Welcome to another vibrant issue of BUZZAAR — your curated window into the evolving lifestyle of the Middle East. This month, we journey through stories that reflect the spirit of a region in motion — a region where tradition meets innovation, luxury blends with mindfulness, and everyday living is anything but ordinary.
We open with a feature for those seeking depth, GCC Lifestyle Trends offers a thoughtful reflection on how the region is blending heritage with modernity — from wellness and digital living to sustainability and experiential luxury.
In EV Flower Power, we spotlight the electric vehicle revolution quietly taking root across the GCC. With cities going smart and consumers going green, the road ahead is as silent as it is sustainable.
Our travel piece, Dazzling Dubai, celebrates a city that continues to push boundaries — offering a kaleidoscope of culture, entertainment, and awe-inspiring architecture. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent flyer, Dubai always has something dazzling to offer.
A special piece that invites you to Live Like a King — Without Spending a Fortune, proving that style, comfort, and elegance don’t have to break the bank. From affordable décor hacks to clever presentation, this piece reminds us that luxury is more about expression than expense.
Meanwhile, Khareef Salalah takes you off the beaten path to Oman’s misty monsoon wonderland — a seasonal escape that feels like a secret whispered by nature.
Our design feature, Wow with Wallpaper, inspires you to think beyond paint and plaster — turning ordinary walls into extraordinary statements of style and self-expression.
And finally, Education in the GCC explores how new international schools are transforming the region’s academic landscape, opening doors to world-class opportunities for today’s learners and tomorrow’s leaders.
We hope this edition informs, inspires, and encourages you to see your surroundings — and yourself — with fresh eyes.
Until next time, stay curious, stay stylish, and always stay BUZZAAR.
Warm regards,
The Editor
BUZZAAAR Magazine
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region is witnessing a fascinating evolution — a lifestyle transformation that seamlessly blends deep-rooted traditions with modern aspirations. Today’s Gulf resident is as likely to attend a heritage festival in a kandura or abaya as they are to sip matcha at a minimalist café, track their fitness on a smart watch, or explore sustainable luxury.
So, what’s shaping the way people in the GCC live, consume, and connect? Here’s a look at the key lifestyle trends redefining the region in 2025.
Culture remains at the heart of GCC life. Yet, a younger, globalized generation is reinterpreting traditional values through a contemporary lens. From Arabic calligraphy street art to modern abayas with high-fashion cuts, there’s pride in the past — and creativity in how it’s expressed.
Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have played a huge role in showcasing this fusion, making traditional attire, food, and customs trendier and more accessible, especially among the youth.
While luxury shopping still thrives, there’s a visible shift toward experiential luxury — curated moments that create lasting memories. Think private desert yoga retreats, glamping under the stars in Ras Al Khaimah, or sunset dhow cruises in Muscat.
Corporate professionals are investing in bespoke travel, personalized wellness getaways, and exclusive culinary experiences. Even homemakers and families are prioritizing moments of meaningful leisure over material possessions — a trend that’s here to stay.
Sustainability is no longer a buzzword; it’s a lifestyle choice gaining serious momentum. From reusable water bottles and eco-friendly cars to homegrown organic markets, GCC residents are increasingly conscious of their environmental footprint.
UAE’s push for net-zero emissions by 2050 and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 are major drivers. Many residents are aligning with this vision — switching to electric vehicles, shopping at sustainable fashion boutiques, and even growing their own herbs on balconies.
Brands that offer style with a conscience are winning loyalty — especially among educated youth and eco-aware homemakers.
From grocery deliveries to online doctor consultations, digital engagement is shaping daily life across the region. Smart homes, AI-driven apps, virtual fitness trainers, and digital wallets are now mainstream.
Corporate heads run remote teams via cloud platforms, homemakers attend virtual cooking classes, and Gen Z builds side hustles through social commerce. The digital shift is democratizing convenience and redefining productivity.
Whether it’s fitness, healthy eating, or mental well-being, wellness has gone mainstream. Boutique gyms, vegan cafés, wellness festivals, and mindfulness apps are on the rise. Across the GCC, people are making time for self-care — not just as a routine, but as a vital part of daily life.
Even traditional ingredients like dates, camel milk, and saffron are being reintroduced into modern nutrition plans — highlighting how wellness is being rooted in regional identity.
GCC – A Global Destination
The GCC lifestyle today is a rich blend of tradition and transformation — where cultural pride walks hand-in-hand with global sophistication. It’s a region that honors its past but isn’t afraid to innovate its future.
In short, the Gulf is not just living — it’s evolving, consciously, confidently, and creatively.
Once considered futuristic or even impractical, electric vehicles (EVs) have quietly rolled their way into the mainstream—and today, they’re powering a revolution that’s not only clean, but also, surprisingly chic. From business leaders to homemakers and the youth of the GCC, everyone’s curious: is it time to go electric?
Welcome to the age of EV Flower Power—where green meets glam, and clean energy drives smart living.
Why Everyone’s Going Electric
In cities like Dubai, Muscat, Doha, and Riyadh, the electric car conversation is no longer a niche topic. With rising fuel prices, growing environmental awareness, and government incentives, the switch to EVs is becoming an attractive option.
Corporate professionals are choosing EVs to align with sustainability goals. Homemakers are finding them low-maintenance and perfect for daily errands. And youth? They love the tech, the speed, and the futuristic feel.
Think silent engines, touch-screen dashboards, and instant torque—all wrapped in a sleek, modern design.
The Pros: Plugged-In Perks
The Cons: Still a Few Bumps
Driving into the Future
Electric cars are more than just vehicles; they’re a statement. A statement that says you’re ready for the future, that you value innovation, and that you care about the planet without compromising on style or comfort.
Whether you’re cruising in a compact EV to pick up groceries or zipping to a corporate meeting in a sleek electric sedan, you’re part of a movement—one that’s growing stronger every day across the GCC.
So next time you’re in the market for a car, ask yourself: is it time to plug in to the future?
There’s no city quite like Dubai — futuristic yet traditional, luxurious yet welcoming, fast-paced yet serene in pockets. Whether you’re a corporate executive planning a power-packed weekend, a homemaker seeking retail therapy, or a youth craving the perfect Insta-worthy escape, Dazzling Dubai promises something for everyone.
Often called the “City of Gold,” Dubai is more than just skyscrapers and shopping malls. It’s a global melting pot with cultural depth, modern marvels, and endless opportunities to live life king-size — even if just for a few days.
Touch the Sky – Literally
Start your adventure with the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Soaring at 828 meters, it offers unbeatable views of the city from the At The Top observation deck on the 124th and 148th floors. Go during sunset — the desert skyline is unforgettable.
Just a short ride away is Dubai Frame, a jaw-dropping structure that frames views of “Old” and “New” Dubai, offering a unique narrative of the city’s evolution. Walk the glass floor sky bridge if you dare!
Shop Like Royalty
Dubai is paradise for shoppers. Head to The Dubai Mall for high-end brands, underwater zoos, and the Dubai Fountain’s mesmerizing water shows. Want a more traditional vibe? Get lost in the labyrinth of Gold Souk and Spice Souk in Deira — where bargaining is half the fun and the aromas transport you to another era.
Mall of the Emirates is also worth a visit, especially if you’re in the mood for something surreal — like Ski Dubai, the indoor ski slope in the middle of the desert!
Cultural Side of the City
Take a break from the glitz and explore Al Fahidi Historical District. Walk through sand-colored alleyways, visit the Dubai Museum, and take an Abra (wooden boat) across Dubai Creek — all reminders of the city’s humble beginnings as a fishing village.
Stop for Arabic coffee at Al Seef or try Emirati cuisine at SMCCU (Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding). It’s a cultural immersion that adds soul to your trip.
Thrill Seekers, Rejoice
Looking for adrenaline? Try skydiving over The Palm Jumeirah, desert dune bashing in Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, or zip-lining over Dubai Marina.
And if you’re traveling with family, don’t miss IMG Worlds of Adventure or Dubai Parks and Resorts — home to Motiongate, Bollywood Parks, and Legoland.
A Taste of Luxury
Cap off your day with a dinner cruise on a traditional dhow, or make reservations at At.mosphere, the world’s highest restaurant in Burj Khalifa. Want to feel like royalty? Book a stay or high tea at the Burj Al Arab, the world’s only 7-star hotel.
Do Dubai
Dubai is dazzling in every sense of the word. It’s a city where tradition and modernity co-exist seamlessly, offering visitors a chance to travel across time zones without leaving the city.
Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, Dubai always finds a way to surprise you. Pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and get ready to be dazzled!
When the rest of the Gulf sizzles under the summer sun, a magical transformation unfolds in the southern tip of Oman. Welcome to Khareef in Salalah — a lush, green escape where clouds kiss the mountains, waterfalls dance to nature’s tune, and rain becomes a welcome guest.
Often dubbed the “Monsoon Mirage of Arabia,” Salalah during Khareef (roughly from June to early September) is unlike anywhere else in the GCC. A seasonal spectacle where desert meets tropics, it’s a refreshing reminder that nature always has surprises up its sleeve — even in the most unexpected places.
What Makes Khareef So Special?
The Khareef (Arabic for monsoon) is a unique climate phenomenon that brings cool mist, gentle rains, and fog to Salalah and the Dhofar region. While most of the Gulf battles soaring temperatures, Salalah turns into a carpet of green — with waterfalls gushing, wadis flowing, and mountains wrapped in mystical mist.
For GCC residents craving cool weather, rolling hills, and a connection to nature without crossing continents, Khareef offers the perfect weekend or holiday escape.
Nature’s Showstopper
Ayn Khor, Ayn Athum, and Ayn Razat are just a few of the famed springs and waterfalls that come alive during Khareef. Wadi Darbat, often likened to a scene out of a fairytale, boasts waterfalls cascading down cliffs and paddleboat rides along its serene waters.
For panoramic views, drive up to Jabal Samhan or Jabal Ittin, where clouds swirl around your feet, and the sight of camels grazing in the mist is strangely surreal — and incredibly soothing.
Culture & History Beneath the Clouds
Salalah is not just about rain-soaked greenery. It’s also the ancient Land of Frankincense, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure. Visit the Al Baleed Archaeological Park, the Museum of the Frankincense Land, or shop for aromatic resins in traditional souqs — an ode to the city’s rich past as a global trading hub.
A stroll along the Al Haffa Beach, with its white sands and coconut-lined promenade, gives visitors a taste of Salalah’s coastal charm, while the city’s old architecture and mosques speak of Oman’s deep-rooted heritage.
Perfect for All Types of Travellers
Corporate professionals can rejuvenate amid the misty mountains, unplug from work stress, and reconnect with nature. Homemakers and families find joy in the region’s simplicity — picnicking in the rain, sipping Omani coffee, or shopping for handmade crafts. And for the youth? Every corner of Salalah in Khareef is Instagram gold — from foggy drives to turquoise lakes, every photo tells a story.
Getting There and Getting Around
Salalah is accessible via daily flights from Muscat and major GCC cities like Dubai, Doha, and Riyadh. For road trippers, the scenic drive from Muscat, although long, offers incredible desert-to-mountain transitions.
Car rentals are recommended to explore the region freely, especially to access highland viewpoints and remote wadis.
Poetic Paradox
Khareef Salalah is a poetic paradox — rain in the desert, waterfalls in Arabia, and cool winds in the heat of summer. It’s not just a place, it’s an experience.
If you’ve never had a rain rendezvous in the Gulf, this is your sign. This season, let Salalah surprise you.
Think wallpaper is old-fashioned or only for feature walls? Think again. In today’s design-savvy world, wallpaper is making a bold comeback — and it’s more versatile, vibrant, and creative than ever. Whether you’re a corporate executive seeking a refined home office, a homemaker refreshing a family space, or a young creative styling your first apartment, wallpaper can turn any room into a storybook of style.
In the GCC, where interiors often reflect both cultural elegance and modern flair, wallpaper is the secret design weapon to achieve a luxury look without major renovation. Here’s how you can use wallpaper to make your home truly wow-worthy.
Wallpaper doesn’t have to stay within four corners. Use it to line the inside of bookshelves, the backs of cabinets, or even the ceiling for a dramatic statement. A metallic or geometric pattern above the bed or dining area can create a luxurious “fifth wall” effect — perfect for homes with high ceilings or ornate chandeliers.
Let each room speak to your personality. Want a calm, meditative space? Try soft floral or pastel textures in the bedroom. Looking to energize your kitchen? Go bold with lemon yellows, Moroccan tiles, or tropical prints. Wallpaper allows you to define the mood of each space without changing the furniture or flooring.
With open-plan living becoming increasingly popular in the GCC, wallpaper is a clever way to create visual zones. A bold print can separate your dining area from your lounge, or mark a reading nook without building a single wall. It’s especially effective in apartments or studios where layout is limited.
Don’t be afraid to go bold in small places. Powder rooms, hallways, or walk-in closets are great spots for wallpaper experimentation. Rich patterns in compact spaces give a boutique-hotel feel and surprise visitors with a pop of personality.
Embrace regional flair by choosing Arabic patterns, Islamic geometric motifs, or desert-inspired hues. Pairing traditional designs with modern furniture bridges cultural heritage and contemporary living — a trend GCC interiors are increasingly celebrating.
If you rent your home or like switching things up frequently, try peel-and-stick wallpaper. It’s easy to apply, leaves no residue, and allows for a fresh look whenever inspiration strikes. It’s ideal for dorm rooms, kids’ bedrooms, or seasonal makeovers.
Instead of hanging multiple frames, let one striking wallpaper panel act as your art piece. Framed wallpaper panels, especially with botanical, abstract, or calligraphic patterns, can add elegance and texture to a room — and are easier to update than large canvases.
Let your walls tell a story
Wallpaper is no longer just décor — it’s design storytelling. It lets you reflect your personality, experiment with color and texture, and elevate your home from ordinary to extraordinary.
So go ahead — roll it, stick it, frame it, or even ceiling it. Your home is your canvas, and wallpaper is the brushstroke of creativity it deserves.
The Gulf region has always been a land of ambition, growth, and transformation — and now, that spirit is deeply reflected in its evolving education landscape. Over the last decade, the GCC has witnessed a remarkable rise in the number of international schools, offering world-class curricula and cutting-edge learning environments that rival the best in the world.
From Abu Dhabi to Muscat, Doha to Riyadh, international schools are not just educating the next generation — they are empowering them with a global mindset, academic
excellence, and a solid foundation for future success.
A Boom in Global Standards
Once considered an option for expatriates, international education in the GCC is now in high demand among both local and expat families. Whether it’s the British, American, IB, French, or Indian CBSE curriculum, families are seeking schools that blend academic rigor with global exposure.
In cities like Dubai, over 60% of schools now offer international programs. In Riyadh and Jeddah, top-tier institutions are being established with partnerships from global educational groups. Oman, Bahrain, and Kuwait are also making significant strides, investing in premium school campuses with international accreditations and world-renowned faculty.
Why the Demand?
The rise of international schools is driven by a number of factors. For corporate professionals and entrepreneurs across the GCC, quality education has become a non-negotiable investment. Parents want their children to have access to Ivy League pathways, global universities, and career-readiness programs — and international schools provide just that.
At the same time, GCC governments are actively encouraging educational reform and diversification. As part of national visions such as Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 or Oman’s Vision 2040, education is a key pillar — with emphasis on critical thinking, bilingualism, digital fluency, and global citizenship.
Beyond Academics: Nurturing the Whole Child
Modern international schools are not just about high grades and standardized testing. They emphasize holistic development — from robotics labs to performing arts studios, sports facilities to environmental programs.
Students are encouraged to engage in community service, leadership programs, innovation challenges, and intercultural exchanges. The goal? To produce not just scholars, but confident, well-rounded individuals prepared for a fast-changing world.
A Diverse Learning Environment
Another major advantage of international schools is the diverse student body. In many GCC cities, classrooms include children from over 50 nationalities. This multicultural exposure fosters open-mindedness, empathy, and global awareness from an early age.
For youth, this means growing up in a classroom that mirrors the real world — where collaboration across cultures is the norm and innovation is nurtured through inclusion.
A Bright Future Ahead
With increasing investments, favorable government policies, and rising expectations from parents, the future of education in the GCC looks promising. International schools are setting new benchmarks in teaching, infrastructure, and student outcomes — opening doors to top global universities and international careers.
In a region known for its bold visions and rapid evolution, the education sector is truly becoming its most valuable asset.
Education – Setting High Standards
From tradition to transformation, the GCC’s new generation is being shaped not just to succeed — but to lead. And at the heart of it all are schools that are building global citizens with local roots and limitless dreams.
If you’re looking for an escape from Muscat’s scorching summer heat, there’s no better retreat than the breathtaking heights of Jebel Akhdar, Oman’s prized mountain jewel. Just a two-hour drive from the capital, this mystical highland rises from the heart of the Al Hajar mountain range—and although rugged and remote, its cool climate, ancient charm, and dramatic landscapes make it an unforgettable journey. Be warned: a 4×4 vehicle is essential, and trust me, the adventure begins the moment your wheels hit the winding mountain road.
THE GREEN MOUNTAIN THAT DEFIES EXPECTATIONS
Despite its name, which translates to The Green Mountain, Jebel Akhdar isn’t exactly lush in the traditional sense. But what it lacks in dense greenery, it makes up for with its majestic Saiq Plateau, perched 2,000 meters above sea level. This rocky expanse is home to terraced orchards, flourishing with pomegranates, apricots, and the famous Damask roses—all nurtured by a cool Mediterranean-like climate that offers sweet relief from Oman’s coastal heat.
The wider Jebel Akhdar range stretches approximately 80 km long and 32 km wide, reaching altitudes up to 3,018 meters. It’s a place where every winding wadi (valley) and craggy cliff feels like it has been etched by time—and indeed, it has.
A PLAYGROUND FOR EXPLORERS AND ESCAPISTS
Whether you’re an adventure seeker or simply need a reset, Jebel Akhdar caters to every kind of traveler. You can hike through Wadi Bani Habib to explore abandoned mud villages, test your limits with the Via Ferrata rock-climbing route, or visit the famed “Three Villages” trail, offering panoramic views of a bygone world.
And for those who prefer luxury, the mountaintop is home to world-class resorts such as Alila, Anantara, Dusit, Indigo, and Damask. Here, you can indulge in holistic spa treatments, sip warm tea on cool breezy terraces, or simply gaze at the stars from Diana’s Point, a clifftop spot that feels suspended between earth and sky.
A PLACE WHERE LIFE MOVES DIFFERENTLY
One of the most profound parts of my journey was encountering the people of Jebel Akhdar. Warm, genuine, and effortlessly kind, they radiate a calmness that can only come from living close to the clouds. Most speak fluent English, a testament to the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said’s vision of education reaching even the most remote corners of Oman.
Many locals run family-owned kiosks that offer organic treasures: rose water, olive and rosemary oil, za’atar, honey, and seasonal fruits. These roadside gems are more than just stalls—they’re windows into local life. Sellers are eager to share stories about their products, and it’s not uncommon to have a cheerful demonstration turn into a charming conversation that ends with you happily carrying a handmade keepsake.
A COOL CLIMATE MIRACLE
When we left Muscat, the temperature was a sweltering 45°C. Yet just 60 kilometers uphill, it dropped to a refreshing 18°C—a miracle of elevation and nature. The drive itself is a marvel: wide, well-engineered roads with three lanes, escape bays, and numerous scenic pull-offs. It’s essential to know your vehicle and use the correct gear settings for the steep climbs and descents—this isn’t a drive for the faint-hearted, but it’s definitely one for the soul.
EVERY STONE HAS A STORY
Perhaps my most unexpected discovery was how each rock seemed to whisper a tale from another time. With their intricate patterns and ancient textures, the stones of Jebel Akhdar are like open history books. Many are worthy of collecting—as décor, as mementos, or simply as silent storytellers of our planet’s past.
A WORLD APART
Jebel Akhdar isn’t just a cool getaway. It’s a sanctuary. A place where time slows, silence soothes, and the scent of earth in the air reconnects you with yourself. It’s not just a trip—it’s a journey into another realm.
So next time the summer heat bears down, steer your wheels toward the clouds and find peace where the air is crisp, the hearts are warm, and every rock holds a whisper of history.
– Travel Diaries by ARCHIE | 7 June, 2025
When we think of royalty, our minds instantly conjure up images of palaces, plush furnishings, glimmering chandeliers, and a lifestyle surrounded by elegance and luxury. But here’s a secret: in today’s world, you don’t need a royal bloodline or an overflowing bank account to live like a king. With a little creativity, a touch of style, and a sharp eye for detail, anyone can transform their living space and daily habits into something fit for modern royalty.
Regal Isn’t Always Pricey
In the past, luxury was often defined by how much something cost. Today, it’s more about how it makes you feel — and how it’s presented. High-end decor no longer has to come with a high price tag. From local artisan markets to online platforms, you’ll find budget-friendly pieces that mimic the sophistication of designer collections. Think plush velvet cushions, gold-accented mirrors, or vintage-style lighting that oozes charm.
The Power of Presentation
A royal home isn’t about having the biggest house on the block — it’s about making the most of your space. A few strategically placed items can completely transform the feel of a room. Arrange candles in brass holders, use soft throws over your sofa, or create a feature wall with framed art or decorative plates. Add some fresh flowers in a crystal-look vase (even if it’s acrylic) and you’ve instantly added elegance.
It’s the details that count — polished cutlery, a well-set dining table, or neatly folded hand towels in the bathroom all echo a lifestyle of refinement and care.
Embrace the Royal Rituals
Living like royalty isn’t just about what you own — it’s about how you live. Kings and queens of the past valued time, self-care, and ambiance. Light a scented candle at the end of a long day. Brew your tea in a ceramic pot instead of a mug. Read a book on your balcony or listen to classical music in the background as you cook. These little moments create an atmosphere of calm luxury.
You don’t need a crown — you need mindfulness.
Go Classic, Not Costly
The royal look never goes out of style. Opt for timeless colors like ivory, deep navy, emerald green, and gold accents. Choose classic prints — damask, florals, or paisleys — for cushions, curtains, or wallpaper borders. Even a second-hand armchair with a rich fabric throw can become a throne in the right setting.
Look for local bargains and clearance sales — some of the most luxurious-looking items come with humble price tags if you know where to search.
The Royal Life
True royalty isn’t in showing off your wealth — it’s in owning your space with grace. Whether you’re a corporate head creating a corner of calm in your office, a homemaker transforming your lounge into a haven, or a young student designing a cozy dorm — remember, elegance begins with intention.
So yes, you can live like a king — all it takes is vision, presentation, and a bit of royal flair.