Lifestyle

Astro Malaysia has partnered with Naga DDB Tribal to launch its Chinese New Year 2026 campaign, “All Right! Kudada”, a creative platform designed to rekindle festive spirit and strengthen Astro’s position as Malaysia’s go-to entertainment choice for Chinese households. Celebrating Tradition with a Fresh Twist The campaign, themed “Spark New Celebration, Find New Joy,” encourages Malaysians to honour tradition while embracing new ways to celebrate, reigniting the warmth and meaning of reunion during the festive season. Astro aims to shift perceptions of the brand from a simple content provider to an entertainment ecosystem that brings families and communities together. The campaign focuses on a common sentiment: over time, Chinese New Year can feel routine, losing its emotional warmth. “All Right! Kudada” seeks to restore joy, connection, and creativity in celebrations. “Chinese New Year has always been about togetherness,” said Benjamin Woo, Head of Group Marketing, Astro. “This year, we’re inspiring Malaysians to honour traditions while exploring fresh ways to celebrate—through entertainment, experiences, and content that bring people closer.” “All Right! Kudada”: A Playful New Festive Icon The campaign’s name blends optimism and contemporary flair: “All Right!” conveys confidence, while 酷哒哒 (Kù dā dā) adds playful, trendy energy appealing to younger audiences. At the heart of the campaign is Kudada, a Year of the Horse mascot designed to embody renewed festive joy. With a fiery tail, expressive personality, and connections to six blessings—Prosperity, Fortune, Health, Studies, Career, and Wealth—Kudada serves as both a cultural icon and collectible, available in limited-edition plush blind packs. “Kudada visualises the spark that reignites festive joy,” said Alvin Teoh, Chief Creative Officer, Naga DDB Tribal. “It’s bold, playful, and culturally resonant, bridging nostalgia with modern celebration.” An Integrated Festive Experience The campaign spans a wide range of touchpoints, including digital and broadcast content, social and messaging platforms, experiential retail activations, merchandise, and collectibles. These elements are designed to engage audiences across multiple channels while maintaining a consistent festive narrative. Lessons for Brands Astro’s CNY 2026 campaign highlights how cultural celebrations can be reimagined for a modern audience. By aligning with generational shifts and encouraging creativity and self-expression, the campaign reinforces Astro’s role as a brand that connects Malaysians while keeping traditions relevant. “Festive moments are evolving, and brands must evolve too,” added Teoh. “This campaign shows how cultural relevance, entertainment, and experiences can come together to create celebrations that are meaningful, fun, and memorable.”

Nestlé (Malaysia) Bhd has announced that it will explore the potential sale of its ice cream business to UK-based Froneri International Ltd, following the global divestment of Nestlé’s ice cream operations. The move aligns with Nestlé SA’s broader strategy to streamline its business portfolio and focus on core segments such as coffee, petcare, nutrition, and food and snacks. Recently, Nestlé SA revealed that it is in advanced negotiations to sell the remainder of its global ice cream business to Froneri, a joint venture between European private equity firm PAI Partners and Nestlé. While the initial sale primarily involved Nestlé’s European ice cream operations and selected businesses in other regions, Nestlé Malaysia’s ice cream operations were not included in the original scope. In response, Nestlé Malaysia has filed with Bursa Malaysia confirming that it will now initiate a structured process to explore a potential sale of its ice cream business to Froneri. The process is expected to include thorough due diligence, comprehensive engagement with relevant local stakeholders, and strict adherence to all applicable legal, regulatory, and governance requirements. The potential transaction would mark a significant step in Nestlé Malaysia’s alignment with its parent company’s global strategy, allowing it to focus resources on other high-growth segments while ensuring that its ice cream operations continue under the management of Froneri, a specialist in the frozen desserts sector. The company emphasized that the evaluation process will be conducted with full transparency and will consider the interests of all stakeholders, including employees, customers, and regulators, before any final decision is made.

McDonald’s Malaysia, a familiar choice for urban and suburban diners, is set to expand further despite the country’s evolving food scene. More than 40 years after its first outlet opened on Jalan Bukit Bintang in 1982, the brand remains a leader in Malaysia’s quick-service restaurant (QSR) sector. In 2025, it posted a 26% year-on-year growth despite rising competition. (From left to right) Hamid Ahmad, Vice President & Chief Development Officer, McDonald’s Malaysia, Wong Xinru, Restaurant General Manager, McDonald’s Titiwangsa, Dato’ Haji Azmir Jaafar, Managing Director & Local Operating Partner, McDonald’s Malaysia and Melati Abdul Hai, Senior Vice President & Chief Impact Officer, McDonald’s Malaysia in front of the reopened McDonald’s Titiwangsa Drive-Thru restaurant featuring the new Luna design. Over the next five years, McDonald’s Malaysia — fully owned by Gerbang Alaf Restaurants Sdn Bhd (GARSB) — will invest RM1 billion to drive expansion, modernisation, and youth-focused talent development. Why the RM1 Billion Investment?According to managing director Dato’ Haji Azmir Jaafar, the investment is driven by strong growth, untapped market potential, and favourable demographics. “Our 26% growth in 2025 shows strong demand, and with over 370 outlets nationwide, there’s still room to expand,” he said. The fund aims to modernise outlets, maintain competitiveness, and meet evolving customer expectations. Night view of the transformed McDonald’s Titiwangsa Drive-Thru showcasing vibrant Luna façade. Azmir welcomed the growing F&B competition, noting it encourages innovation and benefits Malaysian consumers while creating more job opportunities. He emphasised McDonald’s scale, operational consistency, and reliable customer experience as key strengths that maintain its market leadership. How the RM1 Billion Will Be Used RM600 million for 100 new outlets nationwide, creating over 10,000 jobs. RM200 million to refurbish 150 existing outlets, including landmark sites like the Titiwangsa Drive-Thru. RM200 million for digital upgrades, including self-order kiosks, the McDonald’s App, and kitchen systems, supporting efficient operations amid the rise of delivery and cashless payments. Youth Employment and Talent DevelopmentMcDonald’s Malaysia is one of the country’s largest youth employers. Its Vocational Academy, launched in collaboration with the Ministry of Human Resources under the National Dual Training System (SLDN), has trained over 5,000 youths since 2018, with more than 80% continuing careers at McDonald’s. The company aims for up to 40% of its future workforce to come from academy-trained talent. Dato’ Haji Azmir Jaafar, Managing Director & Local Operating Partner, McDonald’s Malaysia in front of the reopened Titiwangsa Drive-Thru restaurant with the new Luna design. Despite challenges in recent years, McDonald’s Malaysia continues to emphasise its local ownership, workforce commitment, and long-term investment strategy, employing over 16,000 Malaysians and maintaining a 100% local hiring policy.

Raya 2026 sees ‘Tree House’ green emerge as the top colour choice, according to a recent OhBulan! poll of 711 respondents. Muted, warm, and versatile, the earthy green garnered 6.5% of votes, edging out Cosmic Navy (6.1%) and Orinoco (4.3%). The popularity of Tree House green reflects a broader shift in festive styling.  This trend reflects a shift in festive styling, with Malaysians favouring adaptable tones that can be worn again and easily paired with other colours, rather than bold, statement hues. The Raya 2026 palette highlights versatility, featuring: Tree House green – earthy, muted green with warm undertones Cosmic Navy – deep, refined blue, suitable for day or evening looks Orinoco – soft, sandy neutral for understated elegance Lake Alone – muted blue-grey for a modern twist on classic pastels Leather Whip – warm, caramel brown for contemporary styling These colours complement traditional baju kurung and baju kebaya, as well as modern cuts, giving flexibility for mix-and-match festive outfits. The appeal of Tree House green extends to interiors, forming part of Nippon Paint’s Raya-inspired palette. Its warm, timeless tone works on feature walls, textiles, and décor accents. Enhanced with Silver Ion and AirGuard Technology, it ensures cleaner, safer, and low-maintenance home spaces. Tree House green is included in Nippon Paint’s range, inspired by the feeling of home. Tree House green combines practicality with style, offering Malaysians a shade that can refresh both wardrobes and homes well beyond the Raya celebrations. Explore more Raya 2026 colour ideas at Nippon Paint to find the perfect shades for your home and festive wardrobe.

Located in the heart of Shanghai’s heritage district, this stunning new luxury hotel offers fabulous views across the vibrant and bustling metropolis. Open to guests from 3 February 2026, Andaz Shanghai ITC is the last word in urban comfort, appealing to discerning travellers who appreciate quality and style. Designers drew on the theme of nostalgia, referencing numerous iconic Shanghai sights, tastes, sounds and smells that will invoke warm feelings of yesteryear among visitors from near and far. NOSTALGIA-INSPIRED DESIGN Andaz Shanghai ITC is located in one of the city’s newest landmarks, the soaring ITC Xujiahui complex, a pioneering project in the heart of a vibrant commercial area that also has a rich history. The overall concept of Andaz Shanghai ITC is “bringing outside in”, in other words a vertical Shanghai neighborhood at the crossroads of alleyways and skylines. The Xujiahui district has a storied past and was at the forefront of development when Shanghai opened up to the outside world. Motifs of the city’s past and present can be found in the luxurious rooms, destination restaurants, rooftop bar and open, neighborhood-style corridors. The third-floor hotel entranceway embodies this history-meets-contemporary spirit. A glass-brick feature wall and moss-hued rugs are inspired by Shanghai’s charming laneways, where elegant European-style low-rise buildings date back more than a century. The sleek check-in lobby on the 14th floor is similarly influenced by the Shanghai of yesteryear. The overall design is in keeping with the Andaz concept. It is a Hindi word that translates as personal style, and every Andaz hotel is unique and influenced by its local surroundings. ROOMS AND SUITES The hotel offers 267 rooms and suites, all with spectacular floor-to-ceiling views over one of the most vibrant parts of Shanghai, where century-old European-style heritage buildings nestle beside soaring skyscrapers. The interiors are stylish and spacious, with subtle design references to the city’s rich cultural tapestry. The latest hi-tech appliances and spa-like bathrooms complete the signature Andaz guest experience of refined luxury. A wide variety of accommodation options is available, many with outdoor terraces. All rooms feature floor-to-ceiling views and are equipped with a Nespresso coffee maker, Simmons luxury firm mattress, 55” IPTV with extensive channels, and the Byredo Eleventh Hour amenity collection, exclusively curated for Andaz. Room sizes range from 45 sqm to the 147 sqm Executive Suite, where guests enjoy private, penthouse-style luxury living. The flagship suite features signature Andaz avant-garde design elements, custom-made by skilled Shanghai craftsmen, and commanding views of the bustling city below. The overall room-design concept takes a residential-style approach. Corridors highlight the silhouette of the plane tree, a familiar sight on the streets below. Individual room doors are intentionally varied to reinforce the residential ambience. Interiors follow a maisonette accommodation model, with free-standing wardrobes guiding guests towards the bathroom, where 3D tiles enhance the personalized, home-bathroom feel. Each bedroom is furnished with comfortable home décor to enhance relaxation. A versatile seating zone supports lounging, dining or working, reinforcing the personal-haven experience. This seamless integration of Shanghai history, new design language and authentic local touches ensures guests become part of the Shanghai narrative, where the present is infused with the past. LEISURE FACILITIES The gym design follows the overarching theme of Andaz Shanghai ITC’s leisure facilities—an intimate space emphasizing privacy and members-only exclusivity. Each workout takes place in a refined environment rather than a utilitarian fitness centre open to one and all. DINING AND DRINKS The three exciting culinary options at Andaz Shanghai ITC ensure the hotel becomes a destination-dining spot in a cosmopolitan city where people know their food. The Rooftop BarA gathering place for the city’s movers and shakers, decision-makers and influencers. Guests can sample innovative tea-infused cocktails while admiring fashion-themed décor, with photographs of haute-couture creations lining the walls. Stunning city views complete the experience. The West WingA European and Shanghainese deli and wine bar offering small-plate dining in the heart of Shanghai. The décor and atmosphere are stylishly vintage. The East WingA spacious and airy dining enclave offering a wide range of options. Breakfast and lunch feature enticing food stations, while evenings showcase classic Shanghainese dishes prepared with local ingredients, delivering nostalgic childhood flavors. High ceilings, canopy-style lighting and refined décor enhance the dining experience. Discreet private dining rooms and a plant-filled outdoor terrace are also available. OPENING OFFER FOR WORLD OF HYATT MEMBERS Book any room type for two nights or more during the opening period and enjoy exclusive privileges as part of World of Hyatt’s New Hotel Member Offer: Daily breakfast for up to two guests Opening bonus of 500 World of Hyatt points per night Additional 2,000 World of Hyatt bonus points per stay This offer is valid for bookings made via Hyatt.com, the World of Hyatt Mobile App and Hyatt WeChat Mall, for stays from 10 February to 2 May 2026, with no blackout dates. A one-night room rate guarantee applies, and cancellations must be made at least 48 hours prior to arrival. This offer cannot be combined with any other promotions or discounts. For more information or to book a reservation, please visit WebsiteConnect with Andaz Shanghai ITC online via Instagram and Rednote

Malaysian-born coffee chain Zus Coffee has officially launched in Thailand, aiming to open 50 outlets across the country by 2026 as part of its ongoing expansion in Southeast Asia amid growing competition in the region’s café market. The Thailand venture follows the brand’s presence in Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, and Brunei, with Indonesia slated as the next market in its regional pipeline. The expansion is part of Zus Coffee’s broader strategy to scale its app-first, data-driven retail model across Southeast Asia. Venon Tian Jerng Hui, chief operating officer of Zuspresso (M) Sdn Bhd, said the Thailand launch is a significant step for the Malaysian brand. “Together with our team in Thailand, we are excited for the next stage of growth for Zus, as we learn from and adapt to the unique and rich Southeast Asian palate this country offers,” he said at the launch event. At the heart of Zus Coffee’s model is its proprietary mobile app, which collects consumer preference data to guide menu development and localisation. This enables the company to tailor offerings to local tastes while maintaining cost efficiency as it scales. “The group aims to replicate its everyday-value proposition in Thailand by offering consistent quality at accessible prices,” said Zus Coffee Thailand general manager Pattarnun Meesiripeyratorn. The chain’s bestselling Spanish Latte, which has sold more than 30 million cups globally, remains a key anchor product for new markets. Founded in 2019, Zus Coffee reached its 1,000th outlet milestone in 2025, supported by a workforce of about 8,000 employees across the region.

Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group, the largest jewellery retailer in China with an extensive network of stores across mainland China and Hong Kong, is accelerating its international expansion as it seeks new growth opportunities beyond its domestic market. The company has marked its entry into Southeast Asia with the opening of a flagship store in Bangkok, Thailand, located in the luxury lifestyle and shopping destination Siam Paragon, which officially launched on Friday. This move reflects a broader trend of Chinese and Hong Kong consumer brands expanding overseas to counter slowing domestic growth, increased market saturation, and pricing pressures in China, the world’s second-largest economy. Sonia Cheng, vice-chairman of Chow Tai Fook, said the company’s international expansion, particularly in Southeast Asia, “is seeing strong momentum,” signaling the group’s strategic pivot toward markets with high potential for luxury retail growth. The Bangkok store is just the beginning of Chow Tai Fook’s global expansion plans. The company aims to open its first stores in Australia and Canada by the end of June 2026 and is targeting the Middle East, with planned openings in Dubai and Doha within the next two years. “We remain committed to measured, value-adding growth, with Dubai and Doha next on the horizon — a testament to our brand’s enduring global appeal,” Cheng added. As part of strengthening its global brand presence, Chow Tai Fook also appointed Chinese actor Yang Yang as its global brand ambassador, further reinforcing the company’s image as a contemporary and internationally recognizable luxury brand. The company’s push into international markets comes amid increasing competition in China from emerging players like Laopu Gold, which has attracted attention with its luxury retail experience and focus on traditional Chinese craftsmanship in jewellery. By diversifying geographically, Chow Tai Fook aims to balance its exposure between domestic and international markets, leveraging its nearly century-long heritage to attract new consumers and reinforce its position as a leading global jeweller. This expansion also aligns with a larger trend of Chinese consumer and lifestyle brands, such as Pop Mart, Miniso, Xiaomi, and Anta, pursuing international growth as a way to build stronger global footprints, diversify revenue streams, and enhance brand prestige. Chow Tai Fook’s strategy highlights its ambition to evolve from a regional powerhouse into a truly global luxury jewellery brand.

IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG), one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has announced the signing of Mangala Estate Kuantan, an idyllic 67-villa retreat. The agreement, in partnership with FRANKY Group of Companies, will mark Vignette Collection’s brand entry into Malaysia. Initially retaining its original name, the property will join IHG’s system in mid-2026 before being refurbished and rebranded as Mangala Estate Kuantan, Vignette Collection by IHG in 2027. Vignette Collection is IHG’s first collection brand — a curated portfolio of distinct hotels that celebrate individual identity and authentic experiences. The brand allows independent owners to retain their hotel’s unique character while benefiting from IHG’s global scale and enterprise platform. Vignette Collection is an ideal fit for Mangala Estate Kuantan, preserving the property’s soul and sense of place while providing a global platform to attract guests from around the world. The resort will feature 67 elegantly designed villas, each thoughtfully named to reflect its distinctive character. Inspired by the healing of land and water, the vision invites guests to experience a sanctuary set within a serene, nature-rich estate of lush greenery and palm plantations — a haven for more than 100 bird species. This deep connection to the environment aligns seamlessly with the heart of the Vignette Collection brand hallmark, “Means for Good.” Through its nature-led design and sustainability-focused approach, Mangala Estate Kuantan delivers on this promise, offering meaningful stays that both protect and celebrate its surroundings. Bryan Chan, Vice President, Development, South East Asia & Korea, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said:“We’re delighted to introduce Vignette Collection into Malaysia with Mangala Estate Kuantan, Vignette Collection. By adding this outstanding property to our portfolio, we continue to grow our Luxury & Lifestyle presence in the country, reflecting our confidence in its appeal as a leading tourist destination and its attractiveness as an investment opportunity. “This is our first resort in Kuantan and marks IHG’s entry into Pahang. With its one-of-a-kind stay within a destination renowned for its scenic beaches and stunning waterfalls, we know that it will continue to be one of the leading hotels in the area following refurbishment and provide travellers with truly memorable stays.” Dato’ Franky Chua, Managing Director and Founder of the Franky Group of Companies, said:“We are excited to partner with IHG and introduce Mangala Estate Resort Kuantan to the Vignette Collection portfolio. Our vision for Mangala Estate has always been to offer an eco-luxury retreat that harmonises with its environment and community. IHG’s global reputation for excellence, together with Vignette Collection’s focus on individuality and purpose, makes this brand a perfect fit to share our story with a broader audience.” Kuantan, the capital city of the state of Pahang, is one of Malaysia’s coastal destinations and a popular tourist spot for domestic travellers seeking nature and adventure. Kuantan was the second-most visited Malaysian destination in 2024, with 2.28 million visitors. The state government is committed to growing its appeal and attracting more visitors from both domestic and international markets. The resort will help meet rising travel demand in Kuantan, catering to travellers exploring this fast-growing destination. Mangala Estate Kuantan is crafted for travellers who appreciate authenticity, depth, and a refined sense of place. It offers a curated selection of villas, including single villas with private pools, tranquil lakeview villas, and spacious two-bedroom villas with private pools. As part of Vignette Collection, the resort will feature an all-day dining restaurant and a poolside bar serving farm-to-table creations and locally inspired menus. Personalised dining experiences will also be available, complementing the resort’s intimate hospitality style. With a serene spa, dedicated wellness facilities, and two picturesque lakes for kayaking and water activities, the resort offers a holistic retreat designed to rejuvenate both mind and body. Its versatile meeting spaces, accommodating up to 400 people, make it an ideal destination for intimate celebrations, corporate retreats, and team-building experiences set against a tranquil natural backdrop. Mangala Estate Kuantan, Vignette Collection will join a growing portfolio that includes the upcoming opening of a Vignette Collection property in Ho Chi Minh City later this year. Globally, there are 27 open Vignette Collection hotels and a pipeline of 41 properties. The property further strengthens IHG’s expanding Luxury & Lifestyle portfolio in Malaysia, which includes two open hotels — InterContinental Kuala Lumpur and Hotel Indigo Kuala Lumpur on the Park — and four pipeline properties, including Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur, opening this year (as of 30 September 2025).

Playtopia World Sdn Bhd has officially launched Malaysia’s first HarborLand indoor theme park at KLGCC Mall in Bukit Kiara, Kuala Lumpur, marking a new milestone in family entertainment in the country. The grand opening ceremony took place on Saturday, showcasing a sprawling 25,000-square-foot indoor playground with a 30-foot ceiling and 44 unique attractions designed for children of all ages. HarborLand, a popular indoor theme park brand originating from Thailand, brings a thoughtfully designed play environment aimed at promoting holistic child development. The Malaysian outlet features multiple themed zones catering to different age groups and interests. HarborTown is a role-play city designed for children aged five and above, encouraging imagination and social skills. Little Ville & Toyland offers premium toys and interactive learning activities for toddlers and preschoolers, blending play with early education. Mainplay & Kid’s Island is a large-scale adventure playground for children aged seven and older, encouraging physical activity and problem-solving skills. Additionally, an Arts & Craft corner provides a creative space for artistic expression, while a communal area, including a mini mart cafe, allows families to relax and socialize. “The vision to bring HarborLand to Malaysia began two years ago when we discovered HarborLand Thailand’s readiness to expand internationally,” said Jane Leong, CEO of HarborLand Malaysia, during the official launch. “We visited six outlets in just one day and were impressed by the meticulous design of each playground and the joy radiating from every child. It became clear that HarborLand is more than just a play area — it’s an environment intentionally created to support children’s physical, creative, and cognitive development.” Leong also emphasized that safety is a top priority for the Malaysian theme park. “HarborLand Malaysia has been designed to comply with EN-1176 international safety standards. All materials used are non-toxic, free from harmful metals, and built to last, ensuring a secure and safe environment for our young visitors,” she added. Sharing the origins of the brand, HarborLand Thailand CEO Prakarn Nokhong explained that the concept began from a personal need. “I struggled to find suitable places where my children could have fun safely. That challenge inspired HarborLand, which we started 10 years ago to provide children with a clean, safe, and hygienic environment to play and learn.” HarborLand Thailand now operates 28 indoor playground branches and one waterpark, with plans to expand to 36 playgrounds and five waterparks next year. “Our expansion reflects our commitment to creating spaces where children can grow, learn, and enjoy themselves safely,” Nokhong said. With the launch of HarborLand Malaysia, families in Kuala Lumpur now have access to a premium indoor play experience that combines fun, learning, and safety, setting a new benchmark for child-centric entertainment in the region.

Al Ghurair, one of the largest diversified family business groups in the Middle East and a major contributor to Dubai’s modern skyline, has launched a bold new super-prime residential development designed by world-renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. Wedyan marks the debut of the Al Ghurair Collection, the new ultra-prime residential portfolio by Al Ghurair Development, the real estate arm of Al Ghurair. The portfolio is set to bring distinctive, design-led living to Dubai and create timeless landmarks for tomorrow. The launch of the Al Ghurair Collection represents a new chapter in Al Ghurair’s six-decade legacy, with Wedyan—a landmark waterfront residence along Dubai Canal—serving as the first project in a series of developments that will deliver on Al Ghurair Collection’s commitment to originality and craftsmanship, creating something never seen before in Dubai. Kengo Kuma, celebrated for cultural works such as the Japan National Stadium in Tokyo and the China Academy of Art’s Folk Art Museum, is recognised globally for an approach that harmonises architecture with nature. At Wedyan, which means valleys, he has applied this approach by shaping a façade inspired by the movement of water and sand. Its layered profile and textured exterior echo the rhythm of the desert and valleys, creating a building without precedent in the city. Soaring 46 storeys high, Wedyan comprises 149 residences with a mix of three-, four-, and five-bedroom layouts, two full-floor penthouses, and a three-storey sky villa. Some key features include integrated outdoor living spaces purposefully designed to be multifunctional for maximum comfort and liveability; an additional back-of-house kitchen with separate access alongside the main kitchen, perfect for hosting catered dinner parties; and specialised glazing that protects owners’ artworks from UV rays. A selection of residences also come with standalone Japanese teahouse-inspired pavilions, easily adapted to suit residents’ needs. They could make the perfect setting for morning meditations or serve as a one-of-a-kind recording studio. Kengo Kuma said: “Wedyan is a dialogue between Japanese aesthetics and the context of Dubai. Our design philosophy is to connect and create a conversation between architecture, nature, and people. In this project, our purpose is to bring softness to the design and to create quietness through shadows that cascade and reflect across the façade, terraces, and amenity spaces. Collaborating with Al Ghurair has been exciting. They understand the value of design, and we share a mutual respect that naturally led to a positive harmony in bringing Wedyan to life.” The launch of Wedyan comes as demand for ultra-luxury property in Dubai reaches unprecedented levels. In the first half of 2025, the city recorded AED 431 billion in transactions, a 25% increase year-on-year, with sales of homes above AED 10 million growing more than fourfold in recent years. This market evolution reflects the interest discerning families from around the world have in making Dubai their permanent home. Al Ghurair – an unrivalled legacy of shaping the cityscape of DubaiThe launch of the Al Ghurair Collection and Wedyan marks a new chapter for Al Ghurair Development, one of the largest and most influential family business groups in the UAE. The Al Ghurair family established the region’s first shopping mall and mixed-use concept in 1981, the first private insurance company in 1975, and the first private bank in 1967. The company has also been involved in major projects such as Dubai Metro and the façade glazing of Burj Khalifa. To date, Al Ghurair has built and managed more than 20,000 residential and commercial units in Dubai, alongside nearly 1,000 hotel rooms and serviced units. Sultan Al Ghurair, CEO of Al Ghurair Development, said: “The launch of the Al Ghurair Collection and Wedyan is a natural evolution of our 60-year commitment to the progress of the city. As Dubai has grown into one of the world’s most dynamic and successful destinations, and is increasingly drawing sophisticated residents from all over the world, the time felt right to introduce what we feel is the ultimate expression of exceptional living to be found here. We created Al Ghurair Collection to develop buildings that don’t exist elsewhere. Our search for an architect that shares our commitment to originality and obsession with detail led us to Kengo Kuma, a visionary with a truly unique design perspective.” John Iossifidis, Group CEO of Al Ghurair, said: “The launch of Al Ghurair Collection represents a defining milestone for Dubai’s real estate sector and reflects Al Ghurair’s future-focused strategic vision. We enter this space with the strength of a legacy built over six decades, anchored in trust, innovation, and an uncompromising commitment to quality and excellence. Al Ghurair Collection will bring a fresh perspective to the market, powered by the integrated capabilities of our diversified business. Our mission is clear: to create visionary projects, build with purpose, and deliver spaces that provide enduring value, financially, socially, and culturally, for generations to come.” Design and architecture shaped by natureAl Ghurair Collection worked with more than 30 specialists to consider every aspect of how to live well, among them lighting, kitchen, façade, and parking consultants. The landscaping is realised in collaboration with Gustafson Porter + Bowman, integrating greenery and water features into every level of the building. Deep-planted terraces and shaded promenades create gardens in the sky, enhancing privacy. The planting palette includes species selected for their resilience, aesthetics, and compatibility to Dubai’s climate, such as aloe vera, Bismarck palm, and trailing ice plants. At ground level, a landscaped promenade and shimmering water accents contribute to the beauty of Dubai Canal. A Vertical MasterplanFeaturing every possible convenience a resident might need to live well, Wedyan offers more than 65,000 sq ft of amenity space carefully distributed across distinct levels in the building. Just below ground level, The Oasis arrival experience is lined with greenery and water features that lead into a luxury car stacker which is humidity- and temperate-controlled. The Shore and The Valley on Levels 2 and 3 are dynamic spaces for active living and leisure time with family and friends, as well as for hosting and entertainment. The