AlMultaka is the perfect place to step into when a whole day stretches ahead with no schedules and deadlines to meet. This multipurpose ladies only hive of activity has so much to offer - Salon, fitness centre, spa, gallery, library and of course a designer-wear showroom for Riyadh’s most stylish ladies.

 

With so much happening under one roof, there is never a dull moment at AlMultaka. This is an environment where beauty, design, art and aesthetics meet to conquer your senses and captivate your time with the utmost enjoyment. Besides, AlMultaka encourages reputed companies in the fields of investment, real estate, travel, law and interior design to set up their ladies’ branch under AlMultaka’s umbrella in order to facilitate networking and business growth.

 

Saudi national Lama O. Aggad, Founder, AlMultaka, shares the idea and purpose behind her organisation.

 

 

How did the idea of AlMultaka originate and what is the ultimate purpose?

With the strong upbringing and support of my father, I grew up to be a well rounded individual who believed in facing challenges with grit and determination. My aim was to become a Saudi woman who instils change and excellence through her work in the country.

 

I received an Honours graduate from the avant-garde and prestigious Chelsea School of Art and Design as well as the Ravensbourne College of Art and Design, in London.

 

With a solid grounding in art and design, I returned to Riyadh to set up AlMultaka (the Rendez-Vous), a meeting place for women, where culture meets luxury, in an inspiring ambiance of hope, excellence and energy. The revolutionary idea drew parallels between business and community development through change and innovation.

 

Today, AlMultaka caters its services to 250-300 ladies a day and has become one of the leading centres in Riyadh offering only the latest in high-end services and products.

 

 

What are the challenges of running an organisation such as AlMultaka?

Initially there were many uncertainties and hurdles. The concept itself was quite new therefore the legalities concerned or needed were unclear. With the support and assistance of the ladies branch of the governmental authority, licenses started to appear giving women the legality and strength to continue successfully in their varied chosen fields.

 

Another challenge was staffing. We are great supporters of Saudisation but also needed superb, highly qualified personnel to portray AlMultaka in the best light. This took a great deal of training and perseverance. Initially we started with 8 employees, now after 18 years, we are a team of 168 with a majority being local Saudis.

 

 

In the history of AlMultaka, at which point did you feel that all the effort was absolutely worth it?

It is always wonderful to see AlMultaka in action especially when we have 600 or more ladies a night during our fitness sessions. I feel like AlMultaka is doing everything right.

 

There are many such instances but on a personal level, I rejoiced when my father, my wonderful mentor, Omar A. Aggad, decided to visit AlMultaka not having been there for some time. This significant tour, some years back started an endless barrage of astonishment, compliments, amazement and deep appreciation for the effort we had put in all those years that turned AlMultaka into this success story.

 

He concluded we are a beacon of hope for several such new endeavours and he takes pride in the brand we have become. As we move to greener pastures, his appreciation and blessings remain our driving force.

 

 

From the perspective of a business woman, why is AlMultaka the place to be?

When you see three generations of our clients coming through the door hand in hand to participate with us the feeling is wonderful. There must be something about us which brings us such admiration and loyalty from the people.

 

AlMultaka represents the success story of every Saudi woman whether she is a business woman, a housewife, a University Dean, a doctor or a student.

 

We contribute to society, respect the environment and fully support local communities. The company’s success has been recognized through winning a number of awards and there’s scope for further and faster growth.

 

How deeply is the idea “from women to women” incorporated in the daily operations at AlMultaka?

We are becoming a global community and the only way forward is hand in hand. Our philosophy of “drops that gather one by one finally become a sea” is the root of our efforts in expanding the AlMultaka community. With a team that is aware, dedicated and vivacious; we are sensitive to our clients’ and community’s needs and have thus achieved the amazing results.

 

This is an exciting time for the country with many positive exchanges with other cultures. We are now in tune with worldwide events and have a better understanding of businesses and economies in general.

 

We have to empower women with skill, proper managerial background, and the right education to implement business tools. We must also encourage all to participate in ladies oriented sectors which will translate into important roles women play in the national economy.

Elevating fashion to an art, AlMultaka houses a collection of designer wear from globallyrenowned haute couture designers such as Jean Paul Gaultier, Jean Louis Scherrer, Ashley Isham, Maria Grachvogel, Cliements Ribeiro and Carlos Miele. Presentations and showings of Lama O. Aggad’s designs and collections take place when time permits.

Housing a team of highly qualified professional hairstylists and beauticians, with the objective of delivering innovative treatments and services, here is a haven where beauty and relaxation go hand in hand.

Beauty is something all strive for, and it’s waiting for you at AlMultaka’s Beauty Salon. Whether you’re yearning to find the life-long beauty within or simply need to look drop-dead gorgeous for one special night. AlMultaka Salon is here for you. Change your look, rejuvenate your skin. And bring a glimmer to your toes. Spend an hour, spend the day.

 

The Hairstylists-Artists, use the finest products, to create “portraits” that fit the client, the occasion and the attitude. State of the art styles, wavy or straight, classic or chic, whatever mood, style or stage you’re in, the Hairstylists will create the look the clients always dreamed of.

 

The colorists use the finest products and the latest techniques to create a color and texture that enhances the shape of the haircut and the quality of the hair.

 

From IPL hair removal, to Crystal Peel, to firming the skin, AlMultaka’s Estheticians use only the finest ingredients to gently, effectively restore and protect your skin tone, texture and appearance. These techniques will help promote the general health of the skin, moisturize fine lines, reduce irregular pigmentation, smoothes, refines and firms the skin.

 

Be it staying fit or losing weight, the fabulously appointed fitness centre offers diversified classes in aerobics, Pilates, body combat, body shaping, spinning, yoga, and our most popular Fight do, X55 and Mega Dance Classes. These

are all handled by certified and highly qualified instructors. Besides, the gym has the highest quality equipment to enjoy an invigorating work-out. Memberships that allow unlimited access to the gym, steam room and aerobics classes are also available. This includes a comprehensive fitness evaluation and a personalised workout programme for diverse categories of fitness levels. AlMultaka Fitness Centre is a Radical Fitness Certified training centre and a certified Stott Pilates Centre.

 

Children also learn the importance of exercise and good health habits that will be used throughout their lives through workouts in Hip hop, Kid fit, etc. Classes that are fun and offer a unique child care experience not to mention the annual Ballet event.

 

Renowned as one of the most fashionable and favourite meeting places in Riyadh, the restaurant offers a bubbling atmosphere where you can enjoy delicious food and beverages, delivering an exceptional dining experience to every customer every time. Homemade salads, sandwiches, soups, wraps, fondue, crepe, croissants, saj, pizza, pastries and a lot more are available to soothe your palate. Besides, freshly squeezed juices and an extensive range of teas and coffees are offered on the menu. The

restaurant organises international and traditional dinners featuring Italian, Chinese and Mexican cuisines, Swiss Fondue, Mediterranean and the renowned and much sought after Ramadan Sohour evenings. High expectations for the perfect experience are met at our Classical English Afternoon Tea apres midi’s reminiscent of times past.

 

An ideal setting for any celebration. Engagement, graduation, or retirement parties. Time to catch up with friends. All you have to do is relax and enjoy your dining experience and the legendary customer service.

 

An alternative way to a much healthier and cleaner body, allowing detoxification and relaxation, are the unique massage and therapy services at AlMultaka to give you renewed vitality. Ayurveda is a safe and relaxing centuries-old natural method. Holotherapy Treatment uses Chinese acupressure, shaping treatments by Mars, Aromatherapy relaxing massage, La Stone Therapy, Reflexology massages, back and neck massages and body wraps, be it cholcolate or specially made muds help to untie stress knots and improve blood circulation giving you that glowing skin you’ve always desired.

 

Try the Moroccan Bath ultimate experience with deep cleansing and hydrating creams, have the soft baby skin you dream of.

 

End your day at the spa, by stretching out and enjoying the Alpha Sphere, a Space Ship for the Inner Journey, consciousness levels get activated and conventional experiences of space, time and “me myself” get transcended, or simply enjoy the lazy breeze as you lounge on our intimate terrace high above – where the sky and spa meet as one. Have lunch brought in, browse through mail or just dream on…………