Jory Almaiman named brand ambassador by Spanish jewelry label

Jory Almaiman named brand ambassador by Spanish jewelry label
Spanish jewelry brand PDPAOLA has appointed Saudi influencer Jory Almaiman as a brand ambassador. (Instagram)
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Updated 15 October 2024
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Jory Almaiman named brand ambassador by Spanish jewelry label

Jory Almaiman named brand ambassador by Spanish jewelry label

DUBAI: Spanish jewelry brand PDPAOLA has appointed Saudi influencer Jory Almaiman as a brand ambassador.

The announcement is being marked with the launch of a new campaign featuring the content creator, in which Almaiman shows off key pieces from the label’s Icons Collection.

 

 

The collection boasts customizable initials, symbols, and minimalist designs and it is crafted using natural gemstones arranged with handset pavé detailing.

With 110,000 followers on Instagram, Almaiman is often spotted at international fashion industry events and recently attended the Tory Burch show at New York Fashion Week in September.

"As a Saudi woman, being appointed as a regional brand ambassador for an international luxury brand like PDPAOLA is incredibly significant. It symbolizes cultural exchange and collaboration, highlighting the unique identity of Saudi women in the global fashion landscape ... it’s about more than luxury it’s about making a statement and fostering connections across cultures." she told Arab News. 

 

 

Earlier this year, PDPAOLA, founded by siblings Paola and Humbert Sasplugas, expanded into Saudi Arabia with the opening of new stores in the Kingdom.

“We feel there is a natural fit with our value and selling proposition in this market,” Humbert previously told Arab News of their decision to target Saudi Arabia. “The key of PDPAOLA is that it constitutes a new jewelry language that blends effortless elegance with contemporary lines to create timeless sophisticated pieces,” he said.

“Our desire and plan is to naturally engage with Saudi women in a fresh yet respectful way,” he added. 

 

 

"Saudi women are becoming more empowered and expressive in their fashion choices, aligning perfectly with PDPAOLA’s focus on individuality and elegance," Almaiman said this week, pointing to a "blend of economic growth and cultural evolution (that) makes Saudi Arabia a prime location for PDPAOLA's expansion."

The brand offers rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. It is known for shaping natural gemstones into signature shapes using contemporary techniques and blending them with traditional artistry.

The element of traditional artistry is important to Paola, who told Arab News that she has been passionate about jewelry since she was a young girl.

“I used to hand-make jewelry pieces for myself, intuitively discovering my identity with every creation,” she said.

“Our pieces are designed for modern living, versatile designs with a comfortable fit that transcend occasions and become the ultimate symbol of self-empowerment,” she explained. 

The founders are also planning to expand into key markets in the region, including the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman.


Mona Khashoggi brings ‘Sinbad the Sailor’ to life on the London stage

Mona Khashoggi brings ‘Sinbad the Sailor’ to life on the London stage
Updated 16 July 2025
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Mona Khashoggi brings ‘Sinbad the Sailor’ to life on the London stage

Mona Khashoggi brings ‘Sinbad the Sailor’ to life on the London stage

DUBAI: Saudi writer and producer Mona Khashoggi’s latest production, “Sinbad the Sailor,” was staged on Tuesday at London’s Sadler’s Wells Theatre, blending traditional Arab storytelling with contemporary performance. 

The family-friendly dance show was a vibrant reinterpretation of the legendary seafarer’s adventures, inspired by tales from “One Thousand and One Nights” and set in eighth-century Mesopotamia.

Khashoggi is a long-time advocate for reviving Arab arts through international collaborations. (Supplied)

The musical tells the story of Sinbad, who loses his fortune in a card game and goes on a journey to find new treasures. Along the way he faces sea monsters, wild adventures and magical caves. He meets a kind girl and together they find friendship, love and a way back home to Baghdad, where Sinbad inspires a young boy with his stories.

Khashoggi, a long-time advocate for reviving Arab arts through international collaborations, emphasized her decision to work with a global cast. “Because this is a dance show … I wanted the best ballet and contemporary dancers. My dancers are all professional from the Mathew Bourne school, English National Ballet and West End Musicals,” she told Arab News. 

Staging Sinbad in London is part of Khashoggi’s broader mission to spotlight Arab culture for international audiences. (Supplied)

“My lead Mark Samaras is in ‘Moulin Rouge.’ My creatives are from the West End with awards. I wanted to push the bar high and introduce an Arab story,” she added. “Mona Khash Productions is a British production. I always work and produce my shows in London before we tour internationally. London and the West End shows are the center and capital of theater in the world.”

Staging Sinbad in London is part of Khashoggi’s broader mission to spotlight Arab culture for international audiences. 

Traditional songs were gathered from Iraq, Lebanon, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Syria, with the audience enjoying original compositions by Emirati composer Ihab Darwish. (Supplied)

“My work and passion is to revive our culture and bring it to a wider audience and international audience. My shows are educational and cultural. The dance and costumes are inspired by stories from ‘1001 Nights,’ set in Mesopotamia in the 8th century, during the era of Haroun El-Rashid and Queen Zubaida,” she said. 

Traditional songs were gathered from Iraq, Lebanon, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Syria, with the audience enjoying original compositions by Emirati composer Ihab Darwish.

Director and choreographer Anjali Mehra, whose credits include “Jesus Christ Superstar” and "Lord of the Rings,” said: “The Middle East offers so many exciting social and celebratory dances.
“I was inspired by certain steps, foot rhythms, arm movements and stage patterns. With a mixed heritage cast, we were able to combine modern storytelling dance with classical technique and Arabic steps to bring ‘Sinbad the Sailor’ to life,” Mehra added.


Madinah exhibition showcases local heritage, crafts 

Madinah exhibition showcases local heritage, crafts 
Updated 15 July 2025
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Madinah exhibition showcases local heritage, crafts 

Madinah exhibition showcases local heritage, crafts 
  • Three-day event, which ended on Tuesday, is among several Year of Handicrafts initiatives launched by the Ministry of Culture
  • Elements of heritage were embodied in palm-based crafts including baskets, incense burners, and decorative pieces

RIYADH: The “Arts Telling Stories” exhibition in Madinah showcased the nation’s culture and history through authentic handicrafts.

The three-day event, which ended on Tuesday, is among several “Year of Handicrafts” initiatives launched by the Ministry of Culture, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The exhibition featured a diverse collection of handcrafted creations reflecting the identity of the local community. 

Elements of heritage were embodied in palm-based crafts including baskets, incense burners, and decorative pieces, illustrating the historical bond between people and the environment.

The event also showcased wooden artworks, including decorated boxes, vases, and household items crafted with techniques blending traditional sensibility and modern innovation.

It featured pottery pieces inspired by folk art, drawing from the colors and landscapes of the region’s geography, the SPA reported.

The exhibition reflects the ministry’s efforts to promote traditional arts, foster community awareness, and encourage young people to connect with their cultural roots.


Jessica Kahawaty’s cookbook receives celebrity nod of approval

Jessica Kahawaty’s cookbook receives celebrity nod of approval
Updated 15 July 2025
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Jessica Kahawaty’s cookbook receives celebrity nod of approval

Jessica Kahawaty’s cookbook receives celebrity nod of approval

DUBAI: Lebanese Australian duo, model Jessica Kahawaty and mother Rita, have launched their own cookbook — with no less a person than Hollywood actress and producer Courteney Cox providing a cover quote.

Kahawaty and her mother are the minds behind UAE-based food delivery business Mama Rita and the book, “Mama Rita: Family recipes from the Mediterranean,” is now available for pre-order ahead of its release in September.

It is endorsed by Cox, who says it is “a must-have for anyone who is passionate about cooking and loves food as much as I do.”

Writing on Instagram on Monday, Kahawaty said: “The moment we held the Mama Rita cookbook in our hands for the very first time … after two years of pouring our hearts into it. And we’re beyond thrilled to share a special surprise on the cover — a quote from the one and only (Courteney Cox). Her iconic role as Monica in ‘Friends’ — the talented chef, perfectionist, and loving control freak — mirrors so much of the dynamic between mum and me. And her true persona is even more beautiful, warm, and generous.

“Years of love, passion, late nights and so many memories. It’s all finally coming to life just as Mama Rita turns five this September,” she added.

Kahawaty is on an entrepreneurial roll, having launched jewelry brand Kahawaty Jewels alongside her father, master jeweler Ghassan Kahawaty, in May. Based in Dubai, it continues the family’s long-standing tradition of jewelry craftsmanship.

“I grew up watching my father in his jewelry trade. I saw how happy he made people when he created these beautiful pieces,” Kahawaty told Arab News. “I’ve always wanted to continue my father’s legacy and my grandfather’s trade. I felt like this is the perfect time to launch Kahawaty Jewels in Dubai, which is a city I’ve been in for over 13 years.”

For Jessica, building the brand with her father has been a meaningful journey.

“He’s the only man I trust when it comes to diamonds and jewelry. He has an impeccable eye for detail and quality. He has the most incredible craftsmanship. I learned so much from him and launching this with my father feels like a true partnership,” she said.


Haql Summer Festival boosts tourism, economy

Haql Summer Festival boosts tourism, economy
Updated 14 July 2025
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Haql Summer Festival boosts tourism, economy

Haql Summer Festival boosts tourism, economy
  • Festival offers a wide range of attractions, including an amusement park with electric and inflatable rides
  • Visitors can also enjoy restaurants, shopping, and essential services, ensuring a well-rounded experience

JEDDAH: With schools on summer holiday, children and parents are embracing a season of relaxation, exploration, and entertainment.

From coastal getaways to mountain retreats, families across Saudi Arabia are making the most of summer with fun, adventure, and unforgettable memories.

The Haql Summer Festival, being held at Prince Fahd bin Sultan Park, runs until mid-September. It offers a wide range of attractions, including an amusement park with electric and inflatable rides, a family seating area, and an open-air theater featuring traditional performances, competitions, and daily prizes.

Visitors can also enjoy restaurants, shopping, and essential services, ensuring a well-rounded experience, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The festival aims to boost tourism in Haql, stimulate the local economy, increase commercial activity, and create job opportunities, positioning the region as a unique and attractive destination.

Haql, located in northwest Saudi Arabia in the Tabuk region and overlooking the Gulf of Aqaba, boasts clear views of several neighboring countries’ coastlines.

The festival is part of the Saudi Summer program, which runs until September and showcases the Kingdom’s diverse tourism offerings — from mountains and beaches to international events and exclusive deals, catering to all travelers.


Miniature model helps bring Saudi history to life

Miniature model helps bring Saudi history to life
Updated 14 July 2025
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Miniature model helps bring Saudi history to life

Miniature model helps bring Saudi history to life
  • Featuring miniature representations of Saudi cities from the past, these creations transport visitors through time
  • Artist and craft trainer Abdullah Al-Khazam, a native of Hail, presented a clay model of the ancient commercial area of Hail city at the event

RIYADH: The Beit Hail Festival, which runs until July 29, is showcasing unique works which reflect the region’s rich historic archaeological legacy, the Saudi Press Agency has reported.

Featuring miniature representations of Saudi cities from the past, these creations transport visitors through time, highlighting the details of daily life and the beauty of historic architecture.

Artist and craft trainer Abdullah Al-Khazam, a native of Hail, has presented a clay model of the ancient commercial area of Hail city at the event.

The model has attracted the attention of thousands of visitors and illustrates the techniques used to craft such works, enriching the festival’s depiction of the Kingdom’s heritage.

Al-Khazam based the model on historic sources, using precise measurements and conducting field visits. He also consulted historians, researchers, and elderly residents for accuracy.

The model features key landmarks, including Barzan Palace, a mosque, the commercial square, and various government offices, the SPA added.

Built with traditional materials such as clay and palm trunks, the model uses classic construction techniques and incorporates period ornaments and engravings, effectively recreating the city center of the past.