July 2016: that’s when I’d had enough. When I started thinking that there must be another way to lead a more fulfilling and successful career for someone like me: a Black, British woman working in the corporate world. A professional life that, although not necessarily free from the stereotypes that persist everywhere, was at least […] More

Before any “first days,” my mom always tells me to work hard and get excited. But when I recently landed my dream job, she added one more piece of advice: wear lipstick. Since she happens to be the smartest person I know and always looks on point wearing red lipstick, I took her words to […] More

Lifestyle

by Sarah Joseph
51 mins ago

Mazin Al Kahatib, Founder & CEO of Nostalgia Classic Cars, discusses how he turned a passion for collecting and restoring vintage cars into a thriving business.
What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
I begin my day by reading the newspaper headlines to have an understanding of what’s happening around the world. Next, I read through the sales report and workshop reports of the previous day to make a list of what needs to be done for the same day. I then have a quick meeting with the admin, sales and workshop supervisor for 10 minutes.
What inspired you to launch Nostalgia Classic Cars?
It has been a dream of mine since I was a banker. I knew that after completing what I wanted to achieve in my banking career, I could convert my passion into a business.

Every car should tell a story. Does this impact your decision when buying a car?
When this was a hobby of mine, that was the case. Now, when I look at it from a business perspective, I buy according to the demand and market needs. Of course, when it comes to collecting classic cars, the story plays a big role in the purchase.
The concept is located in one of Dubai’s key artistic hubs. Was this the plan from the start?
I consider my collection as pieces of art and when I was thinking and deciding on a place, of course Alserkal Avenue came to mind, as it’s one of the first “art hubs” of Dubai. Hence, the decision was made to be located in Alserkal Avenue.
What was the first car you restored?
The first car I restored was the 1948 Packard.

You’re the first of its kind in the UAE. How did you see a gap in the market?
I learned my lesson the hard way as they say. When I was a hobbyist, I would struggle to find the best denter or the best mechanic or the best painter and my car would move from one place to another. This made me always think of having a one-stop shop that covers everything when it comes to restoration. Nostalgia Classic Cars Workshop does exactly that. Any project we do, the car never leaves the premises until the job is done. If we require additional support, we subcontract it to other shops. Everything from A to Z is done under one roof, this is what differentiates Nostalgia Classic Cars from all the other players in the market.
What advice would you recommend to those who wish to invest in collecting vintage cars?
When it comes to investing and collecting vintage cars, it’s important to choose the right brand and the right model. Try to have a detailed history of the car as much as possible. It’s imperative to prove the originality of the car and its parts, including the interiors, mechanical and the body.
November’s – The Collectors Issue – Download Now
– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
Images: Supplied More

Makeup application is way too much of a pain to only reap some of the benefits from your products. If by halfway through your workday you notice that your foundation has all but vanished or your pores are more noticeable than a flashing neon sign, you’re likely missing a major player in your makeup routine: […] More

IN PARTNERSHIP: While travel is still largely on hold, that doesn’t mean you can’t stop planning your trip and we know just where you should go. Soon, Germany will be welcoming tourists once again.
With that, we have rounded up a number of places in the European country which it’s famous for including historic sites, restaurants with delicious food, places offering picturesque views and more.
Lake Königssee

Located in eastern Germany, this picturesque nature reserve is located in Berchtesgaden National Park. With incredibly panoramic views and many trails to hike, escape in nature at this destination.
Allgäu

This charming region is located in the south of Germany and is loved by many avid nature fans. A notable highlight of Allgäu is the Lech and Eller rivers which run alongside the Alps. The area is also famed for its dairy produce including Hirtenkäse (Shepherd’s cheese) and Bergkäse (mountain cheese).
Moritzburg Castle

Built between 1542 and 1546, Moritzburg Castle is rich in history. Named after the Duke Moritz of Saxony, it was a base for hunters who would use the surrounding woodlands and lakes to hunt.
Wolfenbüttel

Wolfenbüttel is a historic town located in Lower Saxony, Germany. Previously the home town of the Royal House of Hanover for more than three centuries, it was the first city to be built under the influence of the Renaissance era. It’s also home to the world-famous Herzog August Library and the first Protestant church in the country.
Baden Baden

Known as the spa state in Germany, Baden Baden is famed for its thermal baths. It’s the perfect place to pamper yourself with natural remedies.
Saxon Switzerland

This national park is located Elbe valley south-east of Dresden in Saxony, Germany and covers an area of ​​93.5km. For those who love sport and rock climbing, this is the place to go as there’s over 700 peaks and 12,600 climbing trails to choose form. There’s also cycling trails, too. And to get the perfect Instagram shot, make sure you visit Basti Bridge.
Hellabrunn Zoo

Located in the Baravian capital of Munich, Hellabrunn Zoo was founded in 1911 and was the first zoo which housed animals which came from different countries.
Cologne

For a cultural cityscape in Germany, visit Cologne which is over 2,000 years old and spans. the Rhine River in western Germany. Prominent landmarks include the Cologne Cathedral and Museum Ludwig. In addition, visit Cologne’s famed Chocolate Museum, which is a must-visit for any chocolate lover.
Black Forest

The Black Forest is known for its striking beauty, as it embraces trees, flowers, lakes, waterfalls and animals. It’s also the inspiration for the famed dessert black forest cake.
For more information visit the Germany Tourism Arabia Facebook page. 

– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
Images: Supplied More