Marking the 25th year of American University of Sharjah (AUS), the College of Architecture, Art and Design (CAAD) is presenting a symposium series focused on celebrating the contributions of alumni and exploring the future of design education.
The series is being organized by CAAD faculty members Kevin Mitchell, Professor of Architecture; Hala Al-Ani, Assistant Professor of Art and Design; and Dr. John Montague, Associate Professor of Architecture.
The first symposium, CAAD at 25: Taking Stock, was composed of two panel sessions held on January 28, 2023. The sessions, which were moderated by Professor Mitchell, examined the significant contributions by CAAD alumni to the growth and development of design professions and the creative economy within the UAE and the broader region.
The symposium provided an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of success of alumni who make meaningful contributions to the arts, design and culture in the UAE and beyond. Professor Mitchell noted that the symposium also created a venue for graduates to contribute to advancing design education.
“We are extremely proud of what CAAD alumni have accomplished within and beyond their disciplines. Critical conversations about their experiences are invaluable and provide perspectives on how we can continue to enhance teaching and learning in ways that remain academically rigorous, responsive to the demands of the professions and regionally relevant,” said Professor Mitchell.
A panel titled “Within Disciplines” considered questions related to what defines success within a design discipline. Adnan Ihsan, Rabeeya Jabbar, Moustafa Zakaria and Fatma ElFeki reflected on the transition from university to the profession and discussed the challenges that they faced in their careers.
Addressing the foundation for their success as leaders in their respective disciplines, they commented on how AUS and CAAD had prepared them to work in a collaborative environment, effectively articulate their ideas, take risks and benefit from critique by making a distinction between themselves and the work they produce. The panel discussed ways in which education must continue to maintain the balance between privileging the process of design while preparing students for their disciplines.
The “Transcending Disciplines” panel session invited Farah El-Rafei, Mays Albaik, Maryam Mudhaffar and Haifa Malhas to address the role that design education plays in preparing students to move beyond the confines of their field of study at university.
The participants, who have all gone on to make major contributions in areas beyond their undergraduate major, expressed that the characteristic features of a CAAD education—including an appreciation for craft and the emphasis on a rigorous process of problem-solving—can be applied across many fields. When considering the future of design education, the panelists stressed the need for engagement with local concerns and acknowledging the rich and varied history of the region's creative and cultural landscape. The second symposium event, CAAD at 25: Preparing for the Future, will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 18. The event will include more panel discussions reflecting on the insights from the recent CAAD alumni survey and the views of other leaders in the creative economy. This event is open to CAAD alumni and students.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – February 15th, 2023: Tucked away on the 5th floor of JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, Wanderlust Brunch is the city’s ultimate brunch extravaganza and Dubai residents and visitors can now enjoy the award-winning brunch for a reduced price!
Following the removal of Dubai’s 30% beverage tax, Wanderlust, the iconic party brunch at JW Marriott Marquis is passing on the savings to brunch-goers by introducing reduced packages. Starting from March 4th, the award-winning brunch will lower its original pricing by nearly 30%, with the new house packages priced at AED 299 for ladies and AED 349 for men.
Enjoy a brunch like no other at the world’s tallest five-star hotel, with world-class drinks and lavish food stations, complete with a buzzing atmosphere and lively beats provided by Wanderlust’s DJ Adam J. Choose from an extensive culinary offering, with a decadent buffet that features a wide array of dishes from around the globe, including Asian, Italian, Indian and British cuisines, as well as a variety of beverage stations.
Go on an epicurean adventure and explore more than 10 live cooking stations, including an oyster bar; mozzarella counter; sushi and seafood section; live barbecue and carvery stations; eggs Benedict bar; and more. For a post-brunch treat, indulge in a huge selection of desserts, with a dedicated chocolate alley, candy tree, donut wall and ice cream section.
In addition to the lowered brunch prices, Wanderlust will also be launching a new after-brunch beverage package at Café Artois so guests can keep the party going for an additional 1.5 hours and enjoy unlimited hops and grape for AED 125, or opt for unlimited hops, grape and spirits for AED 175.
Embrace your inner wanderlust and party the afternoon away at Wanderlust Brunch every Saturday, with unmatched party vibes and an impressive food and drinks offering, for the ultimate Dubai brunch experience!

Dubai, UAE, NOÉPE, inspired by the classic coastal splendor of Cape Cod that evokes a relaxing environment, is bringing the Sundaze Brunch better than ever. Sitting on the edge of Dubai Creek, NOÉPE offers an ample and breezy terrace to take in unobstructed 180-degree panoramic views of docked yachts and the emirate’s breathtaking skyline, which makes it one of Dubai’s best sundowners spots this winter.
Sundays are made for rest and relaxation, and the revamped NOÉPE Sundaze is designed to do just that. Every Sunday from 1PM to 4PM, for AED 299 per person, guests can expect an afternoon filled with live music by DJ Joy accompanied by a selection of artfully curated drinks along with a fresh spread of savory and sweet bites while they take in the mesmerizing views from the venue. The tantalizing menu includes Crispy Wonton Tacos with angus beef tartare; feta cheese, figs and aged balsamic tartelettetes; Shiso Leaf Tempura and tuna tartare; avocado roll with smoked paprika hollandaise; Fried Octopus with smoked romesco and much more. The culinary team behind NOÉPE also creates a mouthwatering selection of pastries that tie in perfectly with the delightful drinks.
Patrons can enjoy a wide selection of beverages while sipping in breathtaking panoramic vistas overlooking Dubai Creek marina and Dubai skyline.

• The Middle East Food and Beverage Export Performance figures for 2022 were released during Gulfood by Jim O ‘Toole newly appointed CEO of Bord Bia, the Irish Food Board
• Irish food and drink exports to the Middle East boosted by 10%, with UAE experiencing a sharp increase of 49% compared to 2021
• Valuing high-quality products, Saudi Arabia, and UAE account for 50% of current Irish food and drink trade in the region

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 21 February 2023: Despite the disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the Middle East has continued to strengthen its trade relationship with Ireland. In 2022 exports of Irish food and drink to the region totalled 1.4 billion AED, an increase of 10% compared to the previous year. The United Arab Emirates (UAE)imported Irish food and drink goods worth 367mn AED; a 49% increase from last year.

Price inflations across supply chain following the Russia-Ukraine conflict have affected various aspect of food and drink exports globally, however, Bord Bia (the Irish Food Board) has reported an increase in the volume of goods exported with a record-breaking global increase of 25% in 2022, totalling 66 bn AED.

The Middle East figures were revealed by Jim O’Toole, the newly appointed Chief Executive of Bord Bia during Gulfood, the largest annual food and beverage sourcing event, currently underway at Dubai World Trade Centre. Following his appointment in November last year, this is Jim O’Toole’s first visit to the region as CEO of Bord Bia. With Irish exports increasing throughout the Middle East, O’Toole will continue to drive the trade strategies to facilitate success and encourage new relationships with partners, chefs, and vendors in the region.
Jim O’Toole, CEO of Bord Bia said, “The last few years may have posed many challenges for the world yet the healthy export figures we have seen are truly testament to the resilience of the Irish food and drink industry. The Middle East is a market that values high quality products, and where Ireland is recognised for its excellence in producing sustainably produced products. In a region where as much as 80-90% of food is imported, we know that food security remains a key strategic and policy priority for Gulf states. Which is why, through Origin Green, Ireland’s national sustainability plan we are ideally positioned to meet this demand. Sustainability is at the heart of all of the work Bord Bia does with Irish food and drink companies, and despite the economic challenges that are predicted to lie ahead, we will continue to be agile, responsive, and aware of the demands that drive our sector of the economy.”

In 2022 Bord Bia embarked on its first trade mission, post pandemic, to the region, identifying UAE and Saudi Arabia as priority markets. During the trade mission, Bord Bia launched a new three-year strategy, ‘Nurturing a Thriving Future’, with the aim of increasing Irish food and drink exports to the Middle East up to 1.6 bn AED (€380mn) by 2025. Approaching this set target rapidly, Bord Bia attributes this growth in the report to the strong focus it places on quality, traceability, and sustainability, making Ireland a natural partner for a region highly dependent on imports to meet its food needs.

Last year, Bord Bia conducted an extensive research and survey to build understanding around the shifting priorities and demands of consumers in the region. The insights from the study have highly influenced the increase in the 2022 figures. Middle East imports continue to be dominated by dairy, and dairy ingredients worth 1.2 bn AED which is an 8% increase from 2021. However, the biggest increase in Irish food and drink import for Middle East last year was seen on drinks at 58% and on seafood estimated at 53%. Given the notably high Irish expatriate count, there was also a 20% increase on the supply of prepared consumer food.

Kieran Fitzgerald, Regional Director, Middle East, of Bord Bia added, “Over the last decade, we have been able to build, strengthen and grow the relationship between Irish producers and entities in the Middle East. Relationships like these have been instrumental in the growth of our businesses as well as diversifying the economy we all currently live in. We have also realised the true potential of an increasingly health-conscious market where consumer priorities are shifting with a greater value towards naturalness of products, country of origin, food safety standards, animal welfare, and sustainability practices. Acting on a similar vision where the future is nurturing, thriving and sustainable is something Ireland has in common with the goals set in the Middle East. We look forward to seeing the progress we make over the coming years as we unlock more opportunities.”
In June, Bord Bia will welcome a delegation of food and drink companies from the UAE and Gulf region to Ireland on a knowledge sharing programme to learn about Origin Green and the sustainability practices which are integral to Irish farming systems.

It is a great addition to the Pakistani coffee scene with its tasteful coffees, relatively affordable price points and spacious interiors.
After nearly a year of anticipation, the coveted coffee chain from Canada, Tim Hortons, finally opened its door to coffee enthusiasts of Lahore.
The question in our minds was, does it live up to the hype of that in Canada? At first glance, the restaurant is the same as in Canada. The interiors are bright and warm as expected from a fast-food franchise. The red color and maple leaf embedded within the interiors is a patriotic nod to Canada. It is spacious making it a great hangout spot for large crowds.
Let’s get down to brass tacks — the menu, the flavour and of course, the damage. Tim Hortons Pakistan does not offer a diverse menu, but what it does limit in variety, it caters for in flavour.
Naturally there is great expectation from a cup of coffee from a chain like this. Tim Hortons segregates hot and cold beverages in Espresso, Tims Classic, Brewed Coffee, Blended Iced Capp, Tims Signature Blends, Coolers and Iced Tea. Among these categories you can find a variety of flavours, prominent of which is their signature French Vanilla that transports you to Canada in a single sip. A jarringly missing piece in the coffee section was the much-loved takeaway coffee tins that Tim Hortons offers worldwide.
Nothing pairs better with coffee than donuts. Tim Hortons donuts are soft, fresh and delicious. They offer ten different flavours categorised into Classic, Premium and Filled. Classic has four options original glazed, white chocolate ring, vanilla dip and chocolate dip. Premium has pistachio, Smarties and maple. Filled has Boston cream, maple and strawberry.
All donuts are soft and light without feeling heavy or greasy. The original glaze is an obvious choice. For those seeking a little more pizzaz, the Boston cream is topped with a delicious chocolate frosting and its filling has the perfect consistency without being too runny or resembling the dough. Word to the wise, the pistachio flavour is an acquired taste. Not everyone will, or should, fall in love with it. Moreover, the crunch on the Smarties donut was welcome but the flavour profile was uninspired at best.
There are four options for the restaurant’s coveted TimBits: honey dip, double chocolate, Oreo and strawberry snow. The TimBits are fluffy, cake-like treats dipped in donut frosting. For chocolate lovers, the double chocolate is a flavour-bomb. There is also an assortment of croissants, muffins and brownies for those less inclined towards donuts.
If you are seeking savoury, Tim Hortons does not ignore you. There are decent options to choose from including sandwiches, paninis and wraps. Two of these flavours have clearly been adapted to the Lahori taste buds such as the Lahori Bhajhi and the cheese tikka sandwiches. The standout among savoury items was the grilled cheese and jalapeno sandwich: an absolute winner. The quality cheese has a melt-in-your mouth feel and the jalapenos lend a perfect tanginess to the overall taste.
The coffee at Tim Hortons is meant to be fast and affordable. In Pakistan, a small cup of Tim Hortons will set you back by Rs 350 to Rs 600 and a large one will range from Rs 450 to Rs 800, depending upon which flavour you choose. Donuts range from Rs 290 to Rs 330 each. TimBits are Rs 810 for a box of ten. Savoury items range from Rs 600 to Rs 750. The price points in Pakistan compared to those of Tim Hortons Canada, even in today’s economic conditions, translate well. Is it worth the damage on your pocket? Absolutely.
Tim Hortons is Canada’s largest coffee chain with more than 5300 restaurants across 14 countries. The restaurant has three outlets currently, one in DHA Phase 6 and two in Gulberg (launching on February 18 and February 25 respectively). It is expected to launch two more within this year in Lahore. The flagship outlet, DHA Phase 6, boasts a seating of more than 150 people over 8000 square feet, a first of its kind for any coffee shop in Pakistan.
Tim Hortons is a great addition to Pakistan with its tasteful coffees, relatively affordable price points and spacious interiors. When in Lahore, it is a must-visit.

Doha – Qatar: The shortest month of the year is loaded with the highest sporting events for the MENA region. Key tournaments in the upcoming weeks include streaming of WTA tennis tournament, the season opener of Premier Padel 2023, English Premier League, much-anticipated UEFA Champions League & Europa League matches, all of which will be streaming live on TOD. Additionally, TOD subscribers will also be able to download a host of inspiring sports documentaries and docuseries chronicling historic feats and icons from the worlds of football, tennis, motor racing, martial arts, and athletics.
The highlight of the week would be the return of UEFA Champions League’s Round of 16 Knock-Out Stage. Major football matches will be streaming on TOD for the week, with PSG v Bayern Munich on 14 February, Arsenal v Manchester City on 15 February in the English Premier League and Barcelona meeting Manchester United in Europa League on 16 February. Fans get the opportunity to enjoy all matches with TOD, as they would not miss on the live action with the platform’s “watch from start” feature, interactive timelines and post-match highlights.
Furthermore, streaming live from February 13 to February 18, will be all the action from the upcoming WTA 500 Qatar TotalEnergies Open. In addition, from February 26 to March 5, subscribers can watch on TOD the Ooredoo Qatar Major Premier Padel, streaming live from Doha’s Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex.
In between all the live action, sports fans can tune into a range of documentaries exploring athletics, motor racing, martial arts, and docuseries focusing on football icons, their aspirations, and history-making moments. Downloadable content include ‘Senna’ – a documentary on Brazilian motor racing ace Ayrton Senna, ‘89’ – a story of one of soccer’s greatest historic triumphs when, against all odds, Arsenal snatched the English League Championship title from Liverpool at Anfield in the last minute of the 1988-89 season. Another documentary, ‘Conor McGregor’ is a profile of the Irish mixed martial arts champion and his rise to fame. Other recommendations include ‘I Am Bolt’ – the story of athletics icon Usain Bolt and ‘Spirit of Sport’ – a series devoted to committed athletes and their ambitions.
John Paul Mckerlie, VP Marketing and Sales at TOD said, “The winter months in MENA encourage the pursuit of sports, and our platform will do the same. Subscribers will get to follow their favourite sports and personalities, and can be inspired into action themselves.”