With Eid Al Fitr in the rearview, it's time for a pick-me-up to get over those post-holiday blues. Luckily, the region is buzzing with activity, and each city offers a unique experience. From artistic immersion at Art Week Riyadh to a serene mountain retreat in Oman, there's something for everyone. And if you're not up for travel, a relaxing afternoon tea at The Lana is the remedy.
What To Do
The inaugural edition of Art Week Riyadh takes over Saudi Arabia’s capital this month with a long list of art exhibitions. The main event, taking place at JAX district from 6 to 13 April, is set to feature works from more than 45 galleries, private and institutional collections along with a public offering of workshops and studio visits. The week-long artistic endeavour themed At The Edge, explores three thematic threads — Everyday Life, Landscapes and Motifs. Check out Iraqi artist Miramar Al Nayyar’s The Language of Movement and the Movement of Language, a thought-provoking exploration of the artist’s dream encounters with ancient petroglyphs and Arabic script when you visit, and if you can spare the time, the series of talks and workshops curated by Shumon Basar titled How to Art World? Lessons in Value promises valuable insights on the visual art scene in Riyadh and Saudi Arabia at large. Learn more
Where To Eat
Nobody does afternoon tea quite like the British, and The Lana takes on tradition for its elegant offering. Taking place in The Gallery, the property’s airy, high-ceilinged lobby lounge, afternoon tea here is a four-course affair that kicks off with savouries (all served on specially crafted, royalty-worthy fine china, no less). A generous spread of sandwiches includes smoked scottish salmon topped with caviar and slow-roasted wagyu beef with foie gras, and is preceded by freshly baked scones. A parade of pastries perfected by award-winning pastry chef Angelo Musa follows (expect light-as-air coffee and mandarin roll cake and an exotic french baba) before you’re given a final send-off with a refreshing palette cleanser. The food is complemented by an array of Avantcha teas and, should the options feel overwhelming, there’s an expertly curated tea pairing that takes the pressure off. Enjoy the last of the bearable weather and reserve a table outdoors for views of the downtown skyline and Marasi Bay Marina. Book now
Where To Stay
If you aren’t quite ready to return to reality after the Eid Al Fitr break, escape to Muscat for a luxurious retreat that’ll have you rested and reset. The beachfront gem captures the magic of Muscat through thoughtfully designed spaces infused with Omani heritage - locally sourced natural materials including Desert Rose marble and Ashwood are utilised across the rooms and suites, while decor takes inspiration from traditional textiles that showcase the region’s artisanal heritage.
Nestled within the Hajar mountains and the Gulf of Oman, Mandarin Oriental Muscat is in the cultural centre of Shatti Al-Qurum, offering guests plenty of opportunities to explore nearby architectural sites and take part in a range of activities like hiking, watersports or the art of Omani crafts. If you’d rather kick back, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Muscat marries Asian-inspired treatments with local healing traditions in a breathtaking space that’ll have your overflowing inbox but a distant memory. Post-pamper, make your way to any of the resort’s five restaurants for an evening to remember; whether you opt for Italian fare at Essenza or a pick-me-up at the renowned Mandarin Cake Shop, there is plenty to sink your teeth into. Book now
What To Shop
Looking to treat yourself? Head to Celine’s newly opened boutique in The Avenues mall, Kuwait. The expansive two-floor location offers everything from luxurious leather goods to exquisite fragrances - the perfect one-stop destination for a day of shopping. In adherence with the existing Celine Art project, the store also showcases works by French artist Benjamin Lallier and American artist Fay Ray, elevating the experience for the curious art-lover. Complete with a private salon that guarantees an intimate shopping affair, this is the place to indulge in some end-of-week retail therapy. Learn more
