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TUNISIAN LUXURY DRESSES A CELEBRATION OF TRADITION & ELEGANCE By Afef Yousfi Tunisian fashion is a rich tapestry woven with history, cultural influences, and exquisite craftsmanship. When it comes to luxury dresses, Tunisian women have embraced a seamless blend of tradition and modernity, creating garments that are both timeless and opulent. From wedding attire to festive wear, Tunisian luxury dresses are char – acterized by intricate embroidery, handwoven fabrics, and an unmistakable sense of elegance.  Tunisian bridal wear is one of the most opulent aspects of the country’s fashion heritage. A Tunisian bride often wears a Keswa Tounsiya, a traditional dress with centuries-old roots, rep – resenting refinement and wealth. This luxurious outfit consists of multiple elements, including a heavily embroidered gold-threaded blouse (“chamiz”) and an ornate skirt (“seroual”) adorned with precious stones and pearls. The Keswa Tounsiya is known for its intricate handwork, which can take months to complete.  Another cherished wedding garment is the Farmla, a heavily embroidered, long outer robe often worn over a delicate silk dress. Some brides opt for the Jebba, a sophisticated tunic-style dress, usually accompanied by a belt and gold jewelry, signifying prosperity and status. Tunisian brides also wear exquisite gold jewelry, including the “Khallala” (ornamental brooches) and “Mekhmal” (gold-threaded headdress), passed down through genera – tions.  This jewelry is a symbol of the family’s affluence and an essential part of wedding traditions. Beyond weddings, Tunisian festive wear embodies the perfect balance of modernity and cultural authenticity. Women wear luxurious Kaftans, inspired by Ottoman influences but reinterpreted with a Tunisian touch. These long, flowing dresses are often made from rich fabrics like silk, velvet, and brocade, adorned with handcrafted embroidery and Swarovski crystals. For special occasions, many Tunisian women opt for the Jebba, which comes in both modern and traditional variations.  The contemporary Jebba often features lighter fabrics and intricate lacework, making it ideal for elegant gatherings and celebrations. Another iconic festive outfit is the Sefsari, a silk or fine wool wrap traditionally worn by women to cover themselves with grace and poise. Though less common today, the Sefsari remains a symbol of Tunisian heritage and is still worn at prestigious events.  One of the distinguishing features of Tunisian luxury dresses is the extraordinary craftsmanship involved in their making. Hand embroidery, using techniques passed down through generations, embellishes most traditional garments.  Patterns inspired by Berber, Andalusian, and Ottoman motifs are carefully stitched onto luxurious fabrics, creating stunning visual masterpieces. Tunisian designers have also embraced handwoven tex – tiles, ensuring that traditional fabrics such as “Fouta” and “Makhmal” (velvet) remain a staple in high-end fashion. Many luxury dresses incorporate silk and gold-threaded brocades, preserving the essence of royalty in Tunisian fashion.  While traditional styles continue to thrive, Tunisian fash – ion designers have introduced contemporary elements to luxury dressmaking. Many have fused Western silhouettes with traditional embellishments, offering globally appealing attire while maintaining cultural roots. For instance, modern bridal gowns often feature Tunisian embroidery and handcrafted details but are tailored in the style of European haute couture.  Likewise, kaftans and jebbas are designed with contemporary cuts, ensuring that they remain relevant in the evolving world of luxury fashion. Tunisian luxury dresses are an embodiment of history, art, and refinement. Whether it’s the majestic Keswa Tounsiya, the regal Jebba, or the intricately designed Kaftans, each garment tells a story of cultural pride and impeccable craftsmanship. As Tunisian designers continue to innovate while preserving their rich heritage, the future of Tunisian luxury fashion remains as dazzling as its past.

Shatha Daoud Elevating Beauty with an Arab Cultural Essence By Peter Davis With over 28 years of experience in the beauty industry, Shatha Daoud has built an impressive career working with global brands such as Shiseido, L’Oréal, and MAC. Her expertise in color blending and enhancing natural beauty has made her a sought-after makeup artist, collaborating with celebrities, Dubai TV, and even training Emirates Airlines’ cabin crew. Her journey is deeply influenced by Arab beauty traditions, blending heritage with modern trends. From a young age, Shatha was captivated by the power of colors. She discovered how subtle shades could enhance natural features, making eyes brighter and skin tones more radiant. Her artistic approach to makeup is not about transformation but about celebrating individuality. She mastered the skill of blending shades that complement different skin tones, a signature technique that has earned her recognition in the industry. Shatha’s journey in the beauty world began with Shiseido, where she received top-tier international training. Her expertise grew as she worked with L’Oréal as an international makeup artist, participating in prestigious events and promotions. Her time with MAC further refined her skills, where she was mentored by world-renowned artists like Vimi Joshi and Tom Pecheux. These experiences helped her develop a unique style that resonates with the elegance of Arab beauty. Arab women have always embraced beauty with grace, preferring timeless and elegant looks. Shatha’s approach focuses on enhancing a woman’s features rather than altering them. She believes that makeup should reflect personality and individuality. Her signature style incorporates soft contouring, bold eyeliner, and rich, warm tones that highlight the natural beauty of Arab women while maintaining a sophisticated, modern appeal. Her collaboration with Dubai TV has allowed her to work closely with well-known presenters, each with their unique charm. She carefully curates their looks based on their personalities and the nature of the programs they host. Whether it’s radiant, dewy skin for daytime talk shows or dramatic eye makeup for prime-time news, her expertise ensures that each presenter shines with confidence on screen. One of Shatha’s most prestigious roles was training Emirates Airlines’ cabin crew in perfecting their signature look. The Emirates red lipstick is more than just a color—it represents elegance and professionalism. She ensured that each flight attendant mastered the art of flawless makeup application, from choosing the right lipstick shade to maintaining a polished appearance during long-haul flights. Her training also included essential skincare routines, ensuring that their beauty remains intact despite the demanding nature of their work. In a rapidly evolving beauty industry, staying ahead of trends is crucial. Shatha remains dedicated to learning about the latest techniques and products, carefully selecting those that align with the preferences of her Arab clientele. Her deep understanding of the regional beauty aesthetic allows her to create looks that are both trendy and deeply rooted in cultural elegance. For those looking to follow in her footsteps, Shatha’s advice is simple: develop a unique style and embrace individuality. The beauty industry is filled with trends, but true artistry comes from a personal signature touch. Some artists focus on perfecting the complexion, while others specialize in defining facial features. Whatever the specialty, she believes that passion and continuous learning are the keys to success. Shatha Daoud’s remarkable journey in the beauty industry is a testament to the power of blending tradition with innovation. Her dedication to enhancing natural beauty, combined with her deep-rooted knowledge of Arab culture, has made her an icon in the industry. Follow her work on Instagram at @shatha_makeup for more beauty insights and transformations.

Jinane Doughan Pioneer in Sustainable Beauty and Entrepreneurial Empowerment By Alhanouf Mohammed Alrowaili In a world where beauty products are often saturated with chemicals, Jinane Doughan stands out as a visionary committed to natural and sustainable beauty solutions. As a pioneering businesswoman and the first person in the Middle East to earn a PhD in beauty product formulation, Jinane has redefined the landscape of organic skincare and empowered aspiring entrepreneurs across the region. Jinane’s journey into the beauty industry began in her free time when she pursued makeup studies at ESMOD Dubai. However, her interest soon evolved beyond cosmetics into a deeper concern for skincare health. Troubled by the prevalence of commercial beauty products laden with chemicals, she sought out natural alternatives, educating herself through online resources and later enrolling in specialized courses in Beirut. Her passion for creating natural beauty products quickly turned into a mission. She mastered the art of formulating skincare and haircare items from scratch, developing homemade body scrubs, cold-process soaps, and creams. Her enthusiasm and expertise resonated with many, leading to the launch of her YouTube channel, Jinane World, in 2020. Through this platform, she not only shared her knowledge but also inspired others to create their own beauty products. Jinane’s commitment to advancing natural beauty led her to a historic academic milestone. With encouragement from Dr. Mohamad Oweid, CEO of the International Academy of Beauty and Care (IABC), she pursued a PhD in beauty product formulation, a field still relatively unexplored in the Middle East. Her research enhanced her expertise, allowing her to develop formulations that are both simple and highly effective. Her achievements have not gone unnoticed. Recently, she was honored with an award at the Business Men/Women’s Conference in Lebanon, recognizing her pioneering contributions to the industry and her relentless pursuit of excellence. Despite the prestige of her accomplishments, Jinane’s journey was far from easy. Earning a PhD in a niche field posed many obstacles, but her extensive experience, which includes more than 700 Arabic-language educational videos on YouTube and 260 detailed English articles on her website, provided a strong foundation. Her direct engagement with students further cemented her reputation as an industry expert. The increasing demand from her audience to learn how to turn their passion into business led Jinane to develop comprehensive courses. She collaborated with IABC to offer accredited certifications, enabling students—especially women—to establish their own beauty brands and gain financial independence. Jinane’s impact extends beyond product creation; she is actively shaping the future of sustainable beauty entrepreneurship. Over the past five years, she has focused on mentoring students, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to build their own businesses. Her upcoming goal is to establish her own beauty brand, rooted in sustainability and natural skincare. A crucial aspect of her work is ingredient sourcing. She has meticulously vetted suppliers in Lebanon and beyond, ensuring that her products contain only the highest quality organic ingredients. This dedication has not only enhanced the effectiveness of her products but has also benefited her students, who gain access to reliable ingredient sources through her network. Jinane’s influence has expanded beyond online education into hands-on workshops held in Beirut and other locations. Responding to requests from her followers, she developed extensive training sessions that provide in-depth knowledge about creating various beauty products, from body creams to hair serums. These sessions, often lasting up to eight hours, emphasize ingredient selection, precise measurements, and correct formulation techniques. Her workshops have birthed numerous success stories. One notable example is Sarah AlJbore, an Iraqi influencer who attended Jinane’s workshops and later launched Sarah Secrets, a thriving beauty brand with over 600,000 Instagram followers. Similar success stories have emerged from students in the USA, Lebanon, and other countries, showcasing the widespread impact of Jinane’s teachings. Jinane Doughan is not just a leader in natural beauty; she is a passionate advocate for sustainable practices. Her emphasis on using glass containers and eco-friendly packaging reflects her commitment to reducing environmental waste. By championing natural ingredients and sustainable business models, she is reshaping the beauty industry and empowering a new generation of entrepreneurs to do the same. Through her dedication to education, innovation, and sustainability, Jinane continues to inspire and transform the beauty landscape in the Middle East and beyond. Her journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and purpose in creating a healthier, more ethical beauty industry.

Qatar Awaits Dive into Culture, Luxury, and Adventure By Marina Ezzat Alfred Qatar, a fascinating mix of old and new, gives visitors a really unique blend of culture, luxury, and stunning scenery. From its busy traditional markets to the peaceful desert, this Gulf country charms everyone with its warm hospitality and amazing things to see and do. This guide highlights the best places, customs, and activities to make your trip truly memorable. 1. Souq Waqif: The Pulse of Qatari Life Dive into the bustling, maze-like Souq Waqif, Doha’s oldest market, where the smells of spices mix with the lively chatter of the vendors.  This cultural center, beautifully restored to its 19th-century glory, is a feast for the senses. Explore the stalls overflowing with handwoven fabrics, exquisite gold jewelry, and traditional Qatari clothing.  And don’t miss the falcon souq, where these magnificent birds—symbols of Bedouin culture—are bought and sold, and carefully cared for. Enjoy delicious local food like machboos (spiced rice and meat) at some great restaurants. Catch an evening cultural show, perhaps some live music or dance. Bargain for souvenirs—from Persian carpets to Arabic coffee pots. Dress respectfully (covering shoulders and knees) to show consideration for local customs. 2. Museum of Islamic Art & National Museum of Qatar: Glimpses into the Past The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), a stunning I.M. Pei design, boasts a collection spanning over 1,400 years of Islamic art – everything from ceramics to breathtaking illuminated manuscripts. Perched on Doha Bay, it provides incredible views across the city. Just a short distance away, the National Museum of Qatar, its architecture resembling a desert rose, tells Qatar’s story through captivating exhibits; you’ll find everything from pearl diving treasures to fascinating glimpses into Bedouin life. Take a guided tour to really delve into the stories behind the artifacts.  Enjoy a picnic or admire the art installations in MIA Park, right on the waterfront. Photography is generally fine, but remember to always ask before filming anyone. 3. Katara Cultural Village: A Hub of Artistic Energy Katara Cultural Village is where art and heritage beautifully intertwine. This expansive complex includes an amphitheater echoing ancient Greek design, galleries spotlighting regional artists, and workshops offering hands-on experiences in calligraphy and pottery. The annual Doha Film Festival and Katara Traditional Dhow Festival truly showcase Qatar’s vibrant creative scene. Have dinner at Parisa, a restaurant with gorgeous Persian-inspired mosaics.  Explore the Golden Mosque, or maybe catch a concert at the opera house. Keep an eye out for the Luminous Festival in March – a dazzling celebration of light art. 4. The Pearl-Qatar & Lusail City: Modern Wonders The Pearl-Qatar, a man-made island brimming with luxury and Mediterranean vibes, is packed with upscale shops, marinas full of yachts, and amazing places to eat outside. Right nearby, Lusail City—home to the futuristic Lusail Stadium—has the stunning Marina Promenade, ideal for a romantic sunset stroll and grabbing a coffee by the water. 5. Desert Adventures: Khor Al Adaid (Inland Sea) Khor Al Adaid, a UNESCO-recognized natural wonder, is a breathtaking sight where rolling sand dunes meet the Arabian Gulf. For the adventurous, there’s dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel trekking.  As evening falls, it’s the perfect spot for stargazing from a Bedouin-style camp. Go on a guided safari; they often include cultural stories and traditional majlis dinners. Visit during the Sealine Season (January) for a mix of sporting events and cultural celebrations. 6. Al Zubarah Fort: A Step Back in Time Al Zubarah Fort, an 18th-century UNESCO World Heritage site, paints a vivid picture of Qatar’s rich pearling and trading past. Explore its coral-stone walls and the nearby archaeological ruins to imagine what life was like in this once-bustling port. While you’re there, check out Film City, a quirky desert village that looks like something straight out of an abandoned movie set. 7. Msheireb Downtown Doha: Where Sustainability Meets Heritage Msheireb Downtown is a fantastic example of eco-friendly design, cleverly blending traditional Qatari architecture with cutting-edge smart technology.  You can delve into the nation’s rich social history at the Msheireb Museums, or simply relax and soak up the atmosphere at one of the stylish rooftop lounges. Browse the unique artisanal crafts at Liwan Design Studios. Catch Hosh Msheireb, a captivating January festival showcasing storytelling and folk art. Cultural Code Dress Respectfully: Both men and women should opt for modest attire in public. Ramadan Considerations: During daylight hours in Ramadan, remember to refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking publicly. Greetings and Customs: A handshake is perfectly acceptable, but it’s polite to let a local initiate physical contact between genders. Weekend Planning: Keep in mind that Qatar’s weekend falls on Friday and Saturday; many businesses close on Fridays for prayers. Flavors of the World: A Passport to Food and Festivity Qatar’s diverse food scene truly reflects its multicultural heritage. Don’t miss: Karak Chai: This sweet, cardamom-infused tea, readily available from street vendors, is a must-try. Balaleet: Start your day with this delicious breakfast of sweet vermicelli noodles and eggs. Festivals Not to Miss Qatar International Food Festival (February):  A fantastic opportunity to sample global cuisine and watch renowned chefs in action. Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (January): Prepare to be amazed by breathtaking craftsmanship. Qatar’s a land of striking contrasts. Its magic comes from blending the old and the new so seamlessly. You can be gazing at incredibly modern buildings one minute, haggling for spices in a bustling old market the next, and then finding yourself utterly alone in the quiet majesty of the desert. Everywhere you go, you’ll feel the warmth and pride of the Qatari people. So, as you’re making your travel plans, do keep their customs in mind—a little respect goes a long way in truly connecting with a country that’s so cleverly weaving its rich history into a vibrant future.