Latest news with #Oud
Campaign ME
13 hours ago
- Lifestyle
- Campaign ME
The subtle luxury shift taking shape in the UAE
Remember when we thought that luxury was all about the designer labels you wore, the car you flaunted and the places you dined at? Well, that is now a tale as old as time. But don't get me wrong – it's not entirely untrue. Much like every other podcast preaching 'looks are not everything' when it comes to relationships, the same goes for this exclusive realm of living. There is so much more to luxury than what meets the eye, especially in a city like Dubai. Recently, the UAE has been welcoming a largely affluent, young audience who come in search of luxury experiences like no other. While the more obvious answers come in the form of extravagant resorts, yacht cruises and so on, there are some that aren't so surface-level. According to 77 per cent of Gen Z and 72 per cent of millennials are on the lookout for authentic and personalised experiences. Lucky for them, the UAE has a rich heritage and culture that is front and centre, in a tangible and intangible way. The Al Maha Desert Resort keeps the aesthetics of the country's Bedouin history alive while combining it with luxurious amenities. 'Luxury is not something we have to reach for; it's at our fingertips here in the UAE.' The Emirati fragrance culture is also intertwined with modern luxury, holding Oud and Bukhoor at the heart of it all. Homegrown luxury perfume brands such as Ajmal Perfumes and Abdul Samad Al Quraishi not only focus on craftsmanship but also on traditional rituals such as Mukhalat, the art of scent layering. It's not just about the perfumes that smell good; it's also about feeling good. Self-care is the greatest investment of them all and another great testament for how luxury is not just about what's on the outside. Both residents and tourists alike can splurge on wellness treatments and cosmetic procedures, with a strong trend towards treatments that are pricier yet personalised and high-tech. For example, Beit Sisu consists of private suites with built-in cold plunges, infrared saunas and red-light therapy towers. The Zoya Health retreat is a luxury stay with personalised detox programmes focused on holistic wellness methods, including Ayurveda. Let's get a little corny now: it is a luxury for so many diverse nationalities to be able to co-exist together here in the UAE. It is impossible to live in a bubble while you're here in the country, as you can access different cultures and celebrations with ease. For years now, events like Sikka Art Festival and Sole DXB have successfully brought people together to bond over art, music and food. Moreover, the Emirati community truly considers hospitality as a sacred value and has quite literally opened their doors to bring people together through small businesses of their own, such as Poteto and Juntas. Luxury is not something we have to reach for; it's at our fingertips here in the UAE. Running out of gas? Cafu comes to your car, wherever you may be. A valet service at almost every other restaurant or leisure experience, food or groceries being delivered in 15 minutes, kids being able to go to and from school in private buses – convenience has been established at every nook and corner for our own peace of mind. Intimacy in a platonic sense, where you feel seen and appreciated, is another virtue that makes an experience even more luxurious. For example, walking into Moonrise and being able to connect with the chef on a one-on-one basis somehow makes the dinner experience feel more exclusive. Clutching your pearls is not really a thing here, and that is a luxury we don't give enough credit to. As of 2025, the UAE has been ranked the second-safest country in the world according to Numbeo's Safety Index. In terms of cities, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are consistently recognised as the happiest cities in the Arab region, according to the World Happiness Report. Feel rich yet? I hope so. True luxury is found in the preservation of heritage amid futuristic skylines, in the warmth of Emirati hospitality that bridges countless cultures, in a scent that tells a story or a sense of security that is irrevocably priceless. So, the next time you think of luxury, know that it's evolving beyond the obvious. By Catherine Bannister, Chief Strategy Officer, and Aneeta Aby, Senior Strategist, TBWA\Raad.
Web Release
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Web Release
Celebrate Eid al-Adha with Exclusive Staycation and Lunch Offers at IHG Hotels at Dubai Festival City
This Eid al-Adha, IHG Hotels at Dubai Festival City invites guests to enjoy meaningful moments with exclusive staycation offers across its four iconic properties—InterContinental, InterContinental Residence Suites, Crowne Plaza, and Holiday Inn & Suites. Whether you're seeking luxury, relaxation, or quality family time during the holiday, each hotel offers tailored experiences to make your Eid truly unforgettable. 'We're delighted to welcome families and travellers for Eid al-Adha with exceptional hospitality, curated experiences, and exclusive dining,' said Thomas Schmelter, Area General Manager, IHG Hotels at Dubai Festival City. 'Our staycation offers are designed to help guests celebrate the spirit of the season in comfort and style.' InterContinental Dubai Festival City Enjoy up to 25% off stays in elegant rooms and suites with stunning views of Dubai Creek. The package includes breakfast for two at Anise Restaurant, exclusive adults-only access to voco Monaco Dubai at The World Islands, VIP shopping privileges, and 1,000 IHG One Rewards points per booking. Rates starting from AED 691++ Book now | +971 4 701 1111 | [email protected] Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City Unwind with a well-rounded Eid stay at Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City. Guests can enjoy up to 25% off, with a night's stay that includes dinner and breakfast at Zaytoun restaurant, along with an AED 100 credit to unwind at SPA InterContinental. Families benefit from a 15% discount on full-day access to Hello Park, while shoppers can explore unbeatable offers at Dubai Festival City Mall. Every stay is rewarded with 1,000 IHG One Rewards points. Rates starting from AED 514++ Book now | +971 4 701 1111 | [email protected] Holiday Inn & Suites Dubai Festival City Celebrate Eid with your loved ones through this value-packed offer featuring up to 25% off stays, breakfast and dinner at Sirocco Restaurant, kids' full-day access to Fabyland, AED 100 spa credit for adults, shopping voucher booklets, and 1,000 IHG One Rewards points. Rates starting from AED 324++ Book now | +971 4 701 1111 | [email protected] InterContinental Residence Suites Dubai Festival City Welcome the holiday with a tranquil stay at InterContinental Residence Suites Dubai Festival City. Guests enjoy up to 25% off their stay, a gourmet breakfast at MezzaLuna Trattoria Italiana, and special retail offers from Dubai Festival City mall. Families can explore Leo & Loona Indoor Family Park with exclusive access, while also collecting 1,000 IHG One Rewards points with every booking. Rates starting from AED 661++ Book now | +971 4 701 1111 | [email protected] Eid al-Adha at Anise – InterContinental Dubai Festival City Celebrate the festive season at Anise with a vibrant Eid buffet featuring eight live cooking stations and a wide selection of international flavours. Guests will enjoy soulful live Oud music during lunch, complemented by refreshing mocktails to enhance the celebratory ambiance. To make the experience even more enjoyable for families, a range of fun activities will be available for children. The Eid buffet is available on Day 1 and 2 of Eid al-Adha, with lunch served from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM and dinner from 6:30 PM to 11:00 PM. The experience is priced at AED 295 per person, while children up to six years old dine complimentary. Children between the ages of six and eleven can enjoy the buffet for AED 110. For more information or to make a booking, visit or call +971 4 701 1127/28. Fun-Filled Eid at Sirocco – Holiday Inn & Suites Dubai Festival City Families are invited to gather at Sirocco for a generous Eid buffet filled with global dishes and festive charm. Children will be entertained with dedicated activities, making it an ideal venue for joyful gatherings. The Eid buffet is offered on Day 1 and 2 of Eid al-Adha, with lunch served from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM and dinner from 6:30 PM to 11:00 PM. The dining experience is priced at AED 199 per person, inclusive of soft beverages. Children under two years old dine free. For bookings and more details, visit or call +971 4 701 1127/28. Celebrate the Spirit of Eid Whether you're looking to relax, reconnect, or celebrate with loved ones, IHG Hotels at Dubai Festival City offers everything you need for a joyful Eid al-Adha holiday. For more details and bookings, visit:
See - Sada Elbalad
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- See - Sada Elbalad
Angham to Perform First-Ever Concert at Royal Albert Hall on September 23
Yara Sameh Egyptian superstar Angham will perform live at London's iconic Royal Albert Hall on Tuesday, September 23. She is set to present several of her popular and latest songs. The event marks the singer's first-ever concert in the country. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Live Nation Middle East (@livenationme) Opened in 1871 and named after Queen Victoria's husband, Royal Albert Hall is one of the most iconic venues ever. The Beatles and Frank Sinatra have taken the stage, and royals like Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Diana have captivated audiences there. For Arab artists, performing on that stage isn't just about the music; it's about making history. Born on January 19, 1972, Angham is considered one of the most successful female singers in the Middle East. She sang as a child, heralding the birth of a new musical generation. Angham made her debut in 1987 under the guidance of her father, prominent Egyptian musician Mohamed Ali Suleiman, before embarking on her independent path. Angham performed in public during Cairo's Radio syndicate ceremony for the first time, as they were looking for new voices to artistically adopt them. Upon finishing high school, she joined the Conservatory of Music, where she studied the basics of music, improved her voice's capacities, and learned how to play the traditional piano and Oud. Along with her singing career, the acclaimed singer also experimented with other forms of media, such as film-making and hosting a TV show. In 1994, she made her acting debut in the romantic comedy play 'Leila Men Alf Leila' (Night of a Thousand Nights) featuring veteran actor Yehia El-Fakharany and singer-actor Ali El Haggar. Angham landed her first television role in "Fe Ghamdet Ein," co-starring actress Dalia El Behery. In 2022, she presented her first TV show, which was titled after her name. read more New Tourism Route To Launch in Old Cairo Ahmed El Sakka-Led Play 'Sayidati Al Jamila' to Be Staged in KSA on Dec. 6 Mandy Moore Joins Season 2 of "Dr. Death" Anthology Series Don't Miss These Movies at 44th Cairo Int'l Film Festival Today Amr Diab to Headline KSA's MDLBEAST Soundstorm 2022 Festival Arts & Culture Mai Omar Stuns in Latest Instagram Photos Arts & Culture "The Flash" to End with Season 9 Arts & Culture Ministry of Culture Organizes four day Children's Film Festival Arts & Culture Canadian PM wishes Muslims Eid-al-Adha News Egypt confirms denial of airspace access to US B-52 bombers News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Arts & Culture Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's $4.7M LA Home Burglarized Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Sports Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies
Time Business News
22-05-2025
- General
- Time Business News
What Makes Premium Oud So Special? A Deep Dive into Its Origins and Quality
Have you ever caught a whiff of a fragrance so deep, rich, and unforgettable that it stopped you in your tracks? That's probably Premium Oud doing its magic. Known as 'liquid gold' in the fragrance world, this ancient scent has captivated royals, perfumers, and fragrance lovers for centuries. But what really makes it so special? Let's take a deep dive. Oud is derived from the heartwood of Aquilaria trees when they become infected with a specific mold. This triggers the tree to produce a dark, fragrant resin—what we know as oud. Used for over 3,000 years, oud has roots in Middle Eastern, Indian, and Southeast Asian cultures. It was burned in temples, used in rituals, and even traded like precious jewels. From ancient Arabic traditions to Buddhist temples in Japan, oud's influence spans continents. It is deeply spiritual and symbolizes purity, wealth, and power. Obtaining oud is no small feat. After years of resin formation, the infected trees are carefully harvested. Steam distillation is the most common method, but traditional wood-burning techniques are still used to preserve authenticity. Like fine wine, oud improves with age. Aging gives the oil a deeper, more refined aroma profile. Premium Oud is all about quality. It comes from the rarest parts of the tree, with high resin content and minimal impurities. The more resin in the wood, the stronger and more luxurious the oud. Low-heat, long-hour distillation preserves the oil's complexity, making it truly premium. Premium oud smells smoother, deeper, and more layered compared to its regular counterpart. You'll find that Best Premium Oud Attar can last for more than 24 hours with just a drop. Regular oud fades faster. Of course, quality comes with a price. Premium oud can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars per tola. Known for its strong and animalic profile, it's highly revered. Sweet and rich—perfect for everyday wear. Rare and wild with a mysterious smoky note. Premium Oud in pakistan is gaining attention for its high quality and affordability. Brands like UsmanBaig are redefining local oud standards. Pure oud is powerful but blending enhances usability and appeal. Musk, amber, and sandalwood are commonly used to stabilize the scent. Traditional styles stick to deep, woody blends. Modern ones add fruity or floral top notes. It's rare, takes years to produce, and is harvested through an extremely labor-intensive process. That's why Premium Oud is often called the 'diamond of perfumes.' Base: Earthy, woody, leathery Earthy, woody, leathery Middle: Smoky, balsamic, sweet Smoky, balsamic, sweet Top: Animalic, spicy, sometimes floral Each note tells a story, developing uniquely on your skin. Aromatherapy: Calms the mind and reduces anxiety Calms the mind and reduces anxiety Spiritual Use: Burned as incense in prayers Burned as incense in prayers Traditional Medicine: Believed to aid digestion and improve mental clarity You can choose from pure or blended attars. The Best Premium Oud Attar is one that suits your personal style and lasts long without overpowering. With increasing interest, Premium Oud in Pakistan is now being offered by niche perfumers and online platforms. Quality and accessibility are at an all-time high. UsmanBaig is one name making waves. Known for authentic and high-grade oud, this brand is becoming a go-to for enthusiasts in Pakistan and abroad. Texture: Slightly thick, not watery Slightly thick, not watery Color: Golden brown or dark Golden brown or dark Scent Test: Deep, non-synthetic aroma that evolves over time Apply on pulse points like the wrist and behind ears. For special occasions, dab a little on your clothes or beard. Try layering it with lighter notes for a personalized effect. Keep away from heat and sunlight Use glass droppers to avoid contamination Store in a cool, dark place to preserve the aroma Premium Oud isn't just a fragrance—it's an experience. Whether you're exploring the spiritual depth, enjoying the luxury scent, or collecting rare attars, oud offers a journey like no other. From the heart of Aquilaria trees to the hands of skilled perfumers like UsmanBaig, every drop carries centuries of tradition, artistry, and soul. 1. What makes Premium Oud different from regular oud? Premium oud has a richer aroma, higher resin content, and longer-lasting effects compared to regular oud. 2. Is Premium Oud suitable for daily wear? Yes, but it's strong—use sparingly. For daily use, consider blended oud attars. 3. Can I get good Premium Oud in Pakistan? Absolutely! Premium Oud in Pakistan is now readily available, especially through trusted brands like UsmanBaig. 4. How do I store Premium Oud? Keep it in a cool, dark place and avoid plastic containers to maintain its quality. 5. Why is the Best Premium Oud Attar so expensive? It's due to the rarity of agarwood, the time-consuming extraction process, and the deep, long-lasting fragrance. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Saudi Gazette
21-05-2025
- Business
- Saudi Gazette
AWJ Investment secures 40% stake in Oud Real Estate, launching ambitious investments exceeding SR8 billion
AWJ Investment, a subsidiary of AWJ Holding, announced the acquisition of a 40% stake in Oud Real Estate. This strategic partnership is set to drive the development of branded residential, commercial, and hospitality projects, with projected investments exceeding SR8 billion over the next five years. This collaboration combines AWJ's financial expertise with Oud's innovative approach to creating lifestyle destinations that celebrate Saudi heritage. Since its establishment in 2016, Oud Real Estate has earned acclaim for its culturally infused, design-forward developments that reflect the evolving urban landscape of Saudi Arabia. Abdulaziz Al-Mousa, CEO of AWJ Holding, remarked on the significance of this partnership in relation to the Kingdom's Vision 2030: "Saudi Arabia is experiencing a renaissance in urban development, emphasizing cultural preservation, sustainability, and cohesive design. Oud Real Estate has demonstrated a profound understanding of this transformation. We are excited to collaborate with them to enhance their growth and contribute to the creation of dynamic, forward-thinking urban environments." Arc Mohammed Al-Duraibi, Founder and Managing Director of Oud Real Estate, expressed optimism about the partnership's potential: "This collaboration marks a pivotal moment for our company. It is a strategic initiative that will accelerate our expansion plans and reinforce our position in the luxury real estate sector. We are committed to designing spaces that enhance quality of life while showcasing Saudi culture through innovative design, hospitality, and architecture."The partnership will focus on key urban centers, including Riyadh and Jeddah, with an emphasis on developing distinctive, upscale destinations that seamlessly integrate Saudi authenticity with contemporary urban living. Oud's design philosophy draws inspiration from local narratives, customs, and hospitality, reimagined through a modern architectural demand for high-end real estate continues to rise in the Kingdom, the AWJ-Oud collaboration aims to set new standards in quality and cultural relevance. Both companies share a vision to create iconic destinations that embody Saudi Arabia's confidence, creativity, and aspirations on the global stage.
