HAITHAM BUAISHA

Cheesy Goodness 

More flavor on our fries! 

Sharqiya’s Spas & Salons 

HAITHAM 

BUAISHA 

SHAPER OF THE DIGITAL DESERT 

Camping, Anyone? 

SAUDI 

LUMINARIES 

igniting pride, 

vision and passion 

ISSUE 13 JANUARY 2017

TURKISH FOOD FESTIVAL 

26 JANUARY - 08 FEBRUARY 2017 

Explore the traditional flavours and authentic ingredients 

of Turkey at Rosewood Jeddah. The scene is set to take you on 

a journey of sights and aromas of Turkey while our guest chef 

immerses you in the gourmet culture and culinary heritage 

of its different regions. 

7 pm to midnight daily 

SAR 210 per person 

DESTINATIONKSA.COM 

1

FROM THE EDITOR 

Happy anniversary, Sharqawis! 

As we hit our most exciting 

milestone yet of being one year 

old, we are infinitely grateful to 

our readers who continue to push 

us to make the magic happen 

here at Destination. We hope the 

journey this past year has been as 

invigorating for you as it has been 

for us – it was a journey that would 

have been impossible without your 

loyalty and support. 

From Sharqiya’s brilliant artists and entrepreneurs to its tantalizing dining 

scene, we’ve covered it all in the past 12 issues and we’re not even close to 

scratching the surface. This year, we aim to bring you even more in-depth 

interviews, reviews and stories of the hidden cultural spots of our region. 

To mark our first anniversary and our second business-themed issue, we sat 

down with the iconic Haitham BuAisha, founder and CEO of Sahara Net and 

talked about his company’s journey towards being KSA’s Internet pioneer. 

We looked around and found other trailblazers for our special feature this 

month - individuals who pushed past barriers and set the path of progress for 

generations to come. These prolific individuals serve as living proof that no 

dream is too big. 

So, this month, we leave you on an inspiring note: 

Follow us for 

updates and 

behind the 

scenes clips. 

destinationksa.com 

Enas Hashani 

Editor-in-Chief 

DESTINATIONSHRQ 

DESTINATIONKSA 

Editor-in-Chief 

Enas Hashani 

Managing Director 

Maria Mahdaly 

Executive Editor 

Bassma Al Toaimi 

Regional Editorial Manager 

Anousha Vakani 

Regional Editor 

Hajer Al Alwan 

Editor-at-Large Tuba Saricimen 

Copy Editor Ahmad Dialdin 

Contributing Writers 

Abrar Azzouz 

Alzahra Aldawood 

Areeb Al Shathri 

Arwa Al Mousa 

Fahad Amer 

Lina Alfaris 

Nahla Al Sardi 

Norah Al Eisa 

Noura Ismail 

Sara Chaudry 

Zahra Anwer 

Art Director 

Reem Al Assal 

Studio Manager 

Mohamed Fawzy 

Senior Graphic Designer 

Mohammed Rashad 

Graphic Designers 

Abdulaziz Dhabban 

Lama Alsharqawi 

Suzan Al Quasmi 

Photographers 

Alzahra Aldawood 

Hajer Al Alwan 

Mohamed Fawzy 

Tuba Saricimen 

Digital Marketing Executive 

Hurreia Balouch 

Social Media Agent 

Nahla Al Sardi 

Web Admin/Associate Editor 

Swalah Eshki 

Zahra Anwer 

Editorial Contribution 

editor@destinationksa.com 

Public Relations & Events 

pr@destinationksa.com 

Sales & Advertising 

sales@destinationksa.com 

Mob: +966-563578291 (9 a.m. - 10 p.m.) 

Sharqiya Office 

Mob: +966-555173118 (9 a.m. - 5 p.m.) 

Riyadh Office 

Tel: +966-11-4012062 (9 a.m. - 5 p.m.) 

Jeddah Office 

Tel: +966-12-6065902 (9 a.m. - 5 p.m.) 

Distribution 

distribution@destinationksa.com 

General Inquiries 

info@destinationksa.com 

C 

M 

Y 

CM 

MY 

CY 

CMY 

K 

Buy me from 

Tamimi, Danube, 

Virgin Megastore 

and Sasco Palm 

for only SR 10 

Let’s talk business 

this month! 

Pull out the map and get fit with Nahdi. 

*Destination Sharqiya Magazine is a 

Rumman Company Publication. 

License No. 7862-8/8/1431 / Mob: +966- 

509752274 / P.O. Box 4113 / Jeddah 21491 

Publisher: Destination Magazine, UK, 

Coventry, CV14DH N5719 

2 

DESTINATION SHARQIYA JANUARY 2017

FEATURED CONTENT 

THE BUSINESS ISSUE 

14 BUSINESS 

• Who’s Who: Haitham 

BuAisha, CEO of Sahara Net 

• Madad’s CEO, Faisal 

Al Sharif 

54 DINING AROUND TOWN 

• Scoops: Lusin Opening 

in Sharqiya Soon 

• Cheesy Goodness 

• Snacks for the Season 

20 SPECIAL FEATURE 

• Saudi Leaders: 

Individuals Who Prove That 

No Dream is Too Big to 

Accomplish 

28 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 

• The Bright Brothers: 

Al Badran 

• Camping with Mishal 

Extreme Sports 

62 HEALTHY LIVING 

• Checking Your Thyroids - 

Tips From the Doctor 

• Spirituality: Get 

More Rizq-y 

66 TRAVEL TRENDS 

• Our Trip to the Maldives 

• Ancient Art in KSA 

• Historic KSA: The Portuguese 

Connection 

Faisal Al Sharif 

Helping Startups 

p.18 

Check out the bright Badran 

brothers and their creativity on p. 30 

38 STYLE & BEAUTY 

• Abayas For Work 

• The Power Suit 

• Fashion Dupes 

• Spas and Salons in Town 

80 IN BAHRAIN 

• The Good Big Brother: 

Helping Startups 

• Creative Meat Space: Where 

to Find the Best in the City 

76. 

58. 

Warm up with these 

WINTER 

SOUPS 

46. 

ENJOY THE 

BREEZE 

IN STYLE 

26. 

34 

72. 

4 


EVENTS & HAPPENINGS 

1. 

1. A to Z at Gallery Azman 

On Nov. 24, Gallery Azman 

organized a special artistic 

event that was characterized 

by unique art shows, including 

artist Alaa Almubark’s work 

that was created by using 

more than 1,000 coffee cups. 

The color variations created a 

face that could be seen from 

above. There were also live 

performances, including an 

artistic makeup session. 3. 

2. Shohra Inspiring 

Entrepreneurs 

On Nov. 23, a unique event 

was held at the Signature Hotel 

that included presentations 

by inspiring entrepreneurs 

who shared life stories and 

expertise to the audience. 

There were also booths 

showcasing startups and trendy 

local projects and products. 

2. 

3. Behance 

Al Khobar 10 

The 10th version of 

Behance Al Khobar took 

place on Dec. 3 at the Arab 

Heritage Gallery. The event 

featured many artists from 

lots of different fields such 

as photography, interior 

design, calligraphy, painting 

and ceramic arts. 

6 


4. 

4. Obesity Awareness Day 

On Nov. 26, Cambridge 

Weight Plan and the clinical 

nutrition department from 

University of Dammam 

organized a two-day event at 

Al Rashid Mall to educate 

visitors on how to maintain a 

healthy weight. This included 

games to test the visitor's sense 

of taste as well as paintings 

competitions for children. 

5. 

5. Fun and Entertainment 

at Dot Market 

Dot Market, held Nov. 25-26 

at the Prince Saud bin Nayef 

Park, was filled to the brim 

with booths, ranging from art 

to food and fashion. 

5. 

5. 

7. 

7. 

6. 

6. Little Island Market 

in Bahrain 

Little Island Market came back 

for a full round this time. The 

fun event took place every 

weekend throughout the month 

of December. Featuring a 

variety of vendors, the market 

popped up in different locations 

each time, spreading joy 

throughout the island. 

7. Sama Alsharq Exhibition 

This exhibition was held Dec. 

8 -10 at Coral Al Khobar 

Hotel. The exhibition featured 

booths that included clothing, 

makeup, skincare and Oud 

perfumes. A number of food 

vendors also took part to offer 

traditional Saudi dishes, Italian 

pasta, snacks and a number of 

different desserts and pastries. 

Don't miss out! To stay updated on all the latest events, follow us @destinationshrq 


7

EVENTS & HAPPENINGS 

MARK YOUR 

CALENDAR 

2JAN. BAHRAIN 

6JAN. 

JAN. 2 - 30 

SUSHI COOKING CLASS 

Learn the art of preparing 

sushi with experienced Chef 

Sonny. Take away tips and 

recipes from the expert and 

enjoy the meal afterward. 

Location: The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain 

Tel: +973-17586499 

JAN. 6 - 7 

FOUR SEASONS 

An open gallery that will 

feature a variety of clothing 

and traditional outfits. 

Location: Prince Saud Bin Nayef Park, 

Turki Business Park, Prince Faisal bin Fahd 

Rd., Dhahran 

Tel: +966-13-8311699 

15JAN. 

JAN. 15 

2017 ARAMCO HOUSTON 

HALF MARATHON 

Thousands of runners are 

geared up for this marathon. 

*Gate pass required for non- 

Aramco participants. 

Location: Saudi Aramco Camp, Dhahran 

JAN. 15 – 19 

EASTERN RESTATEX 

Eastern Forum for real 

estate, housing and urban 

development. 

Location: Dhahran Expo 

Web: diec.com.sa 

26JAN. 

VISIT 

destinationsharqiya.com 

for more events 

and happenings 

around town. 

To add your event here, contact us at 

pr@destinationsharqiya.com 

JAN. 26 – FEB. 9 

WAHA SHOPPING FESTIVAL 

Shopping mode: On. 


Web: diec.com.sa 

JAN. 26 – 28 

SPECIAL COLLECTIONS 

A gallery that will feature a 

variety of unique products made 

by talented designers. 

Location: Al Rashid Mall 

8 


9JAN. BAHRAIN 

JAN. 9 AND JAN. 21 

EBRAHIM K. KANOO DRAG & 

DRIFT NIGHTS 

Drag-racing and drifting for the 

fast and furious among you. 

Location: Bahrain International Circuit, 

Gulf of Bahrain Ave., Bahrain 

Tel: +973-1745-0000 

12JAN. BAHRAIN 

JAN. 12 

BAHRAIN INTERNATIONAL 

EXPO 17 

Five exhibitions in one, covering 

IT, health, home and more. 

Location: Bahrain International Exhibition 

& Convention Centre, 158 Avenue 28 

IS YOUR 

SCHEDULE 

FULL YET? 

if not, head to our website 


22 JAN. 

25JAN. BAHRAIN 

NEXT 

MONTH 

FEBRUARY 2017 

JAN. 22 – 26 

PMP CLASSROOM TRAINING 

IN DAMMAM 

Training course for Project 

Management Certification. 

Location: CompuSOFT Training Center, 

King Abdulaziz Port Rd., Dammam 

2FEB. 

FEB. 9 – 11 

COLORED ANGLES 

Family exhibition organized by 

Alzawaya. 

Location: Signature Al Khobar Hotel, King 

Fahd Rd., Khobar 

JAN. 25 – FEB. 2 

AUTUMN FAIR BAHRAIN 

Retail fair showcasing 

merchandise from around 

the world. 

Location: Bahrain International 

Exhibition & Convention Centre, 158 

Avenue 28, Bahrain. 

26FEB. 

FEB. 26 – MARCH 1 

CIVIL DEFENSE DAY EXPO 

This aims to educate the public 

about the civil defense forces 

and other safety regulations. 



9

COMMUNITY 

AJWA’A 

AT THE PARK 

Organized by Aim High, in 

collaboration with Fatat Al 

Khaleej charity for women, 

this charitable event took 

place Dec. 6-7 at Prince Saud 

bin Naif Park. More than 50 

different vendors showcased 

and sold clothing, jewelry, 

flower arrangements, coffee, 

food and more. 

If you've got 

something to say, 

send it our way! 

editor@destinationsharqiya.com 

EFTILHA 

EARLY 

DETECTION 

Eftilha is a Saudi initiative that 

aims to raise awareness about 

the importance of early cancer 

detection. They held a five day 

event starting on Nov. 25 at 

Al Gosaibi Village in Khobar, 

showcasing a variety of rotating 

vendors. Twenty percent of all 

revenue was donated to Saudi 

cancer-related organizations. 

10 


Oceans of Art 

On Nov. 19, artist Rana 

Almaghlouth opened her first 

solo exhibition, Seascapes, in 

Desert Designs Art Gallery. 

Acrylic paint is her medium 

of choice and she often uses 

palette knives to create a 

bold and vivid texture. She 

emphasizes spontaneous 

creations and believes painting 

water in all its forms is a way to 

tap into one’s individual psyche. 

OCIRCLES 

FOR EVENT PLANNING 

Sarah Al Shuwayer and 

Munira Abdulqader 

developed an app to 

make event planning 

a lot easier to manage. 

They met at a Keystone 

Program by Saudi 

Aramco, bonded by their 

joint desire to create an 

app that would be useful 

for Saudi women 

in particular. 

Download the app today, 

which is available on iOS and Android. 

GROOMING WITH 

EASTERN CATS 

Have you been struggling 

to find a cat grooming service 

in Khobar or Dammam? 

Eastern Cats provides your 

cat with all the trappings of 

luxury, including bathing, 

hair and nail trimming and 

even a “hotel” to take care 

of them while you’re away. 

Abduallah, a college student 

and cat lover, started all of this 

to channel his love for cats 

and help people with their 

everyday chores. 

Eastern_Cats 


11

COMMUNITY 

NAHDI’S 

Billion Step 

Challenge 

A nation's step count for change. 

Join the billion step challenge, 

and take small steps for big 

change with the rest of Saudi 

Arabia. Scheduled launches 

are Jan. 13 for Jeddah, Jan. 

20 for Riyadh, and Jan. 27 

for Dammam. The challenge 

will take place in your own 

respective time and place. Walk 

as an individual, join a team or 

create your own. 

1 Billion 

This interactive cause 

enables individuals of all 

kinds to walk for a cause, 

whether it’s for preventable 

diseases, for your loved 

ones, or simply for the love 

of your nation and people. 

The perfect way to celebrate 

vision 2030, Nahdi is 

launching an easy and fun 

initiative to raise health 

awareness whilst coming 

together as a community. 

Designed from the people to 

the people, the Nahdi Billion 

Step Challenge is an interactive 

national challenge to promote 

walking in communities across 

Saudi Arabia, based on the 

American standard of nutrition 

which suggests 10,000 steps 

per day to regulate health, 

happiness and maintenance. 

The Billion Step Challenge is 

allied with the vision of 2030, 

The Nahdi 

Billion Step 

Challenge 

is a strategy 

created to 

engage the 

community 

with Nahdi’s 

social 

responsibility, 

establishing 

progressive 

dialogue 

between 

the two. 

12 DESTINATION SHARQIYA JANUARY 2017 ADVERTORIAL

in which the nation is on its 

way to sustainability, support 

and lots of progress. 

The journey of one billion 

steps hopes to also achieve 

communal progress 

while opening a panel of 

communication between 

participants coming together 

for a joined cause of healthy 

progress. The Nahdi CSR 

initiative rests on three 

fundamental pillars: health, 

wellness, and maternity. 

With over 5,000 employees, 

Nahdi employees will be 

joining and contributing to 

the campaign, establishing a 

common drive between Nahdi 

and the rest of the community. 

The initiative will deploy 

fun statistics to motivate 

participants as Nahdi 

tracks collective progress 

towards one billion steps. 

These statistics will be 

gathered using a pedometer 

embedded in the application 

for counting steps, which will 

by default calculate steps as 

long the phone is active, and 

will be available for IOS 

and Android. 

The app is also programmed 

for push notifications, which 

provides encouragement for all 

participants, while conveying 

a challenge by staying up to 

date with the community’s 

individual achievement. The 

application will also grant daily 

awards to participants, with 

a total of 2,700 winners per 

week. However, the walking 

challenge extends beyond 

competition or recognition. 

It is actually rather established 

as an effort to reward oneself. 

A move to award health, 

let's join the nation, join the 

initiative and promote national 

wellbeing together. 

Web: nahdi.sa 

ADVERTORIAL DESTINATIONKSA.COM 

13

BUSINESS 

A Conversation 

with Sultan Batterjee 

Letting purpose (of your idea) be your main driver. 

Inhabiting a disparate 

business philosophy, Sultan 

Batterjee, founder of Lifestyle 

Developers, connects our 

increasingly globalized 

world with national progress. 

Conveying an idea like 

no other in the Kingdom, 

Lifestyle aims to deliver to the 

Saudi society an innovative 

method of living, one that 

could possibly introduce a 

revolutionary change in the 

local market. Looking to 

establish progressive ideologies 

within the local minds, 

Lifestyle Developers extends 

beyond providing modern 

homes, rather reforming the 

standards of living by adhering 

to their four core elements: 

design, quality, affordability, 

and community. 

Addressing the absence 

of relatable or reachable 

products created a sense 

of responsibility and respect 

towards mankind, as 

Batterjee explains: 

“We developed a project able 

to initiate dialogue between 

the product and consumer. 

Lifestyle Developers speaks to 

people now. It allows people 

to access a lifestyle for instant 

gratification, and not one 

of promising future visions. 

Lifestyle Developers achieves 

to communicate with standards 

not attainable anywhere else 

STAFF PHOTO/MOHAMED FAWZY 


Batterjee is 

lobbying 

for cultural 

awareness 

through 

selling a 

product that 

is designed 

to implement 

change in 

the lives of 

those who 

invest in it 

while also 

challenging 

the market’s 

standards. 

because the market does not 

aim for the same enlightening 

objectives we are hoping 

to reach.” 

Further explaining the power 

behind the nation’s 70 percent 

youth, Batterjee stresses the 

importance of embodying 

policies and infrastructures that 

maintain and attract the youth’s 

requirements for living- not 

simply surviving. 

Adding that the possibility of 

losing young talent can take 

the country backwards: “We 

realized, in order for Lifestyle 

Developers to capture this 

segment, we must create 

an emotional bonding and 

belonging. Therefore, we had 

to break the barriers between 

tradition and reform in order 

to retain the youth, retain the 

knowledge, and retain the 

talent as these individuals 

could be easily lost to a 

place that offers what they’re 

searching for.” 

As the objective is to raise 

the standards of living, this 

purpose is entrenched in the 

company’s values and culture, 

further extending it out to its 

own employees, the market, 

and ultimately, society. 

Lifestyle truly believe in 

carrying businesses with 

a higher purpose, rather 

suggesting it as the key of 

success to a prosperous 

business. Batterjee advocates 

for establishing a strong 

commonality between the 

organization, its employees, 

and consumers by this purpose, 

stating: “A business that has 

a purpose tends to succeed. If 

a business intends for purely 

accumulating profits, it might 

succeed in the short term 

but will die in the long term. 

My advice for entrepreneurs 

is to build a business with a 

purpose, a purpose you believe 

in and relate to. Having a 

purpose connects you to your 

organization and with the 

people you’re working with, 

establishing identified values 

and a culture one could belong 

to. It will make people journey 

with you until that purpose is 

turned into a reality.” 

Web: lifestyledevelopers.com 

ADVERTORIAL DESTINATIONKSA.COM 

15

BUSINESS 

WHO’S WHO 

THE FIRST 

Our exclusive interview with 

Sahara Net CEO and partner, 

Haitham Bu Aisha. 

By Arwa Al Mousa 

Tell us how 

Sahara Net began. 

I was a senior student of 

IT at King Fahd University 

of Petroleum and Minerals 

(KFUPM) when my colleague 

Kais Al Essa and I decided to 

start Sahara Net in 1988. 

With that, I decided to 

leave university altogether 

and focus on the business. 

In 1989, we established one 

of the first Saudi Arabian 

bulletin board systems 

(BBS), which is basically a 

server that users connect to 

and exchange messages. 

In 1998, we were among the 

first four companies to get 

licensed by the government to 

provide internet services and 

were the first to actually start 

operating in the Kingdom. 

We worked 

hard and 

developed 

fully as a 

company in 

1994 when 

we officially 

registered 

our sahara. 

com domain. 

We were the 

first internet 

service 

provider 

(ISP) to offer 

internet 

services to the 

public in the 

country. 

STAFF PHOTO/ALZAHRA ALDAWOOD 

16 DESTINATION SHARQIYA JANUARY 2017

Did you have a 

lot of support during 

your journey? 

My partner Kais and my 

father were endless wells of 

support, as were my friends. 

In 2004, due to the state of 

the market at that time, we 

faced serious financial trouble 

and competitors like Saudi 

Oger Ltd., SBG, Mobily and 

STC were lining up against 

us. We had a lot of debt and 

the company was about to go 

bankrupt. And that’s when my 

friends did the most amazing 

thing: they partnered with us 

and provided the financial 

support that saved us and 

kept us going. 

Did you ever think 

about getting financial 

help from banks? 

I am a firm believer in selffinancing. 

I learned this from 

Najeeb Al Zamil, back when 

he was my office neighbor 

in the late ‘80s. He had this 

huge library and I would visit 

him every day to read books. 

He advised me never to seek 

bank loans and, thanks to that 

advice,we stand strong today 

because we relied on ourselves 

and our community. 

How do you feel about 

families that oppose 

entrepreneurship and 

instead encourage 

their children to look for 

stable jobs? 

Actually, I strongly advise 

people to gain practical job 

experience before deciding to 

run their own business. This 

was something I learned the 

hard way. 

I quit school at a young age 

and employed people who 

were older, with advanced 

degrees and had a lot more 

experience than myself. But, 

I had no chance to have the 

observational learning one 

experiences from being an 

employee. I always had to 

be the boss and only learned 

things through trial and error 

and with less support than I 

would’ve liked. 

Tell us about the 

services you provide. 

Our largest and primary 

service continues to be 

internet hosting. 

Recently we branched off 

two companies: Sahara 

Consultancy (Sahara CC) 

and Tamkeen Networks. The 

first focuses on integrated 

technology (such as 

augmented reality) to deliver 

interactive solutions for 

education, businesses, brands 

and agencies. The second 

is specialized in industrial 

products, technology sales and 

retail merchandising. 

We are currently working on 

branching off a third company 

that will focus on one of our 

other major areas, information 

security services, to be 

launched late 2017. 

What’s next 

for Sahara Net? 

We are working to take the 

company public and offer 

stocks on the market. We’re 

also looking to invest in 

startups and are keeping an eye 

out for creative entrepreneurs 

to partner with. 

Any last message 

for our readers? 

I want to see more startups 

and innovative ideas coming 

from our young Saudis. I 

believe in you and want you to 

realize that you can accomplish 

anything you put your mind to. 

Don’t waste any time: strive to 

take what you have and make 

it better. 

Web: sahara.com 


17

BUSINESS 

Supplying 

Startup Support 




Startups just got a little bit 

easier thanks to Madad. 

Faisal Al Sharif helped many 

friends through the startup 

phases of their businesses. 

Seeing the agony that they went 

through to acquire supplies, 

he came up with Madad, the 

first multichannel business-tobusiness 

e-commerce website 

in Saudi Arabia. 

Madad facilitates the exchange 

of goods by connecting 

suppliers and manufacturers 

with business owners. 

Following the international 

trend of digitizing, Madad 

introduces a regional digital 

market for local commerce. 

Al Sharif eventually decided to 

quit his full-time job and focus 

solely on his business plan. 

“My previous job was quite 

demanding – I had no time 

even for myself – so it came 

down to either working on this 

or not,” said Al Sharif. 

“I strongly believe that the 

regret of not doing something 

is greater than the regret of 

doing something wrong.” 

He started on his business 

plan which exceeded 50 pages 

and covered every aspect of 

the proposed website. He 

then submitted it to the Waed 

Entrepreneurship Center 

in Saudi Aramco and was 

accepted for entrepreneurial 

support. From there, he created 

an office in the center, gathered 

a team of web developers, 

marketing managers, salesmen 

and board members. Once 

they were appointed, the 

programming and designing of 

the website began in full force. 

In the last couple 

of months, 

OVER 

500 BUSINESSES 

FROM 17 CITIES 

in the country have 

registered with Madad. 

The company’s target 

audience is 

SMALL, LOCAL 

COMPANIES, 

including restaurants, 

cafes and hotels. 

However, they have 

been joined by holding 

companies and franchises 

as well - some with more 

than 30 branches. 

To people interested in 

starting up their own business, 

Al Sharif says, “Go for it, 

but before that: research, 

research, research. A business 

plan is the road map to get to 

your vision. Without it, you 

will get lost.” 

Web: madad.sa 

madadservices 


19

SPECIAL FEATURE 

ACHIEVEMENT 

The first Saudi 

novelist and 

first woman 

to win the 

International 

Prize for Arabic 

Fiction. 

A comprehensive list of some 

amazing frontrunners from 

our Saudi community. 

By Areeb Al Shathri, Hajer Al 

Alwan and Sumaiyya Naseem 

In 2011, Raja Alem won 

the International Prize for 

Arabic Fiction for her widely 

acknowledged novel “The 

Dove’s Necklace.” Growing 

up in Makkah, Alem felt and 

observed the spiritual energy 

of the travelers and pilgrims - a 

theme that regularly manifests 

in her work. She has written 

several novels, short fictions 

and essays. She is also known 

for her collaborative projects 

with her sister Shadia Alem, a 

visual artist. 

“In Makkah, I saw people as 

travelers from shrine to shrine. 

That spiritual force inspired my 

imagination. I write to explore 

it, to probe its outermost limits 

and to flow with that force. My 

novels are extensions of myself. 

Through them, I enter into 

worlds that are both ancient 

and futuristic at once.” 


ACHIEVEMENT 

The first female 

editor in chief of 

a Saudi national 

newspaper. 

Somayya Jabarti is currently 

continuing her esteemed 

position as Saudi Gazette’s 

editor in chief. Jabarti 

mentored under Khaled Al 

Maeena, her predecessor, who 

nominated her on the basis of 

her merit, determination and 

dedication. 

Jabarti was the only Saudi 

journalist that had reported 

straight from Tahrir Square 

during the chaos of the 

Egyptian revolution. She has 

authored hundreds of articles 

and is an outspoken promoter 

of women’s issues. In 2014 and 

2015, she was listed in Arabian 

Business’ Top 100 Most 

Powerful Arab Women and in 

2015 she was selected as one 

of BBC’s 100 Women. She 

was also one of Al Arabiya’s 

Top 10 Muslim Women who 

made headlines. 

“Forward thinking, openmindedness 

and diversity of 

thought is what keeps us ahead 

of the game in this industry 

that’s constantly changing 

with blinding speed. Diversity 

begins with an open mind. As 

Einstein said, ‘The measure 

of intelligence is the ability to 

change. So, what remains to be 

seen - how intelligent are we?’” 

Haifa Al Mansour is 

considered one of the 

most significant cinematic 

personalities in the Kingdom. 

She is best known for 

“Wadjda,” a film about a young 

girl who works hard to win a 

Quran recitation competition. 

The film “Wadjda” and Al 

Mansour’s award-winning 

documentary, “Women Without 

Shadows” both continue to 

influence the next generation 

of Saudi filmmakers. Al 

Mansour’s latest project is 

“A Storm in the Stars.” The 

film is about the relationship 

between Percy Shelley 

and Mary Wollstonecraft 

Godwin, and how it influenced 

Godwin’s daughter Mary 

Shelley’s phenomenal novel, 

“Frankenstein.” 

“I think as an artist it’s very 

important to move beyond 

your comfort zone. You have 

to conquer new places; it’s 

always going to be something 

you don’t know. If you don’t 

have the courage and the guts 

to jump into the unknown, 

you’ll always be trapped in one 

kind of thing.” 

ACHIEVEMENT 


filmmaker from 

Saudi Arabia, 

filming her first 

entirely in KSA. 


21

Wojdan Shaherkani was 

inspired to start Judo because 

of her father Ali, who is a Judo 

referee. By the time she made 

it to the Olympics in 2012, she 

was already a blue belt. 

ACHIEVEMENT 


females to 

participate in 

the Olympics. 

“I am happy to be in the 

Olympics. Unfortunately, 

we did not win a medal, but 

in the future we will and I 

will be a star for women’s 

participation.” 

Sarah Attar, a marathon 

runner, competed and finished 

last in Women’s 800 meters 

at the 2012 Olympics. She 

also participated in the 2016 

Olympic Marathon, as well 

as the Big Sur, Boston and 

Chicago Marathons. 

“It has been so incredibly 

profound, motivating, and such 

an honor to represent Saudi 

Arabia in the Olympics as one 

of our first ever female athletes 

in London 2012 Games, and 

again this past summer in the 

Rio 2016 Games. It’s inspiring 

to hear and see the impact 

that this has had in the lives 

of others. I know that I am not 

alone in having big dreams 

in my running, and I look 

forward to seeing continued 

participation of Saudi women 

in the Olympics, as well as in 

everyday sports and athletics.” 

ACHIEVEMENT 


females to 

participate in 

the Olympics. 


Being the first Saudi to a win 

the gold medal at the World 

Karate Federation (WKF) 

Premier League, Al Malki is 

a karate athlete for the Saudi 

National Team and Al Hilal 

Team. The WKF tournament 

took place in Sharm El Shaikh, 

Egypt last year. 

ACHIEVEMENT 


to win a gold 

medal in an 

international 

karate tournament. 

ACHIEVEMENT 


mountaineer to 

climb all seven 

summits. 

Prince Bandar bin Khalid bin 

Fahad is the youngest and 

fastest Arab to climb all seven 

summits, doing so in three 

years and 300 days. 

His journey began with 

Mount Kilimanjaro in 2008 

and completed with Mount 

Everest in 2012. He is also 

the first Saudi to climb Mount 

McKinley in Alaska and 

Aconcagua in South America. 

“While climbing, you face 

challenges and situations that 

are like solving a puzzle. You 

also get to experience nature 

and to be witness to beautiful 

views. Climbing allows you to 

succeed in the most difficult 

situations known to man. And 

sometimes, when you do not 

succeed, as I did not succeed 

in climbing Mount Baker due 

to weather, you still enjoy your 

time in the mountains.” 

Raha Moharrak is the first 

Saudi woman and youngest 

Arab to climb Mount Everest. 

At first, it was just a personal 

challenge, but then someone 

challenged her and said she 

couldn’t do it. Emboldened 

to dispel common stereotypes 

about Saudi women, she 

climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, 

Mount Vinson, Mount Elbrus 

and several others before she 

finally scaled Everest. She 

was one of 64 climbers on the 

excursion that scaled from 

Nepal’s side of the mountain. 

She’s currently working on her 

upcoming memoir, “For All 

Us Dreamers.” 

“A journey seldom ever 

merely connects one point to 

another, but rather it is what 

happens between that shapes 

and changes you. You are only 

as spiritedly rich as you are 

well journeyed. Live curious 

enough to discover; get lost 

enough to be found and brave 

enough to take the first step.” 

ACHIEVEMENT 

First Saudi 

woman to climb 

Mount Everest. 


23

Mariam Binladen is a dentist 

whose aim was to inspire 

women to participate in sports, 

and raise awareness of Syrian 

refugee orphans worldwide. 

She is the third person in 

recent history to successfully 

complete the swim. Binladen 

started swimming at Folly 

Bridge near Oxford on Jun. 

3 and ended the 101 miles at 

Teddington Lock on Jun. 12. 

“I wanted to show that 

young Saudi women can 

achieve a lifelong ambition, 

while at the same time raise 

awareness to bigger causes. I 

also want to encourage more 

women to participate in sport 

and show them that anything 

is possible.” 

ACHIEVEMENT 

She swam all 

101 miles of the 

Thames River in 

the UK. 

ACHIEVEMENT 


Saudi lawyer. 

After graduating from King 

Abdulaziz University, Bayan 

Al Zahran worked with 

disenfranchised women who 

had been abused or abandoned 

by their families. 

She noticed that the courts 

would often rule in favor of 

the man, but she couldn’t do 

anything about it because 

she wasn’t in the courtroom. 

Prior to 2013, female law 

graduates could only work as 

legal consultants because they 

couldn’t be licensed. They 

would prepare for the cases, 

sort out the arguments and 

finalize the entire process, then 

hand it over to a male lawyer 

for the court proceedings. 

Al Zahran vowed to make a 

difference, so she and four 

other female lawyers fought 

and pressured the Saudi 

judicial system to allow 

women to be certified. 

The judicial system eventually 

caved in to those pressures and 

in November 2013 Al Zahran 

became the first female lawyer 

to appear in a Saudi courtroom. 

Shortly after, she started an allfemale 

law firm that focuses on 

women and their rights. 

“I ask God that I shall 

serve my religion and my 

beloved country.” 


Born in Makkah, Hanadi Al 

Hindi was studying English 

literature before transferring 

to Umm Al Qura University. 

Shortly after, she decided to 

follow her dream of flying. 

She dropped out of university 

and headed to Jordan to 

study at the Mideast Aviation 

Academy. It’s been 12 years 

now since Al Hindi earned 

her wings and secured a job 

as a commercial pilot for 

Kingdom Holdings. 

“Women are very capable of 

taking on any job previously 

monopolized by men.” 

ACHIEVEMENT 


Saudi pilot. 

ACHIEVEMENT 

A Saudi pioneer 

in rocket science. 

Mishaal Al Shemimry is an 

aerospace engineer and the 

president and CEO of her own 

company, Mishaal Aerospace, 

in Miami, Florida where 

she lives. 

A child of separated parents, 

Al Shemimry was always torn 

between going back to Saudi 

where her mother lived and 

pursuing her dreams in the US 

where she was born and raised. 

She got her bachelor’s in 

Aerospace Engineering and 

Applied Mathematics from 

Florida Institute of Technology. 

Soon after graduating, she 

was sponsored by NASA to 

pursue a master’s degree in 

aerospace engineering from the 

same university. As a 6-year 

old, she remembers watching 

the stars in Al Nufood Desert 

and being utterly fascinated 

and mesmerized by them. 

Ever since then, she’s been 

determined to find a way to 

get to space. 

“Success is not the end. That 

is why when we succeed at 

something, we must keep going 

because our success is evident that 

we are capable of doing more!” 


25

Meshal Alshahrani is a Saudi 

mechanical engineer who 

recently joined NASA’s Ames 

Research Center on a one-year 

microgravity project to test 

life in zero gravity conditions 

with a team of researchers. 

After more than four years of 

working in Saudi Aramco as a 

firefighter, he decided to leave 

everything behind and realize 

his dream of being an engineer. 

ACHIEVEMENT 


engineer to join 

NASA. 

With very little English, 

he overcame the cultural 

differences, finished a fivemonth 

English course, worked 

hard to earn his mechanical 

engineering degree from 

San Jose State University in 

California, and now works his 

dream job in NASA. 

On a mission aboard the 

NASA space shuttle Discovery 

that took place on June 17, 

1985, Prince Sultan bin Salman 

was the first Saudi, Arab and 

Muslim to go to space. He was 

there for the live installation of 

a satellite for the Arab Satellite 

Communications Organization 

(ARABSAT). 

Sultan Bin Salman was an 

air force fighter pilot and 

second son of King Salman 

bin Abdulaziz. 

“We have long reached the 

stars and beyond.” 

ACHIEVEMENT 


to go to space. 


We end our noncomprehensive 

list with 

one honorary mention. 

One of Saudi’s most 

renowned entrepreneurs and 

humanitarians, Mohammed 

Abdul Latif Jameel has been a 

pillar of society. 

No list of the Kingdom’s 

accomplishments is complete 

without him. 

Mohammed Abdul Latif 

Jameel is the chairman 

of Abdul Latif Jameel 

Community Initiatives (ALJCI) 

and a successful business 

man and philanthropist 

who received an Honorary 

Knighthood in the Most 

Excellent Order of the British 

Empire from the Queen 

Elizabeth II in 2014. 

ACHIEVEMENT 


to receive 

Honorary 

Knighthood 

by Queen 

Elizabeth II. 

Jameel is a benefactor for 

many causes and a huge 

supporter of the Arab and 

Islamic art and culture in the 

UK. He earned his degree 

in civil and environmental 

engineering at MIT in 1978 

and founded the Abdul Latif 

Jameel Poverty Action Lab in 

his alma mater. 


27

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 

CREATIVE 

FAMILIES 

The Dhahran Expo 

recently hosted 

another chapter of 

the Saudi Productive 

Families. This event 

took place Dec. 13-17 

and featured a range 

of creative men, 

women and children 

who showcased 

their handmade arts 

and crafts. 

dhahranexpo 

MUSICAL 

TALENT OF 

THE MONTH 

ART AS ATTIRE 

AL RAYAH TEAM 

For your next big event, book Al Rayah Team as 

your choice of entertainment. Traditional but lively, 

this team of musical artists will leave you and your 

guests pumped up for the rest of the night. 

alrayahteam 

Add a bit of 

oomph to 

your wardrobe. 

Check out @ 

geminitshirts for 

some of the most 

artsy, locallyinspired 

designs 

and stay tuned for 

a giveaway on our 

Instagram page. 


MANNEQUIN 

CHALLENGE: 

The Best Yet? 

Last month, we collaborated 

with Sharqiya’s favorite social 

media personalities and 

jumped on the mannequin 

challenge bandwagon. Check 

out the video on our Instagram 

page @destinationshrq and let 

us know what you think! 

THEATRICS 

IN THE CITY 

ARCHITECTURAL 

HEAVEN 

On their second annual 

exhibition, ARCH 

Gallery has come 

back bigger and more 

vibrant! Organized 

by architect Sultan 

Al Badran (check 

out our exclusive 

interview with him on 

the next page), the 

exhibition was held 

in Desert Designs and 

welcomed attendees 

including Matter Better 

from the UK, several 

figures from Sharqiya’s 

municipality and Saudi 

Aramco vice president 

Fuad Al Therman. 

Are you an aspiring actress or 

just need to channel your 

drama somewhere? 

Check out @aurora.stage on 

Instagram and get involved 

in their workshops. 

ARTIST OF THE MONTH 

@HASANIN4ART 

Hasanin creates 

calligraphic wonders 

with wood. One 

of his most recent 

works was made 

for Saudi’s National 

Day and reflected 

Saudi patriotism. The 

piece was made up 

of wooden letters 

representing peace, love 

and patriotism and also 

a letter representing 

each of the Kingdom’s 

different provinces. 


29


The Bright Brothers 

Badran 

Double the interview 

pleasure with two creative 

people instead of one. 

By Lina Alfaris 

It’s an age-old debate: are you 

born with creativity or is it 

learned and developed? Well, 

when it comes to the Badrans, 

it runs in the family. 

Like their father Qusai, a 

well-known journalist and 

former regional director of 

Watan Newspaper, Sultan and 

Mansour carry the same passion 

for creativity. 

Mansour 

Al Badran, 

a filmmaker 

and producer. I 

graduated from 

DePaul University 

in Chicago, where 

I studied digital 

cinema with a 

concentration 

on cinema 

production. I’ve 

participated in 

many film festivals 

and global 

competitions, 

including 

the United 

Nations Citizen 

Ambassador 2010. 

Mansour, how did you 

first get into filmmaking? 

After high school, I studied 

architecture at University of 

Dammam, but I couldn’t see 

myself there, so I pursued my 

studies in the US instead. I tried 

out a journalism degree for a 

couple of years, but I’d always 

had the desire to become a 

filmmaker for as long as I could 

remember, so I switched paths 

and studied filmmaking at 

DePaul University. 

Why did you become 

an architect, Sultan? 

To me, architecture is not 

just about numbers and 

measurements; it’s about 

combining an aesthetic eye 

with artistic knowledge and 

a passion for design. I also 

appreciate the important role of 

architecture in our history. 

STAFF PHOTO/ ALZAHRA ALDAWOOD 


Tell us about your 

photography experience. 

Sultan: It started when I was 

young; I used to play with our 

father’s camera to take a lot of 

pictures. Later in high school, 

he bought me my first camera 

and since then I’ve participated 

in many competitions and 

events. Afterwards, I worked 

at the Culture & Arts 

Association in Dammam as 

the photography department’s 

manager, where we organized 

many workshops and events. 

What are your greatest 

accomplishments? 

Mansour: The greatest one 

would have to be “Salam,” 

a short documentary I made. 

It talks about a refugee from 

Burma and his journey to 

the US and was awarded 

the Plural+ 2016 Maryknoll 

Society Interfaith Dialogue 

Award. I’m also very proud of 

my other films, including “The 

Bird of Dammam,” “Maher’s 

Camera” and my YouTube 

series, “Mubta’athji.” 

What are you trying 

to accomplish in your 

respective fields? 

Sultan: As an architect, I 

devote my talent to showcase 

the true architectural identity 

of Dammam in our buildings 

and gardens. 

Mansour: My philosophy 

is to tell the world stories 

about us that haven’t been told 

yet, including my identity 

and culture. That is what I’m 

trying achieve. 

mansouralbadran /sultanalbadran 

Sultan Al Badran: 

I studied 

architecture in 

University of 

Dammam and I 

currently work at 

Saudi Aramco. 


31


GONE CAMPIN’ 

The best camping tips from an outdoor expert. 

By Mishal Alghuneim 

When and Where to Camp 

The best time to camp is 

the winter season, when the 

temperature is bearable enough 

to be outdoors, starting from 

November to April time. 

I personally prefer spots that 

are a little more remote and 

unspoiled, but that would 

require a decent knowledge of 

the terrain, a properly-equipped 

4x4 and good off-road driving 

skills. Still, once you make it, 

you’ll be alone with nature in 

a beautiful and secluded spot, 

making the whole experience 

worth it. 

A great spot to 

check out is the 

Nuairriya area, north 

of Dammam along 

the highway towards 

Kuwait. It’s easy to 

access, pretty flat, 

and best of all, it 

turns green after the 

rain, making it one 

of the most popular 

camping sites 

in Sharqiya. 

Popular Activities 

Normally the general public 

just enjoy being outside in the 

fresh air, have a picnic and 

wind down after the hustle and 

bustle of city life. The younger 

and more active people will go 

off-road driving in the desert 

and dune bashing, while others 

bring along motorcycles or 

sand sleds. It is also common 

to have service providers 

and attractions around the 

busier camping areas, such as 

horseback and camel riding. 

32 



Essentials for Overnight Camping 

Any desert camping trip 

will need to be planned and 

prepared for accordingly, 

depending on how far you 

are from civilization, how 

long you plan on staying and 

whether it’s easily accessible. 

Safety and communication are 

paramount to any trip. 

• 4x4 vehicle, but I 

recommend going 

with multiple vehicles 

in case one gets stuck. 

• Equip the vehicle with 

shackles, heavy-duty 

tow-ropes, shovels 

and compressors. 

• Bring sufficient 

amounts of water, a 

good rule of thumb is 

one gallon per person 

per day for drinking. 

• Bring communication 

methods with backup 

power. If you’ll be out 

of cellular service coverage, 

get a satellite phone or 

personal beacon. 

Then you have the personal 

items that will vary based on 

the type of trip you’re taking. 

These include: firewood, 

camping kitchen, water for 

cooking and washing, portable 

wind barriers, and so on. 

Camping Services 

Provided by Mishal 

Extreme Outdoors 

MEO offers everything 

you could possibly need 

for your camping trips. We 

can organize personalized 

and private trips, including 

everything from itinerary 

planning, transportation, 

logistics and guiding, to 

camp setup, catering, 

equipment rental and 

whatever else you need. 

We generally serve groups 

of six to 12 adults to 

guarantee a high quality 

of service and the most 

memorable experience. 

To arrange a camping 

trip, contact: 

Mishal Extreme Outdoors 

Mob: +966-505803529 

Camp 99 

Mob: +966-508878055 

DESTINATIONKSA.COM 33


DUBAI FILM FESTIVAL 2016 

Saudi filmmakers receiving global recognition. 

The Dubai International Film 

Festival (DIFF) is a significant 

event in the GCC. Since 2004, 

the festival has served as a 

platform for Arab filmmakers. 

It is spearheading the cinematic 

movement in the region. 

On Dec. 6, the Dubai 

International Film Festival 

opened in a spectacular 

fashion at Madinat Jumeirah 

and over 150 diverse films 

were showcased, representing 

55 countries. This year, the 

festival awarded the prestigious 

Lifetime Achievement Awards 

to several iconic figures. They 

include Indian actress Rekha, 

American film icon Samuel 

Jackson, and French-Lebanese 

composer Gabriel Yared. 

The award is given to 

recognize their dedication 

and outstanding and creative 

contribution to the cinematic 

field. Additionally, the DIFF 

also celebrated and 

highlighted the region’s 

success stories. This is 

reflected in the five Saudi short 

films that were premiered. 

300 KM 

Hailing from a conservative 

community, a man, woman 

and child are forced to travel 

together in a small car to 

undertake a 300-kilometer 

journey along a stretch 

of road. 

Producer: Mohammed Al 

Holayyil. His most recent award 

was the Golden Palm from Saudi 

Film Festival 

Scriptwriters: Mohammed Al 

Holayyil, Norah Al Mowald 

DOP: Ali Al Shafiey 

Editor: Yacob Al Marzoog 

Cast: Khaled Saqer, Zara Al 

Balushi, Ibrahim Al Hajjaj 


Wake Me Up 

Salama is experiencing a midlife 

crisis. As she tries to revive 

her artistic hobby, a judgmental 

society triggers a sense of guilt 

within her. 

Producer: Ahmed Al Shayb 

Writer: Reem Al Bayyat. Her work 

has been screened 

in Muscat, Mumbai, Dubai, Abu 

Dhabi, and Paris’ 

Film Festivals. 

DOP: Ali Al Shafaie 

Editor: Mohammed Al Faraj 

Cast: Ibrahim Al Hasawi, Samar Al 

Bayat and Ahd Kamel 

Fadhilat an Takona La Ahad 

(The Bliss of Being No One) 

Thawb Alors 

(The Wedding Dress) 

Asmahan, a seamstress, 

prepares for her daughter’s 

wedding. Her community 

believes that a seamstress 

who works on a wedding 

dress for a loved one brings 

the curse of death. Will 

Asmahan follow the tradition, 

or will she submit to her 

daughter’s wishes and break 

the superstitious tradition? 

Producer: Mohamed Salman and 

Fahmi Farahat 

Scriptwriter: Zainab Al Naser 

DOP: Chaker Ben Yahmed 

Editor: Saleh Nass 

Cast: Sally Zack, Abdulmohsen 

Al Nemer, Shaikha Zowaid and 

Fatimah Al Buainain 

A young man who lost his 

entire family, unexpectedly 

encounters an ageing man 

with an eye-patch. 

Producer, Scriptwriter and 

Editor: The award-winner Bader 

Al Homoud. His films are known 

to have a defining social content 

and impact. 

DOP: Abdullah Al Shuraidah 

Cast: Meshal Al Mutairi and 

Ibrahim Al Hasawi 

The Author: 

Alexander Woodman 

Alexander Woodman, an 

award-winning writer from 

Los Angeles Press Club, 

is currently lecturing in 

Saudi Arabia. He specializes in public health, 

research and visual culture. 

Email: alexwoodman.ucla@gmail.com 



DIA’S Digital Digest 

The latest in digital media consumption, from 

gaming and movies to podcasts and long reads. 

Hardware 

Required: 

Android 

Mobile 

GOOGLE DAYDREAM VIEW 

Interface: 

One-handed controller with 

basic motion tracking. 

Overview: 

It’s light, small and can be 

worn for hours at a time. 

Should I get this? 

You need to have a phone from 

growing list which currently 

includes Pixel and Moto Z. If 

that’s you and you want to dip 

your toe in VR, get this. Google 

has plans to take this beyond 

what the Gear VR can do. 

Games: 

Gunjack 2: End of Shift / Keep 

Talking and Nobody Explodes. 

HTC VIVE 

Interface: 

Wireless motion-tracked 

controllers. 

Overview: 

The best tracking and most 

immersive experience of all, 

with responsive controllers 

and a bountiful library to pick 

from. You’ll be sweating in this 

bulkything, though, so keep 

the AC on. 


Definitely get this if you’ve 

got room to play in and you 

want to experience 

the best VR 

that’s currently 

out there. 

Games: 

The Lab / Raw Data. 

Hardware 

Required: 

VR-ready PC 


PSVR 

Interface: 

DualShock 4 / Move controllers 

Overview: 

Mid-sized option, great 

experience and low barrier 

of entry. If you have a PS4 (or 

thinking of going console), 

then you’re good to go and 

setup is effortless. 


If you’re ready for proper VR, 

your choice for getting this 

versus one of the next two lies 

within that age-old debate: are 

you a console or pc gamer? 

Games: 

Batman: Arkham VR 

SAMSUNG GEAR VR 

Interface: 

Controls are on the headset 

itself, with third-party handheld 

controllers optional. 

Overview: 

Beats the Daydream with 

established library, but headset 

controls make it less userfriendly 

and less immersive. 

Should I get this? You need 

a Samsung device. Get this 

if you want something more 

established in the mobile VR 

market. 

Games: 

Land’s End / Minecraft. 

Hardware 

Required: 

Android 

Mobile 

OCULUS RIFT 

Hardware 

Required: 

PS4 

Interface: 

Xbox One gamepad / Oculus 

Remote / Touch wireless 

motion-tracked controllers. 

Overview: 

Excellent VR experience. 

Superior controllers to the Vive, 

with a much more intuitive 

shape. The setup is more 

complex and with more wires 

to keep track of than the Vive. 

Should I get this? If you have 

a good PC and are ready to 

invest, then get this if you’ve 

got limited floor space to 

work with or just using a desk. 

Games: 

The Climb / Superhot / 

Elite: Dangerous. 

Hardware 

Required: 

VR-ready PC 

The Author: 

Ahmad Dialdin 

Saudi editor, writer and 

tech/gaming geek. Words 

are his playthings (also, 

Legos) and he voraciously 

consumes digital media. Ahmad also 

copyedits this magazine. 


STYLE & BEAUTY 

Hublot’s 

First Boutique in KSA 

Hublot Watches 

opened its first 

boutique in Khobar 

and it’s the largest 

worldwide. The 

grand opening 

was on Nov. 23 

in the presence 

of CEO Ricardo 

Guadalupe, and 

CEO of Attar United, 

YouTuber 

of the 

Month: 

Maya 

Mohammed Saddik 

Attar. The store 

embodies Hublot’s 

“art of fusion” 

in combining 

materials such as 

natural bauxite and 

ebony wood. It’s 

located on Al Sheikh 

Avenue on King 

Salman Road. 

YouTube 

sensation Maya 

Ahmad has been 

making waves in 

the vlogosphere 

with her distinct 

style and mad 

makeup skills. Her 

makeup tutorials 

are informative, 

precise and fun 

to watch! 

themayaahmad 

TIME-SAVING MAKEUP 

1 

Work-appropriate beauty products for a faster 

daily makeup routine. 

Portable 

Brow Kit: 

Here's a tiny allencompassing 

brow kit for 

maximum 

functionality, 

including tweezers, 

wax, powder and 

brushes to keep 

your brows in top 

shape all day long. 

Benefit Cosmetics 

Brow Zings, 

SR 112 

2 3 

Power Trio: 

This hybrid 

complexion 

perfecter acts 

as primer while 

providing coverage 

and SPF all at once. 

You can thank 

us later. 

Urban Decay 

Naked Skin 

One & Done 

SR 112 

Eyes and Lips: 

This is bound to 

save time and 

space for your 

makeup bag. 

Sign us up! 

Mark. Hook 

Up Lipgloss 

and Eyeliner 

SR 37.5 


Check Out 

this Website: 

freefashioninternships.com 

OZ CLOSET 

OZ Closet opened Nov. 27 

in Khobar Mall. It’s owned 

by three sisters united by 

their love of fashion. They 

started with an account on 

Instagram, posting what's 

new and trendy in the 

fashion world, followed by 

a Snapchat account about 

health, recipes and cute 

little DIY projects. One day, 

they decided to have their 

own line of clothes, and OZ 

Closet was created. 

theozsisters 

College seniors, it's time to 

think about your summer 

internships. This website 

exists for anyone working 

towards achieving a career 

in the fashion business. 

It's where you go to find 

potential internship spots, 

from design houses such 

as Giambattista Valli and 

The Row to stylists and 

fashion blogs. 

Faiza Bouguessa 

UAE-based luxury label by designer Faiza 

Bouguessa became a staple part of successful 

Khaleeji woman's wardrobe for its fresh innovation 

on abaya fashion. 

Bag Bugs 

Backpack 

EDITOR'S 

PICK 

An addition to the backpack 

collection, Fendi introduces 

this animated piece. 



Workplace Appropriate 

Abayas 

We’ve got you covered 

(pun intended). 

By Norah Al Eisa 

What we 

look for in 

workplace 

abayas is 

style and 

functionality, 

something 

that every 

abaya brand 

on our list has 

successfully 

mastered in 

their own way. 

Daytime Glamour 

Abayat Yofee 

Haifa Alnafea’s designs 

provide the type of abaya 

that could be worn to work 

and then a fancy dinner 

gathering afterwards. 

"Wearable by women of all 

ages and tastes, the diversity 

of my designs is a strong factor 

behind my success. Another 

important factor is the support 

of my family and friends." 

3bayat_yofee 


Chic Functionality 

Meshalina Abaya 

Neutral color, pockets, and 

incredibly lightweight, that’s 

our type of work abaya 

checklist! The two designers 

behind Meshalina, Meshael Al 

Shamlan and Lina Basalloum, 

seem to put into perspective 

the busy lifestyle of the woman 

they’re designing abayas for. 

meshalina 

Timeless Elegance 

Dreema Fashion 

The flattering silhouettes 

impeccable embroidery behind 

Huda Al Suhaim’s creations put 

forth timeless designs, with this 

one in particular being one of 

our favorites, for its charming 

floral embroidery. 

dreemafashion 


Feminine 

Minimalism 

Hind Abaya 

Linen fabric has proven 

to be a trendy fabric 

within abayas as of late, 

for its luxurious yet laid 

back appeal. Hind gives a 

feminine approach to the 

fabric of the season with 

a flattering silhouette 

and floral embroidery. 

hind.abaya 

Salvatore Ferragamo 


WORKPLACE MAKEUP 

DOS AND DON’TS 

by makeup artist, Manal Alazzam 

Abaya: Meshalina 

• DO use neutral 

eye-shadow colors. 

• DON’T use full 

coverage foundation. 

• DO use light coverage 

foundation with a good 

primer underneath. 

• DON’T go heavy-handed 

with your contouring. 

• DO focus on blending 

in everything for a clean 

seamless finish. 

Stylist: 

Norah Al Eisa 

Hairstylist: 

Deema Albugmi 

Makeup Artist: 

Manal Alazzam 

nalooo_make_up 



THE POWER SUIT 

Rock this trend at the office. 

Altuzarra SR 4,257 


Alexander McQueen SR 7,602 

Dolce & Gabbana SR 9,605 

DVF SR 890 

Racil SR 1,400 

Gucci SR 2,371 


Tibi SR 2,209 



Francesco Russo SR 2,464 

Bottega Veneta SR 12,932 

Gianvito Rossi SR 1,709 

Mansur Gavriel SR 4,565 Prada SR 8,575 


Jimmy Choo SR 1,862 

Valentino SR 7,485 

Fendi SR 10,799 


Nicholas Kirkwood SR 2,010 

Ghalia 

Mahmoudi 

A 21-year old 

marketing 

student and a 

personal style 

blogger. Get to know me through 

my style; it says more than words 

can ever say. 

vogueoverdosed 

Web: vogueoverdosed.com 

Email: info@vogueoverdosed.com 



FASHION DUPES 

There’s always something less expensive 

out there. 

By Abrar Azzouz 

Sequined Jacket 

Ted Baker SR 1,831 


Zara SR 269 

Stradivarius SR 269 

Metallic Skirts 

Crossbody Bag 

Loafers 

Uterque SR 599 

Miu Miu SR 4,500 Zara SR 279 

Oversized Coat 


Saint Laurent SR 10,837 

Zara SR 599 


Dusty Pink Ballerina 

Zara SR 259 

Trench Coat 

Miu Miu SR 2,512 

Zara SR 359 

Burberry SR 6,731 

Fuchsia Suit Jacket 

Topshop SR 230 

Slippers 

Topshop SR 470 

Andrea Marques SR 2,889 




SPAS AND SALONS 

Get pampered and glammed for your next special occasion. 

By Norah Al Eisa 

BRUSH SALON 

Whenever there’s a big beauty 

trend on the horizon, expect to 

find it at Brush! Chrome nail 

polish? Check. Braid rings and 

hair wraps? Check and check! 

If you plan on donning a new 

upcoming trend for your next 

special occasion, Brush salon 

has got your back. 

Location: King Fahd St. & 27th St., Khobar 

Mob: +966-538151531 

Dessange is a 

Parisian franchise 

that prides itself in 

its eco-responsible 

high quality natural 

products. 

DESSANGE 

If you’re looking for more 

than great service, Dessange is 

a Parisian franchise that prides 

itself in its eco-responsible 

high quality natural products. 

Their services include 

hairstyling, coloring, facials, 

massages, manicure/pedicure, 

and bridal packages. 

Location: Gate 5, Rashid Mall, Khobar 



RESTQ SPA 

Luxury spa treatments in the 

comfort of your own home, 

RestQ Spa is the answer 

to every busy/lazy girl’s 

prayers. Their services include 

manicure/pedicure, eyelash 

extensions, massages and 

deep facials. 

Mob: +966-502966634 

Web: restqspa.com 

TREAT NAIL AND HAIR SPA 

Famous for their green tea 

pedicure treatment and natural 

hair masks, Treat is the 

perfect destination for a shiny 

manicure and blow-dry. 

VOG HAIR SALON 

Located at Spectrum 

Gym, Vog Hair Salon 

is a Parisian franchise 

offering hairstyling, 

treatments, coloring, 

as well as sets of 

manicure/pedicure. 

OTHERS TO MENTION 

BLING BLING 

LADIES SALON 

They’re especially 

known for their 

intricate hairstyling, 

so be sure to try them 

out next time you go 

all out for a big event. 

THE SANCTUARY 

SALON AND SPA 

A one stop destination 

for nail care, hair care 

and skincare. Expect 

nothing short of great 

service in luxuriously 

decorated ambiance. 

Location: Prince Sultan Rd., Khobar 

Mob: +966-503837838 

BETALY SALON 

Visit this relaxing 

destination for 

your next Brazilian 

blowout and spoil 

yourself with a 

soothing manicure 

and pedicure. 

Location: Prince Faisal bin 

Fahd St. & Firas bin Al Nudur 

St., Khobar 

Tel: +966-13-8010449 

Location: Prince Faisal bin 

Fahd Rd., Khobar 

Mob: +966-503691423 

Location: Across from King 

Fahad Specialist Hospital, 

Othman bin Affan St., 

Dammam 

Tel: +966-13-8945674 

Location: Prince 

Humoud St., Khobar 

Tel: +966-13-8978558 


49

FOR YOUR HAIR 

NAJWA 

With a hairstyling 

certification from France, 

Najwa’s work speaks for 

itself by looking flawless 

and photogenic. 

Mob: +966-568975520 

stylist_najwa 

LAYLA 

She’s a favorite of ours for her 

professional technique with 

detailed hairstyles. 

layla_hairstyle 


MAKEUP HERE! 

MUNIRA TURAIKI 

Her work is best described 

as “natural glamour”. She 

works with each person’s 

own features and creates 

consistently flattering 

makeup looks. 

Mob: +966-546141907 

munira.turaiki 

DANAH ALZAHID 

She creates striking makeup 

looks with meticulous 

attention to make the skin 

appear healthy and dewy. 

Mob: +966-558066589 

danah.make.up 

RASHA AL MADHAYAN 

Rasha is a certified makeup 

artist sought after by brides. 

She manages to create intricate 

makeup looks that are both 

simple and breathtaking. 

Mob: +966-555857540 

rasha_makeup 


51


WHEN 

CONVENIENCE 

MEETS FUN 

These funky gadgets are life changing. 

SCAN SAFE 

ALUMINUM 

CARD 

Keeps all your 

credit card and 

ID cards organized! 

Seven slots in hard 

shell casing with suresnap 

latch closure. 

COMFORT ZONE: 

CALENDAR 

SR 135 

This cool calendar 

let's you get creative 

with stitching. 

SR 29 

MUST 

HAVE! 

COLORFUL 

ICONIC FIGURES 

SR 249 

Ingested with iconic 

figures and their 

respected quotes, 

these wall hangings 

are bound to color 

your walls. 

GREEN MOSS 

BALL PEN 

SR 54 

Just like the real thing, 

this botanical pen is a 

great way accessorize 

and add a touch of 

"green." So life like, 

people will not know 

your pen from a plant! 

52 DESTINATION SHARQIYA JANUARY 2017 

ADVERTORIAL

BROUGHT TO YOU BY 

MAKKAH CUBE 

SR 149 

This cube represents 

the Makkah region. 

Opening the cube 

unveils the Kaba. 

virginmegaksa 

SR 35 

LANGUO: 

ROLL PEN BAG 

SR 35 

Made for convenience 

this roll up pouch will 

make traveling easier! 

SMART PLANET: 

ELECTRIC 

HEATED LUNCH 

BOX 

SR 149 

With the Smart Planet 

Electric Heated Lunch 

Box, you can store, 

heat, and eat your food 

all in one container! 

ADVERTORIAL 


53

DINING AROUND TOWN 

A Tale of Two Amazing 

Cuisines as One 

Have the best 

Lebanese-Armenian 

meal you’ve ever 

had at the Quick 

Bites restaurant at 

the InterContinental 

Hotel in Khobar. 

The open-space 

seating area with the 

huge windows and 

delicious variety on 

their new menu have 

absolutely surprised 

us. Great staff, great 

atmosphere and 

Check Out 

Koshari Plus! 

great food; the perfect 

combination! 

Location: Ibn Bassam 

Alandalusi St., InterContinental 

Hotel, Khobar 

Tel: +966-13-8452822 

Koshari is back with 

a bang. This Egyptian 

dish is everyone’s 

latest obsession. 

Check out @ 

koshari_plus, 

a Hofuf-based 

restaurant on 

Instagram or give 

them a call on 

+966-13-5807888. 

Lusin 

Opening 

Soon 

The famous 

Armenian 

restaurant Lusin 

has been a hit 

in Riyadh and 

Jeddah and is now 

opening soon in 

Sharqiya! We can’t 

wait to try it. 


THIS 

JUST IN 

SCRAMBLE 

Check out 

Scramble, 

Sharqiya’s 

latest breakfast 

craze. Enjoy! 

scramble_sa 

Adventures of 

@saudifooodie 

MUST BUY 

MUSTARD 

For almost 270 years, La 

Maison Maille studied 

the gastronomical 

sphere meticulously. 

They have managed 

to transform the 

simplest ingredients 

to household 

staple items. 

Amongst these 

items is Maille’s 

Dijon Originale. 

This legendary 

condiment is 

the future secret 

ingredient in most 

of your sauces and 

vinaigrettes! 

A new restaurant about a song; 

the song is about a story; the 

story is about Nai (Arabic for 

flute). This is the best-theme 

restaurant, with a vivid menu 

developed by a celebrity chef 

nicknamed The Alligator; a chef 

with a cool reptilian attitude. 

onlysweet_ 

Rumor has it @onlysweet_ makes some of the 

best homemade desserts in town. You only 

have to browse through her account to get 

your mouth watering! 

Location: King Saud St. & 15th St., Khobar 

BUNDLE OFFER 

Morning coffee even better 

with Krispy Kreme’s 

Bundle offer: two 

glazed donuts 

with every cup. It’s 

the real breakfast 

of champions! 


55

DINING AROUNG TOWN 

CHEESY 

GOODNESS 

God bless the person who 

first added cheese to fries. 

By Nahla Al Sardi 

BRAUGER - 

BRAUGER FRIES 

Excellent add-on 

sauces; so tasty. The 

cheese, though, 

was a solid mass and 

terribly un-cheese-like. 

Quantity: 

Add-Ons: 

Presentation: 

Taste: 

BISTRO LOUNGE - 

VOLCANO 

Bistro is a fan favorite 

and for a reason. 

Very unique 

presentation. The 

only thing that could 

improve this would be 

a meat topping. 

Quantity: 

Add-Ons: 

Presentation: 

Taste: 

EDITOR'S 

PICK 

I WISH - CHICKEN 

MEXICAN FRIES 

It was nice to see I 

Wish offer a chicken 

option, but beef will 

always be our go-to! 

Quantity: 

Add-Ons: 

Presentation: 

Taste: 

PHOTO / ALZAHRA ALDAWOOD 


THE CUTS - 

THE CUTS FRIES 

The Cuts have a 

very modern twist 

to their presentation, 

with a sour taste 

and a refreshing hint 

of spiciness. 

Quantity: 

Add-Ons: 

Presentation: 

Taste: 

BEIT MISK - 

BEIRUT TWIST 

It’s the simple things 

that make a difference. 

Beit Misk offer wedges 

instead of fries, which 

taste great! The cheese 

was of a high quality 

too. Excellent choice. 

Quantity: 

Add-Ons: 

Presentation: 

Taste: 

O BURGER- 

CHICKEN 

VOLCANO POP 

Due to its presentation, 

the fries were soggy 

(major no-no). The 

chicken pieces were too 

big and outnumbered 

the actual fries. 

Quantity: 

Add-Ons: 

Presentation: 

Taste: 


57

DINING AROUND ROWN 

STEAMY BOWLS 

OF DELIGHT 

Warm up with one of these winter soups. 

By Alzahra Aldawood 

PATTIS 

FRANCE 

ORDER: 

BROCCOLI SOUP 

I know what you’re 

thinking: I hated 

broccoli as a kid and 

it’s no friend of mine 

today. I’m here to 

tell you that you’re 

being too hard on 

broccoli. Give this 

creamy, hearty bowl 

of soup a chance. 

It’ll wrap you up in a 

comforting jacket of 

warmth and perhaps 

even kindle a 

new and longawaited 

friendship. 

Location: 10th St., Khobar 

CHINA TOWN 

ORDER: 

TOM YUM SOUP 

Looking for 

something filled 

to the brim with 

protein and spices? 

This option has both 

chicken and prawns, 

and has a kick to 

it that’ll have you 

breathing fire. 

Location: King Abdullah 

bin Abdulaziz Rd.,, Khobar 

STAFF PHOTO/ ALZAHRA ALDAWOOD 

58 


PAUL 

ORDER: ONION SOUP 

Highly 

recommended, 

this rich and 

flavorful soup is 

a savory delight. 

It’s the perfect 

comfort food for 

lunch or dinner 

and is served in 

a bread bowl 

that ensures you 

leave absolutely 

nothing on the 

table, including 

the bowl! 

Location: Mall of Dhahran, 

Dhahran / Prince Turki 

St., Khobar 

EDITOR'S 

PICK 

DARIN 

RESTAURANT 

ORDER: 

BOUILLABAISSE 

You can’t go to a 

seafood restaurant 

and not order a 

seafood soup! 

The bouillabaisse 

from one of the 

oldest seafood 

spots in Sharqiya is 

guaranteed to have 

you swimming in joy 

and yumminess. 

Location: Khaleej Rd., Al 

Hamra, Dammam 

UPTOWN966 

ORDER: 

HARIRA SOUP 

Although we 

don’t have many 

restaurants 

with Moroccan 

cuisine, 

Uptown966’s 

Harira soup 

really hits the 

trifecta of 

greatness: great 

quantity, quality 

and price. One 

spoon will be all 

it takes to make 

you fall in love 

with it. 

Location: Prince Turki St. & 

16th St., Khobar 


59

DINING AROUND ROWN 

SNACKS FOR 

THE SEASON 

Foods to keep you warm this winter. 

By Tuba Saricimen 

Chestnuts 

Packed with vitamin 

C, fiber, and a whole 

lot more nutrients, 

roasted chestnuts 

are the perfect 

winter snack. Cut 

an inch long X 

onto the flat side 

of the chestnuts 

(to prevent them 

from exploding). 

Place the chestnuts 

on a baking sheet 

and bake in a preheated 

oven (200C / 

400F) for 15 to 

20 minutes. 

Sahlep 

The sahlep (sahlab) 

powder is derived 

from the wild 

orchid and used to 

prepare this silky 

and rich drink that 

warms you inside 

out. Originating 

in the Ottoman 

Empire, sahlep is 

popular and loved 

throughout the 

Middle East. 

Karak Tea 

You won’t be able 

to pass a cold 

winter day without 

having some 

karak tea. Karak is 

black tea brewed 

with milk, sugar 

and spices based 

on preference. 

Originated in India, 

it’s very popular in 

the GCC. 

STAFF PHOTO/ TUBA SARICIMEN 

Aseeda 

A traditional dessert 

popular across 

the GCC, aseeda is 

enriched with dates 

and spices. The 

richness of aseeda 

is perfect to give 

you energy and 

warmth on a cold 

winter day. 

60 


Rogan Gosh 

A signature dish 

of Kashmir, Rogan 

Gosh is an aromatic 

winter lamb curry 

eaten with rice or 

naan bread. 

Its heartwarming 

taste leaves you 

wanting more! 

Haleem 

This spicy, rich 

and delicious slow 

cooked stew might 

be just the type of 

comfort food you 

need to battle a 

cold day. Haleem 

is a Pakistani dish 

made of lentils, 

barley, wheat, meat 

and flavorful spices. 

Mince Pies 

These small pies are 

stuffed with minced 

meat: a mixture of 

dried fruit, sugar, 

and spices. Popular 

in England, mince 

pies are traditionally 

made and eaten 

during the winter 

holidays seasons. 

Melanzine alla 

Parmigiana 

(Eggplant Parmesan) 

Layers of eggplants 

and parmesan 

cheese stacked on 

top of each other 

is how this classic 

Northern Italian 

winter dish is made. 


61

HEALTHY LIVING 

Investigating 

Thyroid Cancer 

Thyroid (n): the butterflyshaped 

gland that controls 

metabolism. 

By Sumaiyya Naseem 

Despite how common thyroid 

problems are, there are many 

misconceptions about the gland 

and its cancer. For example, 

contrary to popular belief, 

hyperthyroidism (thyroid 

deficiency) is not caused by 

obesity or weight gain. 

Dr. Mazin Merdad, an Otolaryngologist 

(ENT) and head and neck surgeon, 

who returned to Saudi one year ago, 

answers some common questions about 

thyroid problems. 


Anatomy of the Thyroid Gland 

Epiglottis 

Cancer 

Thyroid Cancer (Front View) 

Thyroid 

Lamina 

Thyroid (Front View) 

Cancer 

Trachea 

Thyroid Cancer (Back View) 

How common is thyroid 

cancer in Saudi Arabia? 

Unfortunately, we do not have 

a national cancer database here 

in Saudi Arabia. King Faisal 

Specialist Hospital collects 

information from its patients 

and the Ministry of Health, 

and their latest data shows that 

thyroid cancer is the second 

most common cancer among 

Saudi females. 

How do local rates 

compare to global rates? 

We do not have a lot of studies 

regarding thyroid diseases 

in Jeddah, and therefore we 

don’t know if our local rates 

are higher or lower compared 

to global ones. The general 

consensus is that there is 

nothing in our lifestyle that 

is directly associated with 

thyroid problems. 

What are the symptoms 

of thyroid cancer? 

Thyroid cancer often presents 

as a mass felt in the lower 

neck. However, some small 

Thyroid Gland 

thyroid cancers are incidentally 

found when a patient has an 

ultrasound or a CT scan of the 

neck for a different reason. 

How many people have 

lumps in their thyroid 

gland? What percentage 

of that is cancer? 

Around 30 percent of people 

have thyroid nodule, and the 

majority of them are small 

and benign (not cancerous). 

Less than 10 percent of 

thyroid nodules turn out 

to be cancerous. These are 

international statistics. 

What causes 

thyroid cancer? 

The vast majority of thyroid 

cancers develop in patients 

with no known risk factors. 

Having a family member 

with thyroid cancer, or 

being exposed to high-dose 

neck radiation can slightly 

increase ones risk of having 

thyroid cancer. If any of these 

cases apply to you, don't panic, 

just get checked regularly. 

Thyroid (Back View) 

What are some 

precautions against 

thyroid cancer? 

Nothing in ones lifestyle will 

increase or decrease the risk 

of developing thyroid cancer. 

Screening programs (mainly 

by doing neck ultrasound 

imaging) has been shown 

to be ineffective, because, 

again, more than 90 percent of 

thyroid nodules are benign. 

Are there institutes or 

hospitals that specialize 

in thyroid cancer? 

My personal advice for 

patients diagnosed with thyroid 

cancer is to find a surgeon who 

specializes in or has significant 

experience in neck surgery. 

Studies have repeatedly shown 

that the risk of complications is 

less when specialized surgeons 

perform the surgery. 

DJ Recommends 

If you suffer from 

thyroid problems, get 

proper support and take 

care diligently. 


63

HEALTHY LIVING 

SPIRITUALITY 

GET MORE 

RIZQ-Y 

Rizq is more than 

just money. 

By Zahra Anwer 

Rizq (provision/sustenance) 

is not just confined to money 

in our bank account, status, 

business or food. 

It is far more extensive. The 

provisions of Allah may 

be in having tranquility, 

guidance, a smile on your 

face, your parents’ love, your 

spouse’s support, your child’s 

obedience, good friends who 

are always there for you, 

having respect of people 

around you and anything that 

gives you comfort and uplifts 

your spirits. 

Everything that we have is rizq 

from our Creator, as He says in 

the Quran: 

“Verily, Allah is the All- 

Provider.” [Quran, 51:58] 

Here are the ways mentioned 

in the Quran and Sunnah where 

Allah promises us an increase 

in rizq. 

1 BEING MINDFUL 

OF ALLAH AND 

TRUSTING HIM 

“And whosoever fears Allah 

and keeps his duty to Him, 

He will make a way for 

him to get out (from every 

difficulty). And He will provide 

him from (sources) he never 

could imagine. And whoever 

relies upon Allah - then He is 

sufficient for him. Indeed, Allah 

will accomplish His purpose. 

Allah has already set for 

everything a [decreed] extent.” 

[Al Talaaq 65:2-3] 

2 GRATITUDE 

And [remember] when your 

Lord proclaimed, “If you are 

grateful, I will surely increase 

you [in favor]; but if you deny, 

indeed, My punishment is 

severe.” (Quran, 14:7) 

3 SEEKING 

FORGIVENESS 

And said, “Ask forgiveness 

of your Lord. Indeed, He is 

ever a Perpetual Forgiver. 

He will send [rain from] the 

sky upon you in [continuing] 

showers. And give you increase 

in wealth and children and 

provide for you gardens and 

provide for you rivers.” 

(Quran, 71:12) 


5 MAINTAINING 

THE TIES OF KINSHIP 

“Whoever would like 

his rizq (provision) to 

be increased and his 

life to be extended, 

should uphold the ties of 

kinship.” (Bukhari 2067 

and Muslim 2557) 

“His rizq (provision) to 

be increased” means to be 

expanded and made abundant 

or, it was said, to be blessed 

(barakah). An Nawawi 

6 MAKING DU’A 

Du’a is a very important way 

to expand ones provision as the 

Prophet of Allah (PBUH) has 

told us that nothing can change 

the Divine decree except du’a. 

(Narrated by Ahmad, 5/677) 

The Messenger of Allah 

(PBUH) used to say after 

Fajr prayer: 

“O Allah, I ask you for good 

(halal) provision, beneficial 

knowledge and accepted good 

deeds.” (Ibn Majah 925) 

4 INCREASING 

IN CHARITY 

Spending on charity does not 

decrease wealth and 

only blesses it. 

“Who is it that would loan 

Allah a goodly loan so He 

may multiply it for him many 

times over? And it is Allah 

who withholds and grants 

abundance, and to Him you 

will be returned.”(Quran, 2:245) 

7 PERFORMING 

HAJJ OFTEN WIPES 

OUT POVERTY 

The Prophet (PBUH) said: 

“Perform Hajj and 

‘Umrah successively for 

they remove poverty and 

sins just as fire removes the 

impurities of iron.” 

(Tirmithi and Ibn Majah) 


TRAVEL TRENDS 

DUBAI PARKS & RESORTS 

OPENS THEMED PARKS 

Dubai Parks & Resorts has opened 

Bollywood Parks, a first-of-its-kind 

theme park that showcases rides 

and attractions based on some of 

Bollywood’s biggest blockbusters. 

Hollywood's Motiongate Dubai park 

is situated right next to it! 

Rocco Forte Hotels 

Welcomes Assila 

Hotel to Jeddah 

Rocco Forte 

Hotels welcomed 

Assila Hotel to the 

developing Saudi 

hospitality market 

of Jeddah, KSA. 

Compromised of 

two towers, the 

hotel consists 

of 147 deluxe, 

superior deluxe 

and executive 

rooms, 63 suites 

culminating in the 

magnificence of 

the Royal Suite, 

and also 94 fully 

serviced beautiful 

residential suites. 

Countdown to Lufthansa’s New 

A350-900 Service Begins 

The A350-900 will make 

its landing Feb. 10, 2017, 

launching its regular 

commercial service 

from Munich to Delhi. 

Considered the world’s 

Inside the 

Pope’s 

Private 

Palace 

Pope Francis has once 

again bucked tradition by 

opening his Papal vacation 

home to the public. The 

Apostolic Palace at Castel 

most modern long-hail 

aircraft, the A350-900 

produces 25 percent fewer 

emissions and is considerably 

quieter during takeoff than 

comparable types of aircraft. 

Gandolfo, Twenty neverbefore-seen 

rooms, including 

a private library, study, 

chapel and simple bedroom, 

opened recently. 


VISIT 

GEORGIA! 

George Janjgava, 

Georgia’s first-ever 

ambassador to 

the Kingdom, 

revealed news of 

visa-free travel for 

Saudi nationals 

as well as other 

GCC nationals, 

allowing a one 

year stay, while 

residents of GCC 

states can stay up 

to 90 days. 

THE 4 MOST 

Visited Countries in the World 

1 

2 

China Opens Former 

Nuclear Plant to Tourism 

France 

Home to 37 recognized 

UNESCO World Heritage Sites, 

France leads with 84.5 million 

international tourists. 

United States 

Offering a large number of 

varied attractions, the US 

lands second with 77.5 million 

international tourists. 

3 

4 

China 816 Nuclear Military Plant is 

a decommissioned plutonium and 

weapons processing facility buried in 

the Chongqing mountains. According 

to government figures, more than 

60,000 soldiers worked on it for 17 

years prior to its closing in 1984. 

China 

The land of the Great Wall 

of China comes forth with 

56.9 million tourists. 

The country is estimated to 

rank number one by 2020. 

Italy 

With 50 UNESCO World 

Heritage Sites and 

innumerable cultural and 

natural artifacts, Italy is ranked 

fifth with 50.7 million tourists. 

Visit Saddam 

Hussein’s 

Former Palace 

Saddam Hussein’s former 

Lakeside Palace has opened 

its doors as Basra Museum, 

recognized as the country’s first 

museum opening in decades. 


67

TRAVEL TRENDS 

Our Escape 

to Rangali Island 

Venture through the Maldives with Destination. 

Story by Bassma Al Toaimi 

Written by Tala Hussein 

Awarded the Indian Ocean’s 

Leading Hotel 2016 & 2015, 

and the Maldives’ Leading 

Water Villa Resort 2016 by 

the World Travel Awards, the 

Conrad Maldives Rangali 

Island whisks its guests 

away by seaplane, providing 

exceptional hospitality and an 

opulent setting. 

Soak up the Maldives with 

the Conrad’s curated list of 

experiences, which comply 

with time constraints of 1, 3 

and 5 hour itineraries. Infused 

with local culture, the inspired 

experiences, ranging from 

undersea dining to exploring 

aquatic gardens look to unravel 

the stress of daily life. 

COURTESY PHOTO 

68 


DAY 1 

Our exotic journey embarked 

with a lunch at the Rangali 

Bar. Set on the edge of the 

main pool with a sand-floored 

bar, Rangali Bar offered us 

an extensive lunch menu 

characterized by striking 

dishes and innovative tropical 

inspired cocktails. 

Recognized as a dining 

destination with 12 awardwinning 

restaurants and 

bars including the world’s 

first undersea restaurant and 

the Maldives first celebrity 

Chinese restaurant, the Conrad 

Maldives Rangali Island awaits 

gourmands for an inspiring 

culinary experience. 

Sunset Grill Restaurant 

Ufaa by Jereme Leung 

Dinner was held at the award 

winning Ufaa by Jereme 

Leung, who was voted the best 

head chef by the 2016 World 

Luxury Restaurant Awards. 

Presented as an innovative 

Chinese culinary concept, 

infused with iconic aromatic 

flavors from varied Chinese 

cultures, Ufaa took us on a 

journey of taste exploration 

with Chef Leung’s signature 

hot pots. Chinese cuisine never 

tasted this good. 

Pan seared wagyu beef with scallops. 

Tianjin pear with vanilla ice cream. 

DAY 2 

Having 12 award-winning 

restaurants to choose from, 

next was the Vilu Restaurant 

and Bar for the perfect 

energizing breakfast to start 

our day. Vilu offered us 

breakfast tables presented in a 

picturesque setting and situated 

beside the serene blue waters 

of the Rangali Island lagoon. 

It features a selection of 

continental breakfast foods 

served buffet style for those 

wishing to try what meets the 

eye. We dove into the exotic 

flavors of the Asian selection 


featuring Thai omelette 

and mango sticky rice for a 

cultured breakfast experience. 

Scheduled next was an 

invigorating private yoga class 

located at the resort’s yoga 

pavilion. The one hour session 

embedded a soothing effect on 

us, while we engaged the mind 

and body with deep stretching 

and meditation. 

For dinner, we were greeted 

with a rich feast of fresh local 

lobster, seafood and quality 

meats straight off the grill at 

Koko Grill Beach, a designated 

beach for a relaxing dining 

experience. The tables were 

set right near the water, and lit 

with little lamps, creating the 

perfect ambience. 

What made the experience 

particularly special was watching 

the sun set in front of us and 

listening to nothing but the 

peaceful sound of the waves. 

Wood Ufaa by smoked Jereme salmon Leungwith asparagus pannacotta and raspberry dressing. 

DAY 3 

The third day was designed 

for ultimate regeneration. 

Located in the sanctuary of the 

Rangali Finolhu Island, The 

Spa Retreat is set over a lagoon 

at the tip of Rangalifinolhu 

Island. It offered us an 

extensive range of holistic 

spa and body treatments that 

rejuvenated our mind, body 

and soul. The Maldivian 

Indigenous treatment 

consisting of a localized blend 

of products, relived muscle 

tension and provided utmost 

nourishment. 

Beach villa backway. 

My favorite was the heated 

fresh coconut sticks that 

instantly melted once rubbed 

on the skin, breathing new life 

into my body. 


Awarded the Best Luxury 

Scenic Setting, Mandhoo 

Spa Restaurant is elegantly 

designed, yet instilled with a 

spooky aspect of sting rays 

and baby sharks possibly 

swimming underneath the 

restaurant. Lunch at the 

world renowned Mandhoo 

Spa restaurant was specially 

prepared to energize, nourish, 

detoxify, relax and fortify the 

body using explicitly 

organic produce. 

Next was an awe-inspiring 

cruise over the deep blue ocean 

on board a luxury cruiser. We 

watched the sun sinking into 

the oceanic mélange of colors, 

while being served the chef’s 

special canapes. 

Mandhoo Spa Restaurant 

DAY 4 

Having recognized and 

awarded multiple global 

awards, Ithaa Undersea 

Restaurant is the world’s first 

undersea restaurant offering a 

180-degree panoramic view of 

the coral lush surrounding it. 

Ithaa rests five meters below 

the surface of the Indian ocean. 

We wrapped up our trip with 

dinner at the beautiful Koko 

Grill, located on the quiet zone 

beach for a luxuriating final 

dinner. Koko Grill provided 

us with an intimate dining 

experience. The chef put 

together a 10 course meal of 

Japanese cuisine under the 

stars, by the sound of rhythmic 

waves. It was perfect. 

Ithaa Undersea Restaurant 

Web: conradhotels3.hilton.com 

conrad_maldives 


TRAVEL TRENDS 

Ascott: 

The Perfect Respite 

A residence of exhilaration, 

Ascott provides a unique 

lifestyle. 

Riyadh was, in recent history, 

a pit stop along the Kingdom’s 

trade route. Once a mud-walled 

enclosure, today Riyadh’s 

transformation has evolved it 

into the financial and business 

hub of the Kingdom. 

The city’s architectural 

wonders start from futuristic 

steel-clad skyscrapers to the 

mud-brick structures of the 

Masmak Fortress, built a 

century ago. Set in the ultra 

modern district of Olaya, the 

Ascott luxury residence sits 

amongst two of the city’s 

tallest skyscrapers, supplying 

guests with the most stunning 

view of Riyadh. The building 

itself is a beauty to behold, 

instilling feelings of wonder 

and awe in onlookers as they 

observe the powerful grace of 

Ascott Rafal. 

Its location in the heart of 

the business district and a 

5-minute drive to the up 

and coming King Abdullah 

Financial District makes 

Ascott Rafal the prime choice 

for business travelers visiting 

the city. 


The hotel offers a selection 

of studios, one and two 

bedroom apartments 

catering to both short and 

long staying guests. 

Opulently furnished in 

rich neutral tones, each 

apartment’s open plan kitchen 

is fully equipped along with 

separate living, dining and 

bedroom areas - providing 

the ultimate privacy and 

convenience, just like home. 

Ascott Rafal Olaya 

offers luxurious lifestyle 

facilities that function as the 

perfect escape at the end of 

a long day. A diverse mix of 

day spas, gymnasium, pool 

and a kid’s club with 

extensive facilities makes 

Ascott Lifestyle a family 

friendly luxury. For guests 

focused on a business-related 

visit, Ascott provides meeting 

rooms and a business center to 

help guests perform their best. 

Restaurant in the building. 

Ascott’s residence program 

incorporates pastry tasting 

sessions, traditional yoga 

classes, recreational outings 

and a unique community 

experience unlike any other 

in the Kingdom. 

The kid’s play area offers 

safe and exciting programs 

for the children in your care, 

which not only entertains 

them but also creates new 

memories to rejoice and 

remember. Colorful, state 

of the art play and climbing 

equipment, swings and 

slides make the play area 

the ultimate initiator of thrill 

and laughter. 

The kid’s room for younger 

children provides a happy 

space to play, sleep and 

dream. It offers comfort to 

mothers by providing 

infants and toddlers with 

love and care that feels just 

like home. 

Location: Ascott Rafal Olaya Riyadh, 

Sahafa, Olaya St., Riyadh 

Tel: 8002440080 

Email: enquiry.riyadh@the-ascott.com 

Web: the-ascott.com 

Rooftop swimming pool. 

ADVERTORIAL DESTINATIONKSA.COM 73

TRAVEL TRENDS 

TRUE ARABIAN PALACES 

Qasr Al Sharq and Hilton 

for local luxury. 

By Tala Hussein 

Overlooking the Red Sea, Qasr 

Al Sharq presents the city with 

true first class opulence. The 

monumental building stands in 

Jeddah, showcasing ultimate 

luxury and elegance with its 

oriental palace façade. 

Only 20 minutes away from 

both King Abdulaziz Airport 

and the bustling bright souks 

of Al Balad, Qasr Al Sharq 

maintains its status as the most 

favored occasional, formal, 

and leisurely venue of the city. 

Boasting seven elegantly 

themed boardrooms, with state 

of the art functions, much of 

the royalty, dignitaries and 

business associates mark it as 

the focal meeting point in the 

city of Jeddah. Conveniently 

located by the tallest water 

fountain in the world, guests 

can admire the scenic King 

Specializing 

in modern 

Lebanese 

cuisine, 

Mataam 

Al Sharq is 

constantly 

searching 

for ways to 

serve the 

highest level 

of customer 

service and 

fine dining 

experience. 

Mataam Qasr Al Sharq 

Fahad Fountain at Jeddah 

Corniche, while also accessing 

the Hilton’s varied amenities. 

As for dining, indulge in 

the option of choosing from 

two fine dining restaurants. 

The first offered is an Italian 

getaway, set in a relaxing 

yet sumptuous environment. 

With its rich interior and 

high quality service, Aromi 

established itself as an ideal 

venue for special occasions. 

Unwind in the private 

sanctuary of Qasr Al Sharq’s 

Spa, promising ultimate 

solitude for every visitor. 

Utilizing organic philosophy 

of well-being through active 

plant ingredients, it offers eight 

different types of massages, an 

indoor swimming pool with an 

Aqua-Med Hydrotherapy bed, 

and countless other features. 

Location: North Corniche Rd. 

Web: waldorfastoria3.hilton.com 

Tel: 920009565 

COURTESY PHOTO 


The Hilton is home to some of 

the best dining options in the 

city. The Al Safina Restaurant 

offers local, regional and 

international fine dining 

cuisine, while the Manhattan 

Sports Diner lets you enjoy 

your American favorites. 

If you prefer an evening of 

relaxation and coffee, escape 

into leisurely setting of the 

Vienna Café. 

Spa Jacuzzi at Qasr Al Sharq 

Staying at the Hilton is not 

just a choice; it’s a lifestyle 

that many desire. The full 

experience of staying at the 

Hilton rejuvenates, refreshes 

and recharges you for your 

work in the city. 

Location: North Corniche Rd. 

Web: Jeddah.hilton.com 

Tel: +966-926591111 

Jeddah Hilton Pool Terrace 

At a glance, the Jeddah Hilton 

is a grand facility that offers 

accommodation to travelers 

and executives new in the city. 

Located close to the bustling 

downtown area and adjacent 

to the grand Qasr Al Sharq, 

Jeddah Hilton provides easy 

access to the best parts of the 

city. Shopping districts, iconic 

destinations like the King 

Fahad Fountain and theme 

parks are minutes away from 

the hotel. 

Whether you’re in the city for 

business or simply taking a 

staycation, it’ll be easy to find 

a suitable room at the Hilton. 

The Deluxe Plus rooms offer 

a bright and airy space with a 

gorgeous panorama of the city, 

while the Executive rooms let 

you savor the sea view from 

the higher floors. 

What makes Hilton an 

amenable choice is the 

availability of personalized 

fitness centers, rejuvenation 

at The Spa by Clarins and the 

Hilton Hall or the Al Qasr 

Ballroom for galas, meetings 

and private parties. Hilton 

is a hub for business and 

leisure, and various events and 

conferences that take place in 

its grand halls. 

A visit to Jeddah is incomplete 

without the discovery of the 

city’s extensive culinary scene. 

Fitness Center, Hilton 


TRAVEL TRENDS 

Exploring one of the oldest 

pottery stores in KSA. 

By Hajer Al Alwan 

In a small village in Al Ahsa 

called Al Qarah, lies a pottery 

store that has survived the 

Ottoman Empire and lived 

through the modernity of Saudi 

cities. Recognized by the Saudi 

Commission for Tourism & 

National Heritage, it’s one 

of the historic attractions in 

the area, which is known for 

nursing craftsman. 

ANCIENT 

ART 

Al Gharrash family has been 

running this pottery business 

for more than 200 years, 

generation after generation, 

without letting the store lose its 

sense of originality. 

Many of the wooden doors and 

windows in the store are more 

than a century old. The family 

continues to make and sell 

pottery and ceramic pieces. 

Currently owned by Sayyed Ali 

Al Gharrash, he leaves the day 

to day operation of the store to 

his two sons, Sayyed Salih and 

Abu Essam. Abu Essam, 

the older brother, told us they 

were one of the very few 

families that still make 

pottery in Al Ahsa. 

STAFF PHOTO/ HAJER AL ALWAN 


The first store we had 

was originally located 

inside one of the caves 

in Al Qarah Mountain, 

back when people used 

to live in them, but 

eventually they were 

abandoned and our 

ancestors bought this 

place we’re in now. 

— Abu Essam 

When we walked in, it felt as 

if we were taken to a different 

far-off time. Mud walls and 

wooden doors and windows, 

the nostalgic atmosphere of 

the place engulfed us when we 

walked in the rooms filled with 

shelves of ceramics of all sizes 

and types. 

“We get our mud from 

Al Mubarraz, but nowadays 

it’s much harder to find,” 

said Abu Essam. “The best 

places to find mud have been 

covered with buildings.” 

The pieces range in type and 

purpose. Some are designed 

for incense, others for sheesha 

smoking or as plant and flower 

pots. Some are even created 

for water storage, just as they 

were originally used for many 

years ago. 

When we asked about how the 

mud is prepared to work it into 

pottery, they explained that 

it has to be soaked, kneaded, 

made into the final shapes, 

dried, and then heated in a pit. 

Visiting such a local reserved 

historical landmark was just a 

heartwarming experience for 

us. We invite all of you to go 

and see it for yourself. 

Location: Opposite of Saudi Post Office, 

Al Qarah, Al Ahsa 

Mob: +966-554977783 


TRAVEL TRENDS 

SPECIAL PLACES 

The owner and designer Saad 

Al Balahi traveled across the 

Kingdom collecting antiques 

and manuscripts to fill his 

museum. You’ll find antique 

jewels, weapons and ancient 

photographs. Heritage Village 

also shares the history of 

Dammam itself, telling the 

tales of its development since 

its foundation. 

BACK 

TO THE PAST 

Get in touch with your past at the Heritage Village. 

By Sara Chaudhry 

Designed as a traditional 

Arabian castle, Heritage 

Village is one of the most 

popular tourist destinations in 

Sharqiya. Located centrally in 

Dammam near the Sheraton 

Hotel and the Corniche, the 

landmark is a testament to 

the rich history and culture 

of the region which has been 

meticulously preserved and 

displayed for visitors to enjoy. 

The multi-story building 

documents Saudi civilization 

and history from the past to the 

present. Each floor will entice 

you with the rich cultures of 

Saudi, from the sublime nature 

of Aseer to the warmth of Najd. 

A Traditional Pot on Display 

A trip to Heritage Village 

helps relate the past with the 

present. It introduces you to the 

Kingdom's diverse cultures and 

early history, giving you new 

perspectives on present-day 

Saudi Arabia. 

Every trip to Heritage Village 

ends with an astonishing 

dining experience that you will 

remember for days to come. 

Authentic cuisines and tastes 

from all regions of the country 

are served at the traditionally 

decorated restaurant, 

intoxicating one's senses and 

putting a delicious cherry on 

top of the wonderful experience. 

Location: Prince Mohammad bin Fahd 

Rd., Dammam 

Web: heritage-village.com.sa 

Tel: +966-13-8090000 

Email: info@heritage-village.com.sa 

STAFF PHOTO/ALZAHRA AL DAWOOD 

78 


THE PORTUGUESE CONNECTION 

The Portuguese rule over the Arabian Gulf. 

By Mohammed Mirza 

Just like much of 

the world after 

the European 

Renaissance, Arabia 

has been subject to 

European colonialism 

as well. Parts of what 

is modern day Saudi 

Arabia once fell into 

the ambitious hands of 

colonial powers. 

The Portuguese sought 

to influence a major 

portion of maritime 

trade in the region 

and profit from the 

pearling industry. 

After the Portuguese 

invaded the Arabian 

Gulf, Hurmoz in Iran 

served as their base. 

1506 AD 1521 AD 1549 AD 

• • 

• 

The Portuguese 

first appear in the 

Gulf and invade 

Hurmoz in Iran. 

1625 AD 

• 

The Portuguese 

entirely lost their 

last bastion in 

Hurmoz, Iran. 

Conquered Qatif, 

Bahrain and some 

islands belonging to 

the Jabrid Dynasty. 

Present Day 

• 

Aside from the 

Portuguese built 

fort in Tarout Island, 

little remains of the 

Portuguese era. 

Ottomans defeated 

the Portuguese in 

Yemen and Oman. 

Before the 

arrival of the 

Ottomans, a 

local revolt in 

Qatif managed 

to rout the 

Portuguese. 

The Ottomans 

had arrived 

after the locals 

called out 

for help. 


79

IN BAHRAIN 

The Good Big Brother 

Supporting the growth of small and medium enterprises. 


TAMKEEN 

Founded: 2006 

Some Success Stories: 

Sugar&Lace, Fresco, 

2Connect, Obai&Hill, 

Namaste, Amina Gallery 

With a mission to reform its 

economy, one of Bahrain’s 

main initiatives was making 

the private sector the key 

driver of sustainable economic 

development. As a direct 

result of that, Tamkeen was 

founded in 2006 as a semigovernment 

organization. 

One of the most common 

types of aid Tamkeen gives is 

their enterprise support. Their 

programs provide financial 

help to establish businesses 

in Bahrain. Some of the areas 

a business owner can obtain 

support for are: 

Aside from helping with 

startups, Tamkeen also has 

plenty of financial solutions 

– in collaboration with 

prominent banks – to support 

growth opportunities of 

established businesses. 

Tamkeen also organizes 

professional development 

schemes for individuals and 

enterprises such as training 

workshops and certification 

programs. To motivate and 

teach young Bahraini students 

the basics of being a business 

owner, Tamkeen organizes 

business plan competitions 

to help them learn about 

preparing a business plan and 

setting up a new business. 

Web: tamkeen.bh 

• Machinery and equipment 

• Information and 

communication technologies 

• Marketing and branding 

• Participating in exhibitions 

• Business consultancy 

• Quality improvement 

and certification 

To date, 

Tamkeen’s 

programs have 

served more 

than 130,000 

Bahrainis and 

their businesses. 



BAHRAIN BUSINESS INCUBATOR CENTRE 

Founded: 2003 

Some Success Stories: Jeeves, 

Sultan Pasha Sweets Factory, 

Tylos Company, Healths Kitchen 

Catering, Bella Casa Blinds 

One of the main concerns of 

a budding entrepreneur is a 

place to start operations. This 

is where the Bahrain Business 

Incubator Center (BBIC) 

comes in. The BBIC provides 

space and essential services 

needed for an entrepreneur 

to start operations without 

worrying about logistics. 

To date, over 100 

businesses have 

successfully used 

and transitioned out 

of the BBIC. 

Once the business is 

established, the business 

owner can then transition out 

of the incubator and into 

the real world. 

BBIC offers options of renting 

production spaces and office 

spaces, depending on the 

business owners’ needs. In 

addition, crucial services and 

facilities such as internet, 

telephone and fax services, 

boardrooms and conference 

rooms and a supportive 

entrepreneurial environment 

are just some of the things a 

business owner can benefit from. 

The BBIC works closely with 

government institutions and 

other SME-support institutions 

in order to assist and accelerate 

the growth of SMEs in Bahrain. 

Web: bbicbahrain.com 


81

TENMOU – THE BAHRAINI BUSINESS ANGELS COMPANY 

Founded: 2010 

Some Success Stories: uTrack. 

TV, Eat App, Faiza Mosaic Art 

Center, Spade Studios, Reload 

Consulting, Fish Transporter 

Business angels are affluent 

individuals that invest in and 

support startup companies 

and budding entrepreneurs. 

Tenmou is Bahrain’s first 

“business angels company” 

that offers support, 

mentorship and capital to 

up and coming Bahraini 

entrepreneurs. Comprised 

of successful businessmen 

and entrepreneurs, the angel 

shareholders at Tenmou have 

the experience and know-how 

to guide, support and assist 

new business owners straight 

from the start. 

Tenmou looks for highly 

motivated and hardworking 

Bahraini entrepreneurs with 

new and innovative ideas that 

have the potential to succeed 

and expand within Bahrain and 

on an international level. 

Their funding is generally 

sufficient to get going, and 

given the possibility a 

business requires more funding 

at later developing stages, 

Tenmou looks to assess the 

proposed justifications and can 

provide a more substantive 

financial support system. 

Web: tenmou.me 


RIYADAT INCUBATION CENTER 

Founded: 2010 

Some Success Stories: 

Pachachic, Ameena Gallery, 

Annada, Makeup Store, 

Craftzania 

With the vision of Princess 

Sabeeka bint Ebahim Al 

Khalifa and in collaboration 

with the Bahrain Development 

Bank and the Supreme 

Council for Women, Riyadat 

was established as a business 

incubator specifically targeting 

Bahraini women. One of the 

main aims of Riyadat is to 

support the development of 

Bahraini women entrepreneurs 

and give them the resources 

they need to start and build 

successful businesses. 

Riyadat has 

54 offices and 

Stores to help 

Start-Up Women 

Entrepreneurs. 

The most 

entrepreneurial 

age group for 

females is 35-44. 

Built like a mall, Riyadat 

has the necessary facilities to 

assist a startup business in the 

initial and crucial phase of 

development. With a standard 

incubation period of three 

years, Riyadat offers offices, 

a shop space to showcase 

products, a business center, 

accounting and advisory 

services, and conference and 

meeting rooms. 

10% of the female 

population are thinking 

about starting 

up a business. 

We are the 1st 

incubator of our 

kind in the world. 

If women started 

businesses at the same 

rate as men, we would 

have 150,000 extra 

start-ups each year. 

Web: riyadat.com.bh 


83

IN BAHRAIN 

CREATIVE MEAT SPACE 

Bahrain’s innovative local burger joints. 


The Grub Shack 

Elvis Burger 

People don’t usually like 

weird food combinations but 

sometimes a place can pull it 

off. Enter the Elvis Burger, 

the natural evolution of the 

king of rock and roll’s unique 

sandwich obsession, by adding 

a burger to it! 

Yes, it’s a grilled burger with a 

dollop of peanut butter, grilled 

bananas, beef bacon, melted 

cheese, lettuce and signature 

Grub sauce. You will not 

be leaving this burger joint 

without a full stomach and a 

smirk of satisfaction. 

Location: Rd. 90 Block 1014 Shop 2247 b, 

Wali Al Ahd Highway, Hamala 

Tel: +973-17131363 

Southside 

The Mac Burger 

Nothing reminds me of my 

childhood like a bowl of mac 

and cheese. How about we try 

that on a burger? I know, crazy, 

right? Southside’s The Mac 

burger will bring out our wild 

side. Mac and cheese with an 

extra serving of fried mac and 

cheese, bacon, a sizzling burger 

and a helping of cheddar 

cheese. This is the definition 

of comfort food: burgers and 

childhood memories! 

EDITOR’S 

PICK! 

Location: Wali Al Ahd Highway, Hamala 

Hills, Hamala 

Tel: +973-17002217 


Joy Mamas 

Truffle Burger Decadent 

I love mushrooms. I really 

love mushrooms. Joy Mama’s 

truffle burger decadent is 

an absolute marvel. The 

burger patty is infused with 

mushrooms, then topped 

with melted cheddar, lettuce, 

balsamic-glazed onions and 

– the crème de la crème of 

toppings – truffle mayonnaise. 

Location: Avenue 27, El Mercado 

Mall, Janabiya 

Tel: +973-13115533 

Sage and Sirloin 

Smoked Brisket Burger 

Can I get a steak, well done 

please? Wait, hold on a 

minute, we’re only talking 

about burgers, right? Sage and 

Sirloin has us covered. The 

smoked brisket burger includes 

overnight smoked brisket, 

shredded and dressed with the 

best homemade BBQ sauce 

that you’ve ever tasted. Simple 

and delicious. 

Location: Wali Al Ahd Highway, Hamala 

Tel: +973-17611949 


Blaze Burgers 

Beef Tank 

There’s one thing in the world 

that I love most and that’s a 

grilled cheese sandwich. Well, 

Blaze Burgers figured out how 

to top that. Not one, but two 

grilled cheese sandwiches 

housing two sizzling burgers, 

topped off with lettuce, 

tomatoes and Blaze sauce. 

This totally earns its Beef 

Tank name! 

Location: Rd. 3819, Block 338, Manama 

Tel: +973-17744773 


85

Classified Pages 

To add your news, contact us at pr@destinationksa.com 

Deutsche Bank’s Investment 

Perspectives 2017 Conference 

Sloanes Real Estate Brokers Expands its Portfolio 

Sloanes signed a deal with Berkeley Group to expand their existing partnership 

and include developments in London. As part of the agreement, Sloanes KSA 

will offer two exclusive riverside developments in Battersea Reach and 

Fulham Reach. 

Al Ghassan Motors and Bentley in Partnership with Al Bayraq 

Titled Global and Regional Investment 

Perspectives 2017, the third event 

of its kind for Deutsche Bank in 

Saudi Arabia explored pressing 

macro issues affecting the MENA 

region and beyond. 

Alhambra’s Luminous Hues 

in the Saudi Markets 

The new Bentley Mulsanne model 2016 will be the official car for use in 

transporting of Al Bayraq clients, a new business Air Bridge that runs six daily 

scheduled flights between Riyadh and Jeddah. 

The BMW 6 Series: Luxurious Elegance at its Best 

Van Cleef & Arpels unveils its new 

Vintage and Magic Alhambra creations 

set in the Saudi market, a perfect 

harmony of malachite and diamonds. 

The 6 Series offers attractive new additions to the range of optional equipment 

for spring 2017. The options add touches of striking style to both the exterior 

and interior. 


To add your news, contact us at pr@destinationksa.com 

Classified Pages 

Bupa Arabia Supports 

Community Talents 

Nissan Introduces Driverless Towing System 

Bupa Arabia for cooperative insurance, 

the largest healthcare provider in the 

Kingdom, emphasized its cooperation 

with public and private entities to 

support persons with disabilities in 

the Kingdom by attracting them to 

attractive employment opportunities 

at the company. 

Conrad Makkah Jabal Omar 

The introduction of Intelligent Vehicle Towing (IVT) has been announced, a fully 

automated vehicle towing system, at its Oppama Plant. 

LG Ushers in a New Age of 

Convenience 

Backed by a growing number of modern facilities and government support, 

Makkah is set to become a new destination for the MICE tourism industry in 

Saudi Arabia, according to industry experts. 

LG’s new washing machine redefines 

the concept of laundry. The LG 

TWINWash, first unveiled at CES 

2015, enables two separate loads to 

be washed simultaneously. 


87

DIRECTORY 

AMERICAN 

APPLEBEE’S Prince Turki St., 

Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8936780 

BUFFALO BEST WINGS Buffalo 

Best Wings offers a variety of 

delicious flavors and dips. 

Prince Faisal bin Fahd Rd., Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-8977070 

BURRITO LOCO DS 

Recommends: Chicken Rice Bowl 

with a side of nachos and salsa. 

Khobar • Mob: +966-542012320 

BUN & PATTY Taste the original 

burgers. Prince Turkey St., Khobar 

• Mob: +966-542012320 

BURGER NOOK AlRashed 

Mall,AlRakkah,AlHada, Prince 

Mohammed Bin Fahad St., AlRayyan 

• Mob: +966-547688801 

BURGERFUEL DS Recommends: 

MONSTER BURGER! . Fouad Center, 

Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8986936 

BURGER NOOK 

AlRashed Mall,AlRakkah,AlHada, 

Prince Mohammed Bin Fahad St. 

AlRayyan • Al Rashid Mall 

• Mob: +966-547688801 

CHILI’S Chili’s offers great 

dishes in a fun atmosphere. 

Prince Turki St., Al Mawarid 

Food Court Corniche, Khobar 

Mall of Dhahran • Tel: +966-13- 

8937242 | +966-13-8937243 

TGI FRIDAY’S Prince Turki St., 

Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8892191 

FRIDAY’S In Here, It’s Always 

Friday. Prince Turki St., Khobar 

Al Ashriah St., Dammam 

• Tel: +966-13-8892191/ +966-13- 

8892406 

FUDDRUCKERS DS 

Recommends: Tumbleweed Burger 

• Al Rashid Mall, Feras Ibn Al Nadhr 

St., Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8960334 

JOHNNY ROCKETS DS 

Recommends: Smokehouse 

Burger • Al Rashid Mall, Feras Ibn 

Al Nadhr St., Khobar • Tel: +966-13- 

8965500 

QUICK BITES Rich Arabic 

and International menu with 

indoor and takeaway options • 

InterContinental Hotel Al Khobar, 

Ibn Bassam Alandalusi St., Khobar • 

Tel: +966-13-8452822 

STEAKHOUSE The ultimate 

destination for steak lovers. 

Prince Faisal bin Fahd Rd., Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-8938885 

THE BURGER STOP DS 

Recommends: Try the Cheese 

Explosion • Al Turki Center, 

7th St. Northern Khobar, 

Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8817400 

+966-13-8817500 

WAYBACK BURGERS King 

Salman bin Abdulaziz Rd., Khobar 

• Mob: +966-542012320 

BRAZILIAN 

BRASA DE BRAZIL For meat 

coma. You’ll even get duck and 

quail here! • Corniche Rd., Khobar • 

Tel: +966-13-8814884 

CHOCOLATES 

ANOOSH COOKIE TIME! . 

Prince Naif Bin Abdulaziz Rd., 

Dammam • Tel: +966-13-8469803 

BATEEL Al Rashid Mall, Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-865 2702 

BOSTANI CHOCOLATE & 

GIFTS Bostani has the highest 

quality of local, reigonal and global 

products. Prince Faisal Bin Fahd Rd., 

Khobar • Mob: +966-535454749 / 

+966-555042320 

CHOCOLINE Taste and 

refinement meet to create an 

outstanding range of luxury 

chocolates. AIbn Khaldoon St., 

Bansaria Center PEPSI St,28 

• Tel: +966-13-8464303 / +966-13- 

8823427 

GHANDOUR CHOCOLATE 

King Fahad Rd., Dammam • Tel: 

+966-13-966-13-8422213 

GODIVA Four words: Strawberries 

dipped in chocolate. Service Rd., Al 

Yarmouk, Gosaibi Village, Khobar • Tel: 

+966-13-8815757 

JUHAINA CHOCOLATE Prince 

Faisal bin Fahad Rd., Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-867 8388 

PATCHI Find exceptional 

chocolate at Patchi. • Prince Sultan 

Rd., Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8477743 

RAMEZ CHOCOLATE THE 

High quality chocolate in Khobar 

and Bahrain. They cater for all sorts 

of events. • 22nd St., Khobar 

•Mob: +966-542022233 

HOUSE CHOCOLATE SHOP 

The Chocolate Shop is your local 

boutique for exotic and luxury 

chocolates. 

Zaid Ibn Alkhattab St., Al Ulaya, 

Khobar • Mob: +966-555831387 

THE CHOCOLATE SHOP 

Zaid Ibn Alkhattab St., Al Olaya, 

Khobar • Mob: + 966-555831387 

COFFEE & TEA SHOPS 

ACOUSTIC TEA LOUNGE & 

ART GALLERY DS Recommends: 

Rose Latte. Prince Faysal Ibn Fahd 

St., Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8822760 

BABA KARAK 28th St., Dammam 

• Tel: +966-13-8409080 

CACAO SAMPAKA Coffee & 

Chocolate. King Faisal Rd., Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-8494040 

CAFE LIWAN Cafe Liwan is a 

Saudi coffee shop chain that has 

a very unique concept. Al Othiam 

Mall, Dammam • Tel: +966-13- 

8815590 

COFFEE LIBRARY A coffee shop 

with many kinds of coffee to relax 

with. Ar Rayyan, Dammam 

• Mob: +966-590773720 

COSTA Mall of Dhahran, 

Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8684071 

PAPPAROTI Try their milk tea!. 

Mall of Dhahran 

PASTEL CAFÉ Go back in time 

and enjoy your cup of coffee in an 

elegant chateaux. Pepsi St., 

Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8994004 

SECOND CUP Second Cup 

Cafes are dedicated to providing 

Canada’s best lattes, gourmet 

coffee and teas. Amwaj Mall 

• Tel: +966-13-8407730 

STARBUCKS COFFEE Starbucks 

delivers the true essence of coffee. 

Al Rashid Mall • Tel: +966-13-8891195 

T. SQUARE Elegant lobby 

lounge of InterContinental Al 

Khobar serving tea, coffee and 

tasty pastries • Tel: +966-13-8452888 

ZAFFRON LOUNGE GRelax in 

an authentic atmosphere with the 

most delicious dishes and drinks. 

Prince Saad St., (7th St.), Dammam 

• Tel: +966-13-8464648 

FAST FOOD 

DOMINO’S PIZZA An American 

restaurant chain and international 

franchise pizza delivery. Rakkah, 

Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8588914 

HARDEE’S Fast-food chain 

serving chicken, big burgers & 

delicious fries. Prince Turki St. and 

19th St., Al Khobar • Tel: 920001213 

HUNGRY BUNNY Hungry Bunny 

serves comfort food like burgers and 

wraps. Pepsi St., Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-8098227 

KFC Don’t miss out on the tastiest 

and freshest fried chicken at KFC. 

Corniche, Khobar 

• Mob: +966-545029249 

KONO PIZZA Kono Pizza 

makes portable pizza to be eaten 

anywhere and anytime. Prince Faisal 

St., (Prince Homoud St.), Khobar 

KUDU Sandwiches and more. 

• Tel: 92000 6999 

MAESTRO PIZZA DS 

Recommends: Deluxe and Pepperoni 

Pizza • King Khalid Rd., Khobar 

MCDONALD’S McDonald’s 

Saudi prides itself on being 

committed to social responsibility. 

Prince Sultan Rd., Dana South, 

Dhahran • Mob: +966-13-8915328 

PAPA JOHN’S Papa John’s Pizza 

runs the third largest take-out and 

pizza delivery restaurant chain in 

the world. Go for the Ranch Pizza!, 

Amwaj Mall • Tel: +966-13-8912323 

PIZZA INN King Fahd Rd., 

Dammam • Tel: 920001601 

PIZZA HUT Stuffed crust all 

the way! Othman Ibn Affan 

St, Dammam • Tel: 920000910 

/ +966-13-8411641 

FRENCH 

BOULANGERIE Kempinski 

Al Othman Hotel. •Tel +966 13 

8294444 

FRENCH BAKERY We offer 

exceptional quality and aim at 

satisfying our customer. King Faisal 

Rd., Khobar •Tel: +966-13-8493934 

MADELEINE FRENCH BAKERY 

& BRASSERIE Try their Nutella 

French Toast! King Fahd Rd., 

Al Hizam Al Akhdar, Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-8492211 

PAUL’S Try the Salade Fermiere. 

Mall of Dhahran • Tel: +966-13- 

8688183 

ROSETTE Enjoy a luxurious night 

out and dine in luxury at Rosette. 

Corniche Rd., Al Khobar • Tel:+966- 

13-8975854 

THE CRÊPE CAFÉ The Crêpe 

Café is a unique and authentic 

“Crêperie.” Mall of Dhahran 

• Tel: +966-13-8686317 

INTERNATIONAL 

AL WAHA DoubleTree Hotel, 

Khobar • Tel: +966 966-13-3311144 

AL DIWAN Kempinski Al Othman 

Hotel • Tel: +966 13 8294444 

CIRCLE CAFE Try the Mexican 

Salad!. Al Khobar • Mob: +966- 

539477711 • Tel: +966-13-8977711 

PATTIS FRANCE Pattis France 

is a wonderful café and breakfast 

spot. KAl Turki Business Park 

• Tel: +966-13-8827138 

THE BLUE RESTAURANT Faisal 

Al Saud St., • Tel: +966-13-8984999 

ICE CREAM 

FRESH BERRY Exclusive frozen 

yogurts and a variety of toppings 

are at Fresh Berry. Awal St., 

Al Mazru’iyyah, Dammam 

• Tel: +966-13-8611675 

To add your directory listing contact us: pr@destinationsharqiya.com 

88 


HAAGEN-DAZS There’s nothing 

not to love at Haagen Dazs but we 

especially love the Affogato. 

Al Rashid Mall (Level G), Khobar 

LINDO All the fruit mochi ice 

cream flavors. Khobar 

• Mob: +966-561002011 

SHAKES Ferrero Rocher 

Shake!. Al Rashid Mall • 

Mob: +966-548151501 

ITALIAN 

LA CARAVELLA 

La Caravella is an Italian restaurant 

that provides an unmet dining 

experience. Al Rawabi, Khobar 

• Tel:+966-13-8475770 

LA GONDOLA Step into La 

Gondola and let the food, service 

and music whisk you back to Italy. 

Prince Musaed St., Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-8940913 

MANGIAMO RISTORANTE & 

PIZZERIA Mangiamo Restaurant 

offers a variety of mouthwatering 

Italian dishes. King Faisal Rd., 

Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8494050 / 

+966-13-8494060 

OLIO Come and enjoy 

delicious Italian food in relaxing 

surroundings. Mall of Dhahran 

• Tel: +966-13-8986623 / +966-13- 

8914886 

OLIVETO Oliveto is known for 

being an authentic Italian taverna. 

Prince Saad St. Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-8988228 

PIATTO Don’t leave without 

trying the gelato!. Fouad Center, 

Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8944842 

PIZZARIFIC Our simple, yet 

extraordinary pizza will leave you 

satisfied. Aqrabiyah, Khobar Rakah, 

Dammam • Tel: +966-13-8871515 / 

+966-13-8141515 

ROLANDO’S PIZZERIA Try 

the chicken chili pizza. 22nd St., 

Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8961213 

THE PIZZA COMPANY One of 

the most popular pizza joints in 

Dhahran. Mall of Dhahran 

• Tel: +966-13-8684543 

VICOLI LOUNGE Luxury Italian 

and French Lounge. Prince Humud St., 

Khobar • Mob: +966-564255558 

IL VERO Kempinski Al Othman Hotel • 

Tel: +966 13 8294444 

MIDDLE EASTERN 

3A KEIFAK Al Rashid Mall, Feras 

Ibn Al Nadhr St., Khobar 

• Tel: 966-13-8890077 

ABU HILAL RESTAURANTS If 

you’re craving mas’oob. 20th St., 

Thuqbah (20’th St.), Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-8974363 

ABU NAWAS RESTAURANT 

For the best Ruz Bukhari in town. 

Prince Majed St., Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-8952225 

BEIT MISK 

Try the Beit Misk Salad and grills! 

Prince Mohammed bin Fahd Rd., 

Dammam • Tel: +966-13-8324400 

CAFE CHIC SOFITEL 

South Cornishe Rd ., - Sofitel 

• Tel: +966-13-8817000 

FAIROUZ GARDEN 

RESTAURANT Fairouz Garden 

exhumes the taste of the Middle 

East with great outdoor seating. 

King Fahd St., Corniche Khobar 

• Tel: 920004102 

FAYROUZ Fayrouz serves an 

all-day buffet with an option for 

a sumptuois à-la-carte menu. 

Sheraton Hotel, Dammam 

• Tel: +966-13-8345555 

MALTOOT CAFE A mix between 

the traditional and the modern 

funky style. King Turki St., la plaza 

MANOOSHA ALREE Manoosha 

Alreef offers great food, great 

ambience and great prices. 

Prince Faisal Bin Fahd Rd., Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-8813111 

RED DRAGON Red Dragon 

serves authentic chinese cuisine. 

King Khaled St., Dammam 

• Mob: +966-550680111 

MAXIM Prince faisal bin fahad Rd., 

(pepsi road) • Tel: +966-13-8824742 

CAFE CHIC SOFITEL 

South Cornishe Rd., Sofitel 

• Tel: +966-13-8817000 

ASIAN 

ASAHI The Pan-Asian cuisine 

with Sushi, Sashimi, Tempuras and 

more along with a breathtaking 

view of Dammam. 1st St., 

Al Mazru’iyyah,- Dammam 

• Tel: +966-13-8345555 

AL BANOOSH RESTAURANT 

Prince Abdulaziz St., 

• Tel: +966-138948955 

FUSHI Prince Turki St., 

• Tel: +966-13-8989595 

BAMBOO KITCHEN Bamboo 

Kitchen serves a great array of 

Asian dishes. Mall of Dhahran - 

Gate 10 • Tel: +966-13-8910190 

NOODLEZ Try the Singaporean 

Noodles!. Mall of Dhahran 

• Tel: +966-13-3304303 -920006722 

ORIENT Savor the true Asian 

cuisine. Prince Turkey St., Southern 

Khobar • Tel:+966-13-8992525 

ROYAL GULF CHINESE 

RESTAURANT Royal Gulf 

serves you tasty meals within a 

wonderful ambience. Al Rashid 

Mall • Tel: +966-13-8949855 

SHRINPY For the shawarma 

addict!. Corniche St., Khobar 

• Tel: +966-543646786 /+966-13- 

8988887 

TOKYO RESTAURANT 

HIGASHI Corniche, Khobar 31952 

• Tel: +966-13-8814966 

VANILLA PATISSERIE 7th 

Street, Northern Khobar, Khobar • 

Tel: +966-13-8692888 

INDIAN 

BIKKI try all the authentic flavors 

of Pakistani and Indian cuisines. 

Prince Sultan St., Khobar 

Al Shamalia, Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-8995993 

COPPER CHANDNI 

Prince Faisal St., 

• Tel:+966-13-8877868 

MAHARAJA Maharaja by Vineet 

serves traditional Indian dishes 

with a contemporary touch. 

Mövenpick Hotel Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-8984999 

PAKISTANI 

BUNDOO KHAN You’ve got 

to try: Chicken Shish Boti with 

paratha!. Prince Fawaz St., Khobar 

Prince Saad / Musaid St., Khobar • 

Tel: +966-13-8932545 / +966-13- 

8673443 

GHAZI Try their mutton chops! 

Prince Fawaz 19th Street, Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-896 2266 

MUGHAL Mughal is a premium 

dining restaurant deriving its 

inspiration from art, history and 

culture. Corniche Rd., Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-8982570 

DESSERTS & BAKERIES 

A CUP OF CAKE This bakery is 

specialized in cupcakes and cookie 

treats. Prince Faisal Bin Fahd St., 

Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8955110 

CAKE HOUSE Bakery. Doha 

• Tel: +966-13-8610195 

CAKE W KARAK You don’t want 

to miss this Karak Tea!. Othaim 

Mall, Dammam 

DIP N DIP The brownie crepe is 

every chocoholics dream come 

true! . Al Rashid Mall, Feras Ibn Al 

Nadhr St., Khobar • Tel: +966-13- 

8482999 

JAR BAKERY Try their oreo 

pancakes for breakfast. Al Olaya, 

Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8810255 

LAMLICIOUS Al Rashid Mall, 

Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8681962 

• Mob: +966-535266966 

LIWAN CAFÉ Café Liwan is a 

well balanced blend of the Middle 

Eastern and Western concept. 

Prince Faisal Bin Fahd Rd., Green 

Belt, Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8871475 

MY LITTLE CAKE SHOP 

DS Recommends: Ferrero Rocher 

Cupcake!. Amwaj Mall, Gate 4 

• Mob: +966-538491942 

PINK BOX Prince Faisal bin Fahd 

Rd., Khobar • Tel: 920025925 

VANILLA PATISSERIE 7th St., 

Khobar Al Shumaliya 

• Tel: +966-13-8692888 

SEAFOOD 

AL SANBOK SEAFOOD 

RESTAURANT An internationally 

acclaimed seafood restaurant with 

a view of the Corniche. 

Prince Musaed St., Dughaither 

Leisure Island, Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-8944227 

AL YACHT RESTAURANT 

Seafood Restaurant. Khobar, King 

Faisal Rd., • Tel: +966-13-8821882 

RED LOBSTER Red Lobster is 

one of the most famous sea food 

places in the world. Corniche Rd., 

Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8896983 

SOUL KITCHEN Soul Kitchen 

serves the best sea food out 

there. Prince Faisal Bin Fahd Rd., 

Al Hizam Al Akhdar, Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-3314441 

SURF ‘N’ TURF Enjoy a wide 

variety of meals. Sea food is a 

must-try. King Faisal Rd., Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-8494001 

BOUTIQUES 

6 BLOCKS Chique formal wear 

for women including dresses, 

skirts and kimonos.• Al Gosaibi 

Village, Al Yarmouk, Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-8815665 

BRANDS FOR LESS Feras Ibn 

Al Nadhr St., Al Ulaya, Khobar • Tel: 

+966-13-8827466 

• Web: brandsforless.org 

BVLGARI Luxury watches and 

jewelery. Prince Turki St., Albandaryia, 

Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8981533 

• Web: bulgari.com/en-qa 

HALAYEL BOUTIQUE 

Accommodate their needs by 

searching for the latest and most 

creative designs in boutique-wear. 

Al Rashed Mall, Feras Al Nadhr St., Al 

Ulaya, Khobar • Mob: +966-558003022 

• Web: halayel-boutique.com 



HUBLOT BOUTIQUE 

Al-Shaikh Avenue, King Salman Bin 

Abdulaziz Rd., Al Yarmouk, Khobar• Tel: 

+966-13-8021377 • Web: hublot.com 

MIMOSA BOUTIQUE 

A fashion retail house that carries 

an extensive range of international 

high-end and luxury brands. 

Prince Turki St., Corniche, Khobar• 

Tel: +966-13-8815665 • Web: 

mimosa.com.sa 

ROUCHE BOUTIQUE 

7th St., Khobar• Tel: +966-13- 

8655413 • Web: rocheboutique.com 

RUBAIYAT Features the 

world’s premiere brands. 

Prince Turki St - Khobar 

• Web: rubaiyat.com 

TABZ BOUTIQUE 8th Cross 

- Prince Mansour St., • Mob: +966- 

557148324 • Web: facebook.com/ 

tabzboutique 

CUSTOM THOBES 

BALLAN Ballan garments, 

women clothing and accessories. 

King Fahd bin AbdulAziz St., Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-8822762 

LOMAR Menswear such as 

thobes, shirts and Ihrams. 

Prince Turki St., Khobar • Tel: 

920000554 • Web: lomar.sa 

FURNITURE 

ASHLEY HOMESTORES 

Operated stores that are 

passionate about being the 

best and most affordable. 

King Fahd Rd., Qurtoba, Khobar 

Prince Talal Bin Abdulaziz St., 

Hufof • Tel: 920002540 •Web: 

ashleyfurniturehomestore.com 

BO CONCEPT Make customised 

and coordinated design furniture 

and accessories affordable to the 

urban-minded customer. Prince 

Turki St., • Tel: +966-13-8814788 

• Web: boconcept.com 

CITYW Home furniture, 

home accessories and rugs. 

King Faisal Rd., Ar Rawabi, Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-8477066 • Web: 

almutlaqonline.com 

CLOSET WORLD Focus 

on customers’ needs, lifestyle 

and budget to create the 

organizing solutions they need. 

Al Shatie Dst., Dammam Ain Najm 

St., Hufof • Tel: 920001595 • Web: 

closetworld.com.sa 

IKEA To offer a wide range of 

well-designed, functional home 

furnishing products at low prices. 

Prince Faisal Bin Fahd Rd., South 

Doha, Dhahran • Tel: 920004532 • 

Web: ikea.com 

MIDAS FURNITURE 

Products and services include 

home & office furniture retail, 

design-and-build solutions 

and interior design consultation. 

King Abdullah Rd., • Tel: +966-13- 

8950128 • Web: midasfurniture.com 

PHOTOGRAPHERS 

BAYAN AL SADIQ Interested in 

Commercial, Travel and Children’s 

photography. Based in Khobar. 

• Mob: +966-532445501 • Web: 

bayanalsadiq.com 

MONA REEMA Specialises in 

event photography such as henna 

parties, engagements, milka and 

baby showers. Dammam-Khobar 

• Mob: +966-543356917 • Web: 

monareema.com 

HYTHEM ALDAHAM Specializing 

in wedding photos. Rashid Mall, 

Khobar • Mob: +966-558003022 • Web: 

hythemdaham.com 

CLINICS 

AL JAZIRA CLINIC A medical 

facility that uses state-of-the-art 

technologies with a prompt & 

organized level of patient services. 

4th St, South Khobar, Khobar • Tel: 

+966-13-8982022 • Web: aljazirah. 

com.sa 

ARRAZI CLINIC A group of 

eminent visionaries aiming to 

provide world-class, specialized 

and superior multi-specialty health 

care at affordable costs. Jeddah 

St., Al Arifi, Jubail • Tel: +966-13- 

3627373 • Web: arraziclinics.com 

CUREMED TABSH MEDICAL 

CENTERS Pediatric Orthopaedic, 

Spinal Deformity, Arthroplasty & 

Lower Limb Recon. 6898 Prince 

Turki St., Khobar • Tel: 920002873 

• Web: curemed.net 

ELITE SPECIALIST CLINICS 

An address of responsibility by a 

group of best skilled physicians, 

and surgeons who are experts in 

their specializations. 

Prince Turki St., Khobar• Tel: +966- 

13-8940004 •Web: elite-clinics.net 

KHOBAR COOPERATIVE 

CLINIC Alaqrabiyah, 22nd St., 

Khobar, • Tel: +966-13-8940004 

• Web: facebook.com/KCCClinic 

MED ART CLINICS One of the 

most respected plastic surgery 

clinics. Dhahran Tower, Granada 

St., Rakah, Khoba • Tel: +966-13- 

8650040 • Web: medartclinics.com 

RAM DENTAL & 

ORTHODONTIC CLINI 

A clinic taking over the 

responsibility of presenting the 

best medical services. Khobar / 

Dammam / Jubail / Qatif / Hufof 

• Tel: +966-13-8648181 • Web: 

ramclinics.com 

SURGICARE CENTER 

General Care Hospital Othman Ibn 

Affan St., Al Badiyah, Dammam • Tel: 

+966-13-8467777 Ext. 1610/ • Mob: 

+966-503896973 

GYM & HEALTH CENTERS 

AL GOSAIBI BODY BUILDING 

SELF DEFENCE GYM Cross of 

Gulf Cooperative St & Prince Khaled 

St., • Tel: +966-13-8576026 

AL MOAIBED FITNESS CENTER 

state-of-the-art equipment for 

a complete workout and/or for 

relaxation. Al Qasim Al Khawarizmi 

St ., Al Rakkah • Tel: + 966-13-8575443 

• Web: carltonalmoaibedhotel.com/ 

nutrition 

AREKA FITNESS CLUB 

A health and fitness club for the 

prestigious male members. 

Prince AbdulMohsin St., Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-8987088 

ASTRALIS HEALTHCLUB AND 

SPA Unique spa combinations 

that are specifically designed to 

provide its customers with the 

most popular spa treatments. Saad 

Hospital, Prince Humud St, Madinat 

Al Umal, Khobar • Tel: +966-13- 

8014433 • Web: astralis-spa.com 

CHAMPIONS GYM 

Al Badi - 9th St., Dammam• Tel: 

+966-13-8351991 

DIAMOND BODY BUILDING 

SPORTS HALL Thuqbah - Khobar 

St., • Tel: +966-13-894-3386 

FITNESS FIRST One of the 

world’s leading health and fitness 

companies. King Khalid Rd., Khobar 

• Tel: 8003486377 • Web: fitnessfirstme.com 

FITNESS TIME Provide the best 

sports and fitness services. Corniche 

Rd., Dammam • Tel: 8003486377 • 

Web: fitnesstime.com.sa 

STUDIO 55 Studio 55 is an 

immersive group fitness 

experience in Saudi Arabia. 

Jamaluddin Al Afghani St, Al Ulaya, 

Khobarr • Tel: 920003131 • Web: 

fitstudio55.com 

HOSPITALS 

AL MANA GENERAL 

HOSPITAL A hospital that offers 

tertiary care services. Khobar / Jubail / 

Dammam / Hofuf • Tel: +966-13- 

8987000 • Web: almanahospital. 

com.sa 

AL GOSAIBI BODY BUILDING 

SELF DEFENCE GYM Cross of 

Gulf Cooperative St. & Prince Khaled St., 

Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8576026 

AL SADIQ HOSPITAL 

Saihat - Abu Musa Alansari St., 

• Tel: +966-13-8500160 

ASTOON HOSPITAL 

King Fahad St., Al Qashlah, 

Dhahran • Tel: +966-13-8591515 • 

Web: astoonhospitals.com 

GAMA HOSPITAL 

A team of dedicated and highly 

trained professionals to make 

sure you receive the best possible 

treatment and care. King Fahd Rd., 

Dammam • Tel: +966-13-8591515 

• Web: gamahospital.com 

KING FAHAD SPECIALIST 

HOSPITAL To provide 

compassionate quality healthcare, 

integrated with education and 

research. Al Muraikbat, Ammar bin 

Thabit St., Dammam • Tel: +966- 

13-8431111 • Web: kfsh.med.sa/ 

KFSH_Website/Default.aspx 

MAGRABI 

HOSPITALS & CENTERS 

Imam Al Termithy St., Uhud, 

Dammamm • Tel: +966-13-8180000 • 

Web: magrabihospitals.com 

MATERNITY AND 

CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL 

Specializing in maternity health 

services. Ali bin Abi Taleb St., 

Dammam • Tel: +966-13-8426666 

MOHAMMED 

AL DOSSARY HOSPITAL 

Committed to provide 

consistent, high quality and cost 

effectivehealthcare services. 4th 

St., Khobar • Tel: +966-13- 8945524 

• Web: mdh.com.sa 

MOUWASAT HOSPITAL 

Using the latest technology and 

cooperation with international 

medical systems, to provide 

healthcare. Imam Al Termithy St., 

Dammam • Tel: +966-13-8200000 • 

Web: mouwasat.com 

PROCARE RIAYA HOSPITAL 

Promises to provide 

comprehensive health care 

services to its local community. 

King Saud Branch Rd., Al Ulaya, 

Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8955900 • 

Web: procare.com.sa 

SPA & BEAUTY CENTERS 

DR. LAYLA AL ONAIZI 

POLYCLINIC Our pursuit in 

providing health care services to 

our visitors to attain the excellence 

into applying the full concept of 

quality control and the international 

accreditation for health. King Fahad 

Rd., Rakah, Khobar • Tel: +966-13- 

8475955 • Web: http://www.alsogair. 

com/drlaylapolyclinic.html 

CRYSTAL SPA Tamimi 

Compound, King Fahd Rd., Al Bustan, 

Khobar • Mob: +966-509041654 • 

Web: spacrystal.wix.com 


90 


DAR NAJD SALON King Saud St., 

Dammam • Tel: +966-13-8322222 • 

Web: darnajd.com 

ELITE DERMA CARE Skin, Laser 

and Anti-aging Center. King Fahad 

Rd., Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8570100 

• Web: elitedermacare.com/?lang=en 

JOLIE DAME Jolie dame is 

a place for relaxing and rest, 

whatever women need under one 

roof.• Boulevard, Al Rashid Mall 

• Tel: 966-13-898-4547 

• Web: joliedamesalon.com/ 

LA LUNE NAIL SPA Test a new 

experience of relaxation for hands, 

feet and nails. Feras Ibn Al Nadhr St., 

Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8304764 

• Web: lalunenailspa.com 

MOVENPICK Discover the utmost 

in refined comfort and unrivalled 

service with a personal touch when 

you book an unforgettable stay. 

Al Yarmouk, Khobar • Tel: +966-13- 

8984999 • Web: movenpick.com 

PARK INN Offers a vibrant, 

friendly environment that 

provides both business and leisure 

travelers with an affordable hotel 

experience. Rawabi Dist., Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-8100800 

•Web: parkinn.com/hotel-alkhobar 

RADISSON BLU Offers 74 rooms 

and suites outfitted with top 

amenities. Prince Mohammad Bin 

Fahd Rd., Dammam • Tel: +966-13- 

8010080 • Web: radissonblu.com/ 

en/hotel-dhahran 

PEARL SPA The ideal environment 

for wellness and rejuvenation. 

Sunset Beach Resort, Sunset Blvd, Al 

Tahliyah, Khobar • Tel: +966-13- 

8902000 • Web: pearlspa.com 

PRIMA DONNA Beauty and nail 

salon. Prince Sultan St., Dhahran 

• Tel: +966-13-8910444 

SHINE SPA Warm atmospheres 

and welcoming therapists, to help 

you recharge, relax and have fun 

while spending your time. Sheraton 

Dammam Hotel, Prince Mohammed 

Bin Fahd Rd., Al Mazruiyah, Khobar • 

Tel: +966-13-8345555 • Web: 

shinespadammam.com 

THE SANCTUARY NAIL 

LOUNGE & SPA A sanctuary 

where you can indulge in the 

serene atmosphere of a modern 

but softly designed venue. Pepsi 

Rd., Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8945674 

THE NAIL LOUNGE Al Rashid 

Mall, Feras Ibn Al Nadhr St., Al Ulaya, 

Khobar • Tel: +966-13-898 0073 

VOG To bring the elegance of 

Paris salons to the No. 62 St., Al 

Ulaya, Khobar• Tel: +966-13-8010449 

• Web: vogksa.com 

PEST CONTROL 

MASA PEST CONTROL Offers 

effective pest control by strict 

observance and maintenance os 

high quality service standards. Bin 

Saqr St., Ruwais Dist., Jeddah • Tel: 

920001330 • Web: 

masapestcontrol.com.sa 

PHARMACIES 

ADAMA PHARMACY Custodian 

of The Two Holy Mosques Rd., Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-897 1719 

AL-DAWAA Prince Sultan Rd., 

Khobar • Tel: 920000828 

AL NAHDI PHARMACY Abha 

St., Dhahran • Tel: 8001191198 

GNC 16th St., - Khobar • Tel: +966- 

13-8933848 

SAUD AL-SALEH 

PHARMACY Prince Humud St., Al 

Aqrabiyah • Tel: +966-13-8646229 

WHITES PHARMACY Feras 

Al Nadhr St., Al Ulaya, Khobar • Tel: 

920006648 

HOTELS 

AL GOSAIBI HOTEL Amr bin 

Murrah St., Khobar • Tel: +966-13- 

8822882 • Web: algosaibi-hotel.com 

ALOFT HOTELS King Saud 

Branch Rd., Dhahran • Tel: +966-13- 

8164444 • Web: alofthotels.com 

BOUDL Provides innovative 

and unique properties from 

deluxe hotel apartments to 

exclusive 5-star hotels and resorts. 

Al-Shatea Dist., Sect. Al Ashrea 

St.with Mohammed bin Fahad St., 

Dammam • Tel: 920000555 •Web: 

boudl.com.sa 

CORAL AL KHOBAR HOTEL 

King Abdullah St.,Thuqbah, Khobar • 

Tel: +966-13-869 6666 

CROWNE PLAZA Custodian of the 

Two Holy Mosques Rd., Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-8988840 • Web: ihg.com 

DOUBLETREE Contemporary 

hotel in Dhahran’s business and 

commercial district. Al Qashla St., 

Dhahran • Tel: +966-13-3311144 

• Web: doubletree3.hilton.com/en 

HOLIDAY INN King Faisal St., 

Khobar /King Saud Rd., Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-8671111• Web: ihg.com 

INTERCONTINENTAL 

Combines 21st-century facilities 

with impeccable service and Saudi 

hospitality. Ibn Bassam Alandalusi 

St., Bandariya, Khobar • Tel: +966- 

13-8010444 • Web: radissonblu. 

com/en/hotel-dhahran 

KEMPINSKI AL OTHMAN 

HOTEL King Saud Rd., Khobar • Tel: 

+966-13-82944441• Web: kempinski. 

com/al-khobar 

LE MERIDIEN Prince Turki 

St.,Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8969000 

• Web: lemeridienalkhobar.com 

SHERATON A 5-star deluxe 

hotel in the Easten Province of 

Saudi Arabia. Prince Mohammad 

Bin Fahd Rd., Dammam • Tel: 

+966-13-8345555 • Web: 

sheratondammam.com 

SOFITEL CORNICHE The 

modern 5-star luxury hotel gazes 

over the Arabian Gulf blending 

French elegance with Saudi spirit. 

South Conrniche Rd., Dammam 

• Tel: +966-13-8817000 • Web: 

sofitel.com 

TULIP INN Recognized as one 

of the leading hotels in Khobar 

overlooking the city. Khobar 

• Tel: +966-13-8825588 

• Web: tulipinnalkhobar.com/en 

ZARA CONTINENTAL HOTEL 

Providing dedicated, personal 

service twinned with every 

facility to make your stay both 

comfortable and enjoyable. King 

Saud St., Khobar • Tel: 920004082 • 

Web: zaracontihotel.com 

TRAVEL AGENCIES 

AL MOJIL TRAVEL AND 

TOURS One-on-one 

customer service provided 

by vacation experts to deliver 

the bestexperiences to all the 

customers. Prince Faisal bin Fahd 

Rd., Khobar • Tel: +966-13-3303999 

• Web: almojil.travel 

ALTAYYAR TRAVEL GROUP 

To provide an integrated travel 

package of products 

and services. Bandariyah, 

Khobar • Tel: 920 012 333 • Web: 

altayyargroup.com/en 

ATLAS TRAVEL Al-Khobar’s 

leading travel agency. Prince Talal 

St., Khobar • Tel: +966-13-8333064 

• Web: facebook.com/ 

AtlasTravelKSA 

ATTAR TRAVEL An expert in the 

delivery of travel solutions and 

services. King Saud St., Dammam 

• Tel: 966-13-8341222 • Web: 

attartravel.com 



91

KING SALMAN BIN ABDULAZIZ AL SAUD 

PRINCE MUQRIN BIN ABDULAZIZ AL SAUD 

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