‘Conde Nast meet a plus for Oman’

Muscat: Conde Nast International’s much awaited conference kicked off on Wednesday at the Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa with opening remarks from Jonathan Newhouse, chairman and chief executive officer of Conde Nast International.
Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, secretary general at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed the 500 plus international audience, and gave a presentation highlighting the ‘Mindful Luxury’ concept in Oman.
Speaking to the Times of Oman, he said, “This conference is well attended by celebrities, innovators, and leaders in this kind of industry from all over the world. I think just the (Conde Nast International) fact they chose Oman as the venue is a big plus for
the country.
“It is a vote of confidence for Oman and I hope that our guests here will go back with happy memories and good stories to tell and will come back and tell their friends about it and I am sure there will be more opportunities along the way whether on terms of cultural or industry exchanges. We are open, and hungry for more ideas which will benefit us.”
He spoke about the traditions of Oman and how the countrymen have always carried the trait of exploration. Also about the oldest luxury good in Oman—the Frankinscence, which was the biggest inspiration behind creating the Omani perfume
brand Amouage.
“The whole concept and story of Amouage was founded on this ancient and rich product, the tree we call the Frankinscence.”
Lebanese born international fashion designer Elie Saab also opened his heart on his successes and challenges growing with his brand in a session with International Vogue Editor Suzy Menkes.
“I have worked very hard to build this brand and when we speak of a brand it needs a lot of time. Me and my style is I work slowly but surely. I always think about my strategy and planning.”
He also spoke of plans to expand to more countries. “We chose more beautiful strategic locations around the world to go to our clients and present good services for our clients. During our planning in two months, we plan to open in Geneva.”
Omani designer Amal Al Raisi also had a chat with Menkes and Deena Aljuhani Abdulaziz.
Al Raisi’s collection has already crossed Omani borders and is sold by 12 different retailers in the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region.
“Oman is my inspiration,” she said. “I put Oman in everything I do.”
She also wants her brand to go global, “I do want to go global taking things step by step and taking it from Muscat to the region in three years I have a plan to go to one of the biggest department stores.”
Al Raisi further said she designs the abaya with pride, “We Omani women wear the abaya with pride and I design it with pride.”
The conference will run over two days April 5 and 6. Oman’s Tourism Development Company—Omran—is a major partner in the conference.