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STARZPLAY CAPTURES THE REALITY BEHIND THE UAE’S MOST ELITE PROPERTY DEALS

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Exclusive Interview with Ben Bandari, CEO, BenCo. Real Estate & Sarah Serhan, Associate Partner, BenCo. Real Estate

Ben Bandari

Ben Bandari is a powerhouse in the UAE real estate industry, having closed over AED 25 billion in sales and earned a reputation as one of the nation’s most influential and successful brokers. Since starting his real estate career in the UAE back in 2002, He has earned some of the industry’s highest honours, including Number 1 Real Estate Broker in the UAE by Arabian Business, inclusion among the Top 150 Real Estate Icons by Finance World and the prestigious Agency of the Year award by The Entrepreneur. Beyond his brokerage success, Ben is also the star and executive producer of Million Dollar Listing UAE, the hit reality series that takes viewers inside the glamorous, high-stakes world of the UAE luxury real estate.

Sarah Serhan

In the UAE’s competitive luxury real estate market, Sarah Serhan has quickly established herself as one of its most dynamic rising talents. She is a luxury real estate agent and broker as well as an area specialist for Dubai Hills Estate, combining cultural awareness with deep market knowledge.  In her first year she had closed more than AED 100 million in sales and by 2024, she was averaging AED 3 million in transactions daily. Recognised by Ben Bandari for her drive and professionalism, she joined BenCo Real Estate in early 2024 where she now serves as Associate Partner.

Questions:

Beyond luxury listings, the show focuses heavily on ambition, rivalry, and pressure. Why do you think audiences connect so strongly with that side of the story?

    Ben Bandari: At its core, the show really isn’t about houses – it’s about people. While luxury listings are exciting and aspirational, it’s the universal themes of ambition, competition, pressure, and even self-doubt that truly resonated with STARZPLAY’s audiences in Season One once it aired. That strong response is exactly what paved the way for Season Two.

    Audiences connect because they’re seeing the authentic side of success – the wins, the stress, the rivalries, and the emotional ups and downs that come with working in a high-pressure market like the UAE. Partnering with STARZPLAY allowed us to bring this format closer to home for MENA viewers and ground it in a reality they recognise. Viewers aren’t just watching deals close; they’re watching real people who push themselves, make mistakes, and grow, and that honesty is what makes the story relatable, and why it continues to resonate even more strongly in Season Two.

    Sarah Serhan: As a newcomer to both the show and the industry, there is an undeniable pressure to prove yourself as a capable broker who can overcome challenges, obstacles and manage mental pressure. With that, you still need to balance the demands of work with time spent with family. What I believe truly resonates with the audience is the authenticity of that journey. When they see me, they see a human like everyone else, a woman with ambitions and goals, a woman with a family she must always put first, yet someone who continues to push forward, they connect on a much deeper level, probably reflecting their own struggles and aspirations.

    Mr. Ben Bandari, as a returning cast member and Executive Producer, how has your role evolved in shaping the direction and authenticity of Season 2?

    In Season Two, my role became much more hands-on. As Executive Producer, I was closely involved in shaping the narrative to make sure it truly reflected the realities of the UAE real estate market. The focus was on real pressure, negotiations, and consequences. I wanted viewers to see what the job actually demands. The goal was to let the stories unfold naturally and stay true to the people and the market we’re representing.

    Rivalries are a big part of the show; do they sharpen your edge or complicate your strategy?

    It’s genuinely a bit of both. Healthy rivalry pushes you to raise your standards and stay sharp, especially in a market as competitive as the UAE. I’ve learned to use competition as motivation while staying focused on the bigger picture, which is serving clients and closing deals. A great example of rivalry in the show is in Episodes 1 to 3, where Dr. Baydoun of Damac Properties makes Riad and I compete for a luxury property, “Villa Flora.”

    You’ve been part of the franchise since its early days in the UAE—how has the real estate market changed since Season 1, and how has that changed you?

    The market has matured dramatically. Buyers are more informed, expectations are higher, and transactions are far more complex. Since Season One, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the UAE have evolved into a truly global luxury market. That evolution has forced me to grow personally as well as upgrade BenCo. to 70 plus staff and still growing. I’ve become more disciplined, more strategic, and more resilient. I’ve also setup a whole new business, Highgate Investments, which caters to investors looking at and acquiring properties, or designing and developing old, rundown ones. The business has skyrocketed with 8 ongoing projects so far.

    Ms. Sarah Serhan, joining a well-established cast can be intense, what was your mindset walking into Season 2?

    I was aware that my presence as a new face and a rapidly rising professional might be perceived as threatening to some of the other cast members. I anticipated questions like “who is she?” “Why is she here?” and “how did she get here?”. Frankly, I didn’t know what to expect from the others, but also, I never felt the need to prove myself to anyone. As I’ve always believed, my performance and my numbers speak for themselves.

    What message do you hope ambitious professionals, especially women, take from your journey?

    My core message is simple yet profoundly powerful: When you stay disciplined, rooted in self-belief, and fully committed to the work, you don’t need to prove anything. Your progress moves faster than doubt, and your results speak long before you ever have to.

    What surprised you most about operating in this environment, on or off camera?

    What surprised me the most was how intense the environment is, both on and off camera.  What I did not expect was how much discipline and emotional intelligence it would require to stay focused and professional while doing my job with cameras and a crew filming at all times. The mental fortitude required is truly immense, and it’s something you can only fully appreciate once you’re living it.

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    R.Evolution Scales EYWA Into A Global Longevity-led Real Estate Brand

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    R.Evolution, the European real estate developer, is expanding EYWA from a collection of flagship developments into a global longevity-led regenerative real estate brand. 

    Following the launch of EYWA Tree of Life and EYWA Way of Water in Dubai, and of EYWA Bac de Roda and EYWA 22 Palms in Barcelona, the company is establishing EYWA as a platform that can be applied across residential, commercial, and future hospitality developments in multiple international markets.

    “The global luxury real estate market is evolving. Buyers are no longer interested only in architecture, square footage, and location. They are increasingly looking for homes that support healthier, longer, and more fulfilling lives,” says Igor Karpikov, Chief Commercial Officer at R.Evolution, “Wellness real estate is one of the fastest-growing sectors of the global wellness economy and is forecast to reach $1.8 trillion by 2030. Our Dubai developments demonstrate how the EYWA philosophy translates into exceptional real estate, aligning with the emirate’s focus on quality of life, sustainability, and wellbeing.”

    Homes as Wellbeing Ecosystems. Research suggests that genetics account for around 50% of the factors influencing lifespan. The remaining half is shaped by environment and lifestyle. Since people spend around 90% of their time indoors, the buildings they live in play a significant role in supporting health and wellbeing.

    Inspired by the vision of R.Evolution founder Alex Zagrebelny, EYWA – short for Energy, Youthfulness, Wellbeing, and Ancient Knowledge – introduces the concept of regenerative real estate – an approach that views buildings as living ecosystems. It combines thoughtful spatial design, modern technology, natural elements, and ancestral wisdom to support everyday living and health.

    Building a Broader Longevity Ecosystem. As EYWA continues to expand, R.Evolution is developing strategic collaborations with leading players across the wellness and longevity ecosystem. These collaborations span health and longevity programming, nature-focused initiatives, educational programs, next-generation sustainable technologies, and premium lifestyle offerings.

    Together, these partnerships extend the EYWA experience beyond the physical building, creating a broader ecosystem centered on wellbeing that supports residents in their daily lives.

    The Next Chapter. EYWA’s expansion into hospitality in some of the world’s most sought-after destinations marks the next phase of the brand’s evolution, with additional initiatives in the longevity and wellbeing space also in progress.

    R.Evolution will share details of new projects, partnerships, and locations as they reach the appropriate stage of development.

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    How the Blend of Nature and Science is Reinventing Neem for GCC Skincare

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    The GCC’s combination of extreme heat, humidity, frequent transitions between outdoor heat and air-conditioned environments, dust exposure, and prolonged sunscreen and makeup use creates a unique set of skincare challenges. With acne and pimple concerns already affecting more than 65% of the GCC population, these seasonal conditions have renewed interest in one time-tested ingredient: Neem.

    The Science Behind a Timeless Ingredient

    For generations, Himalaya Wellness Company has harnessed the power of Neem through its expertise in herbal science, developing skincare solutions trusted by consumers across generations. Today, the brand continues to build on that legacy by combining its herbal heritage with modern formulation science to create gentle and effective skincare tailored to the evolving needs of consumers across the Middle East.

    The enduring appeal of Neem lies in its proven skincare benefits. Widely recognised for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, Neem is supported by a growing body of scientific research, with dermatologists continuing to highlight its effectiveness in skincare. Its popularity also extends beyond the laboratory, with Neem continuing to be embraced by beauty enthusiasts, influencers, and celebrities as a trusted ingredient for maintaining balanced, healthy-looking, pimple-free skin.

    Inside Himalaya’s Global Research Centre

    That approach was recently on display at Himalaya’s exclusive ‘Powered by Nature, Perfected by Science’ Experience, hosted at its Global Research Centre in Dubai Science Park, which measures 55,000 square feet. The gathering invited several of GCC’s digital beauty creators and storytellers into the brand’s formulation labs, where they explored the science behind Neem skincare through molecular experiments and learned about the research and testing behind Himalaya’s formulations. The facility brings together more than 50 scientists, formulators, and researchers from 12 nationalities who study regional skin needs and develop product innovation solutions suited to Middle Eastern climates.

    “The Middle East continues to be a strategically important market, with consumers seeking solutions that are tailored to their specific skin needs and supported by scientific research,” said Sajeev Kaura, Business Director (CPD), Himalaya METAP region. “Through our work in the UAE and the GCC region, we continue to invest in understanding regional requirements and developing skincare solutions that bring together herbal expertise, innovation, and efficacy.”

    Consumers across the GCC are increasingly seeking natural skincare products that combine herbal ingredients with proven scientific performance. This reflects a shift toward formulations that are effective, gentle on the skin, and suitable for everyday use in hot, humid climates. Neem, one of Himalaya’s most recognised ingredients, sits at the centre of that shift. Through extensive research and advanced authentication methods, the brand continues to refine the ingredient’s potential and ensure consistency and quality across every formulation.

    “Developing effective skincare solutions requires a deep understanding of the specific concerns consumers face in different environments, ingredients and formulation science,” added Abhishek Ashat, Marketing Head (CPD), Himalaya MENA region. “Our research approach combines herbal expertise with advanced scientific methods to create formulations that deliver targeted benefits while supporting the skin’s natural balance. Initiatives like the ‘Powered by Nature, Perfected by Science’ Experience allow us to share the science behind our formulations and bring consumers closer to the research that shapes our products.”

    A Complete ‘Pimple Cycle’ Regime Tailored to GCC Skin Needs

    That research has been translated into Himalaya’s Purifying Neem range, a complete routine designed to address blemish concerns in high humidity climates.

    Himalaya Purifying Neem Face Wash is trusted by millions of girls worldwide as the best solution for pimples and makes Himalaya the No.1 Face Wash brand in GCC. It is a soap-free, pH-friendly cleanser designed to help clear pimples and prevent pimple marks, and it remains one of Himalaya’s most recognised products across the GCC. The Purifying Neem Scrub and the clay infused Purifying Neem Mask support regular routines by helping remove environmental impurities and maintain clearer looking skin. For more targeted care, the Purifying Neem Serum was recently developed by Himalaya’s Dubai Science Park R&D team. It is a perfect blend of natural ingredients and scientific actives, combining 10% pure Neem extract with 2% Natural Salicylic Acid and CICA. Himalaya Purifying Neem Serum is suitable for day and night use, and is clinically proven to reduce pimples and blemishes within one week, while helping maintain healthier looking, more radiant skin.

    A Commitment Beyond Skincare

    Beyond clinical performance, the modern GCC beauty consumer is also asking where ingredients come from. Himalaya addresses that directly through its commitment to regenerative sourcing. Over 98% of the herbal ingredients used across its product ranges are harvested from renewable plant parts, with plans to reach 100% by 2030 to support biodiversity preservation. Through initiatives like Project Sampoorna, the brand also works directly with local farming communities, providing structured capacity building and agricultural support. This approach helps preserve organic soil health while tying every product back to a broader commitment to responsible sourcing. To ensure quality, safety and consistency, they apply stringent authentication methods, including DNA barcode testing, to verify herbal identity at the molecular level.

    As beauty consumers across the region become more informed about ingredients, climate impact, and skin health, the future of skincare is shifting toward solutions designed around real environments and real needs. For the Middle East climate, that increasingly starts with neem.

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    Rasasi Expands Its Global Hawas Collection with the Launch of Hawas Gold Digger

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    UAE-born fragrance house Rasasi has unveiled Hawas Gold Digger, the latest addition to its globally recognised Hawas collection, at an exclusive launch event held at La Perle Dubai on 14 August 2026.

    Hawas Gold Digger builds on the distinctive energy of the Hawas collection while introducing a warmer, richer and more expressive olfactive direction. The amber woody aromatic composition opens with pear, lavender, bergamot and mint, develops into a heart of cinnamon and sage, and settles into a base of vanilla, amber, patchouli and cedarwood.

    Created with a new generation of fragrance consumers in mind, Hawas Gold Digger draws inspiration from ambition, desire and personal success — celebrating individuals who define achievement on their own terms. Its bold character offers a new interpretation of the Hawas identity while retaining the confidence and contemporary appeal associated with the franchise.

    “The GCC has become one of the world’s most dynamic fragrance markets, with consumers becoming increasingly sophisticated and willing to invest in premium fragrances that offer quality, individuality and character. With Hawas Gold Digger, we wanted to offer a distinctive interpretation of modern luxury, bringing together the artistry of fine perfumery with a contemporary, design-led approach. It is a fragrance created for those who value authenticity and self-expression,” said Ismail Anis, Vice Chairman & Managing Director, Rasasi.

    The launch represents a new chapter for the Hawas franchise, one of Rasasi’s most recognised fragrance lines internationally. Set against the distinctive backdrop of La Perle Dubai, the unveiling brought together international fragrance creators, influencers, media personalities and cultural voices for an evening centred around contemporary fragrance, entertainment and self-expression.

    Among the guests was Indian actor and filmmaker Riteish Deshmukh, whose presence brought together the worlds of fragrance and entertainment. A prominent figure in India’s entertainment landscape, Deshmukh joined an international guest list reflecting the diverse audiences Rasasi continues to engage across markets.

    With Dubai at its centre, the event also reflected Rasasi’s evolution from a homegrown fragrance house established in 1979 into an international fragrance business. Founded in Dubai, Rasasi remains deeply connected to the UAE and the region’s rich fragrance culture while continuing to create contemporary scents for consumers across generations and international markets. Rasasi’s 1979 Dubai founding is also reflected in the company’s current official history.

    Hawas Gold Digger embodies that evolution, building on the international recognition of Hawas while introducing a warmer, richer, and more expressive character for a new generation of fragrance consumers.

    “Launching Hawas Gold Digger in Dubai alongside international voices reflects both where we come from and where we are going. Hawas has developed a strong connection with fragrance consumers around the world, and Gold Digger allows us to build on that momentum while introducing a new expression of the Hawas identity to a generation that increasingly uses fragrance as an extension of personality and individual style,” added Ismail Anis.

    Hawas Gold Digger is now available through Rasasi’s official sales channels and selected fragrance retailers across international markets.

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