Sotheby’s Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week to feature cars, timepieces, rare gems
Sotheby’s Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week to feature cars, timepieces, rare gems/node/2613282/lifestyle
Sotheby’s Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week to feature cars, timepieces, rare gems
The “Triple Crown” project gives the opportunity to purchase three competition chassis. (Supplied)
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Updated 22 sec ago
Arab News
Sotheby’s Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week to feature cars, timepieces, rare gems
Updated 22 sec ago
Arab News
DUBAI: Auction house Sotheby’s is set to host a program of auctions, panel discussions and exhibitions in the UAE’s capital during Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week in December.
Set to run from Dec. 2-5, the series of auctions will include jewelry, rare timepieces, collectors’ cars and real estate from RM Sotheby’s, and Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions, alongside a museum-quality exhibition of international fine art.
Prior to the opening in Abu Dhabi, sale highlights will travel to Sotheby’s international locations to be presented to global collectors.
Josh Pullan, the head of Sotheby’s Global Luxury Division, said: “The week will be anchored by a single-owner collection replete with top-quality jewelry and watches, alongside unparalleled automobiles.”
The auction week will take place alongside the Formula One Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi, with RM Sotheby’s marking the occasion by collaborating with McLaren Racing to offer a trio of competition cars representing the team’s racing portfolio.
The “Triple Crown” project gives the opportunity to purchase three competition chassis, including a 2026 McLaren F1 Team car, a 2027 McLaren United AS racer from the World Endurance Championship, and a 2026 Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team Indianapolis 500 race-driven vehicle. The cars will go under the hammer on Dec. 5.
A 2017 Pagani Zonda 760 Riviera (estimate $9.5 million to $10.5 million) and a rare 2010 Aston Martin One-77 ($1.3 million to $1.6 million) are also being sold.
Leading the jewelry auction is The Desert Rose, the largest fancy vivid orangy pink diamond ever graded. Weighing 31.86 carats, the pear-shaped diamond radiates a sunset-like blend of pink and orange and will make its auction debut with an estimate of $5 million to $7 million.
The Desert Rose. (Supplied)
Among the timepieces is a rare Rolex “Oyster Albino” Daytona. Produced in the late 1960s and early 1970s, this variant breaks from the standard Cosmograph Daytona aesthetic, which typically features contrasting sub-dials. Instead, the Albino is defined by its monochromatic silver dial and subsidiary registers. The timepiece carries an estimate of $500,000 to $1 million.
Lost Treasures of Arabia: Explore the Nabataean Kingdom in a new Nat Geo documentary/node/2613271/lifestyle
Lost Treasures of Arabia: Explore the Nabataean Kingdom in a new Nat Geo documentary
Updated 28 August 2025
Shyama Krishna Kumar
DUBAI: National Geographic’s latest documentary “Lost Treasures of Arabia: The Nabataean Kingdom” — available to stream on Disney+ from Aug. 29 — puts the spotlight on one of the ancient world’s most innovative and mysterious desert civilizations.
From the sandstone facades of Petra, Jordan, and the tombs of Hegra in , the documentary investigates how the Nabataeans defied nature and time by mastering desert trade routes, engineering complex water systems, and developing an urban culture so advanced it rivalled the greatest empires of their time.
Saudi archaeologist Dr. Dhaifallah Altalhi, dean emeritus of arts, University of Hail, , and former co-director of the Mada’in Salih Archaeological Project, who worked on the project, spoke with Arab News about why the Nabataeans continue to fascinate scholars and the public alike.
“I think the Nabataean is a great story. It’s a kingdom which flourished in the northwest of Arabia from the fourth century BC to the first century AD,” he said. “Besides the magnificent tombs and other archaeological artifacts, I think the Nabataeans also were great in their society. The women in this community had the right to ownership. They owned their own tombs. They had their own money. And the queen was also represented on coins beside the king.”
What most impressed him, however, was their resourcefulness in a harsh environment. “Their ability to control their very limited water resources, this was magnificent. They dug wells, and they brought water from very far distances, some of the water reservoirs and aqueducts … bringing the water from about 12 kilometers far, which is a great distance.”
The Nabataeans were equally influential in trade. “They also transported goods for others. And they started commercial centers. Those commercial centers turned into villages sometimes, and that grows until it reached cities, and they were imposing tax on the imported goods,” he explained.
Their cultural impact extended far beyond Arabia. “It is amazing that we have found some inscriptions, Nabataean inscriptions, in Italy … in Egypt, in Yemen to the south,” Dr. Diafallah said. “Of course, the Nabataeans in turn were influenced by Greek architecture … especially the tombs. They were influenced also by other deities and their religions from the Greek influence.”
Among discoveries at Hegra, one inscription stood out. “It was written around 175 AD, and it talks about the restoration of the old fence which was surrounding Madain Saleh … this inscription has added to our knowledge about Hegra,” he said.
Best and Worst: Influencer Nojoud Al-Rumaihi talks style inspirations and bad advice /node/2613270/lifestyle
Best and Worst: Influencer Nojoud Al-Rumaihi talks style inspirations and bad advice
Updated 28 August 2025
Hams Saleh
DUBAI: Here, Saudi influencer Nojoud Al-Rumaihi talks style inspirations, embracing structure, and bad advice.
Favorite TV show or film?
“Friends.” It’s my emotional safe zone. To me, it feels like a warm blanket, no matter what’s going on in life. I also like “Game of Thrones.” It is a masterpiece in my opinion, well, most of it. It is visually powerful, emotionally gripping and full of unforgettable characters. My favorite film is “The Devil Wears Prada.” It’s my forever fashion bible. It just hits every time and reminds me why I love what I do.
Worst TV show/film?
“You” from season 3 onwards. It lost all its charm.
Best personal style moment?
A simple pair of jeans and a tank top is my personal uniform. Clean, classic and always relevant. It’s effortless and timeless.
Worst personal style moment?
Trying red hair. In theory it looked great, but not in real life. Some experiments belong in the archives.
Best accessory for a little black dress?
A bold sculptural earring or a strong cuff — something with presence. A minimal-outfit-maximum-impact approach.
Worst accessory for a little black dress?
Mini novelty bags. They add nothing but clutter. They’re not functional and have zero style longevity.
Best fashion trend of 2025?
Structured volume. I think it makes a statement without looking chaotic. I also like pastels, especially butter yellow. It’s a very trendy color this season. I feel like it’s soft, optimistic and unexpectedly sharp.
Worst fashion trend of 2025?
I don’t like plastic-looking fabrics. They instantly cheapen any look. I’d also say indie sleaze is back, but most of it should have stayed archived. It feels forced and messy.
Best advice you’ve ever been given?
“Visibility isn’t value.” It’s so true. I also agree with “Consistency is king. Show up, even when it’s quiet.”
Worst advice you’ve ever been given?
“Know your limits.” It just limits your belief, but they disguised it in wisdom. It’s best to ignore this and whoever says it.
Best book you’ve ever read?
“The Forty Rules of Love” by Elif Shafak. It’s deeply moving, spiritually grounding and timeless in its wisdom.
Worst book you’ve ever read?
Those generic self-help books with recycled quotes and no real depth. They’re all noise, no clarity.
Best thing to do when you’re feeling low?
Move. Go for a walk, stretch, or do anything to change your state. Although sometimes, you do just need to sit with it. Let yourself feel it before trying to fix it.
Worst thing to do when you’re feeling good?
Overcommitting. When you’re feeling productive and positive, that high can make you say “yes” to things you shouldn’t agree to.
Best holiday destination?
Patina in the Maldives. To me, this is where peace meets thoughtful design. And Switzerland is our family sanctuary. It’s calm, clean and very grounding.
Worst holiday destination?
Overpriced tourist traps dressed up as “authentic” — built for Instagram and empty of experience.
Best subject at school?
It wasn’t at school, but a subject I studied when doing my master’s: branding. It just clicked instantly. It’s like learning the language of impact.
Worst subject at school?
Math. No matter how hard I tried, we just never got along.
Best thing to do to ensure you have a productive day?
Start with intention. Set two or three non-negotiables and don’t overload your plate with tasks. Focus beats frenzy.
Worst thing to do when you’re trying to have a productive day?
Opening your phone first thing. The scroll spiral kills momentum and makes you overstimulated. There’s just too much input with no clarity.
Best concert you’ve ever been to?
Coldplay in Manchester. It was euphoric, emotional and unforgettable.
Worst concert you’ve ever been to?
Beyoncé in London. I wanted to love it, but it just didn’t land for me. My expectations were high, but it felt distant.
Best social-media platform?
Snapchat. It’s my unfiltered space. It feels personal and real. Also Pinterest is where I escape and dream.
Worst social-media platform?
X. Too much noise and not enough substance.
Recommended viewing: Arab News writers pick some of their favorite family films /node/2613268/lifestyle
Recommended viewing: Arab News writers pick some of their favorite family films
From awesome animations to classic sci-fi, here are our tips for a great family movie night
Updated 28 August 2025
Arab News
‘Star Wars’
If the success of a film can be measured largely by its longevity, then none has stood the test of time as well as 1977’s “Star Wars.” When it came out, I was blown away by this film that crossed so many genres: action movie, Western, fairytale, sci-fi, and more. An orphaned farm boy, Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), joins forces with ageing Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi (Alec Guinness), roguish pilot/smuggler Han Solo (Harrison Ford), Chewbacca the Wookie, two droids, and — of course — the formidable Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher), to save the galaxy from the evil Empire’s world-destroying battle station: the Death Star, commanded by one of cinema’s greatest villains, Darth Vader. Few action movies of this time (or later) had women in them as anything other than pretty scenery to be romanced or menaced. Leia was a leader both in politics and on the battlefield. “Star Wars” is a rite of passage. My 12-year-old niece now watches it repeatedly with the same enthusiasm I did on its release.
Peter Harrison
‘Toy Story’
There’s a solid argument to be made that the first three instalments of Pixar’s animated “Toy Story” franchise constitute the greatest film trilogy in history. But since this is just a one-shot pick, let’s go for the 1995 debut, where we’re introduced to the secret lives of the toys in young Andy’s room, led by straight-up good guy Sheriff Woody (Tom Hanks, who else?), whose world is shaken by the arrival of a shiny new spaceman — and rival Alpha male — Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen), who, unlike the rest of the crew, doesn’t realize he’s a toy. There’s so much to love about this movie, from the gorgeous and subtle animation to the stellar voice acting to the storyline — perfectly pitched so it’s sweet but never saccharine, silly but relatable, and insightful but never patronizing to its audience, young or old.
Adam Grundey
‘Inside Out’
What better way to explain something as complex as emotion to a child than by watching “Inside Out,” another classic from the Pixar stable? It’s a masterclass in how to animate the human psyche in a way that captivates the whole family. What are emotions? How are memories stored? What happens to our emotions as we grow up? All these personal questions are creatively answered through a host of lovable characters — personifications of joy, sadness, fear, anger, and disgust, relatable problems such as moving cities or bruising your leg, and the life lesson that hits home for both young and old: It’s OK to feel down when you need to.
Tarek Ali Ahmed
‘HǴǰ’&Բ;&Բ;
When a classic story is reimagined with true originality, it creates a special kind of magic. And that’s exactly what Steven Spielberg does with “Hook,” which revisits “Peter Pan,” but from the point of view of a grown-up version of the eternal kid, played by the inimitable Robin Williams. Now Peter Banning, a workaholic lawyer fixated on success who has a strained relationship with his wife, Moira, and their children, this grown-up Peter has no recollection of Neverland or his adventures with Tinkerbell and the Lost Boys. Opposite Williams’ Peter is Dustin Hoffman’s Captain Hook, so utterly deliciously theatrical that he completely disappears into the role. What makes the film so special is its mix of whimsy and nostalgia. Spielberg’s world is colorful and larger-than-life, but despite the over-the-top comedy and big adventures, the film is rooted in simple themes of family, innocence and growing up without losing your sense of wonder.
Shyama Krishna Kumar
‘It’s a Wonderful Life’
It’s hard to believe now, but prior to the 1970s Frank Capra’s 1946 masterpiece was largely forgotten. The expiry of its copyright finally breathed life into a film that quickly attained holiday-classic status and has been firmly ensconced at the top of the UK and US Christmas TV trees ever since. James Stewart was never better than as protagonist George Bailey, and the storyline, while schmaltzy, has enough humor to offset the sugary excesses of picture-postcard Bedford Falls. And it’s not all sweetness and light. Bailey, who is finally saved by his guardian angel Clarence Odbody (Henry Travers), contemplates suicide after believing he has lost all chance of a future after his company’s cash goes missing. That Bailey is fallible and willing to sacrifice an apparently idyllic life lifts this film from mere fantasy to give it an almost-too-human touch.
Nick Wood
‘Cdz’&Բ;
Pixar’s Mexico-set comedy drama resonates with both children and adults, not just for its dazzling visuals or Oscar-winning music, but for its powerful story that sticks with you long after the credits roll. It follows 12-year-old Miguel Rivera, a Mexican boy who dreams of becoming a musician despite his family’s ban on music. A forbidden guitar strum takes him to the Land of the Dead, where he sets out to find his idol, Ernesto De La Cruz, whom he believes is his great-great-grandfather. Along the way, he uncovers long-buried truths about his ancestors. “Coco” explores themes like memory, loss, betrayal, and family in an empowering folk tale that reconnects us with our roots and reminds us why remembering our loved ones matters. The twisty plot keeps you hooked, and the emotional payoff is real. Don’t be surprised if you’re wiping away tears by the end.
Sherouk Zakaria
‘The Emperor’s New Groove’
One of Disney’s most underrated gems, this is a departure from the studio’s familiar fairytale formula and is more of an odd-couple buddy adventure with irreverent humor and a superb script. A firm family favorite when my children were young, it is still much-loved and quoted regularly in conversation. The story centers on selfish young emperor Kuzco, turned into a llama by his scheming advisor Yzma. With the help of kind-hearted villager Pacha — whose home Kuzco wants to demolish — the emperor is forced to learn the meaning of friendship. Evil Yzma is voiced by the legendary Eartha Kitt who, with Patrick Warburton as her dim-witted sidekick, Kronk, steals pretty much every scene with a combination of slapstick and wordplay. David Spade delivers Kuzco’s snarky lines perfectly, while John Goodman brings warmth to Pacha. This zany animation is short enough to hold younger viewers and, with the jokes landing just as strongly for adults, you’ll return to it time and time again.
Rebecca Parsley
‘Turning Red’
Pixar’s 2022 film ruffled some feathers at the time of its release over its core theme of puberty. But it’s dealt with so masterfully that this is a lovely watch for families with young and pre-teen kids — even though some of the references may go over the younger ones’ heads. Thirteen-year-old Mei finds herself torn between remaining a dutiful daughter and the changes adolescence brings. And if that wasn’t stressful enough, she’s also prone to turning into a giant red panda when she gets overly emotional, which, let’s face it, is a teenager’s default setting. Set in the early Noughties in a delightfully multi-cultural Toronto, it’s a nostalgic watch for any parent who spent their younger years flip-phone in hand, obsessed with boybands with their gaggle of innocent friends. It’s also particularly endearing for its overarching message of mother-daughter love and understanding, despite the ups and downs of early puberty when mothers may struggle to contend with the floodgates of change being well and truly opened.
My New York: Saudi lawyer Aljoharah Albasri gives us the lowdown on life in the Big Apple
Updated 28 August 2025
Nada Alturki
RIYADH: Aljoharah Albasri is a 32-year-old lawyer in “the energy and infrastructure space” who has been living in New York for the past two years.
What’s the best thing about New York?
At the risk of sounding cliché, it’s the energy. New York has this pulse that makes you feel like you’re part of something bigger. It’s inspiring. You’re constantly surrounded by ambition, culture, and beauty in so many different forms.
And the worst thing?
The chaos. It can get too…. people-y sometimes. There’s always noise, light, and congested streets. You’ve gotta try really hard to relax in the midst of it all.
What’s the general vibe of the city?
People are very career-oriented here, but, at the same time, there’s endless culture around… art, music, exceptional food, history. If I had to summarize the “vibe” in one sentence, it would be: Glamorous yet gritty.
People cross the street in New York’s Times Square. (Getty Images)
Is it expensive to visit?
Oh, definitely. Accommodation and dining can be very pricey, but if you know where to look, you can still find cheaper eats, hidden spots, and neighborhoods that don’t break the bank.
Would you say the city is a good place to travel to with kids?
Parts of it are, yes. Central Park, the museums, the zoos — all great with kids. But, overall, New York isn’t the easiest city for families because of the pace and the crowds.
How easy is it to get around?
The subway is reliable most of the time, but it can be hard to navigate at first. I’d never recommend renting a car here — you’ll just get stuck in traffic and parking can be a nightmare. Walking is my favorite way to see the city. Hitting 10k steps a day doesn’t require planning, especially if the weather is nice.
The Cloisters, part of New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art. (Getty Images)
Would you describe the city as ethnically diverse?
Yes, completely. It’s one of the most diverse cities in the world. You’ll find every culture represented, and people are generally welcoming of multiculturalism.
Would you describe New Yorkers as friendly?
Yes. Not in a chatty, small-towny way — locals here are mostly in a rush — but they’re extremely helpful and will do their best to look out for you when it matters.
Is it an easy place for Muslims to practice their religion?
Yes. There are plenty of halal restaurants, mosques, and communities. There’s a large Arab community in Bay Ride, Brooklyn.
What’s the best time of year to visit, in terms of the weather?
Fall, without a doubt. The weather is perfect, the city looks beautiful with the leaves changing. Winters can be brutal, and summers are sticky.
What’s the most useful phrase to know in the local language?
Honestly, “excuse me,” because you’re constantly squeezing through crowds. Not as “useful,” but iconic nonetheless, is “Fuhgeddaboudit!”
What would you do on your ideal weekend in your city?
For me, it’s brunch at a nice spot in Soho or Noho, a walk and a picnic in Central Park, and then late afternoon Comedy Cellar/dinner in the West Village. If you want more of an outdoors-y day, I’d recommend walking through Conservatory Garden, visiting Salon 94, grabbing ice cream at Glace, and browsing the niche shops around the area like Designer Revival.
Which famous tourist attraction would you recommend people visit?
The Metropolitan Museum of Art. It’s iconic and you can go back a hundred times and still find something new.
What’s the most-overrated tourist attraction?
Times Square. It’s known for its flashing lights and vibrance, but it can feel really congested and not the cleanest part of the city.
What’s New York’s best hidden gem?
I’d say the Cloisters. It’s part of the Met, but tucked away in Upper Manhattan. It feels like stepping into medieval Europe.
What’s your favorite restaurant?
It’s hard to pick one. I’d say the Nines or Minetta Tavern for that old-school New York glamour. Or Kiki’s — a little Greek taverna on the Lower East Side that looks unassuming from the outside, but inside it’s always buzzing.
What’s your favorite store?
Bergdorf Goodman for a classic NYC department store. I also love smaller shops in Soho — Manière De Voir is one of my favorites. Thrifting in Brooklyn can also be fun.
A flea market in Brooklyn. (Getty Images)
Can you pick three places that people should definitely visit if they come to New York?
The New York Public Library — it’s stunning inside; the Whitney Museum for modern art and rooftop views; and a Broadway or Off-Broadway show is a must in New York.
What’s the best hotel in the city?
If you’re opting for five-star hotels: the Aman, The Twenty Two or the Ned are excellent choices. Equinox is great location-wise for business trips. There are beautiful boutique hotels too, like The Marlton and The Bowery.
Which neighborhood would you recommend people look for accommodation in?
Flatiron / NoMad in Midtown Manhattan is great because it’s central but, at the same time, not as hectic as Times Square and the Theatre District. And if you’ve already visited NYC and want to skip the touristy experience, I’d go for Williamsburg in Brooklyn.
Brad Pitt among Hollywood heavyweights backing Gaza-set ‘Hind Rajab’ film/node/2613181/lifestyle
Brad Pitt among Hollywood heavyweights backing Gaza-set ‘Hind Rajab’ film
Updated 27 August 2025
Arab News
DUBAI: Hollywood stars Brad Pitt, Joaquin Phoenix and Rooney Mara have joined Tunisian filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania’s Gaza-set drama “The Voice of Hind Rajab” as executive producers, boosting the film’s visibility ahead of its Venice Film Festival debut.
They are joined by “The Zone of Interest” director Jonathan Glazer and “Roma” filmmaker Alfonso Cuaron, while several high-profile companies, including Britain’s Film4 and ’s MBC Studios, are also backing the project.
A scene from Tunisian filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania’s Gaza-set drama “The Voice of Hind Rajab.” (Supplied)
The film will premiere in competition at Venice on Sept. 3 before traveling to the Toronto International Film Festival for its North American debut.
The film, “The Voice of Hind Rajab,” reconstructs the tragic events of January 2024, when 6-year-old Hind Rajab was killed by the Israeli military, along with several relatives, while fleeing Gaza City in a car.
The film draws on the voice recordings between Rajab and Red Crescent volunteers who tried to keep her on the line, desperately attempting to send help.
Ben Hania is known for blending documentary and fiction. Her Oscar-nominated “Four Daughters” and earlier feature “The Man Who Sold His Skin” both received acclaim, with the latter also landing a best international feature nomination.
This year’s Venice Film Festival is set against the backdrop of the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Hundreds of political and grassroots groups have announced plans for a march on Aug. 30, protesting Israel’s alleged genocidal war on Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank.
