This week, the city has been abuzz with the presence of supermodel Bella Hadid, who was in town to inaugurate Chopard’s newest boutique at Dubai Mall. Accompanied by Chopard’s creative director Caroline Scheufele, Hadid made a surprise appearance to cut the ribbon and officially open the boutique. Fans were ecstatic as they caught sight of the global superstar in person.
In typical Dubai style, Hadid made sure to indulge in some of the city's culinary offerings, with a particular dessert capturing her heart: kunafa. She was treated to a pistachio kunafa crafted by chef Ahmad Halawa, a Palestinian culinary artist whose innovative take on the traditional dessert has garnered a loyal following in Dubai. The Arabic sweet treat was accompanied by a heartfelt note that read, “To our lovely Bella, here’s a Palestinian treat to enjoy during your flight.”
Hadid expressed her gratitude on her Instagram stories, writing, “@chefhalawa I’m in shock!! Best! Knafeh for breakfast lunch and dinner! Shukran Shukran Shukran Chef!!!” The Palestinian-American model’s praise was met with joy by chef Halawa, who responded on his Instagram, “This made my week! So ecstatic to wake up to this beautiful post 🍉💫🕺🏽 @bellahadid, you’ve got unlimited Knafeh for life 🤍🤗 Big love.”
Halawa, a 35-year-old Palestinian native who has lived in Dubai for eight years, runs a private catering service and a local supper club specializing in Levantine and Palestinian cuisine. Inspired by his family’s love for cooking, Halawa grew up in a household where food was a means to bring everyone together. “Being the youngest of five, I learned so much from my siblings, including cooking. It became a way for us to bond,” he shared in a past interview with Khaleej Times. “One of the reasons I became a chef is to help keep our traditional Palestinian cuisine alive.”
This visit marks Hadid’s first public engagement in Dubai since her appointment as Chopard’s global ambassador in September. Later that evening, she attended an exclusive after-party at Jaipur Rugs in Alserkal Avenue, where she continued the night in style. She was also seen mingling with beauty mogul Huda Kattan, creating a social media moment that quickly went viral.
We hope Hadid returns to the city soon, not only to try more Arabic sweets but also to indulge in the viral kunafa chocolate that’s taking the world by storm.
Source link: https://www.khaleejtimes.com
