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West Lake Motors, a subsidiary of Al Mana Holding, proudly marked a new milestone in Qatar’s automotive landscape with the opening of the first SOUEAST Showroom in Doha.

 

The launch event, held at the brand-new SOUEAST showroom on Salwa Road, brought together a vibrant mix of media representatives, social media influencers, business partners, and fleet customers , all eager to witness the arrival of one of the most exciting automotive brands to enter the Qatari market.

 

As the sun set over the new Showroom, the evening began with an immersive outdoor spectacle that perfectly captured the brand’s spirit. In front of the Showroom, giant standing letters spelling “SOUEAST” stood there, except for one missing piece. Guests watched as the final letter “E” was placed into position, instantly illuminating the entire Showroom in a dazzling burst of light. This powerful moment signified more than the start of the evening; it marked the official Opening of SOUEAST Showroom in Qatar.

 

Guests were then welcomed inside to a vibrant and engaging atmosphere filled with energy and discovery. The SOUEAST Showroom blended modern automotive design with cultural artistry, featuring calligraphy, shakers, and heartfelt testimonials that reflected the harmony between innovation, craftsmanship, and tradition.

 

“At West Lake Motors, we are proud to open this exciting new chapter in Qatar a nation that continues to inspire the region with its vision, innovation, and leadership,” said Moncef Ahabchane, Chief Operating Officer at West Lake Motors.

 

“With SOUEAST, we are not just driving another automotive brand; we are bringing a new mindset one that redefines what drivers can expect from their cars. SOUEAST combines advanced technology, refined design, comfort, and safety to deliver premium quality at an accessible price. It speaks directly to the new generation of Qatari drivers who seek reliability, style, and value without compromise.”

 

He concluded,“This launch marks the beginning of a journey built on trust, innovation, and our deep commitment to serving the evolving needs of Qatar’s automotive market.”

 


Over 80 guests attended the launch, enjoying an exclusive opportunity to explore the full range of SOUEAST models available in Qatar. The experience extended beyond admiration, were attendees participated in test drives, getting a first-hand feel of the brand’s performance, comfort, and engineering precision.

 

The grand opening was not just the unveiling of a new showroom, but the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Qatar’s automotive market. With West Lake Motors leading the charge, SOUEAST is poised to redefine value, performance, and design for a new generation of drivers in the region.

 

As the evening came to a close, guests left with lasting impressions, unforgettable memories, and a shared sense of excitement for what lies ahead, a future where SOUEAST becomes a familiar and trusted name on Qatar’s roads.

 

Features

 

The SOUEAST S06 – a C-segment SUV designed for modern urban life. Offering bold exterior styling and cutting-edge tech, the S06 is powered by a choice of a 1.5L turbocharged engine delivering 156 HP and 230 Nm of torque, or a 1.6L turbocharged engine producing 197 HP and 290 Nm of torque. Both are paired with efficient dual-clutch transmissions. For those seeking the ultimate in innovation, the S06 DM plug-in hybrid stands out with a combined output of 355 HP and 530 Nm of torque, an electric-assisted range of up to 1,000 km, and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.2 seconds.

 

Inside, the S06 is engineered for a connected and comfortable ride, featuring a 15.6-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a premium 8-speaker Sony sound system, and intelligent voice control. Other highlights include a 540-degree panoramic eagle-eye view camera, 20-inch alloy wheels, ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and an automatic tailgate. Convenience features such as remote engine start, ventilated seats, a dual-zone climate control system with a cooled and heated armrest box, and 50W wireless phone charging further elevate the experience. Safety remains a key priority with advanced systems like Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Detection, Automatic Emergency Braking, and eight airbags.

 

For drivers and families needing more space and adaptability, the SOUEAST S07 delivers a refined, 7-seater experience with smart versatility. It comes with either a 1.5L or 1.6L turbocharged engine, with front-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations. The cabin boasts a striking 24.6-inch combined digital display, wireless smartphone connectivity, a Sony premium audio system, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof. A flexible 2+3+2 seating layout ensures optimal passenger comfort, while convenience features such as ventilated seats, three-zone automatic climate control, remote start, and wireless charging make it ideal for active households. The S07 is equipped with the same full suite of advanced driver assistance systems for added safety and assurance on the road.

 

Leading the lineup is the SOUEAST S09 – a flagship D-segment SUV built for those who demand premium comfort, power, and innovation. Powered by a 2.0L turbocharged engine producing 237 HP and 375 Nm of torque, the S09 is offered in both front-wheel and all-wheel-drive options, paired with either a 7-speed DCT or 8-speed automatic transmission. The interior is a showcase of thoughtful design, with a 15.6-inch central touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Sony 8-speaker sound system, and a suite of luxury features including ventilated and heated seats, three-zone climate control with ceiling-mounted vents, ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and intelligent voice assistance. Like the rest of the SOUEAST range, the S09 comes fully equipped with top-tier safety systems, including 540-degree surround view, Lane Change Warning, Traffic Jam Assist, Forward Collision Warning, and eight airbags.


For more information or to book your test drive, visit the SOUEAST showroom at Salwa Road or call 800 0909.


Dine, unwind, and vibe through the week in style at TABŪ – where flavor meets rhythm


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Experience vibrant midweek evenings at TABŪ, the modern Japanese restaurant located on the mezzanine floor of The St. Regis Downtown Dubai, with a new exclusive dining experience every Wednesday to Friday from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM.


Guests are invited to indulge in a specially curated set menu starting from AED 159++ per person while enjoying dynamic live entertainment by the resident DJ, creating the perfect atmosphere for an unforgettable night out in the heart of Downtown Dubai. The set menu is thoughtfully crafted to cater to every palate with a curated selection of dishes, offering guests the opportunity to savor the restaurant’s signature creations in a lively and social setting.


The set menu begins with Edamame followed by a choice of two bites, including options such as Crispy Sushi Rice with Spicy Salmon Tartare, Black Cod Croquette, Shiitake Gyoza, Selection of Salmon and Chicken Skewers, or Ahi Tuna Pizza with Wasabi Truffle Mayo. Guests can further enhance their dining experience with add-ons like Wagyu Gyoza or Classic Ebi Tempura.



For the main course, diners can select from signature dishes such as Miso Baby Chicken with Chimichurri, Seabass Fillet with Misoyaki Sauce, Salmon Fillet with Teriyaki Sauce, or Ramen Noodles with Japanese Curry and Vegetables. To complete the experience, guests can also enjoy a choice of sides and desserts, from indulgent Lava Chocolate Cake to refreshing seasonal fruits. Since no meal is complete without drinks, the set menu also allows guests to add to their experience from a variety of beverage options including selected wine by the glass starting at AED 30, champagne by the glass, or a two-hour unlimited selected beverage package for AED 159.


With exceptional cuisine, a vibrant atmosphere, and live music, TABŪ offers the perfect midweek escape, an elevated dining experience at an irresistible value.


TABŪ – Taste Of TABŪ Overview


Timings: Every Wednesday to Friday from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PMOffer: Set Menu starting from AED 159 per person ++For reservations: +971 4 512 5555 | https://www.tabu-dubai.com/specials

 

For reservations, call +971 4 512 5555 or visit the website: www.stregisdowntowndubai.com


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Sun Siyam Pasikudah, part of Sun Siyam Resorts’ Privé Collection, has won the coveted Best Global Hotel Design award at the Homes & Gardens Design Awards 2025. The accolade recognises Studio Sixty7, led by founders Lee McNichol and Jose Rivero, for a transformative redesign that blended artisanal craftsmanship, cultural authenticity, and sustainability to set a new benchmark for luxury hospitality in Sri Lanka.


The Homes & Gardens Design Awards celebrate the best in design and decorating, spotlighting inspiring projects and innovations shaping the way we live now and into the future. Within the Best Global Hotel Design category, the judges recognised the transformation of Sun Siyam Pasikudah for its blend of refined hospitality, artisanal craftsmanship, and environmental responsibility.


The 34-room boutique resort on Sri Lanka’s eastern coast was reimagined as a sanctuary of understated luxury, completed within an ambitious four-month timeline and re-opened in November 2023. To reduce waste, much of the original furniture was refurbished and reupholstered, while all new materials were sourced locally and installed by Sri Lankan craftspeople. The team commissioned handwoven textiles, bespoke lighting, and custom joinery, using natural materials such as bamboo, linen, terracotta, and reclaimed wood to create a tactile, grounded experience.


Arshed Refai, General Manager of Sun Siyam Pasikudah, commented: “We are incredibly proud to see Sun Siyam Pasikudah recognised on the global stage. This award is a tribute not only to the vision of Studio Sixty7 but also to the extraordinary craftsmanship of Sri Lankan artisans who brought the design to life. Our resort now reflects the spirit of the island in a way that is both authentic and forward-thinking, offering our guests a truly unique sense of place.”

Traditional construction techniques were seamlessly blended with contemporary interior methods, producing a holistic environment where architectural integrity meets artisanal detail. The result is a collection of immersive spaces, from a restaurant and spa to a boutique and beach shack, each reflecting a strong sense of place and purpose.



The innovation lay in Studio Sixty7’s ability to redefine luxury with locality. Instead of importing generic finishes, the studio partnered with Sri Lankan artisans to create site-specific elements including handwoven ceilings, linen-draped interiors, ochre-hued plaster finishes, and custom lighting. This approach elevated vernacular design into a contemporary hospitality context, proving that innovation is not always about technology but about intentionality and integrity.


Sustainability was at the heart of the project. The design embraced low-impact principles, reusing original furnishings, sourcing locally made materials, and minimising imports, significantly reducing the carbon footprint of both construction and transport. Natural ventilation, open-plan layouts, and tactile finishes reduced operational energy consumption, demonstrating how luxury and environmental responsibility can coexist harmoniously.


Crucially, the project also championed social sustainability in a region historically impacted by civil conflict. By engaging local artisans, potters, weavers, and joiners, the redesign became a vehicle for economic revitalisation, offering meaningful employment and celebrating traditional skills. The on-site boutique, The Edit, continues this legacy, providing guests with an opportunity to connect directly with Sri Lanka’s craft heritage and support regional makers.


Studio Sixty7 has built a reputation for thoughtful, collaborative design that balances refinement with authenticity. Their ongoing partnership with Sun Siyam Resorts includes projects across the Maldives, further cementing their role as valued creative partners.



© 2025 DUNES


Dunes Magazine is the Middle East’s luxury lifestyle magazine, featuring the latest in fashion, lifestyle, health & fitness, watches & jewelry, beauty, travel & hospitality, and exclusive interviews. A proud supplement of Maqina, it delivers premium editorial content and insights for the region’s luxury enthusiasts.

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