Sekka

In this Issue

In the first issue of Sekka, we appropriately explore the theme of ‘breaking norms’. We searched within the Arabian Gulf Region for norm-breakers in business and the arts. Then, we headed west to Ghana and southeast to the Maldives in search of norm-breaking experiences.

Features

First e-learning platform in Oman is bringing knowledge to all

“At Edlal, we believe that learning is a right for all,” says Omar Al Harthi.

Abu Dhabi’s first health conscious food truck aims to break the norm

We speak to the founder of the clean eating food truck.

This Omani spatial designer aims to develop the creative industry in Oman

“I have a habit of carrying my film camera to most places I go. It allows me to express my perspective of life,” says Marwan Al Balushi.

How social media influences branding in the Arabian Gulf

An interview with Kuwaiti branding expert Mohamad Al Robaian.

Maha Al Asaker: Changing perceptions of Kuwaiti women

The Kuwaiti photographer speaks to us about her latest project.

The solution to high road traffic deaths may be in your glasses

We speak to Juhaina Al Hinai, the founder of Gafwa.

Meet the man who is re-defining luxury

Sekka meets Sonu Shivdasani, the chairman and CEO of the Soneva Group.

It’s official: Board games are back

The Saudi duo on a mission to bring old school entertainment back to the popular list.

Arts and Culture

H.E. Omar Saif Ghobash on his next book

Sharifah Alhinai interviews H.E. Omar Saif Ghobash, Ambassador of the UAE to Russia and author of bestselling book Letters to a Young Muslim, to find out more about his writing process, his source of inspiration, his next book, and more.

Is the UAE the next Switzerland?

Inside the UAE’s first bean-to-bar chocolate factory.

Abayas: Were they originally black or colored?

There has been a long debate about the original color of the abaya.

Opinion

Oman sweet Oman? Coping with reverse culture shock

I sometimes wonder what’s worse: culture shock or reverse culture shock.

Finding my way back to a lost self

If I have learned anything in this long life of mine, it is this: in love we find out who we want to be; in war we find out who we are. ― Kristin Hannah.