Latest news with #Ateeq
CairoScene
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- CairoScene
The Medieval (But Make It MENA) Edit
The trend cycle is dead. Long live medieval fashion. Jul 12, 2025 Fashion is cyclical, but some things are just timeless. While the West looked to Tudors and corsets, the Arab world had already perfected the art of regal dressing centuries earlier. From Abbasid courts to Andalusian gardens, fashion wasn't ornamental, it was architectural. Kaftans with sweeping sleeves, golden embroidery as dense as scripture, leather flats molded for movement, musk oils that didn't just scent the body, but mingled with it, skin and scent indistinguishable. At the end of the first quarter of the 21st century, we've hit a snag in the fashion road. The trend wheel is imploding, taste fatigue is rampant, and the desire for something timeless and established is more prevalent than ever. People want the kind of clothing that speaks in undyed cotton, rich velvety hues, hand-stitched hems, and calligraphy-etched jewellery; something that feels human, in its design and execution. Bardcore is booming on YouTube, Chappell Roan is serving Joan of Arc in armour, and your algorithm is thirsting for knit bonnets and bloomer-style shorts. But this isn't some micro-trend debauchery wreaking havoc on your for-you page, it's medieval, and it's sticking around. Because if men's opinions are going medieval, why shouldn't fashion? In this edition of SceneStyled, we're going back to basics, the 11th-century-Fatimid-dynasty-kind of basics. Think: silk kaftans as statement outerwear, chainmail-inspired bags, gold filigree earrings, leather soles for modern ground, and perfume oil pens perfect for that medieval pouch of yours. Because time isn't real. But taste? Taste endures. Moroccan Touch | Jouri Kaftan This 100% silk velvet kaftan is the epitome of opulence. Rich in texture, deep in hue, and finished with a braided sfifa neckline, this is the perfect piece for wandering bare foot through your palatial garden. Azza Fahmy | Gold Blessings Chain Ring Azza Fahmy knows how to re-embellish history. In this 18kt gold ring, inscribed with 'مودة' (Endearment), 'رحمة' (Mercy), 'بركة' (Blessings), intricacy leads and handcraft take the spotlight. Azza Fahmy | Crescent Chandelier Earrings Crafted in Filigree wirework, these earrings incorporate centuries of symbolism in the swaying crescent moon and stars. Finished with an inscription with 'مودة', they encapsulate the simple intricacy of medieval jewellery. Shahira Lasheen | Ateeq Collection Long White Crepe Dress This sculpted black bustier and flowing slitted skirt cut a striking silhouette. Complete with hand-crafted buttons and intricate embroidery, it's a piece that speaks with a soft power, rooted in heritage and human artistry. Akaoui | Antique Finish Filigree Ring Intricate handcraft finds its proudest celebration in this Filigree ring. Made with traditional Italian craftsmanship, this piece is rooted in tradition and timelessness. Dôen | Ischia Dress Medieval dress gets an unwrapping in this Ischia dress. Lightweight and highly versatile, with a functional centre tie and an adjustable waist tie on a smocked bodice, this dress exudes the pragmatism medieval fashion is rooted in. Double-puffed sleeves, a scoop neckline, and ankle-grazing A-line skirt cultivate a fairytale-esque silhouette, or layer with a sweeping kaftan for the full medieval effect. Okhtein | Mini Dome Embossed Bag Every medieval muse needs her pouch, and this mini dome embossed bag from Okhtein is close enough. Maya Fragrances | Base Perfume Oil This base perfume oil from Maya Fragrances follows the same philosophy as its medieval perfume predecessors: less is more. Amber, musk, and sandalwood make up this intoxicating concoction, which works with your body chemistry and intertwines with your natural scent. In medieval times, even sweat smelt like luxury. Dima Ayad | Knitted Metallic V Neck A decadent take on the classic kaftan, this metallic kaftan from Dima Ayad appears like liquid gold in motion in the sunlight. Structured but also fluid, it's illusive and deceptive: the perfect piece for myth-making . Ettika | Gold Mesh Shoulder Bag Chainmail has always remained in fashion. While it shimmers down red carpets as translucent mini-dresses, this mesh shoulder bag offers a more utilitarian twist on medieval armour-core. It's one of the few pieces you could actually take into battle.
Business Recorder
09-07-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
New industrial policy: Expert emphasizes cost and ease of business
KARACHI: It's indeed wonderful news that the government is finalizing a new Industrial Policy, there has to be emphasis on 'Cost of Doing Business and Ease of Business' said Ateeq Ur Rehman (economic & financial analyst). Obviously the industries and manufacturing are in problem due to huge cost of energy, gas tariff hike, petroleum price hike and additional taxes. The expected pivotal targets of upcoming industrial policy are: Development of Import substitution Industry; revival of sick industries, improve credit to SMEs and boosting exports. They are indeed magnificent said Ateeq. The development of import substitution industry is compulsory in order to produce indigenously everything as made in Pakistan. The growing import includes chemical, raw material, palm oil, petroleum products, pulses, machinery, iron & steel and cotton. Pakistan import dependency is precarious and driving up the import bill. The policy to revive the sick industry is brilliant, simply it needs guide lines from State Bank of Pakistan for resolution of debts and encouragement by banks to provide them loans. The revival of sick industries is not only service to industry but also massive contribution for the betterment of economy. He added that within a context of high import tariffs, Pakistan Export performance and competitiveness has remained weak. Our exports have declined from over 15 pc of GDP, one of the lowest of the region. Except for 2/ 3 countries we are under trade deficit. Boosting exports is obligatory, we need an edge in global markets to avoid burden of foreign exchange in our country thus reducing balance of payment crisis. Under the industrial policy we need to improve credit to SMEs. The SMEs with a largest size of 82% of our total economy are said to be the main participant of economy by contributing 40% share in the GDP as a whole, including the main lot of manufacturers, producers, vendors, shopkeepers, traders, importers, exporters and middle man, etc. In our country and in past SMEs has been neglected, constantly, there has been problems with their limited access to finance. The cost of credit was not only expensive but borrowing was as difficult as a 'hard nut to crack'. We have seen that banks have never preserved separately and allocated funds for their credit line and financing. Lengthy procedures for registration, licensing and compliances were excessive bureaucratic approach was routine of the day thus under the industrial policy, it is quite encouraging that the SMEs will have relaxed access to finance. Preparation of the Industrial Policy is highly appreciative and is in demand for assisting Industrialist and Manufacturers; unfortunately the share of Industrial sector in GDP has been reduced to 18pc from 26%. Most importantly for formulation of industrial policy consensus of opinion by the business community, industrialists are therefore requested. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
31-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
‘Port investment key to maritime growth, blue economy in Pakistan'
KARACHI: The modernisation of Pakistan's maritime industry and the expansion of its blue economy depend heavily on strategic investment in port infrastructure —a sector that has unfortunately been overlooked in past for its development efforts. Economic and Financial analyst Ateeq Ur Rehman stressed that prioritising port infrastructure upgrades, streamlining Customs procedures, and revitalising maritime operations is not just beneficial, but essential for the country's economic resurgence. Although recent years have seen some progress in the improvement of major ports, Ateeq pointed out that the sector still demands much more attention. He calls for greater collaboration with multilateral and bilateral partners and emphasised the need for robust foreign direct investment (FDI). Investments are particularly needed for enhancing general harbor facilities — such as dredging, expanding berths, and increasing storage capacities—to enable ports to handle larger vessels, including mother ships, and to manage higher volumes of containerised and break bulk cargo. One of the longstanding issues Pakistan faces is port congestion, which causes significant delays and raises operational costs. To address this, Ateeq advocated for the development of smaller-scale 'Mini Sea Ports' across the country. These facilities, when linked to major ports via a national logistics grid, could greatly ease congestion, improve cargo flow, and enhance maritime trade efficiency. He believes that Mini Sea Ports are vital not only for the smooth functioning of the port system but also for supporting regional economies, facilitating trade with neighboring countries and landlocked regions, and diversifying Pakistan's shipping routes. In addition to easing congestion, Mini Sea Ports would contribute significantly to local economic development. They would create jobs, encourage entrepreneurship, and support both imports and exports on a localised scale. However, developing these ports will require substantial investment in infrastructure, including berthing facilities, storage areas, and connecting roads. Ateeq highlighted the critical importance of securing government support and attracting both FDI and local investment to realise these projects. He further notes that private sector involvement can be particularly rewarding. Investment in Mini Sea Ports, terminals, berths, and storage infrastructure not only addresses capacity constraints but also improves overall operational efficiency—making it a viable and profitable business venture. International examples provide strong evidence of how Mini Sea Ports can thrive when developed with strategic focus and efficiency. The Port of Hanko in Finland, though modest in size, is essential for vehicle imports and exports and operates year-round thanks to its ice-free location. Slovenia's Port of Koper serves as the country's main maritime hub and is renowned for its efficient operations, sustainable practices, and strong rail connectivity. In Mexico, the Port of Progresso is a regional trade and tourism center, exporting seafood and agricultural products while also serving cruise liners. The Port of Mombasa in Kenya, while not a mega-port, is East Africa's busiest seaport and serves as a vital trade gateway for countries like Uganda and Rwanda. Portugal's Port of Sines, although smaller than many European ports, specializes in energy logistics and can accommodate large tankers, giving it a strategic edge. These successful models demonstrate how Mini Sea Ports, when strategically planned and well-funded, can become essential economic assets. Pakistan has a valuable opportunity to replicate these successes by investing in its own network of Mini Sea Ports. Doing so will not only relieve pressure on its major ports but also unlock new trade corridors, stimulate local economies, and position the country as a competitive player in regional and global maritime trade. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
31-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
‘Port investment key to maritime growth, blue economy'
KARACHI: The modernisation of Pakistan's maritime industry and the expansion of its blue economy depend heavily on strategic investment in port infrastructure —a sector that has unfortunately been overlooked in past for its development efforts. Economic and Financial analyst Ateeq Ur Rehman stressed that prioritising port infrastructure upgrades, streamlining Customs procedures, and revitalising maritime operations is not just beneficial, but essential for the country's economic resurgence. Although recent years have seen some progress in the improvement of major ports, Ateeq pointed out that the sector still demands much more attention. He calls for greater collaboration with multilateral and bilateral partners and emphasised the need for robust foreign direct investment (FDI). Investments are particularly needed for enhancing general harbor facilities — such as dredging, expanding berths, and increasing storage capacities—to enable ports to handle larger vessels, including mother ships, and to manage higher volumes of containerised and break bulk cargo. One of the longstanding issues Pakistan faces is port congestion, which causes significant delays and raises operational costs. To address this, Ateeq advocated for the development of smaller-scale 'Mini Sea Ports' across the country. These facilities, when linked to major ports via a national logistics grid, could greatly ease congestion, improve cargo flow, and enhance maritime trade efficiency. He believes that Mini Sea Ports are vital not only for the smooth functioning of the port system but also for supporting regional economies, facilitating trade with neighboring countries and landlocked regions, and diversifying Pakistan's shipping routes. In addition to easing congestion, Mini Sea Ports would contribute significantly to local economic development. They would create jobs, encourage entrepreneurship, and support both imports and exports on a localised scale. However, developing these ports will require substantial investment in infrastructure, including berthing facilities, storage areas, and connecting roads. Ateeq highlighted the critical importance of securing government support and attracting both FDI and local investment to realise these projects. He further notes that private sector involvement can be particularly rewarding. Investment in Mini Sea Ports, terminals, berths, and storage infrastructure not only addresses capacity constraints but also improves overall operational efficiency—making it a viable and profitable business venture. International examples provide strong evidence of how Mini Sea Ports can thrive when developed with strategic focus and efficiency. The Port of Hanko in Finland, though modest in size, is essential for vehicle imports and exports and operates year-round thanks to its ice-free location. Slovenia's Port of Koper serves as the country's main maritime hub and is renowned for its efficient operations, sustainable practices, and strong rail connectivity. In Mexico, the Port of Progresso is a regional trade and tourism center, exporting seafood and agricultural products while also serving cruise liners. The Port of Mombasa in Kenya, while not a mega-port, is East Africa's busiest seaport and serves as a vital trade gateway for countries like Uganda and Rwanda. Portugal's Port of Sines, although smaller than many European ports, specializes in energy logistics and can accommodate large tankers, giving it a strategic edge. These successful models demonstrate how Mini Sea Ports, when strategically planned and well-funded, can become essential economic assets. Pakistan has a valuable opportunity to replicate these successes by investing in its own network of Mini Sea Ports. Doing so will not only relieve pressure on its major ports but also unlock new trade corridors, stimulate local economies, and position the country as a competitive player in regional and global maritime trade. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
