Latest news with #Levantine
CairoScene
12 hours ago
- Entertainment
- CairoScene
Egypt's Akaoui Doesn't Follow Trends. It Crafts Timeless Jewellery.
Egypt's Akaoui Doesn't Follow Trends. It Crafts Timeless Jewellery. For four generations, Akaoui has practiced not just design, but devotion. What began as a modest jewellery shop in the Levantine port city of Akka—where the family once traded gemstones along salt-lined trade routes—has evolved into a fine jewellery house known for restraint, precision, and permanence. Today, the brand's legacy continues to unfold, one piece at a time. 'We don't follow trends,' a member of the Akaoui family tells SceneStyled. 'We create timeless beauty.' Each ring, bracelet, and pendant begins in Italy, in workshops where hand engraving and filigree are still practiced daily. 'Many of our pieces come from small ateliers where passion and tradition guide the process,' they explain. 'It's not just about luxury—it's about meaning.' Their latest collection draws from botany in both structure and setting. Pieces are photographed against ferns, petals, bark. A cuff mirrors the curve of an orchid. A pendant mimics the line of a cactus spine. Gemstones are set to catch the light like dew. These references to the natural world underline the brand's quiet philosophy: jewellery should grow into you, not just sit on you. 'Every piece we curate is more than just jewellery,' they add. 'It's a story.' And the story runs deep—through four generations of artisans, workshops, and hands that continue to shape each piece with intention. The effect is quietly exacting. Minuscule indentations, layered stones, and textures that refuse uniformity. Not bling, but craft. Not spectacle, but signal. 'When someone wears an Akaoui piece,' they say, 'we want them to feel like they're carrying something that truly speaks to them.' The brand continues to balance tradition and evolution—Italian technique and Egyptian soul. 'Egyptian jewellery is changing in an exciting way, blending heritage with new ideas,' they note. 'Akaoui is part of that shift, bringing high-quality design that honours where we come from and where we're going.' This is jewellery built for memory, not momentum. Each piece is an heirloom in the making—etched with history, shaped by hand, and worn with quiet conviction.
L'Orient-Le Jour
6 days ago
- Politics
- L'Orient-Le Jour
'He was Lebanese to the core,' politicians, media figures remember Bou Habib's legacy
Former Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdullah Bou Habib passed away Wednesday night at the age of 84 following a heart attack. He was transferred to a hospital, where he later died. His passing marked the end of a decades-long career in diplomacy, economics, and public service — a loss that was widely mourned across Lebanon's political and media landscape. Former Prime Minister Najib Mikati, under whom Bou Habib last served, expressed deep sorrow, describing the news as a 'painful irony,' as he had been expecting to meet Bou Habib that very morning. Mikati said their cooperation during a particularly challenging period was fruitful, praising Bou Habib's 'diplomatic firmness that blended wisdom, realism, and patriotism.' He added that the late minister was 'Lebanese to the core, steadfast in his national convictions.' Former Minister of Youth and Sports George Kallas recalled Bou Habib's calm demeanor and firm leadership during what he called 'one of the most delicate periods' for Lebanon's foreign affairs. 'I was honored to work with him,' Kallas said, adding that Bou Habib had a real talent for 'resolving crises.' 'A steadfast fighter for his homeland' MP Fouad Makhzoumi called Bou Habib 'a man who left a lasting imprint on Lebanon's diplomatic and political life,' describing him as a model of national dedication during the most difficult times. MP Fadi Alameh, chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs and Emigrants, echoed those sentiments, referring to Bou Habib as 'a role model in political work based on integrity and honesty.' MP Gebran Bassil, head of the Free Patriotic Movement, said he had known Bou Habib closely and described him as 'deeply committed to the Lebanese, Levantine, and Arab identity,' someone who had left a 'distinctive mark in diplomatic life.' Former Deputy Prime Minister Saadeh al-Shami said: "I was deeply saddened by the sudden passing of my dear friend, former Minister Abdullah Bou Habib. I had met him many years ago in Washington, and later we worked together at the ministry." "I last met him in Washington about two months ago, along with some mutual friends. He spoke to us about his rich experiences and recounted some of his diplomatic encounters with precision, deep analysis, a sharp mind, and remarkable calm," he added. Joseph al-Qassefi, head of the Lebanese Press Editors Syndicate, remembered Bou Habib as a man "who was Lebanese to his core, and a steadfast fighter for his homeland,' someone who walked 'a straight path through winding roads.' He praised Bou Habib's contributions both at the World Bank and in public service, noting that he 'prioritized his national calling over personal interest.' Al-Qassefi also cited Bou Habib's memoir, "Papers from Washington," describing it as a reflection of the 'hardship and longing' that marked his years as Lebanon's ambassador to the U.S. The Maronite League also paid tribute to the late minister in a statement released by the state-run National News Agency. 'With his passing, a voice of reason has been silenced. He always worked for unity rather than division, aspiring for the Lebanese to be pioneers, wherever they may be,' the league said, stating that Bou Habib had notably served as vice president of its executive council. A Lifelong Public Servant Bou Habib began his career at the World Bank in 1976 as an economic expert, later becoming a senior loan officer for the Middle East and North Africa region. From 1983 to 1990, he served as Lebanon's ambassador to the United States, before returning to the World Bank in 1992, where he held senior advisory roles. In 2001, he returned to Beirut to serve as chief adviser to then-Deputy Prime Minister Issam Fares until 2005. He was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs in September 2021 in the Mikati government, serving until February 2025. His final months in office were marked by rising tensions between Israel and Hezbollah and an Israeli military campaign in southern Lebanon. Bou Habib held a degree from the American University of Beirut and a PhD in economics from Vanderbilt University in Tennessee.
Mid East Info
6 days ago
- Business
- Mid East Info
DoubleTree by Hilton Sharjah Waterfront Hotel & Residences and BEEAH reunite for a shoreline clean-up - Middle East Business News and Information
Sharjah, UAE – June 2025 –DoubleTree by Hilton Sharjah Waterfront Hotel & Residences once again joined forces with BEEAH Group to conduct a purposeful shoreline clean-up campaign—marking the second consecutive year of collaboration toward cleaner coastal environments in Sharjah. Building on the momentum of last year's successful initiative, this year's clean-up focused exclusively on shoreline restoration, with hotel team members and BEEAH volunteers uniting to remove plastic waste, litter, and marine debris from one of Sharjah's public beaches. What began as a local effort evolved into a powerful act demonstrating that consistent, hands-on involvement is key to preserving our natural surroundings. Ligia Brasoveanu, General Manager of DoubleTree by Hilton Sharjah Waterfront Hotel & Residences, expressed her pride in the initiative: 'This campaign is more than a clean-up—it's a reflection of who we are as a brand and the values we live by. Partnering with BEEAH for the second year in a row amplifies our message that real change happens when we show up, get involved, and lead by example. We're proud to keep the momentum going.' Through educational exchanges with BEEAH representatives and active participation from hotel team members, the campaign fostered awareness and collective responsibility. The initiative is in line with Hilton's global Travel with Purpose program, aimed at driving positive impact and delivering lasting value to the communities where we operate. As a regional leader in environmental innovation, BEEAH brought operational expertise and on-the-ground support, helping ensure the activity was both efficient and impactful. – ### – About DoubleTree by Hilton Sharjah Waterfront Hotel & Residences Located in the heart of Sharjah, DoubleTree by Hilton Sharjah Waterfront Hotel & Residences features 156 spacious and contemporary rooms and 108 family-friendly one- to three-bedroom lifestyle apartments, each featuring floor-to-ceiling glass windows with breathtaking views of the Al Majaz Waterfront. It also offers modern, flexible meeting spaces and a business center that can cater to all business and social needs. In addition to the in-room dining menu, guests can enjoy Majdolin Restaurant, an upscale Levantine restaurant with a panoramic outdoor terrace offering stunning views of the Al Majaz Waterfront, and Banyan Café. DoubleTree by Hilton Sharjah Waterfront Hotel & Residences features a semi-Olympic-sized indoor swimming pool and an ultra-modern, separate male and female fitness center with steam and sauna rooms. Conveniently located steps away from the Sharjah City Center Mall and only 2 km from the Sharjah Expo Center, our hotel also offers easy access to attractions such as Al Majaz Waterfront, Al Noor Island, Sharjah Amphitheater, Sharjah Aquarium, and Sharjah Art Museum, all within 1–3 km. Just 20 minutes from Dubai, our property serves as an oasis of tranquility. For reservations, contact us at +971 6 511 1900 or email: Visit our website or connect with us on social media: Facebook, X, and Instagram. About DoubleTree by Hilton DoubleTree by Hilton is a fast-growing, global portfolio of nearly 700 hotels with more than 155,000 rooms across nearly 60 countries and territories. For more than 55 years, DoubleTree by Hilton has continued to be a symbol of comfort for business and leisure travelers around the world, from welcoming guests with its iconic, warm DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie, to serving the local community. DoubleTree by Hilton offers contemporary accommodations and amenities, including unique food and beverage experiences, state-of-the-art fitness offerings and meetings and events spaces. Experience a comfortable stay at DoubleTree by Hilton by booking at or through the industry-leading Hilton Honors app. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits. Learn more about DoubleTree by Hilton at and follow the brand on Facebook, X and Instagram.
Business Recorder
7 days ago
- Politics
- Business Recorder
The throne atop a thousand fault lines
Old timers in the Levantine press are not surprised at all that Israel chose this time to strike deep inside Syria. They warned – while the rest of the world was still digesting Assad's sudden exit – that Ahmad al Sharaa and his throat-cutting, suicide-bombing jihadist buddies from al Qaeda and ISIS would waste no time in going after Syria's many minorities. Also that nobody would blink when they massacre Alawis across the Mediterranean coastline around Latakia, the Assad family's home town – indeed there were hundreds of summary executions, also by 'men wearing shalwar qameez', according to surviving witnesses. But Israel would step in when the Druze come under attack because unlike Latakia, their base Sweida hugs the Golan Heights – exactly the area Israel has been looking to envelop and fortify for more than 50 years. Yet they are wondering if Erdogan is surprised. It's out in the open now that he was equal partners with Israel and the US in the project to throw out Assad; Turkey provided the hardware and Israel gave intelligence like only Mossad can, and together with Uncle Sam's blessings they were able to install an uneducated Salafi jihadi extremist, who's openly called for war with west, ethnic cleansing of Muslim minorities, and the imposition of medieval law, as head of one of the most secular countries in the world. It seems the half-century of Assad family rule made the world forget how quickly careers, and often lives, of Syrian sovereigns can come to an end. Hafez al Assad was the longest serving ruler of Syria since the Ummayad caliph Muawiya, after all. And Bashar's time at the top is second only to his. For a throne that has sat upon a thousand fault lines for millennia, such stats matter. Apparently al Sharaa fled to Idlib, where the Turks have built him a fortress, when the Israelis hit the outer wall of the presidential palace, a minute after bombing substantial portions of the main defence ministry building. But what if he had been killed? Or, what if he's assassinated – a likelihood closer to the norm than the exception in thousands of years of Syrian history. Who'd his jihadi deputies call for the line of succession? Ankara, Tel Aviv, or Washington? Deep in Robert Fisk's earliest works you'll find references to 'old man Hafez' predicting that Syria would never fall to an invader, it would implode. And while Hafez was an ice veined master of the merciless, zero-sum politics that alone ensures regime, and self, survival in Damascus, his son Bashar was not cut from the same cloth. So Hafez crushed all rebellion, negotiated with all stakeholders, and positioned Syria as such a critical power broker in the Middle East that US presidents from Richard Nixon to Bill Clinton indulged him. But his son did not have the same instincts and, when push came to shove and outside help was not coming, he could no longer keep a lid on the implosion. In a way the dynasty's fate was sealed when Bashar's elder brother Basil, Hafez's original heir apparent, died in a car crash in 1994. They say when Hafez was told he quietly withdrew from a big meeting room and howled so loudly that it echoed across Damascus. Years later, when Sharaa's men celebrated victory by desecrating his grave, they only proved him right. Syria had imploded. Now, with a mullah regime whose existence is so antithetical to the secular DNA of Syria counting on some countries keeping other countries and their influences from destroying it, how far is Syria from another implosion? If Sharaa is killed, or destabilised (as he is already), how long before Iranian, Iraqi and Lebanese influences, suddenly deprived of their own leverage, fuel more fires? Whatever happens, Israel's creeping ingress into Syria will increase, and the Jewish state will be the only clear winner in all this, even though its big plan, so masterfully implemented with the destruction of Hamas, wholesale eradication of Hezbollah's command structure, and the historic fall of Damascus, couldn't quite come full circle when it went for the jugular of the ayatollahs in Tehran. Israel did want the regime in Iran to fall — that was the final piece, of course. And it might have, if not for Iran's shocking resistance in the war, which stalled the advance and forced a recalibration. How that particular endgame plays out remains to be seen. But it is clear that what remains of Syrian statehood is held together by a militia in borrowed robes, propped up by foreign actors who have neither roots nor memory in this land. And as usual, when the foreign calculus shifts, so will the sands under their feet. The throne of Damascus has always been a temporary seat – sometimes for kings, sometimes for clerics, sometimes for soldiers. Never for long. Because this land has never tolerated stillness. It lies at the edge of too many fault lines, pulls at too many empires, and sometimes collapses too easily under its own weight. So once again Syria sleepwalks into implosion; and it won't be the last time. Just another turn in a cycle that's older than the countries now playing their moves on its board. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Jordan News
19-07-2025
- General
- Jordan News
Irresistible Jordanian Dessert: How to Make Haytaliya - Jordan News
In the heart of Jordanian cuisine lie a variety of traditional desserts that reflect the authenticity of local heritage and the generosity of Jordanian hospitality. Among these sweets, Haytaliya holds a special place in many hearts. It's a simple yet delicious dessert that can be easily prepared at home using ingredients found in any kitchen. اضافة اعلان What is Jordanian Haytaliya? Haytaliya is a type of cold dessert primarily made with milk and cornstarch. It is commonly served during holidays and special occasions or enjoyed as a light treat after a hearty meal. What sets the original Haytaliya recipe apart is its creamy texture and delicate flavor that melts in the mouth, making it a favorite among both children and adults. Origins and Significance in Jordanian Cuisine Haytaliya traces its origins back to the Levantine region, with each area offering its unique twist on the recipe. In Jordan, Haytaliya is prepared with simple ingredients and enhanced with special touches such as crushed pistachios, cream, or orange blossom water, giving it a distinctive flavor that differs from variations in neighboring countries. It is a dessert that embodies the simplicity and warmth of the Jordanian dining table. How to Make Authentic Haytaliya: Step-by-Step Recipe Ingredients: 1 liter of fresh milk 4 tablespoons of cornstarch ½ cup of sugar (adjust to taste) 1 teaspoon of orange blossom water or rose water Crushed nuts for garnish (e.g., pistachios) Preparation Steps: In a saucepan over medium heat, add the milk and sugar, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved. In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in a bit of cold water until smooth and lump-free. Gradually pour the cornstarch mixture into the warm milk, stirring constantly to avoid clumping. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency. Remove from heat and stir in the orange blossom or rose water. Pour the mixture into serving bowls and allow it to cool completely. Then refrigerate for at least one hour until fully set. Before serving, garnish with crushed nuts or a dollop of cream for added richness. Creative Ways to Serve Haytaliya The joy of preparing Haytaliya doesn't end with the cooking—it extends to the way it is served. You can present it in individual cups topped with crushed pistachios or shredded coconut. Some prefer to add a layer of cream or drizzle honey over the top for extra richness and sweetness. Health Benefits of Haytaliya Beyond its delightful taste, Haytaliya offers several health benefits, especially when prepared with natural, wholesome ingredients. It's a good source of energy due to the milk, which provides protein and calcium essential for bone and dental health. The cornstarch offers carbohydrates that provide a feeling of fullness and sustained energy, making it an ideal dessert for both kids and the elderly. Tips for a Perfect Haytaliya To ensure the best outcome when preparing Haytaliya, consider the following tips: Fully dissolve the cornstarch in cold water before adding to the milk to avoid lumps. Keep stirring throughout the cooking process to prevent sticking. Avoid leaving the dessert out of the fridge for long periods to maintain its firm texture. Adjust the sweetness to your preference by modifying the amount of sugar. A Creative Twist: New Flavors for Jordanian Haytaliya As tastes evolve, some people have added innovative touches to the classic Haytaliya recipe. Options include mixing in chocolate, fresh fruit, or strawberry sauce for a modern flavor profile. You can also layer it with crushed biscuits or pair it with sponge cake for a richer, more diverse dessert. Traditional and Modern Additions Despite the simplicity of the original recipe, many Jordanian families enjoy enhancing the flavor with traditional spices and seasonings. Popular additions include a pinch of ground cinnamon or cardamom, giving the dessert an aromatic Middle Eastern flair. Light syrup (qater) can also be added for those who prefer a sweeter version. In some regions, Haytaliya is served during festive occasions alongside seasonal fruits like figs, bananas, or strawberries. These simple touches transform the dessert into a refreshing and unique experience. How to Make Haytaliya Healthier for Children Many Jordanian mothers prefer adding nutritional value to Haytaliya when preparing it for their children. Using full-fat milk can provide essential vitamins and calcium. Replacing refined sugar with a touch of natural honey and adding finely ground nuts can enhance both flavor and health benefits. Can Haytaliya Be Made Vegan? Absolutely. Haytaliya can be easily adapted to suit a vegan diet by substituting cow's milk with plant-based alternatives such as almond, coconut, or oat milk. While the taste might slightly differ, the creamy consistency remains. You can also use coconut sugar or any natural sweetener instead of white sugar. If you're trying this recipe for the first time, it's best to start with a small batch to adjust the texture and flavor to your family's taste. Over time, it may become a staple dessert for every gathering. A Taste of Jordanian Heritage Haytaliya remains one of the simplest yet most cherished Jordanian desserts, often tied to family memories and authentic Arab hospitality. Preparing it at home doesn't require much effort or fancy ingredients—just milk, starch, and a touch of love to create a dessert served with a smile. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or add your creative flair, Haytaliya will always be a symbol of rich flavor and unforgettable memories.
