Author: Business & Lifestyle Publishing

A snapshot of all things lifestyle by Island girls Shereen Shabnam and Natasha Dury.

The One Atelier Unveils The One Capital as Tokenisation Reshapes Luxury Real Estate

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Natasha Dury

Real estate continues to evolve beyond architecture and location into the realms of branding, technology and experiential value, and The One Atelier is positioning itself at the forefront of the sector’s next transformation. The company has officially launched The One Capital, a blockchain-driven platform focused on tokenisation within branded residential development, marking a significant step in the convergence of luxury property and digital asset infrastructure.

The initiative builds upon The One Atelier’s growing portfolio of internationally recognised branded residential projects associated with some of the world’s most influential luxury names, including Karl Lagerfeld, Fendi Casa, ETRO, Armani Casa, ELLE and Dolce & Gabbana. Many of these developments have demonstrated notable value appreciation between early launch phases and market maturity, reinforcing the increasing demand for branded living experiences among global luxury buyers.

Branded residences have become one of the fastest-expanding sectors within international real estate, driven by buyers seeking not only exclusivity and design pedigree, but also lifestyle identity and long-term value. According to Savills’ Branded Residences Report, such properties can command premiums of up to 33 percent compared to non-branded counterparts, with the sector expected to surpass 1,000 schemes globally by the end of 2026.

Against this backdrop, The One Capital introduces a new approach to early-stage development financing through tokenised real-world asset structures. Rather than focusing solely on completed assets, the platform targets value creation at the earliest stages of branded residential projects, supporting development during pre-launch and early construction phases through blockchain-enabled infrastructure.

The concept reflects the growing maturity of tokenisation within the broader financial and property landscape. By digitally representing selected assets through secure blockchain frameworks, The One Capital aims to create more transparent and structured approaches to capital deployment while maintaining the governance and quality standards expected within ultra-luxury development.

For developers, the platform presents an alternative financing route capable of strengthening early cash flow structures and supporting project alignment from inception. The emphasis remains firmly on structure, transparency and long-term value creation rather than speculative technology narratives that have often overshadowed blockchain discussions in the past.

The launch also signals a wider transformation underway within branded real estate itself. Once viewed primarily as hospitality-adjacent luxury developments, branded residences are increasingly becoming sophisticated investment ecosystems where design, technology, lifestyle and finance intersect. In this context, The One Capital shows how luxury property development is adapting to a more digitally connected and globally fluid financial landscape.

Art Dubai at 20 as it Helps Shape a Cultural Capital

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Natasha Dury

Dubai has spent the last two decades redefining itself as a global crossroads for commerce, design, innovation and luxury, and Art Dubai has quietly become one of its most influential cultural success stories. What began as an ambitious regional art fair has evolved into an institution that mirrors Dubai itself: international in outlook, rooted in diversity, and constantly evolving. This year, as Art Dubai prepares for a specially modified 20th anniversary edition at Madinat Jumeirah, the fair is not simply celebrating longevity. It is reaffirming Dubai’s growing confidence as one of the world’s most dynamic cultural capitals.

The special edition arrives during a moment of global uncertainty for the art market, yet its tone is notably optimistic. Presented in partnership with A.R.M. Holding, with Dubai Culture & Arts Authority serving as strategic partner, the fair places collaboration, accessibility and resilience at the centre of its vision. Free public entry, expanded institutional partnerships and a renewed focus on dialogue and shared experiences suggest an event designed less around exclusivity and more around cultural participation.

For many in the region, Art Dubai has always been more than a conventional art fair. Executive Director Benedetta Ghione describes it as “an international platform for this region’s cultural scene as it matures,” a statement that feels especially relevant in 2026. Rather than presenting art as an isolated luxury commodity, Art Dubai continues to position itself as part of a wider creative ecosystem, bringing together artists, galleries, collectors, institutions and audiences in ways few fairs globally have managed to sustain.

This year’s special edition reflects that ambition through a carefully curated programme spanning contemporary, modern and digital art practices. Around 75 presentations from galleries, institutions and partners will fill the halls of Madinat Jumeirah, with nearly 60 percent drawn from the region itself. The fair remains deeply connected to the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia while simultaneously expanding its global reach, reinforcing Dubai’s role as a meeting point between East and West.

The gallery programme is particularly significant. Alongside long-standing international exhibitors that have supported the region for decades, the fair also shines a spotlight on Dubai-based galleries that have grown in parallel with Art Dubai’s rise. New exhibitors join established names, creating a blend of emerging voices and internationally recognised institutions that reflects the city’s increasingly sophisticated cultural identity. In a notable response to current market pressures, the fair has also introduced an innovative risk-sharing model where gallery booth costs are linked to sales success, a move that underscores Art Dubai’s reputation for experimentation and adaptability.

Yet the real heartbeat of Art Dubai lies beyond the booths themselves. Increasingly, the fair’s importance is measured not only by what hangs on walls, but by the conversations and collaborations it enables. This year’s programming expands significantly through partnerships with some of the UAE’s leading cultural institutions, including Alserkal Avenue, Art Jameel, Barjeel Art Foundation, Sharjah Art Foundation and the Dubai Collection.

Among the highlights is “Made Forward,” a major presentation from Dubai Collection, the city’s first institutional collection of modern and contemporary art. Elsewhere, the 20th edition of the Global Art Forum, commissioned by Shumon Basar under the title “Before and After Everything,” promises the kind of cross-disciplinary discussions that have become synonymous with Art Dubai’s identity. Performance-led programming curated with Sharjah Art Foundation, moving-image collaborations with Alserkal Avenue, and large-scale installations integrated throughout the fair further blur the boundaries between exhibition, public engagement and cultural dialogue.

Digital art also continues to play a defining role in the fair’s evolution. Over recent years, Art Dubai has emerged as one of the few international fairs willing to seriously champion digital and immersive practices beyond trend-driven novelty. Its continued emphasis on digital culture reflects Dubai’s own future-facing mindset, positioning the city at the forefront of conversations surrounding technology, creativity and cultural production.

What makes this year especially compelling, however, is the sense of reflection underpinning the anniversary edition. There is a recognition that Art Dubai’s journey has become inseparable from Dubai’s broader cultural narrative. Over two decades, the fair has helped nurture collectors, supported regional artists, encouraged institutional growth and contributed to the city’s increasingly visible creative confidence on the global stage.

In many ways, the fair’s evolution mirrors Dubai’s own transformation. Both began as ambitious propositions often underestimated by outsiders. Both have grown through boldness, adaptability and a willingness to challenge conventional models. And both now occupy a position where global attention is no longer about potential, but influence.

The desire to create is one of the deepest yearnings of the human soul.” 

– Dieter F. Uchdorf-

New Space for Movement, Reset and Reconnection

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A female founder-led wellness destination, Villa BOOST invites a return to movement as a source of grounding in uncertain moments.

Natasha Dury

For those seeking moments of grounding, connection, and calm, Villa BOOST opens its doors in Al Safa, Jumeirah as a community-driven wellness destination designed to help people slow down, reconnect with their bodies, and return to mindful movement.

Founded by entrepreneur and wellness advocate Rania Zorkot alongside partner and brand ambassador Christelle Fourzali, Villa BOOST blends reformer and Lagree-inspired training with recovery-focused experiences and lifestyle-led wellness within an intimate villa setting designed to feel more like a home than a traditional studio.

More than simply a movement and recovery space, Villa BOOST positions itself as a modern “third space”, somewhere guests can train, recover, connect, and spend time throughout the day.

The concept builds on Rania’s long-standing philosophy around movement as both physical and mental grounding. More than a decade ago, she introduced Reformer Pilates to Abidjan through her first concept, FORM, cultivating a loyal community through results-driven training and a deeply personal approach to wellness.

That journey later evolved into the BOOST method, a balanced fusion of Pilates, Lagree, strength, and recovery designed around intelligent movement and sustainable wellbeing. Following the success of BOOST City Walk, which opened in Dubai in 2022, Villa BOOST expands the concept through a more immersive lifestyle experience shaped equally by community and mindful living.

The villa offers a curated mix of Reformer Pilates, Megaformer and Microformer sessions, infrared heated workouts, Cadillac Pilates, sculpt and conditioning classes, mobility training, assisted stretching, red light therapy, and Brazilian lymphatic massage in partnership with Lymph & Flow.

Beyond movement, guests can also experience TEASE, the villa’s wellness café serving functional smoothies and nutrient-rich drinks, alongside The Sweatshop, a retail concept featuring carefully selected international activewear and athleisure brands.

House of Samra Opens Its Doors to Emirati Jewellery Talent

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A New Retail Initiative Bringing Local Design into Dubai’s Luxury Shopping Landscape

Natasha Dury

We live in an ecosystem that is celebrated for its luxury retail experiences and global fashion presence and House of Samra is turning the spotlight toward homegrown creativity with the launch of House of Samra: Emirati Talent Showcase, a new initiative created in collaboration with Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development.

Designed to support emerging Emirati jewellery designers, the programme reflects a growing movement within the UAE’s retail landscape, one that increasingly values local craftsmanship, cultural identity, and entrepreneurial innovation alongside international luxury.

At the heart of the initiative is a simple yet powerful concept: giving Emirati designers direct access to premium retail environments and luxury consumers. Through the programme, selected jewellery designers will showcase their collections inside House of Samra boutiques located across some of Dubai’s most prestigious shopping destinations, including Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Hills Mall, and Dubai Festival City Mall.

The initiative arrives at a time when luxury retail is evolving beyond transactional shopping into something more experiential and community-driven. Consumers are increasingly seeking authenticity, storytelling, and individuality, qualities often found within independent and locally rooted brands. By integrating Emirati jewellery designers into its flagship retail spaces, House of Samra creates an environment where regional creativity can exist alongside established luxury retail experiences.

The collaboration also highlights the wider ambitions of Dubai’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Supported by Dubai SME, part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, the initiative aligns with the emirate’s broader vision of nurturing Emirati businesses and positioning Dubai as a global hub for innovation, creativity, and luxury commerce under the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.

For House of Samra, the programme reinforces its identity not only as a fine jewellery maison, but as a platform invested in the future of regional design. Established in the UAE, the brand has built its reputation around refined craftsmanship and timeless elegance, and this latest initiative extends that philosophy into mentorship, visibility, and retail opportunity for the next generation of Emirati creatives.

Within Dubai’s highly competitive luxury retail market, the move feels both commercially intelligent and culturally significant. It recognises that the future of luxury retail lies not only in international names, but also in elevating local voices capable of bringing fresh perspectives and meaningful storytelling into the shopping experience.

Dubai Accelerates E-Commerce Growth Through Business-Friendly Regulation

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Natasha Dury

Dubai continues to strengthen its position as a leading global business hub, underpinned by a regulatory framework designed to enable growth, innovation and operational agility. A key enabler of this environment is the emirate’s streamlined approach to licensing, which allows retail, trading and F&B businesses to expand into digital channels without the need for additional approvals, provided activities remain within their existing scope.

This flexibility reflects Dubai’s broader economic philosophy, reducing friction for businesses while creating clear, scalable pathways for expansion. As a result, companies across sectors are increasingly integrating e-commerce and delivery platforms into their operations, unlocking new revenue streams and reaching wider customer bases while maintaining full regulatory compliance.

Under the current framework, licensed businesses can seamlessly adopt digital sales channels, from launching proprietary online stores to leveraging established marketplaces and digital payment systems. This accessibility significantly lowers barriers to entry, particularly for SMEs and emerging entrepreneurs, enabling faster market participation in an increasingly digital economy.

The F&B sector has similarly benefited from this progressive approach. Licensed establishments are able to partner with approved delivery platforms, extending their reach beyond physical locations without compromising compliance standards. This has allowed operators to diversify income streams and enhance customer engagement in a highly competitive market.

Commenting recently on the evolving landscape, Ahmad Khalifa AlQaizi AlFalasi, CEO of Dubai Business Registration and Licensing Corporation (DBLC), emphasised the emirate’s commitment to fostering a supportive ecosystem for businesses of all sizes. He highlighted that Dubai’s regulatory framework is designed to minimise barriers while enabling companies to scale efficiently, leveraging digital channels to sustain growth and strengthen resilience.

Further reinforcing this ecosystem is the Dubai Traders programme, introduced under the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33. The initiative provides a structured pathway for businesses to enter and expand within the e-commerce space, offering preferential onboarding, competitive rates and dedicated support across key digital platforms. By facilitating smoother integration into online marketplaces, the programme accelerates digital adoption and enhances competitiveness at both local and regional levels.

Together, these measures position Dubai as a forward-looking economy where regulatory clarity and practical enablement converge. By empowering businesses to adapt quickly, embrace digital transformation and scale with confidence, the emirate continues to build a resilient and future-ready commercial landscape.

A Night of Ribs, Rhythm and Indulgence at FRANK Meat & Taps

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Shereen Shabnam

There are restaurants you visit for a quick bite and then there are places like FRANK Meat & Taps, where the energy pulls you in before the first plate even lands on the table. Tucked away on Bluewaters Island just steps from Ain Dubai, this hip-hop-infused gastropub blends bold American comfort food with an atmosphere that feels instantly electric yet warmly welcoming.

The vibe is effortlessly cool with industrial-chic interiors, upbeat music, buzzing conversations and a crowd that reflects Dubai’s multicultural spirit. Despite the lively setting, the service remains impressively attentive. The staff are friendly without being intrusive, knowledgeable about the menu, and genuinely enthusiastic about guiding you through the experience.

We began with meat cubes that were tender, flavour-packed  and set the tone for what was to come. The corn dog delivered playful nostalgia with a crisp golden coating, popcorn and a juicy centre, while the smashed burger was everything you want from comfort food: juicy, perfectly caramelised edges, layered with just the right balance of pickles and sauce. We dined with a pescatarian who told us the prawn tempura and the salmon steak was done perfectly and a must try.

Then came the ribs and they truly are the heart of FRANK. Slow-cooked, generous, and beautifully glazed, they fall apart at the touch while still holding that satisfying bite. They are indulgent without feeling overly heavy, and it’s easy to see why they’re considered the signature order. Alongside them, the beef quesadilla offered a creamy, rich contrast, being hearty, well-seasoned and ideal for sharing.

Dessert deserves its own applause. The homemade Napoleon layered with cherry jam was delicate yet comforting, the pistachio Kunafa Fondant cleverly fused Middle Eastern texture with molten decadence, and the chocolate lava cheesecake was unapologetically indulgent. t

FRANK is not just about food; it is about mood. It is where big flavours meet big beats, where friends and family linger longer than planned, and where every dish feels generous, not just in portion, but in personality.

Inanna Reborn: A Desert Awakening of Myth, Memory and Modern Luxury

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Natasha Dury

Under the vast, open skies of Mleiha National Park, where ancient landscapes hold stories older than memory itself, a new chapter in luxury quietly unfolded. At dusk, as the desert shifted from gold to amber, Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi introduced Inanna Reborn, not merely as a fashion label, but as an immersive expression of storytelling, ritual and identity.

This was not a conventional launch. It was a moment of transformation. One where fashion, culture and symbolism converged in a setting that felt both timeless and deeply intentional. The desert became more than a backdrop; it became part of the narrative itself, reflecting the soul of a brand rooted in memory, mythology and feminine sovereignty.

The Birth of Mythic Luxury

At the heart of Inanna Reborn lies a compelling proposition: that luxury can be more than material. It can be memory, awakening and meaning. The brand introduces what it calls Mythic Luxury, a concept where couture becomes a vessel for personal transformation and ancestral remembrance. Founded by Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi after years of research into Arabian queens and mythology, the brand is deeply informed by themes explored in her recent literary work.

A Launch Rooted in Ritual and Place

Set in Mleiha, a landscape known for its archaeological and cultural significance, the launch reflected the essence of the brand with remarkable clarity. Guests were immersed in a carefully choreographed experience that included a runway presentation of the debut collection, a multisensory Chamber of Inanna installation, and an intimate showcase of selected pieces in a guest space known as The Caravan. Each element was designed to reinforce the idea of adornment as ritual rather than ornament. The result was an atmosphere that felt cinematic yet intimate, where fashion was experienced as something emotional, symbolic and deeply personal.

Fashion as Resurrection

The debut collection draws on the legacies of powerful historical women including Zenobia, Sheba, Mavia, Samsi and Abi’el, translating their strength and mystique into garments that feel both contemporary and ceremonial. There is a softness to the silhouettes, but also undeniable command. Fabrics move with grace, while structure and detail evoke a sense of quiet authority. The garments do not shout for attention; instead, they hold presence in a way that feels elegant, grounded and deeply intentional. Rather than chasing trends, the collection seems to exist outside them. It speaks to women who view clothing not simply as style, but as self-expression, armour and extension of identity.

Jewellery with Meaning

Alongside the fashion collection, Inanna Reborn also unveiled its first jewellery line: Abi’el – The Desert Oath. Rooted in Emirati heritage, the collection reinterprets traditional adornment through a contemporary lens, using silver as its central material, a historic choice long associated with Bedouin women as both adornment and portable wealth. Coin motifs, fluid forms and tactile movement give each piece the feel of a talisman rather than an accessory. These are not static objects designed merely to decorate, but meaningful pieces intended to be worn with purpose, memory and presence.

A Commitment to Craft and Conscious Luxury

What elevates Inanna Reborn even further is its clear commitment to preserving artisanal heritage. The collection incorporates techniques such as Ikat weaving, Kantha and Phulkari embroidery, Shibori dyeing, hand block printing and Pashmina craftsmanship, all living traditions sustained through meaningful collaboration with artisans. The brand also embraces a deliberately slow and intentional production model, working with natural materials such as linen, cotton and wool, while minimising waste through thoughtful design and reintegration of offcuts. The launch of Inanna Reborn offers an experience rooted in reflection, craftsmanship and emotional resonance.

Style-First Urban SUV with Substance to Match: Lynk & Co 06

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Shereen Shabnam

The Lynk & Co 06 positions itself as a design-led, tech-forward compact SUV aimed squarely at urban drivers who value individuality as much as everyday usability. Experiencing it on the roads of Dubai, the 06 feels perfectly in sync as it is compact enough to navigate tight urban spaces with ease, yet distinctive enough to stand out in a sea of more conventional crossovers.

It blends Chinese engineering with a distinctly European-influenced design philosophy, something Lynk & Co has leaned into since its inception. That dual identity comes through clearly from behind the wheel, where the car balances modern styling and digital integration with a driving experience tailored for real-world city life. Our test drive began at home near Citywalk in the heart of Dubai to weaving through tight urban streets of Bur Dubai where its compact dimensions and light steering immediately proved their worth. Out on Sheikh Zayed Road, the pace picked up, and the 06 settled into a composed, confident cruise, showing a different side to its personality.

Exterior

Visually, the 06 makes an immediate statement. It adopts Lynk & Co’s now-familiar split lighting signature, with slim daytime running lights perched high on the hood and the main headlamp units set lower into the bumper. The proportions are compact, yet the design manages to project a sense of solidity and presence. Strong character lines along the sides and contrasting trim details give it a slightly sporty edge, while the overall stance feels more “urban chic” than rugged SUV.

Interior

Inside, the cabin reflects a modern, minimalist approach with a clear focus on digital integration. The layout is clean and uncluttered, anchored by a central touchscreen and a fully digital instrument cluster. There is a noticeable influence from Volvo in the ergonomics and overall layout, which lends the interior a sense of familiarity and usability. Material quality is respectable for the segment, with soft-touch surfaces in key areas and more durable plastics lower down. The seats are supportive and styled with a slightly sporty flair, reinforcing the car’s youthful positioning. Space in the front is comfortable, while the rear seats are adequate for daily commuting.

Technology

Technology is where the 06 punches above its weight. The infotainment system is modern and responsive, offering smartphone connectivity, a clear user interface, and a suite of convenience features that would have been considered premium just a few years ago. Higher trims add a 360-degree camera system and a comprehensive set of driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping support.

The overall experience is very much screen-centric, with most functions routed through the touchscreen.

Performance

Under the hood, the Lynk & Co 06 is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing around 181 horsepower and 290 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. On paper, the numbers are solid for the segment, and on the road, they translate into brisk, confident performance. Acceleration is more than adequate for urban and highway driving, with enough punch for overtaking when needed. The transmission shifts smoothly under normal driving conditions, though it can feel slightly hesitant at low speeds, a common trait among dual-clutch setups. The ride quality leans toward comfort, absorbing road imperfections well, while the steering is light and easy, making the car particularly well-suited to city environments.

Our Verdict

First impressions are clear that Lynk & Co 06 comes with a distinct sense of style and a strong focus on technology, positioning itself as a fresh alternative for drivers who want something that reflects the energy and individuality of discerning drivers. The Lynk & Co 06 stands out visually and offers strong value for money and filled with safe, predictable options which ultimately, is its biggest strength.

Discover Heritage & Nahar by Batlah

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Curated scents for the discerning connoisseur

Natasha Dury

Batlah, the Saudi-born brand of niche luxury fragrances, unveils its new limited-collection scents, Heritage and Nahar, a refined tribute to tradition and serenity. 

Heritage, heralded as a royal heirloom, is crafted from a century-old formula featuring Taif Rose top notes, a heart of Musk, and a deep Oud base, an enduring symbol of cultural legacy passed through generations. Nahar captures the essence of serene mornings, opening with Taif Rose, unfolding into a heart of Taif Rose and Frankincense, and settling into a warm Ambergris base. 

Whether you’re choosing a gift for someone special or a signature scent for your own celebrations, it’s an effortless way to bring a touch of timeless elegance to the month. With every note, Batlah reaffirms its place at the pinnacle of artisanal perfumery, offering a rare sensory experience for those who seek the extraordinary and demand the divine.

Scent, Skin and Story: Emma Hamsa’s Debut Redefines Modern Perfumery

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Natasha Dury

With fragrance deeply tied to identity, ritual and emotion, a new homegrown niche fragrance house makes a quietly compelling entrance. Emma Hamsa introduces The First Light, a debut collection of Extrait de Parfum shaped by memory, family legacy and a distinctly skin-centric approach to scent.

Founded by entrepreneur and Creative Director Emma Hamsa, the collection was developed over the course of a year in collaboration with an established French fragrance house. The result is a refined, craft-led offering that prioritises balance, longevity and restraint. Each fragrance is designed to sit close to the skin, unfolding gradually and becoming part of the wearer’s natural rhythm rather than overpowering it.

The collection features three fragrances, Milk of Light, Desire Skin and Eternal Horizon. Each one is inspired by a significant figure in Emma’s life. Together, they form an intimate olfactory narrative rooted in connection and emotion. Milk of Light reflects softness and reassurance, Desire Skin captures closeness and quiet intensity, while Eternal Horizon evokes a sense of calm strength and enduring presence. The trio can be worn individually or layered, allowing for a personalised interpretation of scent.

Positioned within the niche luxury category, Emma Hamsa focuses on storytelling and emotional authenticity over trends. Composed using high-quality raw materials, the fragrances explore musky, milky, woody and mineral accords that feel subtle, comforting and deeply personal. The collection is also gender-inclusive in spirit, with compositions designed to transcend traditional fragrance categories.

Produced to international standards and cruelty-free, the collection marks the beginning of a brand that is intentionally considered in its growth, with plans for curated retail experiences and selective expansion.

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