Latest news with #Zeina
Observer
08-07-2025
- General
- Observer
How a Mechanical Engineer Turned Her Cultural Roots into Wearable Stories of Faith
In Oman, jewellery isn't just about adornment; it runs deep in the fabric of the nation's history and culture. For centuries, Omani craftsmen have created beautiful pieces that tell stories of family, faith, and tradition. These aren't simply decorative objects—they are tokens of identity, markers of life's milestones, and links to a heritage that spans generations. Among those carrying this legacy forward today is Zeina al Hinai, a talented jeweller whose work honours her roots and the rich history of Oman's jewellery craftsmanship. Omani jewellery has long been distinguished by its intricate designs, skilled craftsmanship, and meaningful symbolism. From delicate filigree work to bold, statement pieces, it reflects a culture that values beauty, community, and spirituality. Many of Oman's traditional styles have roots in the diverse influences that shaped the region—Arab, African, Persian, and Indian. Each piece tells a story of cultural exchange and ingenuity, a testament to the skilled hands of Omani artisans passed down through the ages. How a Mechanical Engineer Turned Her Cultural Roots into Wearable Stories of Faith Zeina grew up surrounded by this vibrant jewellery heritage. Her family often wore pieces that carried significance—gifts bestowed during weddings, religious occasions, or rites of passage. She learned early on that gold in Oman wasn't just material wealth—it was a vessel for stories, history, and emotion. For Zeina, jewellery was a way of holding onto memories, celebrating life's most important moments, and expressing her identity. But it was her own journey that sparked a new conversation about what jewellery could represent today. Zeina, trained as a mechanical engineer, discovered she also had a passion for design. Merging her technical knowledge with her cultural background, she began exploring ways to create jewellery that was rooted in her heritage but also spoke to contemporary life. One of Zeina's most meaningful projects started when her son, Badr, was born. She wanted to mark that significant moment with a piece of jewellery that went beyond mere ornamentation. She didn't want something generic—she sought a symbol that captured the depth and beauty of new life, a connection that could be cherished for generations. That desire led her to revisit the core principles of Omani craftsmanship, infusing her work with spiritual and cultural symbolism. How a Mechanical Engineer Turned Her Cultural Roots into Wearable Stories of Faith Zeina turned to the Quran, seeking inspiration within its verses and stories. She started pondering how jewellery could serve as a physical reminder of faith and love, of family bonds and gratitude. The idea took shape: what if each piece could carry names, meanings, and references from the Quran, making every piece deeply personal and spiritually resonant? It would be a way to wear faith and heritage close to the heart. Drawing inspiration from traditional Omani rings—known locally as tahyīs—Zeina wanted her jewellery to be something more than static adornment. In Oman, a tahyīs is often worn on the index finger, and the act of twisting the ring around the finger is a familiar, intimate gesture. She thought: what if a piece of jewellery could move with you, holding your story in motion? The name 'Hiyyas', which became Zeinab's brand, is inspired by a traditional Omani type of ring, typically worn on the index finger. Each piece of Hiyyas is more than an accessory—it's a personal archive. The process begins with choosing a name or meaning that holds significance for the wearer, then locating all the places where that word appears in the Qur'an. This isn't mass-produced jewellery; every ring is a handcrafted journey. How a Mechanical Engineer Turned Her Cultural Roots into Wearable Stories of Faith Her design process was meticulous. Zeina used her engineering skills to model her ideas digitally, mapping where specific words or names from the Quran would appear on each piece. These details might be raised from the surface or embedded as tiny gemstones—subtle symbols that only the wearer would recognise. Once the digital model was complete, the design was turned into a wax model, then cast in gold. Each final piece was individually handcrafted, making every ring unique. This approach challenged the notion of jewellery as mass-market product. In Oman and neighbouring regions, gold has long symbolised celebration—weddings, births, bequests of love. But Zeina's creations aimed to shift that perspective. Gold became a vessel for meaning, a connection to faith and personal stories. She wanted her jewellery to do more than decorate; she wanted it to embody depth, to serve as a tangible link to one's history, beliefs, and identity. Creating these pieces wasn't without its hurdles. Translating abstract concepts into physical objects that still felt authentic was a complex task. It involved patience, precision, and respect for traditional craftsmanship while embracing new ideas. Zeina's work is a reminder that the journey from idea to wearable art is one of dedication—combining technical skill with deep cultural appreciation. How a Mechanical Engineer Turned Her Cultural Roots into Wearable Stories of Faith The reception has been encouraging. More and more customers in Oman and beyond have shown interest in jewellery that resonates on a spiritual level, that isn't just about aesthetics but about connection. Zeina comments that while Oman has a proud history with gold, modern tastes are evolving. People are seeking jewellery that reflects who they are and what they believe, not just what they look like. Looking ahead, Zeina's work continues to evolve. Recently, she crafted a collection inspired by Jabal Akhdar, one of Oman's most beautiful mountain ranges. She designed over a hundred earrings shaped like pomegranate seeds—each one unique and imbued with symbolism drawn from he lush, abundant nature of the region. These tiny designs celebrate life, fertility, and growth—echoing the land's richness and its importance in Omani culture. Every piece is a testament to the local environment and the traditional stories passed down for generations. For Zeina, her work is more than creating beautiful jewellery; it's about reconnecting her community with their roots and inspiring pride in their heritage. She sees her designs as a continuation of the centuries-old craftsmanship that Oman has cultivated, adapting those timeless techniques into modern forms that still carry the spirit and soul of the traditional arts.
Arabian Business
29-06-2025
- General
- Arabian Business
Arabian Business June 2025
Your browser does not support HTML5 Audio! SELECT VOICE ZEINA, UAE EMMA, UK SALLI, US ADITI, IN MATTHEW, US
See - Sada Elbalad
25-06-2025
- Entertainment
- See - Sada Elbalad
Zeina, Mohamed Farag to Star in TV Series "Ward W Chocolate'; Production Underway
Yara Sameh Egyptian actress Zeina is joining hands for the first time with actor Mohamed Farag in the TV series 'Fi Riwyat Ahadihim: Ward w Chocolate'. The cast also includes Maha Nassar, Mariam El Khosht, Safaa El Toukhy, Amr Mahdi, and more. "Fi Riwyat Ahadihim: Ward w Chocolate" hails from director Mohamed El Adl and scriptwriter Mohamed Ragaa. The series consists of 10 episodes and is inspired by true events that were the focus of a wide public opinion in Egypt. The drama is the latest original content from Yango Play and is co-created by El Adl Group. It marks the fourth collaboration between Zeina and El Adl Group after the 2010 film 'Al kebar', the 2017 TV series 'L Ala Ser', and "Banat Al Basha" film adaptation (TBA). "Fi Riwyat Ahadihim: Ward w Chocolate" is set to debut at the end of 2025. Principal photography is underway. Ward W Chocolate Ward W Chocolate Ward W Chocolate Zeina, Mohamed Farag read more New Tourism Route To Launch in Old Cairo Ahmed El Sakka-Led Play 'Sayidati Al Jamila' to Be Staged in KSA on Dec. 6 Mandy Moore Joins Season 2 of "Dr. Death" Anthology Series Don't Miss These Movies at 44th Cairo Int'l Film Festival Today Amr Diab to Headline KSA's MDLBEAST Soundstorm 2022 Festival Arts & Culture Mai Omar Stuns in Latest Instagram Photos Arts & Culture "The Flash" to End with Season 9 Arts & Culture Ministry of Culture Organizes four day Children's Film Festival Arts & Culture Canadian PM wishes Muslims Eid-al-Adha News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks Videos & Features Video: Trending Lifestyle TikToker Valeria Márquez Shot Dead during Live Stream News Shell Unveils Cost-Cutting, LNG Growth Plan Technology 50-Year Soviet Spacecraft 'Kosmos 482' Crashes into Indian Ocean
Mid East Info
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Mid East Info
History in the making: Once Upon a Time in Dubai, region's first original global musical unveils cast, new single
The excitement around Once Upon a Time in Dubai , the region's first truly global musical, has reached new heights with the official release of its upbeat anthem Habibi , performed by rising Lebanese star Amanda Maalouf. Known for her powerful vocal range and stage charisma, the Dubai resident takes centre stage in this track as Zeina, one of the lead characters in the show. Composed by the internationally acclaimed Nazim Khaled and released under Universal Music MENA, this uplifting anthem blends international pop with Arabic rhythms and celebrates the very 'multicultural heartbeat of Dubai', according to Stéphane Boukris, the French entreprenuer and creator behind the musical he describes as a 'genre-bending spectacle' – all set to bring together Broadway and West End flair, cinematic visuals and a diverse international cast to Dubai for the very first time. 'It is a vibrant, feel-good tribute to the spirit of Dubai,' said Boukris, who previously produced the hit musical Robin Hood that sold over one million tickets across Europe. 'The song captures the warmth, ambition and energy that define this city. We wanted a track that resonates with both residents and the world.' Released this week on all major streaming platforms, Habibi marks a major milestone for the musical set to premiere in December 2025. The single is accompanied by a stunning video teaser, shot against Dubai's iconic skyline and desert dunes, reflecting the show's larger-than-life scale. The song offers a sneak peek into the show's soundscape, which blends Eastern melodies and Western arrangements – a signature style of the musical. 'Creating Habibi was about capturing the sound of a new Dubai – bold, inclusive, and full of rhythm. It's a song that blends east and west, tradition and innovation, much like the city itself,' said Khaled, the composer who's worked with artists like Kendji Girac in the past and whose compositions have garnered billions of views globally. Once Upon a Time in Dubai tells the story of Will, a young artist who moves from London to Dubai to reunite with his partner, Sophia, and pursue his dream of producing a musical extravaganza. Themes of love, ambition, and Dubai's vibrant culture are woven into the narrative. The creators of the show that include director Johan Nus, known in the region for his work on Arabs Got Talent and The Masked Singer and Gilles Papain as the executive producer with experience on major productions like Celine in Las Vegas and Disney World of Colors in California, also announced the full international cast, one that brings together a remarkable ensemble of international talents, each with a unique artistic journey. Stellar ensemble of international talents Lebanese singer Amanda Maalouf stars as Zeina , a powerful voice navigating the tension between tradition and ambition. British talent Melissa Jeffrey, a tenacious dancer and singer who began full-time training at just 11 and later earned scholarships at London's elite Urdang Academy, takes on the female lead role of Sophia . While Joe Woolford, also from the UK and a charismatic rapper whose rise to fame began on The Voice UK and culminated with his Eurovision appearance, plays the male lead Will . Dubai-based performer Isiako ( Khalid ) infuses the stage with Mediterranean flair and a mix of reggaeton, soul, and pop as Portuguese vocalist Jessica Alves brings poise and energy to the role of Kim , drawing from her rich experience in Dubai's live music scene. Dutch musical theatre star Shay Lachman takes on Gautam , adding depth with his classical training and international stage experience from productions across Europe and Asia. Adding a soulful layer to the production is Canadian-Lebanese singer Enzo S, who plays Elias , the heart of the group. A semi-finalist from The Voice France Season 9, Enzo's performance is shaped by more than 15 years of global stage experience and a strong academic foundation in jazz and gospel from Montreal's Concordia University. Speaking about the diverse ensemble, director Nus said, 'We have gathered talent from across continents with each performer bringing their authentic voice and a bit of their culture to the stage. This show could only happen in Dubai.' The musical is set to debut in December 2025 with a full-scale theatrical production that promises a rich blend of music, dance, and storytelling. 'Each of these performers brings a unique voice, story, and spirit to the production,' added Boukris. 'This is not just a show — it's a love letter to Dubai through the eyes and voices of the world.' Now, with the soundtrack's first single Habibi available on all major platforms, the countdown to the premiere in December has officially begun. The musical's official Instagram handle @ouatidubai and website will continue to release behind-the-scenes footage, interviews, and teaser content in the lead-up to opening night. sudha
See - Sada Elbalad
17-04-2025
- Entertainment
- See - Sada Elbalad
Zeina, Mahmoud Hemida & More to Star in Film "El Shetan Shater"
Yara Sameh Egyptian actress Zeina has signed on to star in the film "El Shetan Shater" from director Othman Abo Labn and scriptwriter Loai El Sayed. Mahmoud Hemida, Ahmed Eid, and Mohamed Anwar, round out the cast. Zeina was last seen in the film "El Dashash" and season 2 of the star-studded TV series "El Atawla." It is scripted by Joseph Fawzy, directed by Sameh Abdel Aziz, and produced by Mohamed Rashedy. "El Dashash" marks the first collaboration between Zeina and actor and comedian Mohamed Saad in the film "El Dashash" for the first time in 16 years. They previously collaborated on the 2008 comedy film "Boushkash." The film witnessed the two stars making a comeback to the big screen after five years of absence. Wessam Reda Ismail Morsi, known as Zeina, was born on 4 February 1977, is an Egyptian actress, former model, and TV broadcaster. She started her career as a model in music videos under her real name, Wesam. Zeina was chosen by renowned director Daoud Abdel Sayed to play the role of 'Hanna in Ard El kof' (Land of Fear), her acting role. She also worked as a broadcaster on one of the channels of Arab Radio and Television. She has starred in many movies and television series since her acting debut, such as 'Afaryt el-Sayala' (Ghosts of Sayala) in 2004, and 'El Haya fe Montaha el Laza' (Joys of Life) in 2005. The actress chose to go by Zeina as she began her acting career. She was dubbed 'Sophia Loren of Arabs' by director Youssef Chahine after he saw her in 'El Haya fe Montaha el Laza', while late legendary actor Ahmed Zaki called her 'Penélope Cruz' for the similarities between her and the Spanish actress. Zeina is known for her roles in films such as 'El Haya fe Montaha el Laza', 'Sayed El Atefy', 'El Sahabh', 'El gezyra', '90 Minutes', 'Puskas', 'Trapezoid', 'Captain Hima', 'One – Zero', and 'Two Girls From Egypt'. She is also known for her roles in TV productions "Al Layla Wa Elly Feeha", 'Afaryt el-Sayala','Hadret el Motaham Aby', ' Li Aala Seer', and 'Gaafar El Omda'. read more New Tourism Route To Launch in Old Cairo Ahmed El Sakka-Led Play 'Sayidati Al Jamila' to Be Staged in KSA on Dec. 6 Mandy Moore Joins Season 2 of "Dr. Death" Anthology Series Don't Miss These Movies at 44th Cairo Int'l Film Festival Today Amr Diab to Headline KSA's MDLBEAST Soundstorm 2022 Festival Arts & Culture Mai Omar Stuns in Latest Instagram Photos Arts & Culture "The Flash" to End with Season 9 Arts & Culture Ministry of Culture Organizes four day Children's Film Festival Arts & Culture Canadian PM wishes Muslims Eid-al-Adha News Egypt confirms denial of airspace access to US B-52 bombers News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia Lifestyle Pistachio and Raspberry Cheesecake Domes Recipe News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Arts & Culture Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's $4.7M LA Home Burglarized Videos & Features Bouchra Dahlab Crowned Miss Arab World 2025 .. Reem Ganzoury Wins Miss Arab Africa Title (VIDEO) Sports Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple Arts & Culture Arwa Gouda Gets Married (Photos)
