Faouzia has worked with the likes of David Guetta and Kelly Clarkson. Getty Images
Faouzia has worked with the likes of David Guetta and Kelly Clarkson. Getty Images
Faouzia has worked with the likes of David Guetta and Kelly Clarkson. Getty Images
Faouzia has worked with the likes of David Guetta and Kelly Clarkson. Getty Images

Faouzia on new EP 'Citizens', Arabic pop's global potential and the demands of touring


Saeed Saeed
  • English
  • Arabic

Faouzia is experiencing the flip side of living the dream.

The acclaimed Moroccan-Canadian singer is in the midst of her first world tour, having so far played Europe, and is now experiencing the rigours of life on the road.

Speaking exclusively to The National ahead of her Sunday show at The Agenda, Dubai Media City, Faouzia admits to feeling rundown.

“I have definitely been surprised by the physical demands of touring,” she says. “A lot of people say it’s very difficult and you don't really know how unless you are doing it.

“So, I am trying to find that balance of keeping myself healthy and having fun onstage. I think it will eventually even out in the end.”

A star is born

At 22, Faouzia — full name Faouzia Ouihya — has plenty of time to perfect her approach, with the tour branching off into North America and Canada before concluding in November.

However, the fact she's already amassed such global appeal so early on in her career, is testament to both the material released and industry support.

After gaining attention with appearances in David Guetta single Battle (2018) and Kelly Clarkson’s bilingual track I Dare You (2020), Faouzia is touted as a “rising pop star” by industry publication Billboard.

Her status was further cemented with the launch of new EP Citizens at the Grammy Museum, Los Angeles, in May, as part of its Spotlight concert series to highlight on-trend artists.

Previous acts showcased as part of the initiative include British singer Dua Lipa in 2018 and American hip-hop duo Macklemore and Ryan Lewis in 2013.

Faouzia is poised to follow the success of those acts by bringing something fresh to the pop music table.

While all eight tracks are sung in English, Citizens is firmly rooted in the region.

Lead single RIP, Love, with more than 30 million YouTube streams, and the bubbly SoLie neatly meld breezy dance beats with the evocative harmonies and vocal trilling of Arabic pop.

The power ballad Don’t Tell Me I’m Pretty features gentle Arabic percussion and handclaps over ominous keyboards.

Faouzia, who has been writing songs since the age of 14, believes one of the reasons why Arabic harmonies rarely gel with western pop music is the lack of conviction by artists.

She points to the success of Colombian singer Shakira, who helped usher in the new wave of Latin pop currently sweeping the charts, as an example of the pioneering attitude needed to push out a new sound to the masses.

“You really need to be authentic and passionate about it,” Faouzia says. “That was how Shakira managed to infiltrate her roots into pop music, because she was genuine and people really connected with that.

“I am also seeing that same connection with the crowds when I play RIP, Love and SoLie, and that is beautiful to see.”

Complex world view

Faouzia credits her parents for maintaining her love for heritage.

Born in Casablanca, the family moved to Canada when Faouzia was 1 and set up in the rural town of Carman in the central Canadian province of Manitoba.

“It was a very Moroccan household. We would speak Arabic and French, and we would eat Moroccan food; the culture was strong at home. But as soon as I walked outside, I was experiencing Canadian culture and lifestyle, which was all new to me,” she says.

“However, I am glad it was that way and that is something I want to do when I, hopefully, have my own children. I want them to understand they have more than one culture. It will shape them to have a more complex understanding of the world and make them open to and appreciative of other cultures and ethnicities.”

One musician appreciating her attitude is Clarkson. The American musician's aforementioned single I Dare You was recorded in six languages, with Faouzia featuring in the Arabic version, Kantahadak.

In The National's review of the track, Clarkson was praised for an impressive verse sung in Arabic: “The pronunciation and diction is clear, and none of the words chosen is convoluted enough to jeopardise her powerful vocals.”

Faouzia confirms she was coaching Clarkson in the studio before that winning take. “She was so sweet and attentive, and would always ask about the correct pronunciation of the Arabic words,” she says. “She was adamant about getting things right.

“To be chosen to work with her is just so cool.”

The future of Arabic pop

Faouzia points to the need for more Arabic artists to look beyond the region and aim to reach a global audience.

“We do need more representation when it comes to pop music because I feel there is a curiosity and opportunity when it comes to our sound,” she says.

“Just like the growth of Latin American pop and K-pop, which are making a big impact on the world right now, Arabic pop can achieve the same.

“We just have to get more involved and build it for the present and future generations.”

Faouzia performs at The Agenda, Dubai Media City, on Sunday. Tickets begin from Dh195 at dubai.platinumlist.net

26 concerts and events coming to Dubai, from Travis to 2Cellos

  • The trio Hooverphonic, led by singer Geike Arnaert, will perform in Dubai in December. Getty Images
    The trio Hooverphonic, led by singer Geike Arnaert, will perform in Dubai in December. Getty Images
  • Egyptian actress Yousra will appear in the stage production 'King Farouk' at Dubai Opera. AFP
    Egyptian actress Yousra will appear in the stage production 'King Farouk' at Dubai Opera. AFP
  • Le Trio Joubran, from left, Samir, Wissam and Adnan Joubran. Courtesy: Youness Hamiddine
    Le Trio Joubran, from left, Samir, Wissam and Adnan Joubran. Courtesy: Youness Hamiddine
  • Ansel Elgort and Rachel Zegler in the 2021 film adaptation of the musical 'West Side Story'. The stage show will be performed in Dubai Opera in April. AP
    Ansel Elgort and Rachel Zegler in the 2021 film adaptation of the musical 'West Side Story'. The stage show will be performed in Dubai Opera in April. AP
  • The Gipsy Kings shot to fame back in the 1980s with their eponymous album. Courtesy Dubai Opera
    The Gipsy Kings shot to fame back in the 1980s with their eponymous album. Courtesy Dubai Opera
  • Martin Garrix has been named 2022'S world's number one DJ by industry publication 'DJ Mag'. AFP
    Martin Garrix has been named 2022'S world's number one DJ by industry publication 'DJ Mag'. AFP
  • Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan will perform his hits at the Coca-Cola Arena. Courtesy Coca-Cola Arena
    Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan will perform his hits at the Coca-Cola Arena. Courtesy Coca-Cola Arena
  • Iraqi singer Kadim Al Sahir will perform an intimate show at Dubai Opera. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
    Iraqi singer Kadim Al Sahir will perform an intimate show at Dubai Opera. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
  • Canadian DJ deadmau5 will play at the Coca-Cola Arena in December. Getty Images
    Canadian DJ deadmau5 will play at the Coca-Cola Arena in December. Getty Images
  • Singer Ne-Yo returns to Dubai in December. AFP
    Singer Ne-Yo returns to Dubai in December. AFP
  • Dutch DJ Armin van Buuren is one EDM's most celebrated artists. AFP
    Dutch DJ Armin van Buuren is one EDM's most celebrated artists. AFP
  • Nigerian singer Wizkid is one of a new generation of African artists making inroads into the western charts. Getty Images
    Nigerian singer Wizkid is one of a new generation of African artists making inroads into the western charts. Getty Images
  • Mohamed Ramadan will perform post-match concerts as part of the inaugural World Tennis League tournament. AFP
    Mohamed Ramadan will perform post-match concerts as part of the inaugural World Tennis League tournament. AFP
  • Tiesto will bring his hits to the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai. AFP
    Tiesto will bring his hits to the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai. AFP
  • Jackson Wang will perform on February 4 in Dubai as part of his Magic Man world tour. AP
    Jackson Wang will perform on February 4 in Dubai as part of his Magic Man world tour. AP
  • Irish comedienne Joanne McNally performs on April 29 at The Agenda. Photo: GME Events
    Irish comedienne Joanne McNally performs on April 29 at The Agenda. Photo: GME Events
  • The Nutcracker ballet is an annual Christmas favourite. Photo: Andy Ross
    The Nutcracker ballet is an annual Christmas favourite. Photo: Andy Ross
  • Hungarian pianist and composer Balazs Havasi will play at Dubai Opera in 2023. EPA
    Hungarian pianist and composer Balazs Havasi will play at Dubai Opera in 2023. EPA
  • The Australian singer Kylie Minogue will ring in the new year in Dubai. Reuters
    The Australian singer Kylie Minogue will ring in the new year in Dubai. Reuters
  • Tomorrowland's Terra Sollis features VIP rooms with sun decks, resort views and a private plunge pool. Photo: Terra Solis
    Tomorrowland's Terra Sollis features VIP rooms with sun decks, resort views and a private plunge pool. Photo: Terra Solis
  • Peter Bence, the former Guinness World Record holder for fastest piano player, performs at Dubai Opera on November 11. Getty Images
    Peter Bence, the former Guinness World Record holder for fastest piano player, performs at Dubai Opera on November 11. Getty Images
  • See French crooner Enrico Macias on November 12 at Coca-Cola Arena. Photo: Wikicommons
    See French crooner Enrico Macias on November 12 at Coca-Cola Arena. Photo: Wikicommons
  • Spanish opera star Placido Domingo will headline the lavish Dresden Opera Ball gala evening at Dubai Opera. Getty Images
    Spanish opera star Placido Domingo will headline the lavish Dresden Opera Ball gala evening at Dubai Opera. Getty Images
  • Croation classic group 2Cellos are coming to Dubai in November. Courtesy: MBC
    Croation classic group 2Cellos are coming to Dubai in November. Courtesy: MBC
  • Watch British singer-songwriter Calum Scott live at Hard Rock Cafe in November. Getty Images
    Watch British singer-songwriter Calum Scott live at Hard Rock Cafe in November. Getty Images
  • Scottish singer-songwriter Lewis Capaldi is returning to the UAE for a concert at the Coca-Cola Arena on November 24. EPA
    Scottish singer-songwriter Lewis Capaldi is returning to the UAE for a concert at the Coca-Cola Arena on November 24. EPA
  • Illusionist Rob Lake is performing 'The Magic of Rob Lake' at Dubai Opera from November 25 to 27. Photo: FilmMagic
    Illusionist Rob Lake is performing 'The Magic of Rob Lake' at Dubai Opera from November 25 to 27. Photo: FilmMagic
  • Music and street culture festival Sole DXB is back for 2022 in December. Photo: Sole DXB
    Music and street culture festival Sole DXB is back for 2022 in December. Photo: Sole DXB
  • The Dubai Shopping Festival, starting in December, features concerts, family activities and plenty of shopping deals. Photo: Dubai Shopping Festival
    The Dubai Shopping Festival, starting in December, features concerts, family activities and plenty of shopping deals. Photo: Dubai Shopping Festival
  • Pakistani singer Abida Parveen returns to Dubai at the Coca-Cola Arena on December 9. Photo: Catherine de Clippel
    Pakistani singer Abida Parveen returns to Dubai at the Coca-Cola Arena on December 9. Photo: Catherine de Clippel
GAC GS8 Specs

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Transmission: 8-speed auto

Fuel consumption: 9.1L/100km

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Price: From Dh149,900

Jetour T1 specs

Engine: 2-litre turbocharged

Power: 254hp

Torque: 390Nm

Price: From Dh126,000

Available: Now

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UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
How to help

Send “thenational” to the following numbers or call the hotline on: 0502955999
2289 – Dh10
2252 – Dh 50
6025 – Dh20
6027 – Dh 100
6026 – Dh 200

UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
Barings Bank

 Barings, one of Britain’s oldest investment banks, was
founded in 1762 and operated for 233 years before it went bust after a trading
scandal. 

Barings Bank collapsed in February 1995 following colossal
losses caused by rogue trader Nick Lesson. 

Leeson gambled more than $1 billion in speculative trades,
wiping out the venerable merchant bank’s cash reserves.  

Winners

Best Men's Player of the Year: Kylian Mbappe (PSG)

Maradona Award for Best Goal Scorer of the Year: Robert Lewandowski (Bayern Munich)

TikTok Fans’ Player of the Year: Robert Lewandowski

Top Goal Scorer of All Time: Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United)

Best Women's Player of the Year: Alexia Putellas (Barcelona)

Best Men's Club of the Year: Chelsea

Best Women's Club of the Year: Barcelona

Best Defender of the Year: Leonardo Bonucci (Juventus/Italy)

Best Goalkeeper of the Year: Gianluigi Donnarumma (PSG/Italy)

Best Coach of the Year: Roberto Mancini (Italy)

Best National Team of the Year: Italy 

Best Agent of the Year: Federico Pastorello

Best Sporting Director of the Year: Txiki Begiristain (Manchester City)

Player Career Award: Ronaldinho

The Sand Castle

Director: Matty Brown

Stars: Nadine Labaki, Ziad Bakri, Zain Al Rafeea, Riman Al Rafeea

Rating: 2.5/5

UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
What are NFTs?

Are non-fungible tokens a currency, asset, or a licensing instrument? Arnab Das, global market strategist EMEA at Invesco, says they are mix of all of three.

You can buy, hold and use NFTs just like US dollars and Bitcoins. “They can appreciate in value and even produce cash flows.”

However, while money is fungible, NFTs are not. “One Bitcoin, dollar, euro or dirham is largely indistinguishable from the next. Nothing ties a dollar bill to a particular owner, for example. Nor does it tie you to to any goods, services or assets you bought with that currency. In contrast, NFTs confer specific ownership,” Mr Das says.

This makes NFTs closer to a piece of intellectual property such as a work of art or licence, as you can claim royalties or profit by exchanging it at a higher value later, Mr Das says. “They could provide a sustainable income stream.”

This income will depend on future demand and use, which makes NFTs difficult to value. “However, there is a credible use case for many forms of intellectual property, notably art, songs, videos,” Mr Das says.

The%20specs
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The specs: 2018 Nissan 370Z Nismo

The specs: 2018 Nissan 370Z Nismo
Price, base / as tested: Dh182,178
Engine: 3.7-litre V6
Power: 350hp @ 7,400rpm
Torque: 374Nm @ 5,200rpm
Transmission: Seven-speed automatic
​​​​​​​Fuel consumption, combined: 10.5L / 100km

The specs
Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cyl turbo

Power: 201hp at 5,200rpm

Torque: 320Nm at 1,750-4,000rpm

Transmission: 6-speed auto

Fuel consumption: 8.7L/100km

Price: Dh133,900

On sale: now 

Mercer, the investment consulting arm of US services company Marsh & McLennan, expects its wealth division to at least double its assets under management (AUM) in the Middle East as wealth in the region continues to grow despite economic headwinds, a company official said.

Mercer Wealth, which globally has $160 billion in AUM, plans to boost its AUM in the region to $2-$3bn in the next 2-3 years from the present $1bn, said Yasir AbuShaban, a Dubai-based principal with Mercer Wealth.

Within the next two to three years, we are looking at reaching $2 to $3 billion as a conservative estimate and we do see an opportunity to do so,” said Mr AbuShaban.

Mercer does not directly make investments, but allocates clients’ money they have discretion to, to professional asset managers. They also provide advice to clients.

“We have buying power. We can negotiate on their (client’s) behalf with asset managers to provide them lower fees than they otherwise would have to get on their own,” he added.

Mercer Wealth’s clients include sovereign wealth funds, family offices, and insurance companies among others.

From its office in Dubai, Mercer also looks after Africa, India and Turkey, where they also see opportunity for growth.

Wealth creation in Middle East and Africa (MEA) grew 8.5 per cent to $8.1 trillion last year from $7.5tn in 2015, higher than last year’s global average of 6 per cent and the second-highest growth in a region after Asia-Pacific which grew 9.9 per cent, according to consultancy Boston Consulting Group (BCG). In the region, where wealth grew just 1.9 per cent in 2015 compared with 2014, a pickup in oil prices has helped in wealth generation.

BCG is forecasting MEA wealth will rise to $12tn by 2021, growing at an annual average of 8 per cent.

Drivers of wealth generation in the region will be split evenly between new wealth creation and growth of performance of existing assets, according to BCG.

Another general trend in the region is clients’ looking for a comprehensive approach to investing, according to Mr AbuShaban.

“Institutional investors or some of the families are seeing a slowdown in the available capital they have to invest and in that sense they are looking at optimizing the way they manage their portfolios and making sure they are not investing haphazardly and different parts of their investment are working together,” said Mr AbuShaban.

Some clients also have a higher appetite for risk, given the low interest-rate environment that does not provide enough yield for some institutional investors. These clients are keen to invest in illiquid assets, such as private equity and infrastructure.

“What we have seen is a desire for higher returns in what has been a low-return environment specifically in various fixed income or bonds,” he said.

“In this environment, we have seen a de facto increase in the risk that clients are taking in things like illiquid investments, private equity investments, infrastructure and private debt, those kind of investments were higher illiquidity results in incrementally higher returns.”

The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, one of the largest sovereign wealth funds, said in its 2016 report that has gradually increased its exposure in direct private equity and private credit transactions, mainly in Asian markets and especially in China and India. The authority’s private equity department focused on structured equities owing to “their defensive characteristics.”

Key findings of Jenkins report
  • Founder of the Muslim Brotherhood, Hassan al Banna, "accepted the political utility of violence"
  • Views of key Muslim Brotherhood ideologue, Sayyid Qutb, have “consistently been understood” as permitting “the use of extreme violence in the pursuit of the perfect Islamic society” and “never been institutionally disowned” by the movement.
  • Muslim Brotherhood at all levels has repeatedly defended Hamas attacks against Israel, including the use of suicide bombers and the killing of civilians.
  • Laying out the report in the House of Commons, David Cameron told MPs: "The main findings of the review support the conclusion that membership of, association with, or influence by the Muslim Brotherhood should be considered as a possible indicator of extremism."
Updated: August 22, 2022, 1:06 PM