Aseel and Lojain Omran with Rami Al Ali. Photo: Courtesy of Rami Al Ali
Syrian designer Rami Al Ali is no stranger to hosting elegant dinners and parties, but his intimate suhoor last night took decadence to a whole new level. Attended by some of the best-known faces in the region, from sisters Aseel and Lojain Omran, to Kuwaiti model Rawan bin Hussein, the gathering was a celebration of Syrian identity and heritage in an effort to highlight Ard Dyar, the designer’s Syrian talent initiative.
Named after the private courtyard inside a Syrian household, Ard Dyar is an initiative hoping to support and uplift young Syrian talent by providing them with networking opportunities and mentorship in a wide range of industries, ranging from fashion and art, to real estate or even construction. Al Ali summarized the core aim of the program perfectly in his speech, saying, “Many people are familiar with old Syria and what it has to offer from its rich history and culture. However, few people know about modern Syria. The objective of Ard Dyar is to spotlight the region’s talent and to create a community that helps these budding entrepreneurs succeed.”
Rami Al Ali with Nadine Kanso. Photo: Courtesy of Rami Al Ali
The result so far has been a series of dinners much like the outdoor suhoor from last night, where professionals and experts come together to share experiences and discuss ways of supporting emerging talent. Judging from the event last night, the Ard Dyar community has certainly grown into a powerhouse, with names like designer Nadine Kanso, Syrian actor Samer al Masri, Zeynab El Helw, Vogue Arabia editor-in-chief Manuel Arnaut, and many more in attendance. While their guidance will certainly be of paramount importance to Ard Dyar, Rami Al Ali’s guests are also among the best dressed in the country, and last night was no exception. While the women joined the suhoor in billowing kaftans, the men opted for elegant neutrals.
Rosemin Madhavji. Photo: Courtesy of Rami Al Ali
Last night was full of inspiration when it came to Ramadan dressing, with guests adorning themselves in statement kaftans and abayas, exquisite jewelry, and of course, iconic handbags. Rosemin Madhavji was a vibrant vision in a floral kaftan from the latest Rami Al Ali collection, while Lojain Omran looked stunning in a grey midi dress with feathered fringe detailing, which she paired with a teal Louis Vuitton Capucines bag.
Rami Al Ali with Nadya Hasan and Deema Al Asadi. Photo: Courtesy of Rami Al Ali
Deema Al Asadi was spotted in a colorful pastel thobe she sourced from Global Village, and her dress was complemented by an embroidered pink bag and neon green shoes. Opting for the quintessential black abaya, Laloge Beauty Lounge founder Reem Khabbazeh epitomized grace in Khaled and Marvan. Nadya Hasan opted for a one-shoulder black number from Poca and Poca, completing her ensemble with gold jewelry and a sleek updo.
Photo: Courtesy of Rami Al Ali
Of course, one cannot host an event celebrating Syria without indulging in some traditions from the country. Reminiscent of Ramadan in Damascus or Aleppo, the call for suhoor was given by the Mesaharaty – a person who traditionally wakes people up for suhoor using a drum – while a Qahwaji served drinks from a larger-than-life pot carried on his back. Twinkling lights and candles provided the perfect ambiance for a lavish suhoor featuring Arab delicacies on an enchanting tablescape. Guests also got the chance to enjoy Syrian music before the event came to an end.
Scroll to see more photos from Rami Al Ali’s suhoor
The decor for the evening. Photo: Courtesy of Rami Al Ali
Photo: Courtesy of Rami Al Ali
Rami Al Ali with Manuel Arnaut and guests. Photo: Courtesy of Rami Al Ali
Photo: Courtesy of Rami Al Ali
Zeynab el Helw and Hadia Ghaleb. Photo: Courtesy of Rami Al Ali
Photo: Courtesy of Rami Al Ali
Photo: Courtesy of Rami Al Ali
Photo: Courtesy of Rami Al Ali
Photo: Courtesy of Rami Al Ali
