark on a journey like no other - a first-of-its-kind formidable challenge that is undoubtedly the toughest to date within the GCC. Set amidst the visually stunning landscape of the historic region of AlUla, with a route that will see athletes traversing scenic landscapes and majestic canyons, runners from all over the world are set to take on this ultimate test of endurance - in soaring temperatures of up to 42C (107F). With distances spanning 5km, 10km, 21km, and 42km, men and women of all fitness levels will vie for the honour of being among the first individuals worldwide to conquer this formidable new challenge that will push their physical capabilities to the limit. The excitement kicks off in historic Hegra, Saudi's first UNESCO Heritage Site, for runners participating in the 5km, 10km, and 21km races. For those tough enough to tackle the gruelling 42km route, their journey begins in the heart of the Ashar Valley at Maraya, the record-breaking multi-purpose entertainment venue. Phillip Jones, Chief Tourism Officer at the Royal Commission for AlUla said: "AlUla Desert Blaze is not just a race; it's a unique and transformative experience. Not only does this represent a new performance milestone for athletes, but it will also give everyone taking part a unique perspective on AlUla and its various visitor offerings, with a route that winds past ancient monuments, through undiscovered landscapes and in the shadow of monumental cliff faces edging vast sandstone canyons.” He continued, “We continue to diversify our offerings for visitors from all around the world, and the AlUla Desert Blaze is an addition to what the destination can offer adventurers and sports enthusiasts who are looking to indulge in a truly unforgettable experience.” AlUla Desert Blaze is the latest in a thrilling roster of sports events that take advantage of the city’s awe-inspiring and unparalleled landscape, which includes sandstone cliffs, lush oases, and fertile farmlands. From hosting the AlUla Camel Cup and the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup to the prestigious Saudi Tour, AlUla has championed sustainable development in its sports and adventure offerings, paving the way for a future filled with unparalleled experiences. More about AlUla Desert Blaze AlUla Desert Blaze races will be held on asphalt/tarred roads or compact gravel/sand roads, with no trails, scrambling or mountaineering involved. On average during the race period, AlUla will experience a temperature between 35°C and 42°C, with a slight breeze. Runners will have access to comprehensive medical services and amenities to ensure their safety. This includes, but is not limited to, ambulances with roaming and stationed paramedics; nurses and physiotherapists; and aide stations every 5km with water, ice buckets, hydration drinks, gels, fruits and snacks. Registration is priced between SAR 50.00 (US$13.00) and SAR200.00 (US$53) and closes on 22nd August at 11.59pm, or sooner if places sell out. Find out more details at www.experiencealula.com #globalrunners #runners

The Parisian-inspired mall Place Vendôme, located in Lusail City, is setting new retail standards in Qatar by announcing longer operating hours, starting August 10, 2023. A first in the local market and due to popular demand, shoppers will have access to the mall’s 450 stores for longer hours, offering products ranging from luxury designer labels to the most popular affordable brands. “We see ourselves as ahead of the curve by extending our opening hours as it will offer our visitors more time to enjoy our magnificent mall in every way. As trendsetters for retail in Qatar, we want to offer our visitors the most convenient way to experience the mall whatever their interests and whenever they plan to do so. The longer opening hours will also help to support our tenants with an expected upsurge in business.” said Carole Sabbagha, Mall Manager at Place Vendôme. Visitors can now enjoy late-night and afterwork shopping without clock-watching, with an hour longer opening period for retail tenants from 10am to 11pm on Sundays to Wednesdays, and from 10am to 12 midnight on Thursdays to Saturdays. The new hours will equally apply to the mall’s popular entertainment attractions which will allow families to enjoy more fun even on weekdays, alongside dinner and shopping at their leisure with their loved ones. Diners at the many enticing restaurants and cafés in Place Vendôme will also be able to linger longer and enjoy stress-free dining from 9 am to 12 midnight on Sundays to Wednesdays, and from 9am to 1am on Thursdays to Saturdays. Place Vendôme has made its mark as a major draw for visitors and residents in Qatar with its elegant architecture and everything from fashion boutiques to gourmet dining outlets. It also features an open plaza with over 30 dining venues overlooking the mesmerizing Dancing Fountains, where visitors can enjoy daily themed shows curated by top industry entertainment professionals. #PlaceVendôme

Empowering Beauty and Positive Change Mouawad, the iconic jewelry brand renowned for crafting exceptional pieces for royalty, proudly introduces the "Light of Glory Crown," exclusively designed for Miss Universe Thailand 2023. This exquisite crown embodies the brilliance of light and hope, symbolizing the power of beauty to impact the world positively. The Light of Glory Crown draws inspiration from the belief that glory comes with a responsibility: a golden opportunity to be seen, heard, and positively influence others. This chance to champion a cause and rally others to join us in a drive toward positive change is indeed the true beauty of the light of glory. Vibrant yellow beryl was selected for this crown, radiating glorious hues that inspire hope. Star-like motifs encircle the base, symbolizing talent and hard work, while ascending motifs represent aspirations for positive change. Each element of the crown's design tells a unique story, celebrating the true essence of modern-day royalty. Crafted with immense dedication, the crown showcases Mouawad's unmatched artistry. The culmination of over 1,200 stones carefully assembled in more than 150 pieces, this masterpiece represents three months of devoted craftsmanship. From the initial design stage, where inspiration and storytelling intertwine, to the 3D prototyping, ensuring a perfect fit and comfort for the wearer, Mouawad's artisans pour their expertise and creativity into this captivating creation. "Mouawad's heritage of designing jewelry for royalty, combined with the essence of empowering women, finds its perfect expression in the Light of Glory Crown," said Mr. Fred Mouawad, The Fourth Generation Co-Guardian, of Mouawad. "We believe this crown represents not just beauty but also a profound sense of responsibility to create positive change." The Mouawad Miss Universe Thailand the "Light of Glory Crown" is the newest dazzling crown in a series that began with the Power of Authenticity crown, crafted by Mouawad to reflect the key theme of the Miss Universe Thailand 2020 pageant “Real U, Real Universe” while also celebrating Thailand’s noble heritage, through the choice of red, white and blue gemstones. For each pageant, a new crown is crafted to carry an inspiring message through its choice of motifs and gemstones. This Power of Authenticity crown was followed by the Flame of Passion crown, featuring an array of citrines, topazes and diamonds with a message that passion is the power with which we can make a positive impact on the world. In 2022, Mouawad crafted the Power of Resilience crown, inspired by the resilience of the Thai people, and featuring peridot gems to represent thoughts of fresh beginnings and growth, as well as white topaz and white diamonds selected for their embodiment of the values of purity and honesty. Mouawad’s relationship with Miss Universe Thailand has its roots in the partnership between Mouawad and The Miss Universe Organization that began in 2019 with the crafting of the Power of Unity crown for Miss Universe international pageant. This partnership continued to develop with crowns crafted for the Miss USA and Miss Teen USA pageants and a second crown, the Force for Good crown, being crafted in 2022 to celebrate a new era for the main Miss Universe pageant. With Mouawad having a manufacturing base in Thailand and close ties spanning decades with the country, it was a natural evolution to form a partnership with Miss Universe Thailand that would offer extraordinary crowns aligned with the pageant’s values. This year, Mouawad's enduring partnership with Miss Universe Thailand is further strengthened with the launch of the "Voice for Change" video contest, a new collaborative activity between Mouawad X CI Talks and Miss Universe Thailand. This initiative invites all Miss Universe Thailand contestants to champion a social cause they are passionate about by producing a short three-minute inspirational video designed to foster positive change and empower women to make a difference. The top 20 shortlisted video submissions will be recognized with rewards, while the top three judged finalists will receive cash prizes and an invitation to produce and feature in a professional awareness video marketing campaign. As Miss Universe Thailand 2023 takes her first steps into the limelight, she will do so wearing the Light of Glory Crown, a beacon of empowerment and a celebration of the beauty that radiates beyond oneself, carrying the message and responsibility of being a true force for positive change. #Mouawad #MissUniverseThailand2023

exhibition and the Molecular Science Workshops happening at Msheireb Downtown Doha Msheireb Downtown Doha is inviting all residents of Qatar to take part in exciting summer programs before they close later this month. An exhibition exploring the impact of female architects on global design is on view at the Msheireb Downtown headquarters building until 19 August 2023. · Location: Msheireb Downtown Doha (Msheireb Properties Headquarters Building). · Timing: Daily until 19 August 2023. Opening hours are Saturday through Thursday from 9:00am – 7:00pm and on Fridays from 3:00pm – 7:00pm · Access: The exhibition is free and open to the public. In line with Msheireb Properties' goal to elevate women’s roles in creative industries, the Embassy of Italy in Qatar and Msheireb Properties organized the “Buone Nuove: Women Changing Architecture” exhibition exploring the many ways in which women influenced contemporary architecture. Divided into four sections – Stories of Italian Architects, Practices in Italy, Narrations and Visions, and Women Architects in Qatar – the showcase includes renowned names like Lina Bo Bardi, Gae Aulenti, Cini Boeri, and Nanda Vigo. It also features local contributions curated by Msheireb Properties in cooperation with Qatar University. The Qatari additions highlight the influence of women on Qatar’s architectural landscape, including the works of active professionals and the students at Qatar University’s Department of Architecture. The exhibition is curated by Pippo Ciorra, Elena Motisi and Elena Tinacci from MAXXI, National Museum of 21st Century Arts in Rome and produced by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation together with the Museum’s Foundation. Msheireb Museums is Hosting a Series of Molecular Science Workshops to Inspire Young Minds Location: Msheireb Museums Timing: 31 July 2023 - 22 August 2023 Access: Visit the Msheireb Museums website to book your spot. Prices range from QAR 120-QAR 140 per participant. Msheireb Museums is hosting a series of Molecular Science workshops from now until 22 August 2023. Participants will have the chance to explore, learn, and have a blast with hands-on projects that activate curious minds. Families can sign up for different programs based on their children’s age. Students will be introduced to the importance of science using many interesting and relevant scenarios with sensory experiments like Constellation Star, Super Soaker, and Air Cooler. #MsheirebDowntownDoha #MsheirebMuseums

Luxury leather goods brand LÉTRANGE sets a new standard for luxury with their Handbag Customization service. With a legacy dating back to 1838, LÉTRANGE epitomizes craftsmanship and innovation. Through contemporary designs that reimagine their rich heritage, the brand continues to evolve, offering a truly personalized handbag experience. LÉTRANGE's Handbag personalization service empowers customers to create their own Attachant 10:30 or Ego Mini. With a diverse range of colors and leathers to choose from, customers embark on a journey of self-expression. LÉTRANGE's knowledgeable sales associates showcase exquisite leathers, each meticulously crafted for hours, allowing clients to intimately appreciate the materials. Furthermore, customization options include personalized initials and precious stones, while skilled craftsmen assemble the bag live, ensuring impeccable attention to detail. Customers also have the freedom to select hardware, edge dying, thread colors, and hot stamping for a truly unique product. The LÉTRANGE boutique, in Printemps, Doha, Qatar, provides a captivating setting for customers to indulge in an extraordinary experience. Within this luxurious atmosphere, skilled artisans meticulously bring their visions to life. LÉTRANGE's unwavering dedication to unparalleled quality and personalization is evident in every Attachant or Ego crafted through their bespoke service. LÉTRANGE also offers a wide range of iconic handbags from the infamous Empreinte, to the Discover the pinnacle of luxury handbag customization on the brand's website https://letrange.paris/ and available to purchase at Printemps, Doha, Qatar.