2:48AM - Entertaining Kuwait since 2003
Ya Hala, the largest shopping festival in Kuwait’s history, is launching in just a few days, and they’ve just announced 120 cars up for grabs!
Over ten weeks, there will be weekly draws for 12 cars, which is pretty insane—and that’s not even counting the millions of dinars in additional prizes.
Stay updated on the festival by following @yahalakuwait and @whatsonyahala.
I’ve been using Wiyak for nearly four years now, mainly when I drop off a car at the garage and need a ride home or to the office. Occasionally, I’ll use them for meetings in the city where parking is a hassle. Their service is practical, the cars are spotless, and I genuinely enjoy using them.
Initially, they launched as a premium ride-booking app, but they’ve since evolved to offer a variety of services, including Cabs, Rides, Rentals, MSAED and Winch service.
Cabs is their affordable taxi service, while Rides is their premium offering, allowing you to choose from a range of cars, including a Rolls-Royce Ghost. Rentals is Wiyak’s chauffeur service, ideal for extended business engagements, shopping outings, or just fun trips with friends where having a car waiting for you is a must.
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MSAED and Winch are two unique services unrelated to being driven around. With MSAED, their drivers can pick up items for you or even buy something on your behalf and deliver it, perfect for ticking errands off your list. Winch is straightforward: if your car breaks down, you can request a tow truck to pick up both you and your car and take you wherever you need to go.
All five services are conveniently accessible through their app, making it practical to manage everything with just one account. To learn more or download their app, visit their account at @wiyakrides.
Atyab Al Marshoud has been part of Kuwait’s history since 1925, when founder Sulaiman Al Marshoud, initially arranging transportation for Hajj pilgrims, became intrigued by fragrances during a trip to India. He soon opened Kuwait’s first fragrance shop, sourcing oud and bakhoor from Southeast Asia. His fragrances quickly became popular, attracting the attention of Kuwait’s royal family. Upon Sulaiman’s passing, his sons Abdulrazaq and Waleed continued expanding the family business.
In 1991, Waleed Al Marshoud borrowed 8,000 KD to open the company’s first Salhiya store while serving as a police officer. Years later, his son Marshoud registered the brand in Paris, hoping to collaborate with a high-end perfumery. When that deal fell through, he strategically reclaimed the inventory, accelerated sales efforts, and launched a factory in Paris by 2015. These moves propelled the company’s growth, eventually leading to a global presence of 86 stores, 500 sales points, and revenue surpassing 25 million KWD.
Eager to break into London’s luxury scene, Marshoud initially aimed to partner with Harrods, but strict regulations made it challenging. Undeterred, he opened a standalone store in Knightsbridge in 2020. In 2022, after two years of development, they launched Marshoud 4 Red which became an instant hit among both local and international audiences. The store’s revenue surged over 400%, prompting Harrods to revisit a partnership offer, which Atyab Al Marshoud declined to protect its London exclusivity.
As they celebrate 100 years, Atyab Al Marshoud is more than just a brand, it’s a legacy. A reminder of how something as simple as a scent can carry stories, evoke memories, and connect generations. atyabalmarshoud.com
Frank’s, the go-to spot for authentic Philly Cheesesteaks, has just raised the bar with an exciting new menu item, the Frank’s Philly Burger. Known for their bold flavors and quality ingredients, they’ve managed to combine two all-time favorites into one irresistible creation. Imagine their iconic Cheesesteak, loaded with tender beef and melty cheese, now paired with a juicy Angus beef patty.
This game-changing combo delivers the best of both worlds in every bite. Whether you’re a Cheesesteak purist or a burger enthusiast, the Frank’s Philly Burger promises to satisfy your cravings and leave you coming back for more.
If you want to try it out, Frank’s is available on all major delivery platforms. Check them out @tryfranks
Gourmet Grocers is a new premium grocery store that recently opened a boutique at the Nasco building in Shuwaikh. They offer a curated selection of high-quality gourmet products to cater to customers with particular tastes. It’s like walking into a boutique where every shelf and corner is packed with the finest gourmet selections; a foodie’s dream come true.
Their product range spans various categories, including cereals and grains, condiments, snacks, beverages, and lifestyle items. They are resellers for notable brands like Bjorg, Lune de Miel, Nicholas Alziari, but they also carry other premium brands like Seggiano, François Doucet, Meurisse, and more. This extensive selection ensures that customers have access to exclusive and premium items not commonly found in the local market.
They also just launched their festive selection comprising of Panettone, Panforte, in addition to a Festive Gift Box and other products.
Speaking of gifts, if you’re looking for something truly unique, their custom gift boxes are a hit if you’re going to a gathering or want to gift something thoughtful to a food lover. Customers can pick from ready-made boxes or create their own by choosing from the store’s premium products to make the gift more personal and special. The packaging is also elegant which adds a touch of luxury to every gift.
In addition to their physical boutique in Shuwaikh, Gourmet Grocers provides an online shopping platform with complimentary delivery across Kuwait. Customers can place orders through their website gourmet-grocers.com, with same-day delivery available for orders placed before 2pm.
If you want to pass by their store, here is their location on Google Maps. For the latest updates, product highlights, or to start shopping, visit their Instagram @gourmetgrocers or head to their website gourmet-grocers.com
UR Cookies first opened back in 2020—just a small spot, nothing fancy, it was primarily a pick-up and delivery location. But, they had a solid, satisfying cookie that wasn’t too big, not too sweet, and always fresh. They had a straightforward approach which I appreciated.
Recently, they opened a second, much larger location at The Avenues. The new spot offers plenty of seating, a cool trendy interior, and it’s much easier to visit (for me) since I’m at The Avenues once a week, usually more. Despite the bigger space and the busier setting, they haven’t lost the simple vibe, it still feels like a cookie place, not a cookie factory.
With the opening of their new spot, they also launched a must-try item called ‘UR Scoop,’ which I’d been seeing all over my TikTok feed. It’s a warm, thick, and gooey cookie dough scooped into a cup and topped with creamy vanilla soft serve. When I saw it on TikTok, I knew I had to try it when I’d pass by to take pictures for this post. It’s as amazing as it sounds, and I’m already looking forward to having it again this Friday when I’m back at The Avenues. It’s definitely worth the hype.
UR Cookies is located in The Avenues Phase 4, in the food court below Vox Cinemas. Their viral item ‘UR Scoop’ is exclusively available at this location and not available for delivery. The new location also has cold and hot drinks including milkshakes and specialty coffee. Swipe left to see the pictures I took and then head over to their account @ur.cookies.kw
Winter in Kuwait tends to mean cozy drinks which is why hot chocolate is always a favorite here. This season, Tim Hortons has perfected their milk hot chocolate recipe, making it more irresistible than ever. The new Milk Hot Chocolate is creamy, comforting, and great for chilly mornings or cozy evenings.
Tim Hortons have 12 locations across Kuwait, celebrated for their warm ambiance, 100% premium arabica coffee beans and, of course, their iconic freshly baked and dipped donuts and timbits. Visit @Timhortons.Kuwait and enjoy
Ever since Ave opened, they’ve been creating exciting new experiences, and the latest might be their wildest yet. Ave has transformed into a vibrant jungle escape. This bold reinvention blends cutting-edge technology, artistic design, and a refreshed menu to create an unparalleled dining experience.
From the moment you step inside, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a lush wilderness. Hologram fans project birds and butterflies that seem to float around you, while dynamic screens make it look like you’re dining in the heart of the jungle. At the bar, a jungle projection backdrop showcases waterfalls, trees, and greenery.
The menu has also been updated with dishes inspired by tropical flavors, blending unique ingredients with creative techniques. They also have new signature drinks that showcase vibrant colors and bold flavors, and a show-stopping presentation. Finally, Ave, known for their viral desserts, has done it again with Sweet Meets Nature—a new creation that mimics a plant in a pot, offering a fun and memorable touch.
Even the staff is part of the experience, with stylish new outfits that match the jungle vibe.
Ave also specializes in creating unforgettable moments with celebration packages designed for every occasion. From dinners for two with personalized floral arrangements to grand gatherings featuring special setups, Ave ensures a memorable experience. Packages include elegant table settings, themed décor, and thoughtful touches like a welcome drink or customized elements for your event. Whatever the size of your group, they tailor the experience to make your celebration truly special. To see the different packages and book, click here.
Ave isn’t just a place to eat, it’s an immersive experience. If you’re ready to escape into nature’s wonderland, head over to @ave.kw
I was going through my old posts on Wachamean and I found one I had written right after our 3-week lockdown during Covid. At the time, I was craving burgers and fries, so the first thing I did once we could leave the house was head to Wachamean. Their Jammin’ Bacon burger is one of my favorite burgers, but it’s a limited time only burger so it’s not on their menu all the time.
While I wait for the Jammin’ Bacon burger to make a comeback, they dropped another one of their limited-time items last week—their popular chicken burger, ‘Gimme Dat Chicken.’ It’s a sweet, spicy, and crispy fried chicken with American cheese, pickles, coleslaw, honey mustard, and brioche bun.
In addition to that, they’ve also introduced a new chicken burger sandwich, the Buffalo Chicken. It’s a crispy chicken fillet topped with melted cheddar cheese, zesty buffalo sauce, and creamy ranch sauce.
If you’re a fan of Wachamean like I am, now’s a great time to check them out and give their chicken burgers a try while we wait for the Jammin’ Bacon burger to make its comeback. The Gimme Dat Chicken and Buffalo Chicken both are available at any of their 9 locations around Kuwait, or through delivery. Don’t forget to follow their account to stay updated on their latest drops @eatwachamean
Ora has been one of my go-to Japanese spots since they first opened over a decade ago. They also happen to be conveniently located in the same building as my office in the City, so they’re also my favorite quick escape for lunch.
One of the things I love about Ora is how they give their interior a makeover and launch new menu items every season. And it’s that time again, they just launched their new Winter Menu.
The Winter Menu created by Ora’s head chef Mohammed Ansari, features 15 dishes that capture the essence of the season, with ingredients that highlight the rich, warming flavors of winter in Japan. From hot tapas to delicate sushi rolls with a winter twist, each dish is thoughtfully crafted to provide a cozy, satisfying experience.
Along with the winter menu, Ora will be introducing a new seasonal interior installation designed to complement the winter-inspired dining experience. If you’re a fan of their creative take on Japanese cuisine, head over to @ora.kw and experience the new winter offerings.
AB Wellness is proud to be Kuwait’s first medical center dedicated to optimizing your health through cutting-edge solutions and holistic treatments. As a medical center, AB Wellness ensures you have access to a dedicated team of doctors and nurses, providing expert care at every step. With global partnerships, the center also brings top visiting doctors from around the world across various fields, offering a truly comprehensive approach to holistic health and the latest in wellness innovations.
With a focus on new and innovative wellness, AB Wellness offers three key categories: Recover, Renew, and Rejuvenate, each designed to enhance your well-being.
Recover emphasizes on healing and restoring the body through advanced therapies designed to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve overall well-being. With treatments like Cryotherapy, Oxygen Chamber, Infrared Sauna, and Physiotherapy, it’s all about recovery and revitalization.
Renew on the other hand offers rejuvenating experiences aimed at boosting energy levels, detoxifying, and enhancing mental clarity. IV Drips, Sound Healing, and Lymphatic Drainage work to recharge your body and mind, leaving you feeling refreshed.
Finally, Rejuvenate is about indulgence and self-care, offering a range of luxurious treatments to enhance your beauty and well-being. From massages and facials to hair and body treatments, this category is designed to revitalize your appearance and provide a sense of relaxation.
To find out more, head over to @abwellnesskw or albannaywellness.net
Al Waseet Pools has been Kuwait’s leading swimming pool company for over 40 years. As Kuwait’s first pool specialists, they have built a legacy of trust, becoming the go-to name for everything swimming pools.
Recently, Al Waseet completed an exciting new project, a slight departure from their usual work, they installed the largest hydrotherapy pool in Kuwait.
Hydrotherapy swimming pools are specialized pools designed for therapeutic exercises and relaxation, commonly used for physical rehabilitation, pain relief, and stress reduction. These pools are usually heated to a comfortable, consistent temperature which helps to relax muscles and improve circulation. The water buoyancy reduces the weight and strain on joints, making it easier and less painful to perform exercises and movements, which is especially beneficial for people with conditions like arthritis, back pain, or mobility issues.
The hydrotherapy pool was installed at the Retirees Wellness Center, Thukher, part of The Public Institution for Social Security. It features state-of-the-art aquatic therapy equipment, including underwater treadmills and bikes, resistance jet technology, support bars, handrails, and more.
This is a project they’re especially proud of, given the benefits it will bring to retirees. For more information on Al Waseet, or if you’re considering a pool for your home or a maintenance contract, visit their Instagram account @waseetpools or website waseetpools.com
A couple of days ago, the Erab International Festival, the largest equestrian event in Kuwait, kicked off. This year, the festival is even bigger, running for 10 days from November 21 to November 30.
The festival features four main equestrian shows:
In addition to the equestrian shows, there’s a wide variety of entertainment for both adults and children. The organizers have brought in three street performers from Covent Garden in the UK to perform throughout the festival. These are the same talented performers you might have seen while wandering around Covent Garden, now here in Kuwait for this event.
In addition to the Covent Garden performers, the festival features food stalls, a mini zoo, various VR experiences, and even a comedy show.
The event is being held at the Bait Al-Arab Stables near Murouj and runs daily from 3 PM to 10 PM. For tickets and the full schedule, visit erabfestival.com
This is a collaboration we didn’t know we needed. CAF and KDD have come together to bring a new drink called the Chocolate Latte. The drink combines everyone’s favorite KDD Chocolate Milk with CAF’s signature coffee and is available as hot or iced.
This isn’t the first time CAF has collaborated with KDD. Their first partnership in 2016 featured the KDD Ice Cream Sandwich, and to date, over 2 million of them have been used.
The new Chocolate Latte is available today in all 21 CAF branches. @cafcafe
Gamzland is a new indoor amusement park that is opening at HOMZ Mall in Dhajeej next month. This is going to be the largest indoor amusement park in Kuwait and will have entertainment experiences for families and adventure lovers of all ages.
The official opening is on December 15, 2024 and will include special giveaways. So mark your calendars from now if you don’t want to miss this celebration.
If you want to stay posted on the opening event, follow @gamzlandkw