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Adel Al Qasem Redefining luxury Skincare with the Healing Power of the Dead Sea By Alhanouf Mohammed Alrowaili In the world of luxury skincare, where authenticity and innovation often clash, Rivage stands out as a rare brand seamlessly blending natural heritage with cutting-edge science. Founded by Adel AL Qasem, Rivage harnesses the therapeutic riches of the Dead Sea, one of nature’s most potent mineral sources, elevating it into a globally recognized beauty ritual. Adel AL Qasem’s vision was bold and clear: to create one of the Middle East’s first luxury skincare brands that honors the healing legacy of the Dead Sea while resonating on the global stage. Rooted in regional wellness traditions and driven by a passion for natural science, Adel saw Rivage as more than skincare it is a celebration of beauty, health, and sustainable luxury. Supporting him are his sons, Mohammad and Saeed AL Qasem, whose expertise in engineering, chemistry, and international business ensures Rivage remains at the forefront of technological innovation and sustainable practices. Together, the AL Qasem family transformed Rivage from a local idea into a next-generation beauty powerhouse. Rivage prides itself on formulations that are at least 94% natural origin, using eco-certified ingredients that meet strict international clean beauty standards. The brand avoids harsh chemicals such as parabens, sulfates, silicones, mineral oils, and synthetic fragrances. Instead, it relies on a unique synergy of Dead Sea minerals, therapeutic plant extracts, essential oils, and skin vitamins to deliver gentle yet effective results. Key botanicals like Aloe Vera, Chamomile, Green Tea, Olive Oil, and Shea Butter complement mineral-rich bases, while vitamins A, C, E, and B complex enhance skin renewal, hydration, and protection. This harmonious blend respects the skin’s biology and supports natural wellness. What truly distinguishes Rivage is its commitment to marrying ancient mineral wisdom with modern technology. Their proprietary CO: DERMAL technology optimizes the absorption of active ingredients through mineral delivery pathways and cold mixing methods that reduce carbon emissions. This preserves ingredient potency and maximizes efficacy and skin compatibility. Rivage leads in sustainable manufacturing. Their GMP-certified factory in Amman, Jordan, runs entirely on solar power, minimizing environmental impact. By 2027, the brand aims to achieve 100% sustainable packaging and use only natural-origin preservatives, underscoring its dedication to clean beauty without compromise. Quality and safety are paramount. Each product undergoes rigorous microbiological challenge testing and stability assessments to ensure shelf life and effectiveness without synthetic preservatives. Independent clinical studies conducted with European labs further validate safety and performance.  This dual approach trusted supplier testing combined with in-house clinical trials gives consumers confidence in Rivage’s ability to deliver visible results safely and reliably. Rivage’s skincare lines address a broad spectrum of concerns, including oily and acne-prone skin, dryness, sensitivity, and signs of aging. Recognizing that skin is unique, their formulations feature over 69 plant extracts and vitamins that target hydration, anti-inflammatory care, antioxidant protection, and barrier repair. A specially formulated line for sensitive skin, offering ultra-gentle minerals and soothing actives, is in development.  “Building a luxury skincare brand in the Middle East meant navigating international regulations, sourcing high-grade natural ingredients, and developing truly eco-friendly manufacturing processes. Each challenge was an opportunity to raise our standards and build global trust,” says Saeed Al Qasem, Co-owner. Rivage met these challenges by forging strategic partnerships with leading suppliers in Europe, the U.S., and Asia, and investing heavily in R&D and solar-powered GMP manufacturing. This dedication has raised regional industry standards and positioned Rivage as a trusted name worldwide, with product registrations in the EU, USA, GCC, and beyond. This global success reflects Rivage’s ability to combine local heritage with international quality and innovation. More than a skincare brand, Rivage is a movement bridging ancient mineral wisdom and modern scientific innovation. 

Mohamed Ramadan The Icon of Unapologetic Success By Jane Stevens In the dynamic world of entertainment, few figures have managed to captivate audiences across multiple domains as effectively as Mohamed Ramadan. From his early days on the theatrical stage to becoming a household name in both acting and music, Ramadan’s journey is a testament to talent, perseverance, and an unyielding drive to break boundaries. Mohamed Ramadan began his acting career in school theater, quickly gaining recognition for his compelling performances. His dedication and talent earned him the unprecedented achievement of receiving the award for greatest nationwide talent three times consecutively. This early success laid the foundation for a flourishing career in Egyptian cinema and television, where he starred in notable films such as Abdo Mota, El-Kenz, and El-Diesel, as well as popular TV series like Al Ostoura and Jaafar Al Omda. Transitioning seamlessly into the music industry, Ramadan launched his music career in 2018 by signing with Rotana. He quickly made a mark with his unique blend of traditional Arabic music and contemporary hip-hop beats. His hit singles, including Mafia, Number One, and Ya Habibi (featuring GIMS), have garnered millions of views on YouTube and solidified his status as a music sensation. His collaboration with Saad Lamjarred on the track Ensay further showcased his versatility and appeal across diverse audiences. Ramadan’s influence extends beyond his artistic endeavors. With nearly 20 million Instagram followers, he maintains a strong connection with his fans, sharing glimpses of his personal life and career milestones. His motto, “ثقة في الله نجاح” (Confidence in God = Success), resonates deeply with his audience and reflects his personal philosophy. In recognition of his widespread popularity and impact, Ramadan was honored with the AFRIMA award and crowned the most popular artist in Africa in 2019. His streaming statistics are equally impressive, boasting over 4.65 billion YouTube channel views and over 1 million monthly listeners on Spotify. Mohamed Ramadan’s journey from a school theater enthusiast to a multifaceted entertainment icon is nothing short of inspirational. His ability to transcend cultural and artistic boundaries has not only redefined success in the Arab world but has also positioned him as a global ambassador of contemporary Arabic culture. As he continues to innovate and inspire, Ramadan’s legacy serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through passion, resilience, and an unwavering belief in oneself.

Fashion Designer Btoul Allou Stuns in a Self-Designed Gown at the 8th Edition of Beirut International Women Film Festival Proving that creativity knows no bounds, Btoul Allou turned the red carpet into her personal runway at this year’s Beirut International Women Film Festival, wearing a breathtaking gown she designed herself. In a moment that celebrated not only women in film but also women in fashion and design, Btoul Allou made a powerful statement by stepping out in a dress of her own creation. The festival, which champions female voices and stories, served as the perfect stage for Btoul to showcase her multifaceted talent, both as a visionary and a style icon. Her gown was nothing short of a dream: flowing layers of delicate fabric, soft hues that whispered elegance, and a silhouette that blended modern femininity with timeless sophistication. Every detail, from the tailored bodice to the hand-finished embellishments, reflected Btoul’s personal vision and her deep connection to art. Btoul’s look was styled with effortless grace, soft waves cascading down her shoulders, minimal jewelry signature by Les Fils de Hadidian Frères, and a natural glow that let the dress speak volumes. Her presence was captivating, not only for the beauty of her ensemble but for the story it told: of a woman designing her own path, literally and figuratively. As she graced the red carpet, Btoul Allou embodied the spirit of the Beirut International Women Film Festival, bold, creative, and unapologetically herself. In choosing to wear her own design, she honored her roots, her craft, and the essence of empowered womanhood. Btoul’s appearance wasn’t just a fashion highlight, it was a celebration of self-expression, artistic talent, and the power of women creating their own spotlight. #BtoulAllou

Maja Wilinska Elevating Beauty Through Education and Empowerment By Sidra Asif Originally from Poland and now proudly calling London home for the past 17 years, Maja Wilinska has carved an impressive path in the beauty industry. With over 17 years of experience in cosmetology and 7 years as an aesthetic practitioner, her journey has been shaped by a deep commitment to learning, sharing, and transforming lives through the power of beauty. Maja’s dedication to her craft has taken her across Europe, training in countries such as Poland, England, Romania, Italy, Scotland, Wales, Spain, and France. These international experiences exposed her to a diverse range of beauty philosophies and advanced techniques, deepening her expertise. “What truly inspired me was witnessing the transformative power of beauty treatments, not just physically, but emotionally. Seeing how a single treatment could boost someone’s confidence and self-esteem was a revelation,” she shares. This realization led Maja to address a growing need in the industry: high-quality, well-rounded training that balances technical excellence with artistic insight. As she began training professionals, she quickly recognized the incredible potential among her students. Many went on to open their own successful clinics, a testament to their talent and the value of proper guidance. For Maja, this was more than professional success, it was a calling. With a clear vision, she founded MW Beauty Academy, a training institution rooted in empowerment, innovation, and community. “I wanted to build more than just a school,” Maja explains. “I wanted to create a space where aspiring beauty professionals feel supported, inspired, and fully equipped to succeed, not only in technique but in business too.” MW Beauty Academy goes beyond teaching procedures. It instills confidence, nurtures talent, and builds futures. Maja’s goal is to raise the standard in aesthetics education, ensuring every graduate leaves with the skills, mindset, and drive to make a lasting impact in the beauty world. “My mission is to elevate the beauty industry one student at a time. When professionals thrive, clients feel the difference, and that’s the true beauty of it all.”

Strategic Visionary Aayushi Shah Joins Forces with Magnav International​ A CATALYST FOR EDITORIAL EXCELLENCE AND BRAND SYNERGY IN THE MIDDLE EAST With a proven track record in brand innovation and content leadership, Aayushi Shah not only takes on the role of Editorial and Brand Partnerships Liaison at Magnav International, but also secures equity in Magnav Middle East, marking a bold new era of luxury media collaboration. In the ever-evolving world of luxury media, where the fusion of editorial distinction and strategic brand alignment defines market leadership, Aayushi Shah steps into the spotlight as a transformative force. Appointed as the Editorial and Brand Partnerships Liaison at Magnav International, Aayushi’s entry signals a forward-thinking shift in the publication’s global and regional strategy. What sets this appointment apart is not merely the role, it is the strategic alliance underpinning it. Aayushi has officially joined hands with Magnav Middle East as an equity partner, reinforcing her long-term vision and commitment to shaping the brand’s regional growth and influence.  Her vested stake in the business underscores a deeper alignment, one that goes beyond operational leadership to co-ownership of the vision, the brand, and its future impact. With nearly a decade of experience across high-impact sectors such as fashion, jewellery, wellness, hospitality, and lifestyle, Aayushi has built a distinguished reputation as a luxury brand architect and curated content strategist. Her entrepreneurial venture, Aayushi Shah Studio, is recognized for crafting integrated marketing narratives that combine digital innovation with luxury storytelling. From launching campaigns to orchestrating immersive brand experiences, her approach is rooted in delivering results with refined elegance. At Magnav International, her scope of influence encompasses more than editorial direction. She is now a driving force in curating and executing high-value brand partnerships that align with the magazine’s identity and its discerning global audience.  With an exceptional ability to merge data-driven strategy with creative storytelling, Aayushi ensures that every collaboration reflects the publication’s standards of sophistication and cultural relevance. Aayushi’s strategic expertise in media sales and partnership development, coupled with a nuanced understanding of regional and global market dynamics, positions her as a core member of Magnav’s executive leadership.  Her mandate includes accelerating revenue growth, nurturing enduring client relationships, and designing innovative commercial pathways that redefine luxury engagement within the publishing sphere. Her professional ethos is deeply rooted in the belief that luxury is not merely a product, but a story well told.  For Aayushi, every brand touchpoint, editorial, experiential, or digital, must speak to a higher purpose: connection, elegance, and authenticity. This belief informs her leadership style, guiding both the content she curates and the partnerships she nurtures.  As Magnav International charts its next chapter in the luxury media space, the integration of Aayushi Shah as both a strategic leader and equity stakeholder marks a turning point.  Her visionary thinking, operational precision, and unparalleled creative sensibility are set to recalibrate industry standards, ushering in an era defined by elevated storytelling, strategic alliances, and global brand resonance.

AYAT SAEED ABU SAFIA ELEVATING EVERY CELEBRATION WITH THE ART OF CAKE By Diana Brown  In every culture, cakes hold a special place in celebrations, symbolizing joy, togetherness, and the sweetness of life’s most cherished moments. In the Arab world, where hospitality and festivity are deeply rooted traditions, cakes are more than just desserts—they are expressions of love, generosity, and shared happiness. Whether at weddings, Eid gatherings, birthdays, or family milestones, a beautifully crafted cake becomes the heart of the occasion. Ayat Saeed Abu Safia understands this cultural significance, and through her passion project, “Jood Cake,” she has turned her love for art and baking into a business that enhances the joy of every festivity. From childhood, Ayat nurtured a deep love for cooking and art, a passion that found its perfect expression in the world of pastry. With a background in interior design, she longed for more creative freedom than the traditional work environment allowed. This realization led her to leave her job and build something of her own—an artistic and heartfelt venture from home. Through “Jood Cake,” she merges her love for aesthetics and flavor, crafting cakes that are not just desserts but expressions of joy and celebration. Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship is no small feat, yet Ayat embraces both roles with unwavering dedication. With the strong support of her husband, she manages to blend family life with business, ensuring that each cake reflects her commitment to perfection. What sets “Jood Cake” apart is its devotion to authenticity—every ingredient is carefully selected, and every component is made from scratch. Ready-made mixes and artificial flavors have no place in her kitchen; instead, each creation is a labor of love, infused with the highest quality ingredients and meticulous craftsmanship. One of her most cherished creations was an eight-tier cake for the Palestinian pavilion at a school event. Each tier told a story, a tribute to her homeland, Gaza, embodying resilience, heritage, and identity. For Ayat, cakes are more than just sweet indulgences; they are cultural expressions, moments of nostalgia, and artistic statements. Among her most sought-after flavors is hazelnut, made in-house from fresh hazelnuts, without artificial additives. Like any entrepreneur, Ayat faced early challenges, from pricing strategies to assembling a team that shared her vision. Through experience and determination, she overcame these hurdles, establishing “Jood Cake” as a brand synonymous with luxury and authenticity. Looking ahead, she dreams of expanding her business across all Emirates, bringing the joy of her artisanal cakes to more families and occasions. Through her artistry, Ayat is not just baking cakes—she is spreading happiness. Each creation is a masterpiece, designed to delight both the eyes and the taste buds. Her signature flavors, crafted with love and precision, ensure that every bite leaves a lasting impression. With every celebration she sweetens, Ayat continues to bring people together, making life’s special moments even more unforgettable through her exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to quality.

Rising Together Celebrating the Inspiring Women of the Middle East By Hafsa Qadeer Women worldwide have long fought for their rightful place in society, with many inspiring stories of progress, resilience, and achievement. However, when we look at the Middle East, we find a region often surrounded by stereotypes. Many outside observers still believe that women in the Middle East have little freedom or opportunity. While challenges exist, the real story is far more complex and uplifting. In recent years, women in countries across the region have stepped up to lead businesses, champion reform, and motivate younger generations to believe in their abilities. This article aims to paint a clearer picture of the status of Middle Eastern women, celebrating their achievements and reflecting on their important roles in society. We will also share a few notable names to illustrate the power and potential found in the region.  The Evolving Landscape for Women To understand the journey of Middle Eastern women, it is important to see how things have changed over the last few decades. In many parts of the region, women were once largely confined to traditional roles in the home, managing family affairs and caring for children. Despite having key roles in families and communities, they often lacked formal education or paid employment opportunities. However, this picture is changing quickly. According to the World Bank, female enrollment in universities in certain Middle Eastern countries is higher than that of males. This trend indicates a significant shift in family values and social norms, where parents now see higher education for their daughters as a pathway to a better future. Indeed, you can find more women studying medicine, engineering, law, and technology than ever before. A 2021 UNESCO report highlighted that in several Gulf nations, women make up more than half of all university graduates in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. This rise in education has led to women’s growing involvement in many professional sectors. Today, more female doctors, lawyers, scientists, and professors work throughout the Middle East, contributing to innovations and developments that shape everyday life. Their successes advance gender equality and boost economic growth in a region eager to diversify its industries and adopt modern approaches. Breaking Barriers in Business and Leadership While the rate of women’s participation in the Middle Eastern workforce still varies from one country to another, there is an undeniable surge of female entrepreneurs and leaders. For example, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), women now hold leadership positions in top government offices, global corporations, and cutting-edge tech startups. Saudi Arabia has also been promoting efforts to diversify its economy, encouraging more women to join the labor force. Recent reforms have enabled women to start their businesses and assume prominent roles in sectors once dominated by men. When women lead companies or have more gender-diverse teams, they often perform better financially. This aligns with the stories emerging from countries like Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain, where women launch new ventures and pioneering creative business models. With better access to education, financial resources, and support networks, many Middle Eastern women are finding their voices in the market, leading small startups, large conglomerates, and everything in between. One notable case study is a recent business incubator in Jordan that specifically fosters female entrepreneurship. Run with the support of both local and international organizations, this incubator provides women with mentorship, networking events, and business plan competitions. The result is a growing wave of female-owned enterprises in e-commerce, fashion design, education technology, and sustainable farming. The impact on the economy is tangible. These women-owned businesses bring in revenue and offer new jobs and training for others in local communities. This multiplier effect helps entire families and social circles progress. Shifts in Social and Cultural Perceptions Alongside professional gains, there is also a cultural shift as more female-led stories appear in mainstream media and online platforms. Social media has become crucial for Middle Eastern women to voice their opinions, share successes, and inspire others. Instagram and LinkedIn, for instance, are full of accounts run by women who discuss topics as varied as women’s rights, entrepreneurship, child-rearing, mental health, and political involvement. This openness in communication allows women to connect, build communities, and raise awareness about the issues they face. Thus, the rise of digital platforms has catalyzed cultural change. Traditional media in the Middle East also features more women today, whether as news anchors, talk show hosts, or experts interviewed on current affairs programs. This visibility positively impacts how society perceives female authority and expertise. Still, many challenges remain. For instance, it can be difficult for women in conservative families to relocate for work or to network freely. There can also be societal pressure to marry at a young age, focus on family obligations, and place personal careers second. Yet, with increasing governmental support and more examples of successful women in the public eye, families are gradually shifting their perspectives. Experts say these changes could take many more years to be deeply ingrained, but the key is that the momentum is there. The Importance of Legal and Policy Reforms One critical piece in the puzzle of women’s advancement is legal reform. Across the Middle East, laws are evolving to recognize women’s rights more fully, whether in terms of property, marriage and divorce rights, or labor regulations. For example, in some Gulf countries, new laws now aim to ensure equal pay for men and women doing the same job. In other places, regulations have been updated so that women can register businesses under their names without needing a male guardian’s permission. While these reforms are promising, the pace of change is not uniform across the entire region. In some countries, legal structures still make it hard for women to work freely, travel without permission, or be recognized in courts for certain rights. Thus, many activists and civil society groups in the Middle East continue to push for comprehensive reforms. They seek to balance cultural values and traditions with modern

Aya Faisal Championing Beauty and Fashion with Authentic Boldness By Diana Brown Aya Faisal, a prominent Tunisian-Saudi fashion and beauty content creator based in Dubai, has captivated audiences with her authentic approach to beauty and fashion. Her journey began in 2015 while studying in London, where she started sharing her outfits online. At that time, the industry had few influencers, making her contributions both pioneering and impactful. Aya’s transparency about her skincare struggles, particularly her battle with acne and acne scars, resonated deeply with her audience. By courageously displaying her real skin on Instagram and Snapchat, she built a community that appreciated her honesty and related to her experiences. This openness became a cornerstone of her content, fostering a supportive and engaged following. Navigating the evolving landscape of social media has presented challenges, especially with the emergence of new platforms. Aya draws inspiration from her travels, sharing new outfits and unique makeup looks that reflect her experiences.  She distinguishes between influencers and content creators, noting that while influencers share their daily lives spontaneously, content creators focus on the aesthetic quality of their posts. She emphasises that both roles are often misunderstood, with followers sometimes perceiving them as perpetually affluent and free from frustration, which is a misconception. Cultural heritage plays a significant role in Aya’s beauty and fashion choices. Her daily use of kohl for eye makeup and seasonal makeup preferences are influenced by regional trends. In winter, she opts for matte makeup with foundation and heavy loose powder, while in summer, she prefers dewy makeup with a strong highlight that showcases skin texture. Her fashion choices, including the decision to show less skin on social media, are guided by her beliefs, demonstrating that modesty and fashion can coexist harmoniously. Collaborating with various brands has been a highlight of Aya’s career. A standout experience was her campaign with IT Cosmetics, where no filters were applied, and true skin was showcased. The campaign featured a CC cream that could be worn as foundation, and the diverse selection of participants and team members contributed to its success. The shift in social media algorithms, particularly with the rise of reels, has required content creators to adapt by producing more video content to maintain engagement. Aya acknowledges that influencers are both trendsetters and followers, contributing to a cyclical dynamic where trends are created and adopted within the community. For Aya, the most fulfilling aspect of her work is the interaction with her community, who seek her opinions on the latest trends. While content creation can be tiring, especially during periods of low inspiration or fatigue, the support and curiosity of her followers provide motivation. She remains driven by personal goals, including reaching a broader audience and being recognized as an icon in the industry. Aya advises aspiring content creators to stay focused, maintain their identity, understand their limits, and remain open to new beauty and fashion trends without losing sight of their background and culture. She views the Middle East as a significant force in the beauty industry, with women who are highly educated and influential, setting their own beauty standards and contributing to the industry’s evolution.  Through her platform, Aya balances following trends with adding her unique perspective, particularly in areas like abaya fashion, skincare, makeup, and luxury accessories. In her view, the Middle East represents the past, present, and future of beauty, with women leading the charge in shaping trends and raising the bar for global standards. Aya takes pride in being part of this cultural shift, where individuality and authenticity are celebrated. Aya Faisal’s journey reflects a blend of authenticity, cultural pride, and adaptability. Her commitment to sharing genuine experiences and embracing her heritage has not only garnered her a dedicated following but also positioned her as a respected voice in the fashion and beauty industry. As she continues to evolve with the dynamic digital landscape, her influence serves as an inspiration for many aspiring content creators in the Middle East and beyond.

ALLURE The Fusion of Ethical Luxury and Timeless Style Dubai, UAE: In a fashion landscape often dominated by fleeting trends, Allure emerges as a brand redefining luxury with a purpose. Founded by Ibtissem Mannai, a visionary with deep expertise in luxury public relations and media, Allure is more than a fashion label—it’s a beacon for the future of conscious style. Allure is celebrated for its elegant dresses and trendsetting, respectable abayas that strike the perfect balance between modernity and tradition. Seamlessly blending the rich cultural influences of the GCC with the timeless artistry of Tunisian fashion, Allure’s designs are anything but ordinary. Each piece is crafted to transcend time, offering women a wardrobe that is both stylish and meaningful. What truly sets Allure apart is its unwavering commitment to ethical practices. Mannai’s passion for luxury is matched by her dedication to sustainability, ensuring that every garment is not just beautiful, but responsibly made. From the choice of fabrics to the craftsmanship behind each stitch, Allure embodies a new standard in fashion—where elegance and ethics coexist harmoniously. Allure’s latest collections, Celestial Dreams and Earth’s Echoes, epitomize this philosophy. Celestial Dreams captures the mystical allure of the night sky, offering dresses and abayas that sparkle with the brilliance of stars and the depth of the cosmos. Earth’s Echoes pays homage to the raw, untamed beauty of nature, with designs that reflect strength, resilience, and the organic beauty of the earth. In a world increasingly conscious of sustainability, Allure is leading the charge, proving that luxury need not come at the expense of ethics. As the fashion industry continues to evolve, Allure’s blend of cultural richness, ethical responsibility, and timeless design makes it a brand to watch—and a story worth telling.