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Škoda has officially announced the highly anticipated arrival of the new Octavia model in the Middle East, a bold evolution of the brand’s global best-seller with enhanced design, functionality, and sustainability. With over seven million units sold worldwide, the Octavia, the embodiment of high quality European engineering and craftsmanship, continues to anchor Škoda’s line-up, offering ideal interior, boot and storage space with simply clever features throughout the cabin.


Available in four distinct trims – Essence, Selection, Sportline and the sporty range-topper RS - this new model features a sharper design language, smarter technology, and even more dynamic performance, tailored to meet the evolving expectations of drivers across the region. Prices for the new Octavia range start from 24,443 USD (excl. VAT), offering exceptional value for a car that blends European craftsmanship with everyday versatility.


The new Octavia’s exterior reflects subtle yet impactful enhancements. Revised front and rear aprons, a reimagined Škoda grille, and second-generation LED Matrix beam headlights contribute to a more confident, contemporary look. These advanced headlights feature 36 matrix segments for improved illumination, while animated LED rear lights add a striking visual signature on the Sportline and RS variants. A refreshed alloy wheel portfolio includes bold new designs up to 19 inches, including Sportline-exclusive Vega and RS-specific Elias wheels in anthracite. The colour palette comprises nine exterior paint options, with Mamba Green reserved for the Sportline and RS trims, enabling greater personalisation.


Inside, the Octavia sets a new benchmark with its commitment to premium comfort and eco-conscious materials. A 13-inch infotainment display makes its debut, complemented by a newly redesigned 10-inch Digital Display that replaces analogue dials as standard across the range. Enhanced USB-C ports now provide 45W fast charging, while the upgraded Phone Box delivers 15W wireless charging with integrated cooling. Passengers enjoy increased comfort and mindful design, with seat upholstery incorporating recycled materials and sustainably tanned leather. Features such as dual-zone Climatronic, enhanced KESSY keyless entry, and Simply Clever additions — including a new rear storage box and a sustainably sourced umbrella — complete the thoughtfully upgraded cabin.





Powertrains That Combine Efficiency and Excitement

The new Octavia range features two turbocharged petrol engines that strike the perfect balance between efficiency and performance. The 1.4 TSI engine delivers 150 hp through an 8-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth, responsive performance ideal for everyday driving. Remarkably efficient, the 1.4 TSI achieves fuel consumption as low as 5.6 litres per 100 km, offering drivers both spirited dynamics and long-distance economy in one Simply Clever package.

For those seeking a more exhilarating experience, the range-topping Octavia RS is powered by a 2.0 TSI engine that produces 265 hp and 370 Nm of torque. Paired with a 7-speed DSG transmission, the RS accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h. With progressive steering, a VAQ limited-slip differential, and a sport suspension lowered by 15 millimetres, the RS offers dynamic handling, outstanding traction, and a level of driving enjoyment that stands out in the segment.


Advanced Safety That Inspires Confidence

The new Octavia also raises the bar for safety. The addition of Attention and Drowsiness Assist provides more intelligent monitoring of driver alertness while advanced driver assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control will be available later this year. With up to seven airbags, enhanced camera-based assistance systems, and advanced emergency braking, the Octavia reinforces its five-star Euro NCAP rating and stands among the safest sedans in its segment

Simply Clever Features for Everyday Comfort


The Octavia continues to lead in everyday practicality, thanks to Škoda’s signature Simply Clever innovations. Designed with comfort and convenience in mind, the Octavia can be equipped with wireless phone charging with active ventilation ensuring the device stays cool and powered, while multiple fast-charging charging ports, including one in the rear-view mirror, keep everyone connected on the go. Additional thoughtful features such as a reversible boot mat, a fully sustainable integrated umbrella in the passenger door and a removable waste bin in the door panel, ensure the Octavia is always ready for real-life demands—whether on the school run or a weekend getaway.





Heritage and Future in Harmony

As Škoda celebrates its 130th anniversary this year, the Octavia continues to stand as a key pillar of the brand’s global success since the modern version’s debut in 1996. With a presence in over 60 markets, It remains one of the top-selling models in seven European countries and a consistent winner of prestigious automotive accolades.


Lukáš Honzák, Managing Director of Škoda Middle East, commented: “The launch of the new Octavia represents another important step for the brand in our Middle East journey. For the first time, we’re introducing new entry-level trims that will make the Octavia accessible to an even wider audience, including price-sensitive customers and businesses seeking fleet solutions. All without compromising safety, comfort, or design, something that will resonate with our customers here who value innovation, reliability, and refined European engineering. Meanwhile, at the top of the range the Octavia RS continues to lead with its bold design, impressive performance, and confident drive. As a halo model for the brand in this region, the Octavia RS really sits in a category of its own.”


With its refreshed design, forward-thinking technology, enhanced safety, and commitment to sustainability, the new Škoda Octavia sets a new standard for everyday driving in the Middle East. Whether chosen for its practicality, performance, or premium features, the Octavia continues to embody Škoda’s promise of delivering accessible, intelligent mobility — now more refined and future-ready than ever before.







Sony today announced the WH-1000XM6 wireless noise cancelling headphones – latest edition of its award winning 1000X series that set a new standard for premium audio and personal listening experiences.

 

Building on the legacy of the 1000X series, this latest model combines premium sound with the best noise cancelling[i] in a seamless design to create an unparalleled audio solution for music lovers, fashionistas, travellers and professionals alike.

 

The next evolution in noise cancellation​

Powered by advanced processor and an adaptive microphone system, noise cancelling is optimised in real time on the WH-1000XM6 so your world stays undisturbed and your sound stays pure. With processor speeds seven times faster than its predecessor, the HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3 fine-tunes 12 microphones, which is 1.5 times more than its precursor the WH-1000XM5, in real time, delivering a dramatic leap in noise cancelling and sound quality. The precise detection of the twelve optimally places microphones allow the noise cancellation to adapt more precisely to fit you and your environment. Whether you are looking to block out noise on a busy commute or stay focused in the office, your sound experience will be seamless and powerful.

 


Noise Cancelling

 

Sony’s new Adaptive NC Optimiser delivers unmatched noise cancelling precision – adjusting to any form of external noise and air pressure. Plus, the specially designed driver unit is optimally tuned for enhanced noise cancellation.

 


Driver unit

 

Auto Ambient Sound mode is even better at adapting to your surroundings in real time, balancing music and external sound. Multiple microphones filter noise or let in what matters: announcements, conversations, or the world around you. Adjust settings automatically or fine-tune them manually in the Sony | Sound Connect app. 

 

Premium sound, co-created with the masters

The WH-1000X6 headphones allow you to hear your music as it was meant to be. Developed in collaboration with world-renowned mastering engineers at three of the industry top recording studios, Sterling Sound, Battery Studios and Coast Mastering the WH-1000XM6 refines every note for studio-level accuracy, delivering a superior music experience.

 





Developed in collaboration with Sterling Sound, Battery Studios and Coast Mastering

 

The collaborative team of Grammy-winning and Grammy-nominated engineers includes Randy Merrill (Sterling Sound), who has worked with the likes of Ed Sheeran; Chris Gehringer (Sterling Sound), known for his work with Rihanna and Lady Gaga; Mike Piacentini (Battery Studios), who has mastered tracks for Bob Dylan; and Michael Romanowski(Coast Mastering), whose portfolio includes Alicia Keys and the iconic Star Wars soundtracks for Episodes 4,5 and 6.

 

The collaboration of these talented individuals led to the WH-1000XM6 delivering the artist's intended emotion, energy, and detail with remarkable precision.

 

Randy Merrill, mastering engineer from Sterling Studio, who has worked with music icons such as Taylor Swift and Adele was part of the co-creation of the headphones. Randy praises the headphones sound expression and said: “Sony has always been a benchmark for premium quality, and the WH-1000XM6 headphones take it to a new level. They transport me to a different world with their excellent bass, frequency response, soundstage and detail. They truthfully represent the sounds of the recordings that we work so hard to make.”

 


Randy Merrill (Sterling Sound)

Mike Piacentini from Battery Studios who has worked alongside Depeche Mode and James Brown said: “We, as mastering engineers, spend a lot of time with the artists and producers to make their vision sound as intended. With the WH-1000XM6, listeners will have a more enjoyable experience because they're hearing every emotion, engineering decision and songwriting choice that the artist and engineer have made.” 

 


Mike Piacentini (Battery Studios)

 

The WH-1000XM6 are engineered to perfection with the specially designed driver unit delivering clarity that feels almost tangible, and every detail comes through with precision.

 

The high rigidity carbon fibre composite material dome and uniquely developed voice coil structure bring out the subtleties in every frequency – so vocals sound richer, instruments feel more defined, and every track carries more emotion.

 

The HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3 features an advanced look-ahead noise shaper for improved D/A conversion, allowing the WH-1000XM6 to predict and optimise quantisation noise while responding quickly to sudden sound changes. This gives you clearer details, richer bass and a more natural listening experience.

 


HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3

 

The WH-1000XM6 supports the High-Resolution Audio and High-Resolution Audio Wireless, thanks to LDAC, Sony’s industry-adopted audio coding technology[ii]. In addition, using Edge-AI, DSEE Extreme™ upscales compressed digital music files in real time to restore high range sound lost in compression.

 

The Sony | Sound Connect app makes it even easier to fine tune your entertainment experience on the WH-1000XM6. When listening to music, you can dial in the perfect sound with the 10-band EQ or create a spacious feel with Background Music Effect. Gamers can also enjoy the Game EQ, developed with Sony’s expertise from its INZONE range to enhance sound quality for FPS gaming. For those watching movies on the go, the WH-1000XM6 also feature 360 Reality Audio Upmix for Cinema that brings spatial sound experience just like you are in a movie theatre from 2ch stereo sound by Sony’s unique upmix and 360 Spatial Sound technology.

 


Game EQ

 

Always be heard with the Ultra clear call quality

The WH-1000XM6 allows you to enjoy clarity in every call. Intelligent beamforming isolates your voice from background noise, so you are always heard even when others are talking. If you need to mute[iii] you can do it instantly, via the button right on your headphones.

 

With the advanced six-microphone AI- based beamforming system, the WH-1000XM6 homes in on your voice while filtering out background noise, so every word comes through crystal clear even in chaotic environments.

 


Ultra clear call quality

 

The AI-optimised noise reduction algorithm suppresses background sound while isolating your voice. Beamforming microphones and precise voice pickup technology ensuring every word is heard clearly.

 

Masterfully crafted for all-day comfort

The familiar iconic design of the WH-1000X series has been taken to the next level with an elegant, soft fit wider headband infused with vegan leather ensuring a pressure-free fit. The asymmetrical headband design makes it easy to identify the left and right side with just a glance.

 

The earpads are designed for all-day wear thanks to stretchable material that provides a secure yet gentle fit to reduce pressure whilst blocking external noise.

 

Plus, the intuitive controls allow you to easily switch between noise cancelling, ambient sound and mic mute[iv] with tactile buttons and a responsive touch panel.

 


Intuitive controls

 

Inspired by products with handcrafted precision workmanship, the folding mechanism on the WH-1000XM6 is crafted using advance metal injection for a seamless durable fold, while designed to slip seamlessly into bags and airplane pockets. The compact case now features a magnetic closure for easy access. 

 


Folding mechanism

 

With three premium colours to suit your style, the WH-1000XM6 are available in Black, Platinum Silver and Midnight Blue[v].

 

More Intuitive, Smarter than ever

With WH-1000XM6 you can experience Scene-based Listening, a new intuitive feature that uses sensing technology to automatically play music according to your activity and adjust noise cancellation level based on your environment and location. Along with Quick Access and Scene-based Listening, you can effortlessly connect to the top music service including Amazon Music (via "Amazon Music Play Now")[vi], Apple Music[vii], Spotify (via "Spotify Tap")[viii] and YouTube Music[ix].​

 

The WH-1000XM6 is ready for LE Audio, delivering ultra-low latency for flawless gaming and effortless access to broadcasts with Auracast™[x], with exceptional sound quality. The Multi-Point and Auto Switch makes switching between devices seamless, so you are always connected without interruption.

 

The WH-1000XM6 allows you to listen and charge all at once. Need to keep going when the battery is low? Simply plug in the USB charging cable and keep listening to your favorite tunes.

On the go? Even quicker charging is possible, with three minutes giving you up to three hours of charge[xi].

 


Listen and charge all at once

 

Partnership with global superstar Post Malone

Sony partners with 9x Diamond-certified, GRAMMY® Award-nominated global icon Post Malone as part of Sony’s “For The Music” audio brand campaign. As one of the most influential and genre-defying artists of his generation, Post Malone embodies the spirit of authenticity, creativity, and connection – values that lie at the core of Sony’s approach to audio innovation.

 

“Great sound is essential for me when I’m making and listening to music,” said Post Malone. “These new noise cancelling headphones make you feel completely inside the music.” As part of the campaign, Post Malone worked alongside Sony’s team to create a series of ads that showcase how Sony’s audio technology transforms the listening experience, making fans feel like they’re sharing a moment with the artist in real-time.

 

Made with the environment in mind

Sony has designed these headphones with the environment in mind. The WH-1000XM6  packaging is made from 100% paper materials. We continue to advance the adoption of Sony’s proprietary paper, Original Blended Material, for the packaging of our flagship headphone model, the 1000X series (the WF-1000XM5, WF-1000XM4, WH-1000XM5 and WH-1000XM6). Original Blended Material is an environmentally conscious paper material made from bamboo, sugarcane fibres, and post-consumer recycled paper[xii].

 


Made with the environment in mind

 

 

For The Music

Sony established the brand platform "For The Music" for its premier consumer and professional audio products and services. With "For The Music," Sony is affirming itself as the premier audio brand connecting music creators and consumers, aiming to create authentic music experiences and transcend emotion for fans by supporting creator vision over everything. ​

 

Pricing and availability

The WH-1000XM6 will be available in Black, Platinum Silver and Midnight Blue in selected countries in the Middle East and Africa from June 2025 with a suggested retail price of AED 1,699.

 

 


[i] As of March 1, 2025. Ambient noise reduction according to research by Sony Corporation, measured using IEC-compliant guidelines for the top 10 brands (by market share) of headband-style of wireless noise-cancelling headphones market.

[ii] At the maximum transfer rate of 990 kbps. Need to set the function to “Priority on Sound Quality” using the Sony | Sound Connect app. Compatible devices supporting LDAC will be needed. 

[iii] This feature requires setting it up from Sony | Sound Connect app beforehand. This does not mute the microphone on the source device, only the headset. Therefore, you will not see the microphone muted on the source device.

[iv] This feature requires setting it up from Sony | Sound Connect app beforehand. This does not mute the microphone on the source device, only the headset. Therefore, you will not see the microphone muted on the source device.

[v] Colour availability may vary by regions and countries. 

[vi] Amazon and all related marks are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. ​

[vii] Features to be available in 2025. Apple, the Apple logo, and Apple Music are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. ​

[viii] Spotify and all other trademarks related to the Spotify brand are the sole property of Spotify AB.

[ix] Features to be available in 2025. YouTube Music is a trademark of Google LLC.

[x] The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. The Auracast™ word mark and logos are trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. Any use of such marks by Sony Group Corporation and its subsidiaries is under license.

[xi] DSEE Extreme EQ Off with AAC codec, charge with a commercially available USB PD compatible AC adaptor with output of 9 V/2.3 A or more. Actual performance varies based on USB PD adaptor, environmental conditions, and usage. USB Type-C to C cable is not included. USB PD AC adaptor is not included.

[xii] Depending on geographical region. Coating and adhesive materials are excluded.



A rooftop sunset, a wellness lineup and nothing but feel-good energy





Mark your calendars for an unforgettable evening of empowerment and wellness as Rosewood Jeddah partners with Sweat Army, Jeddah’s premier ladies-only fitness community, for a special sunset wellness experience on Sunday, 26 May from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

 




Set on Soleil Rooftop against the captivating backdrop of the Red Sea and the city’s coastal skyline, this exclusive event is designed to rejuvenate the body, inspire the mind, and celebrate the strength of community. The two-hour experience will unfold across three energizing segments, starting with a 30- minute sunset yoga session, followed by a dynamic 45 minute Sweat Army training class, and will conclude with a motivational talk by guest speaker, Mohammed Aboulfaraj, host of the renowned podcast Tabaqat KSA.

 




As part of Rosewood Jeddah’s mission to champion wellness and community-driven experiences, the event brings together the energising spirit of local fitness collective Sweat Army. Known for their enabling, movement-focused approach, Sweat Army embodies values of strength, willpower, agility, and transformation, aligning seamlessly with Rosewood’s commitment to purposeful and holistic well-being.

 

Event Details:

Date: Monday, 26 May

Price: Free of Charge

Location: Soleil Rooftop, Rosewood Jeddah

Program:

●      Sunset Yoga: 5:15PM to 5:45PM

●      HIIT Session: 6:00PM to 6:45PM

●      Guest Speaker: 6:45PM to 7:00PM

To book: Email at Jeddah@rosewoodhotels.com or call at +966 56 688 2542

For more information please visit https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/jeddah



© 2023 DUNES

DUNES  magazine is  the Middle East luxury lifestyle magazine covering local, regional and international fashion news  in addition to articles from our editorial team about fashion, lifestyle, health & fitness, watches & jewellery, beauty,  travel & hospitality, interviews and many more features.

Dunes magazine is a supplementary of Maqina 

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