Sunlight, Spritzes, and Riviera Spirit

L’Estate Chic Brunch at Chic Nonna – where Mediterranean glamour meets timeless Italian cuisine

Natasha Dury

In a city that thrives on elevated experiences, Chic Nonna has firmly secured its place as one of Dubai’s most refined dining destinations. Located in the heart of DIFC, this Italian gem combines classical culinary heritage with contemporary sophistication. And now, with the launch of L’Estate Chic, Chic Nonna delivers not just a meal, but a summer reverie worthy of the Riviera. As a foodie, I ventured there recently with a group of friends and can firmly say we had an memorable dining experience.

As soon as we stepped into the grand, yet warmly elegant interiors of Chic Nonna, we were greeted by an ambience that felt both exclusive and welcoming. The soaring ceilings, soft golden tones, and rich textures set the stage for a gastronomic experience that is as thoughtfully designed as the space itself. This is not your average brunch—it is a curated Italian journey brought to life by the precision and passion of Executive Chef Francesco Torcasio.

Chef Francesco, whose culinary story began in Calabria and has since spanned iconic kitchens across Italy, London, and Dubai, brings an unmistakable authenticity to every dish. As the creative force behind Chic Nonna’s kitchen, his style is rooted in Italian tradition but elevated through modern techniques and luxurious presentation.

At L’Estate Chic, this philosophy is in full bloom. The brunch menu unfolds like a love letter to Italian summer dining. Think delicately seasoned seafood dishes, handmade pasta that melts on the palate, and indulgent yet balanced main courses designed to be shared and savoured.

The atmosphere is a visual and sensory delight. Inspired by the Italian Riviera, the summer brunch offers a sun-kissed experience inside and out. Crisp white linens, cheerful parasols, and a Mediterranean playlist turn this DIFC venue into a seaside escape with refreshing signature drinks.

We felt the live music struck just the right balance between lively and luxurious, allowing conversation and indulgence to flow in harmony. Every detail, from the attentive service to the carefully paired drinks, reinforces Chic Nonna’s reputation for delivering excellence with ease.

Our verdict after three hours of pure indulgence made us realise we experienced so much more than just a brunch – L’Estate Chic gave us a chance to pause, indulge, and transport ourselves to the Italian coast without leaving Dubai. It was an afternoon of culinary storytelling, where every bite told a tale of heritage, every sip captured the joy of summer, and every moment felt like a celebration of la dolce vita.

Etihad Airways and SKY express Join Forces to Unlock the Greek Islands

New codeshare partnership opens up seamless travel to 24 breathtaking destinations across Greece and beyond

Natasha Dury

Etihad Airways has expanded its European footprint through a strategic new codeshare partnership with Greece’s regional carrier, SKY express. This partnership marks a significant leap forward in Mediterranean connectivity, granting travellers streamlined access to 24 stunning Greek island destinations, as well as three additional cities across the Eastern Mediterranean.

For discerning travellers flying from Abu Dhabi to Athens, the announcement offers more than a gateway, it opens the door to a collection of sun-kissed islands and historic cities that have long captured the imagination of luxury globetrotters. From the glamour of Mykonos to the volcanic beauty of Santorini, from the serenity of Paros to the grandeur of Crete, the collaboration is designed to enhance the travel experience by offering a single booking and seamless onward connections.

Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways, commented, “This partnership with SKY express opens exciting new possibilities for our customers to discover Greece beyond Athens. SKY express’s comprehensive island network perfectly complements our Athens service, giving travellers seamless access to some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful destinations through a single booking.”

The codeshare agreement sees Etihad placing its EY code on SKY express flights departing from Athens to islands including Rhodes, Kos, Corfu, and Thessaloniki—turning the Greek capital into a key hub for onward Mediterranean travel. Whether one is seeking a tranquil escape in the Ionian Sea or an adventure through the Cycladic isles, the itinerary flexibility and convenience now offered is unparalleled.

SKY express, one of Europe’s most dynamic regional airlines and a member of IATA, boasts the youngest fleet in Greece with 29 modern aircraft. Its ever-growing domestic and international network covers 33 Greek and 26 foreign destinations.

Gerasimos Skaltsas, Chief Commercial Officer at SKY express, noted, “The collaboration with Etihad is a strong vote of confidence in SKY express, reinforcing our position as a reliable partner and significantly enhancing our connectivity. Passengers can now enjoy seamless access to the largest network of Greek destinations, served by the youngest fleet in Greece.”

This new offering is particularly appealing to travellers seeking comfort, efficiency, and a taste of Greece’s famed hospitality. From simplified check-in and baggage transfers to coordinated schedules, the customer journey has been thoughtfully curated for a smooth, stress-free experience. Whether you’re planning a bespoke honeymoon, a luxurious cultural tour, or a sun-soaked family holiday, the expanded route map now allows for endless possibilities—without the hassle.

In uniting their strengths, Etihad Airways and SKY express are not only enhancing regional access, but also reaffirming Athens’ strategic role as a bridge between the Gulf and Europe. For luxury travellers with an eye on the Aegean, the journey just became as rewarding as the destination.

Everyday Versatility with a Sporty Edge

The New Škoda Octavia and Octavia RS Redefine Everyday Performance

Natasha Dury

I recently travelled to Abu Dhabi for an unforgettable driving experience with Škoda Middle East, celebrating the arrival of the all-new Octavia and its sportiest sibling yet, the Octavia RS. Over two immersive days, we explored the cars’ dynamic potential on the iconic Yas Marina Circuit and the open roads of the capital. From track sessions and slalom challenges, this was an experience that underscored how Škoda is pushing the boundaries of refinement and performance in the midsize sedan segment.

Exterior

The Octavia has always been a striking car, but the latest generation sharpens its appeal with crisper lines and a more assertive stance. Signature LED Matrix headlights and the sleek, coupe-like silhouette bring a sense of understated sophistication. The RS version cranks up the drama: gloss black trim, larger alloy wheels, and a distinctive honeycomb grille announce its performance credentials without shouting too loudly. It’s a design that feels equally at home outside a five-star hotel or carving up a mountain road.

Interior

Inside, the Octavia impresses with a cabin that blends practicality with a premium feel. The clean, horizontal dash design is accentuated by a large floating touchscreen and high-grade materials. Even in the standard model, comfort is paramount, with supportive seats and plenty of room in both rows. The RS elevates the experience further with sport seats, contrasting stitching, and RS-specific touches that hint at the car’s athletic character. The digital cockpit is crisp and intuitive, delivering key driving information at a glance. We did a boot packing challenge and found that it is possible to fit a lot of goods in over 600 litres of space – perfect for families.

Technology

Škoda’s “Simply Clever” ethos shines through the Octavia’s tech suite. Both models feature the latest infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the RS adds driving modes and customizable displays. A head-up display projects speed and navigation directly into your line of sight, and advanced driver assistance systems, like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping that make long trips effortless. I even had the car tell me jokes which made the drive enjoyable.

Performance

On the track, the Octavia RS was nothing short of a revelation. The steering is direct and confidence-inspiring, and the adaptive suspension strikes an impressive balance between control and comfort. The Octavia range offers two compelling powertrains: a refined 1.4 TSI delivering 150 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque for confident everyday driving, and the thrilling 2.0T VRS variant that unleashes 245 horsepower and 370 Nm of torque, paired with a smooth-shifting 7-speed automatic transmission in both models. Even the standard Octavia impressed with its refined ride and composed handling during the on-road test drive. Whether in everyday commuting or spirited driving, both models feel composed, agile, and genuinely enjoyable.

Final Verdict

After two days behind the wheel, it is clear the new Škoda Octavia and Octavia RS are more than just practical sedans. They are versatile, driver-focused machines that deliver real character. With fresh design, advanced technology, and an engaging driving experience, they set a high bar for midsize cars in the UAE. 

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Badminton Legend PV Sindhu Inspires Fans at Al Wahda Mall

Abu Dhabi, UAE – Al Wahda Mall was abuzz with excitement on June 28th as PV Sindhu, India’s badminton superstar and Olympic medalist, visited the capital for a special appearance in collaboration with Yonex.

The event, held by Al Wahda Mall and Adler Sports store, Abu Dhabi’s official Yonex store in Al Wahda Mall, welcomed fans of all ages eager to meet the world champion whose achievements have inspired millions across the globe. As the queen of the court stepped into the store, cheers erupted and smiles lit up the space, setting the tone for an afternoon full of memorable moments.

During the meet and greet, PV Sindhu graciously signed autographs, posed for photos, and shared words of encouragement with aspiring athletes and admirers. From young badminton enthusiasts clutching racquets to families excited to witness sporting greatness up close, the turnout reflected the deep admiration and respect Sindhu commands worldwide.

Adler Sports, renowned for offering a premium selection of Yonex tennis and badminton equipment, served as the perfect backdrop for the celebration of dedication, performance, and sporting excellence.

“It was an honour to welcome PV Sindhu to Al Wahda Mall,” said Mayank Pal, General Manager of Al Wahda Mall. “Her achievements have inspired so many across generations, and this event perfectly reflects our vision to connect our shoppers with remarkable personalities who embody passion and excellence.”

The event underscored Al Wahda Mall’s commitment to bringing exclusive experiences to the heart of Abu Dhabi, creating opportunities for the community to engage with global icons and brands.

As PV Sindhu departed to a chorus of applause, it was clear her visit left a lasting impression, not just on her fans, but on everyone inspired by her journey from court to world stage.

Line Investments & Property Concludes UAE’s Biggest Summer Shopping Carnival with Exciting Car Giveaways

Abu Dhabi, UAE: Line Investments & Property SP LLC, the shopping mall development and management arm of Lulu International Holdings Ltd, has successfully concluded the much-anticipated Summer Shopping Carnival, a dynamic month-long festival that transformed the retail experience across 12 malls in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra.

The Summer Shopping Carnival offered visitors 31 days of exclusive promotions, global-themed experiences, cultural activations, live entertainment, and the chance to win exceptional prizes. Shoppers who spent AED 200 or more had the opportunity to enter two types of draws: a digital raffle draw to win brand-new Chevrolet Spark EUV vehicles presented by Bin Hamoodah Auto, and a physical raffle draw to win all-inclusive travel packages from Nex World Travel and Tourism LLC. These exciting prize opportunities added another layer of engagement and anticipation to the festival experience.

Throughout the campaign, each participating mall brought unique cultural celebrations to life. Al Wahda Mall, Al Raha Mall, and Mushrif Mall highlighted vibrant European festivals, while Al Foah Mall and Al Falah Central Mall celebrated the rich heritage of the UAE and GCC. Khalidiyah Mall presented an immersive Egyptian theme, and Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre showcased colorful Chinese traditions. Forsan Central Mall and Barrari Outlet Mall brought to life the spirit of Middle Eastern culture, while Mazyad Mall and Al Dhafra Mall offered a captivating blend of Asian and Middle Eastern experiences.Shawamekh Central Mall also participated in the campaign. The initiative underscored the company’s commitment to creating immersive experiences that connect communities and celebrate diversity.

The highlight of the carnival was the announcement of the winners of the coveted Chevrolet Spark EUVs. Over four weeks of draws, Ahammed Paramban, Ayisha Ali, Sayed Kamaluddin, Mahmoud, and Ahmed Farouk Mohammed Ahmed were among the lucky shoppers whose visits turned into life-changing moments as they won brand-new vehicles.

Commenting on the success of the campaign, Wajeb Al Khoury, Director of Line Investments & Property, stated, “The Summer Shopping Carnival has once again demonstrated our dedication to delivering vibrant, rewarding experiences that bring people together. We are proud to see the excitement and joy this initiative has created, not only for our winners but for all the visitors who joined us to celebrate culture, community, and innovation.”

Biju George, General Manager of Line Investments & Property, added, “The response to the Summer Shopping Carnival has been truly inspiring. Our vision was to create a destination where families could enjoy rewarding experiences beyond traditional retail, and the overwhelming participation shows how much our communities value these shared moments. We look forward to continuing to elevate the shopping journey across all our malls.”

Ayman Al Bijawi, Director of Sales & Marketing at Bin Hamoodah Auto said, “Partnering with Line Investments & Property on this landmark campaign has been a fantastic opportunity to showcase the Chevrolet Spark EUV and connect with customers in meaningful ways. Seeing the excitement on the winners’ faces as they received their new vehicles was a powerful reminder of the impact such initiatives can have.”

Mohammed Yahya, Chairman of Nex World Travel and Tourism LLC, said: “This partnership with Line Investments & Property has provided exceptional exposure to thousands of potential customers throughout their extensive mall network. We’re thrilled to offer these international travel packages to destinations worldwide, and seeing the excitement of winners heading off to amazing locations has been incredibly rewarding.”

The Summer Shopping Carnival reflects Line Investments & Property’s vision to redefine the shopping centre experience through experiential retail and strategic collaborations, setting a benchmark for engaging and value-driven campaigns in the region.

THE WORLD PARK FOR PEACE LAUNCHES IN THE UAE AMID GLOBAL CALL FOR UNITY AND HOPE

Initiative supported byShaikh Ali Abdalla Rashid Nasir Almulla and International Opera Singer Inva Mula.

In a world increasingly fractured by conflict and uncertainty, the launch of the World Park for Peace in Dubai offers a timely and powerful symbol of hope, unity, and sustainability. Set within the historic Al Fahidi area, the park is an immersive exhibition that speaks a universal language – the language of peace through the eyes and imagination of children. The park opening was attended by well known local Emirati artist, Shaikh Ali Abdalla Rashid Nasir Almulla and International Opera Singer, Inva Mula.

The World Park for Peace invites visitors on a moving journey through creatively curated spaces that reflect the core elements of the universe. Each room has been transformed to evoke emotion and inspiration, showcasing the profound connection between humanity, nature, and our shared future. At the heart of this experience is a global collection of more than 200,000 drawings till today from over 152 countries, a visual testament to the universal yearning for peace.

This monumental initiative stems from a decade-long movement led by the Association Colors for Peace. Over the past ten years, children aged 4 to 12 from every continent have contributed their visions of peace, resulting in one of the world’s most extensive children’s art archives dedicated to harmony and understanding.

Founder Aurela Cuku, whose vision brought the World Park for Peace to life, expressed the deeper mission behind the project. “In a time when the world is seeking answers, we are choosing to listen to the quiet voices of children. These are voices that imagine a world without war, without fear, and without division,” said Cuku. “The World Park for Peace is not just an exhibition; it is a call to action. It is a tangible space where nations connect without borders, where art becomes diplomacy, and where children lead the way toward a peaceful tomorrow.”

The transformation of the House of Peace honors Dubai’s heritage while creating a global dialogue rooted in innocence, creativity, and sustainable values. As the UAE continues to champion cultural tolerance and coexistence, this landmark project is set to become a cornerstone of international cultural diplomacy and a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.

The World Park for Peace is now partly open to the public, offering a unique and timely opportunity to witness the extraordinary power of art, imagination, and unity — through the eyes of a child.

Al Wahda Mall Unveils Spectacular Eid and Summer Festive Fun and Entertainment Lineup

Abu Dhabi, UAE – Al Wahda Mall, one of the capital’s most beloved family shopping and lifestyle destinations, is gearing up to welcome the Eid holidays and the start of summer with an exciting calendar of family-focused entertainment.

Known for its engaging community events and immersive mall experiences, Al Wahda Mall will be transformed into a playground of joy and celebration throughout June 2025, featuring world-class interactive performances and children’s activities.

Taking center stage this Eid is the internationally popular Paw Patrol IP Event on 6–7 June 2025, where children will have the rare opportunity to meet their favorite heroic pups in person. Held from 5–8 and 13–14 June 2025, the Eid and summer event promises a dynamic mix of character appearances and creative kids’ workshops designed to inspire imagination and deliver hands-on fun in a safe, interactive setting.

The Eid festivities will continue with a lineup of delightful roaming entertainment. Balloon Benders will entertain young audiences with their colorful creations on 5th and 8th June, while lovable roaming mascots will bring photo-worthy moments to families strolling through the mall on 6–7 June 2025. From 13–15 June 2025, expect to encounter the whimsical antics of the Football Heads and Taxi Drivers on Rollers, injecting humor and energy into every shopper’s journey.

Adding a theatrical twist to the celebrations, Al Wahda Mall will also host the Queen’s Guard Dancers on 20–21 June 2025. These uniquely choreographed performances fuse the elegance of royal ceremony with the rhythm and creativity of modern dance, offering a must-see spectacle for visitors of all ages.

“This Eid, Al Wahda Mall is all about celebrating joy, family time, and community spirit. Our aim is to make the mall a destination where families can come together not just to shop, but to experience fun, laughter, and entertainment, all under one roof,” said Mr. Mayank M Pal, General Manager of Al Wahda Mall. “We welcome residents and tourists alike to join us in this festive celebration and enjoy the interactive experiences, special photo ops, and surprises lined up for kids and families.”

All activities will take place at Al Wahda Mall in Abu Dhabi and are free for visitors to enjoy, reinforcing the mall’s commitment to providing accessible and memorable experiences for everyone this festive season. Whether you’re celebrating Eid or looking for summer fun, Al Wahda Mall promises entertainment that will delight the entire family.

Line Investments & Property Heats Up the Season with the UAE’s Biggest Summer Shopping Carnival – Your Passport to Prizes!

Abu Dhabi, UAE: Line Investments & Property SP LLC, the shopping mall development and management arm of Lulu International Holdings Ltd, has officially launched the much-anticipated Summer Shopping Carnival, a month-long retail festival set to transform the shopping experience across 12 malls in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra from 30 May to 29 June 2025.

The Summer Shopping Carnival is designed to celebrate community, culture, and commerce by offering an immersive retail experience combining exclusive promotions, cultural festivities, and life-changing raffle draws. 

Shoppers who spend AED 200 or more at any participating outlet can register their receipts and enter a digital raffle draw for the chance to win brand-new Chevrolet Spark EUV presented by Bin Hamoodah Auto, the campaign’s title partner.

In addition to this, they will receive a Mall Passport with exclusive offers from participating malls. While exploring entertainment and retail options, they can collect five stamps from different malls to enter a draw for all-inclusive travel packages from Nex World Travel and Tourism LLC.

Commenting on the initiative, Wajeb Al Khoury, Director of Line Investments & Property, stated: “The Summer Shopping Carnival is not only a celebration of summer, but a reflection of our commitment to delivering vibrant and rewarding experiences for the communities we serve. By combining global cultural themes, attractive prizes, and family-focused entertainment, we aim to reinforce our position as a leading force in the region’s retail landscape.”

Each participating mall will feature a distinct cultural theme, providing shoppers with a glimpse into traditions from around the world. Al Wahda Mall, Al Raha Mall, and Mushrif Mall will highlight European festivals, while Al Foah Mall and Al Falah Central Mall will celebrate UAE and GCC heritage. Khalidiyah Mall will present an Egyptian theme, Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre will showcase Chinese traditions, Forsan Central Mall and Barrari Outlet Mall will bring to life Middle Eastern culture, and Mazyad Mall and Al Dhafra Mall will feature a blend of Asian and Middle Eastern experiences.

Biju George, General Manager of Line Investments & Property, shared:
“The Summer Shopping Carnival reflects our vision to transform malls into vibrant community destinations. By combining exciting rewards, global cultural themes, and engaging entertainment, we are creating experiences that go beyond traditional shopping. This initiative is about building connections, enriching everyday moments, and offering our visitors more reasons to return — again and again.”

Ayman Al Bijawi, Director of Sales & Marketing at Bin Hamoodah Auto, added,“We’re proud to partner with Line Investments & Property for this year’s Summer Shopping Carnival, an initiative that brings communities together and highlights innovation in customer experience. As part of this campaign, we’re showcasing the all-new electric Chevrolet Spark EUV from Bin Hamoodah Auto, a vehicle that represents the future of smart, sustainable mobility. With its zero-emissions performance, modern design, and advanced technology, the Spark EUV reflects our commitment to driving innovation and delivering real value to our customers.”

“Our partnership with Line Investments & Property for the Summer Shopping Carnival reflects a mutual commitment to enriching communities through immersive, value-driven experiences,” said Mohmmed Yahya, Chairman of Nex World Travel and Tourism LLC. “At Nex World, we create journeys that connect people, cultures, and dreams. This is why this initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver travel experiences that are purposeful, memorable, and globally inspired.”

This initiative reflects Line Investments & Property’s ongoing mission to innovate across the shopping centre ecosystem through strategic marketing and experiential retail.

Forsan Central Mall Welcomes Nine International brands by Apparel Group

Leading names in fashion, beauty, and lifestyle are now open at Khalifa City’s premier destination

Forsan Central Mall, a key retail and lifestyle destination in Khalifa City, has expanded its portfolio with the introduction of nine prominent brands from the Apparel Group. This development underscores the mall’s commitment to providing diverse and high-quality shopping experiences to its community.​

The newly opened outlets include ALDO, Beverly Hills Polo Club (BHPC), CROCS, LEVIS, SKECHERS, STEVE MADDEN, ACO, RITUALS, and COLD STONE Creamery. These additions offer shoppers a wide range of options, from contemporary fashion and footwear to premium beauty products and delightful treats.​

“Our collaboration with Apparel Group continues to bring esteemed international brands closer to our patrons,” said Mr. Biju George, General Manager of the Abu Dhabi Region at Line Investments & Property SP-LLC. “These new openings enhance the mall’s appeal and provide our visitors with an enriched shopping experience.”​

Mr. Binas Basheer, General Manager of Forsan Central Mall, added, “We aim to create a destination that seamlessly combines convenience with quality. The introduction of these brands aligns with our vision to cater to the evolving preferences of our community.”​

Complementing this retail expansion, Line Investments & Property SP-LLC introduces the LAKA Gift Card, now available at Forsan Central Mall. Accepted at over 4,000 stores across 19 malls in the UAE, the card offers flexible denominations and the option to include personalized video messages via QR code. It’s free of charge and can be obtained from customer service desks at participating malls, making it an ideal gifting solution for various occasions.​

With these strategic additions, Forsan Central Mall reinforces its position as a comprehensive lifestyle hub, offering a blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment options tailored to the needs of Khalifa City’s residents.

COMICAVE™ to unite Fans with a spectacular weekend celebrating Free Comic Book Day and Star Wars Day

Pop culture enthusiasts across the UAE are in for a treat as COMICAVE™ prepares to host an action-packed weekend celebrating Free Comic Book Day and Star Wars Day. Taking place on May 3rd and 4th at the Dubai Outlet Mall Dome Area, the two-day extravaganza promises an unforgettable experience for fans of comics, gaming, and galactic adventure.

Running from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM each day, the free-to-attend event will feature an array of immersive activities designed to entertain visitors of all ages. Guests can look forward to special free comic book giveaways, offering a selection of exclusive titles and collector’s editions as part of the global Free Comic Book Day initiative.

Adding to the excitement, international comic artists from major publishing houses including Marvel and DC Comics will be present for meet-and-greet sessions, live signings, and art demonstrations, giving fans a rare opportunity to interact with the creative minds behind their favorite characters.

In celebration of Star Wars Day (May the 4th), the event will showcase Star Wars cosplay encounters, where attendees can meet and snap photos with professional cosplayers portraying iconic heroes and villains from a galaxy far, far away.

The festivities continue with tabletop gaming demos, offering visitors the chance to test their skills with popular board games, including Star Wars-themed titles. Competitive spirits will also thrive with TCG (Trading Card Game) showdowns and Beyblade tournaments, providing thrilling challenges for players of all levels.

Throughout the weekend, attendees can participate in live competitions, raffle draws for a chance to win exclusive merchandise and limited-edition collectibles. With something for everyone, from families and collectors to gamers and lifelong fans, the COMICAVE™ celebration is set to be one of Dubai’s most vibrant pop culture event of the season.

Admission is free, making it the ultimate weekend destination for anyone looking to celebrate creativity, fandom, and the spirit of adventure.

For more information, visit www.comicave.com or follow @ComicaveUAE on social media.