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Kate Beckinsale, Jameela Jamil step out in Arab gowns in Los Angeles

Kate Beckinsale, Jameela Jamil step out in Arab gowns in Los Angeles
Kate Beckinsale (L) and Jameela Jamil (R). (AFP)
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Updated 06 December 2023
Arab News
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Kate Beckinsale, Jameela Jamil step out in Arab gowns in Los Angeles

Kate Beckinsale, Jameela Jamil step out in Arab gowns in Los Angeles
Updated 06 December 2023
Arab News
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DUBAI: British actresses Kate Beckinsale and Jameela Jamil this week stepped out in head-turning ensembles by Arab designers at Elle’s Women in Hollywood celebration at Nya Studios in Los Angeles. 

Beckinsale — famous for her roles in “Snow Angels,” “Fool’s Paradise” and “Click” — opted for a figure-hugging gown from Lebanese couturier Zuhair Murad’s ready-to-wear Fall/Winter 2023 collection.  

The dress boasted cut-outs with gemstone detailing at the waist. 




Beckinsale opted for a figure-hugging gown from Lebanese couturier Zuhair Murad. (AFP)

The event was attended by A-list stars including Jennifer Lopez and her husband Ben Affleck, Eva Longoria, Bella Ramsey, Jodie Foster, Jameela Jamil, Kerry Washington, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Alexandra Shipp and many more. 

British Indian Pakistani actress and activist Jamil wore a heavily-embellished gold mini dress from Dubai-based Tunisian designer Ali Karoui. To complete her dazzling ensemble, she wore reflective gold heels by Jimmy Choo. 

Jamil took to Instagram to share snippets from the event with her followers. “I love Jodie Foster so much,” she captioned a video, and in another she wrote: “Oprah brought on ICONIC Fantasia Taylor Barrino.” 




British Indian Pakistani actress and activist Jamil wore a heavily-embellished gold mini dress. (AFP)

US singer and actress Taylor Barrino also turned to an Arab designer — Yousef Akbar.  

She donned an electric blue jumpsuit by the celebrity-loved Saudi couturier. The ensemble had an asymmetric skirt attached to the waist and a chunky gold chain that crossed over her chest.  

The ELLE Women in Hollywood Awards honors “the women who are influencing Hollywood today from the best red carpet appearances, the women behind the camera, to ELLE’s very own cover stars,” according to the publication’s description.  

This year’s honorees include Lopez, Taylor Barrino, Longoria, Foster, Nina Garcia, America Ferrera, Danielle Brooks, Greta Lee, Lily Gladstone and Taraji P. Henson. 

Topics: Kate Beckinsale Jameela Jamil

REVIEW: ‘The First Descendant’ offers grind-based fun and frustration

REVIEW: ‘The First Descendant’ offers grind-based fun and frustration
Updated 28 August 2024
James Denselow
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REVIEW: ‘The First Descendant’ offers grind-based fun and frustration

REVIEW: ‘The First Descendant’ offers grind-based fun and frustration
Updated 28 August 2024
James Denselow

LONDON: The First Descendant (Steam, XBOX, PS4, PS5) is a free-to-play, third-person looter-shooter that aims to carve out its niche in a genre dominated by big names (Destiny 2, The Division, etc.).

Developed by Nexon, this live-service game combines the thrill of shooting hordes of alien enemies with a complex system of character progression, weapon variety, and loot collection. While it has its moments of excitement and visual appeal, it struggles to stand out in a crowded market and can often feel like a grind-heavy experience.

One of the game’s most appealing features is its cross-platform accessibility, allowing players on different systems to join forces and tackle the game’s 30-hour campaign together, although the reality of grind-based looting takes many more hours.

The cooperative play is at the heart of The First Descendant, with players able to choose from 14 unique characters, each offering different abilities and playstyles. This variety is bolstered by a wide range of weapons, from standard firearms to oversized, powerful guns that add a satisfying punch to combat.

Visually, The First Descendant impresses with its richly detailed environments and character designs. The game’s world is a mix of futuristic urban settings and eerie, desolate ruins, providing a visually engaging backdrop for the action. The art direction and graphical fidelity are undoubtedly high points, with each character looking distinct and the enemies, such as the towering Colossi and swarming Vulgus, providing memorable, if not particularly innovative, designs.

Gameplay-wise, the game offers a mix of standard looter-shooter mechanics with some unique twists. The combat feels solid, particularly when using the game’s oversized weapons, and the inclusion of a grappling hook adds an element of verticality and mobility that sets it apart from other games in the genre. Mastering the grappling hook can be particularly satisfying, offering opportunities for creative strategies and quick escapes during intense battles.

However, where The First Descendant starts to falter is in its reliance on grinding and the free-to-play monetization model. The game is heavily built around the concept of grinding for loot, character upgrades, and weapons, which can feel tedious after a while. Players might spend hours farming for a particular item or character unlock, only to come up empty-handed. This grind is compounded by the game’s monetization system, which, while not overly aggressive, is always present, tempting players to spend real money to bypass the grind.

The missions themselves, while varied in type, often boil down to repetitive tasks such as standing in one spot to gather resources or defending an area against waves of enemies. Despite the variety of enemies and the spectacle of big boss battles, this repetition can make the game feel “perfectly mediocre,” with moments of excitement that are often overshadowed by the monotony of its core gameplay loop.

The First Descendant is a visually striking game with solid combat mechanics and a promising cooperative experience. However, it is held back by a grind-heavy progression system and a reliance on repetitive mission structures. For fans of the looter-shooter genre, it may offer some enjoyment, especially in its early hours, but it ultimately struggles to rise above its peers in a meaningful way.

Topics: The First Descendant

Georgina Rodriguez spotlights Saudi Arabia on social media 

Georgina Rodriguez spotlights Saudi Arabia on social media 
Updated 28 August 2024
Arab News
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Georgina Rodriguez spotlights Saudi Arabia on social media 

Georgina Rodriguez spotlights Saudi Arabia on social media 
Updated 28 August 2024
Arab News

DUBAI: Argentine model Georgina Rodriguez shared a video with her 62 million Instagram followers this week promoting Saudi Arabia, captioning it: “This is real, this is Saudi Arabia.”

Originally posted by Visit Saudi, the video captures the diverse landscapes of Saudi Arabia, showcasing everything from the desert areas to the country’s seascapes. It highlights the Kingdom’s history and modern developments, featuring scenes of golden sand dunes, the Ithra cultural center, the ancient site of AlUla, the mirrored Maraya concert hall, the Red Sea and lush greenery in gardens and forests.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Visit Saudi (@visitsaudi)

Rodriguez has been living in Saudi Arabia since January 2023 and has made a point of exploring the Kingdom, so much so that her experiences will be featured in her upcoming Netflix show. 

She is set to return to Netflix with the third season of her reality TV show “Soy Georgina” (“I Am Georgina”), which will place a heavy focus on her life in Saudi Arabia. The new season will follow Rodriguez’s life after her move to the Kingdom with her partner, football star Cristiano Ronaldo, who plays for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League.

“What is true luxury like in Saudi Arabia? We will find out when Gio and her family settle in Riyadh with Cristiano's signing for Al-Nassr,” Netflix stated.

According to the announcement, the season will also show Rodriguez enjoying a number of firsts, including the opening of her first beach house, Villa Perla, to starring in an international campaign for a famous clothing brand and her biggest dream — making her debut at Paris Fashion Week.

Meanwhile, the star couple have been taking some time off from their hectic schedules to explore Saudi Arabia’s coastline and the Red Sea development in June.

The two took to social media to post photos from their relaxing getaway at what seemed to be The St. Regis Red Sea Resort. They were seen enjoying the resort and its pristine beaches along with their children.

“My world,” Rodriguez captioned her post. 

The couple was also recently spotted enjoying a staycation at The Red Sea Project, where Rodriguez wore a necklace from the Egyptian brand Nado’s Jewelry’s Perle collection, featuring large, rounded links alternating between polished gold and diamond-encrusted surfaces.

Topics: Georgina Rodriguez Saudi Arabia

Stay ‘committed and resistant,’ says Emirati aerospace engineer Marwa Al-Mamari

Stay ‘committed and resistant,’ says Emirati aerospace engineer Marwa Al-Mamari
Updated 27 August 2024
Saffiya Ansari
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Stay ‘committed and resistant,’ says Emirati aerospace engineer Marwa Al-Mamari

Stay ‘committed and resistant,’ says Emirati aerospace engineer Marwa Al-Mamari
Updated 27 August 2024
Saffiya Ansari

DUBAI: Emirati aerospace engineer Marwa Al-Mamari is on a mission to encourage young women in the region to take up STEM careers.

Al-Mamari is featured in technology company Dyson’s new FIRSTS campaign, which “celebrates pioneering women from the region who are redefining success and innovation,” according to the brand.

Dyson added that Al-Mamari “made history” as the first Emirati woman to become an aerospace engineer. “She navigated the traditionally male-dominated field to break barriers.”

Al-Mamari told Arab News she wants to encourage women to venture out in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

“I always say it doesn’t take someone smart to be what you want. It takes someone who’s committed and resistant … so as long as you have these two things, you can do whatever you want and be whoever you want.”

She added that if women do so they will “overcome all obstacles” and “receive support in return.”

Her path to a master’s in aviation safety and a career in aerospace engineering was fraught with obstacles. She said it took her years to convince her parents that she wanted a career in the traditionally male profession.

 They need not have worried.

“I was really taken care of and welcomed and taken care of sometimes, though, because you are the only girl in the room people might underestimate your voice, or your capabilities or what you can

offer on the table,” she said of the first phase of her career.

“But once you speak up, you know, the magic starts — they can see there is a brain, actually.”

Al-Mamari currently works at the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority, implementing safety frameworks worldwide for the regulatory body. Her core duties include setting up training sessions for operators, airport staff, and other stakeholders.

She said that what “makes you feel alive at work is … doing the drills where I go and check their readiness, make sure they are following the regulations and are up to the standards.”

“Our work, my work, wasn’t only national, it was internationally impactful,” she added, explaining her motivation.

Al-Mamari also touched on being a parent while undertaking a challenging career.

“What I try to advocate here is I always tell all mothers out there, all women, if you need to take a break from your career, do it, know your priorities.

 “The minute you feel you’re ready to go back, you will always shine again because you still have that passion and all this potential.”

Topics: Marwa Al-Mamari Dyson

Gigi Hadid named global ambassador for Rabanne scent

Gigi Hadid named global ambassador for Rabanne scent
Updated 27 August 2024
Arab News
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Gigi Hadid named global ambassador for Rabanne scent

Gigi Hadid named global ambassador for Rabanne scent
Updated 27 August 2024
Arab News

DUBAI: US Dutch Palestinian supermodel Gigi Hadid has been named the global ambassador for French luxury fashion brand Rabanne’s new fragrance, Million Gold For Her.

In the campaign photos, Hadid is seen wearing a metallic gold two-piece set, consisting of a skirt and a cropped top made of reflective fabric. In the accompanying campaign video, she also appeared in a black suit.

Her hair was styled in loose waves and her makeup was subtle, emphasizing her blue eyes and neutral-toned lips.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Gigi Hadid (@gigihadid)

In one of the images, Hadid is pictured holding the oversized perfume bottle for Million Gold For Her.

“Million Gold For Her reminds me of how Rabanne feels as a brand,” Hadid said in a statement. “It is powerful and beautiful, with rose, lavender and a salty mineral musk undertone. I love the balance. I think that a lot of my personality has masculine tinges to it, so I Iike the mix of feminine and masculine elements in a fragrance.”

Hadid took to Instagram to share behind-the-scenes shots of the campaign shoot. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Gigi Hadid (@gigihadid)

“The making of the ‘million gold’ commercial was days of trying to keep a straight face through the joy and fun that is dancing with @stephengalloway on set,” she captioned her post. “Feeling golden being the newest ambassador of this iconic fragrance – many, many thanks to my new family at @rabanne and to all who made this week wonderful.” 

One of the photos featured her enjoying lunch on set with the team, which included an Arab meal. The spread consisted of tabbouleh, hummus, batata harra, rolls and fattoush.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Gigi Hadid (@gigihadid)

This month, Hadid released the Fall 2024 collection for her fashion brand, Guest In Residence. 

The collection includes timeless pieces such as oversized sweaters, cardigans, and tailored knit sets, all made from 100% cashmere. These pieces come in warm, earthy tones and rich autumnal colors, combining functionality with fashion-forward designs that reflect Hadid’s personal style. 

Topics: Gigi Hadid Rabanne

Alana Hadid puts spotlight on Palestinian stories through production company

Alana Hadid puts spotlight on Palestinian stories through production company
Updated 26 August 2024
Raffi Boghosian
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Alana Hadid puts spotlight on Palestinian stories through production company

Alana Hadid puts spotlight on Palestinian stories through production company
  • Documentary ‘Walled Off’ is movie firm’s debut offering
  • Watermelon Pictures founded with Badie and Hamza Ali
Updated 26 August 2024
Raffi Boghosian

LOS ANGELES: Alana Hadid, often only recognized as the sister of supermodels Gigi and Bella Hadid, is amplifying her own voice for the Palestinian cause.

Deeply passionate about her heritage, Hadid has been using her platform to bring attention to the struggles of the Palestinian people, particularly in the light of the ongoing events in Gaza.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Alana Hadid (@lanzybear)

Her activism is not restricted to just the online space; it is a deeply personal commitment to highlighting the stories that matter, she said.

“I was always hearing stories, stories about the cities and the towns that their ancestors helped build. The lives that they had and their lives as refugees and then eventually in the United States.

“But I was very proud, always proud of being a Palestinian. That was what I learned as a child,” Hadid told Arab News.

Shifting her focus to filmmaking, Hadid — along with brothers Badie Ali and Hamza Ali — co-founded Watermelon Pictures, a production company with a mission to create compelling, impactful stories that resonate with global audiences.

Through her work in film, she aims to bridge the gap between mainstream media and the often-overlooked narratives of the Palestinian people.

“I was honored to be asked to be the creative director of Watermelon Pictures. I think it’s not only a passion project for Hamza and Badie, but it is an opportunity for Palestinians to have a place to go to tell their stories.

“I get emotional about it. I think it’s just one of the most beautiful things that people have a place where they can put their stories. And we know that we have a safe place for that,” said Hadid.

The production company’s debut project, the 2024 documentary “Walled Off,” delves into the realities of life under occupation, offering a poignant and raw look at the experiences of Palestinians.

“The Waldorf Hotel’s design is by the graffiti artist Banksy. It contains a secret museum. And essentially the hotel has a view of what we call the worst view in the world, the apartheid wall.

“So really, this hotel provides the framework for the film and just demonstrates the difficulty of living under military occupation,” said Hadid.

Through this film and her future projects, Hadid seeks to amplify marginalized voices and bring a human face to the political issues that often dominate headlines.

“Watch our social media and our website to see what’s coming next. But we have a lot of stories. We haven’t heard these stories and these stories have been censored for so long.

“So, we’ve been flooded with not only movies that have already been made that really need to be seen, but also with filmmakers, actors, editors. And we’re really excited to just be a hub for that for Palestinians,” she said.

Topics: Alana Hadid Watermelon Pictures

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