Born in Paris, CATHERINE SARR was raised in France in a Beninese home from where her interest in jewellery began. After graduating, her passion led her to venture to London where she discovered and promoted the art of craftsmanship from around the world. She worked for various luxury brands, including several years spent at De Beers Group where she curated one-of-a-kind international jewellery collections. Inspired by the history of ancient kingdoms and Africa’s rich ornament heritage, her newly launched brand ALMASIKA (available at Colette in Paris and Meister in Zurich among others) fuses iconic motifs with an international sensibility. Living part time in ABU DHABI, she shares her favourite spots with us.
Your favourite city?
ABU DHABI is one of my favourite places. I like the tranquil feel and outstanding venues.
Your favourite hotel?
The ST REGIS HOTEL SAADIYAT ISLAND. The open sea view when you enter the resort is simply outstanding! You feel rested just by looking at the turquoise water.
Saadiyat Island – أبو ظبي – UAE, Phone +971 2 498 8888
Your favourite restaurant?
Michelin star restaurant – CATALAN at the Rosewood Hotel in Sowwah Square. The restaurant serves fantastic seafood.
Sowwah Square, Al Maryah Island – أبو ظبي – UAE, Phone +971 2 813 5550
Your favourite bar or nightclub?
CARAMEL LOUNGE – You can have a drink or dine with the best 90’s RnB live mix.
The Collection – The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Saaydiyat Island – أبو ظبي – UAE, Phone +971 2 678 3344
Your favourite sightseeing spot?
The SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE – It is one of the most beautiful mosque in the world. Whatever your religion, you feel spiritual when you enter.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – أبو ظبي – UAE, Phone +971 2 419 1919
Your favourite park?
The CORNICHE PARK – It stretches 5 km along the Abu Dhabi coast. It’s perfect for a family day. You can rent a bicycle from one of the many stations.
UAE, Abu Dhabi, Corniche Rd W, Al Khalidiyah
Your favourite beach?
NURAI ISLAND – It is one of the most exclusive private island resort in the world, few minutes off the coast of Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi. The beach has beautiful soft white sands.
Your favourite shop?
THE GALLERIA – It is more than a shop it is a exclusive destination with selected fashion, jewellery and watches but also dining and curated shows.
Al Falah St – أبو ظبي – UAE, Phone +971 2 616 6999
Your must-have accessory?
ALMASIKA Le Cauri Endiamante diamond necklace. It takes me from day to evening.
The best soundtrack for this destination?
TOUMANI DIABATE – Elyne Road. He is a master kora player. My favorite instrument.
The best book to read while being on vacation there?
JUST READ IT! It’s a book by Emirati rising star Omar Al Busaidy. I can’t tell you what it is about, ‘Just Read It‘.
Thank you, Catherine, for sharing your insider scoop on Abu Dhabi with us!
By the way, this month Etihad Airways has introduced its new Boeing 787 Dreamliner on the Abu Dhabi – Zurich route, offering the airline’s industry-leading First Suites, Business Studios, and Economy Smart Seats, and providing travellers with unparalleled comfort and innovation.
Safe travels!
LoL, Sandra
Photos: Courtesy of Alaska Fine Jewellery, © Etihad Airways, © Dave Peabody Dave Peabody/PR, © St Regis Hotel, © Sandra Bauknecht
