This past Wednesday, under the stars of Saudi Arabia's capital city, Riyadh, Assouline celebrated the grand opening of its newest boutique at Bujairi Terrace in Riyadh's Diriyah district, marking its latest expansion in the Middle East. The two-story boutique opening, co-hosted by Diriyah Gate Development Authority Group CEO Jerry Inzerillo and the Assouline family, featured traditional Saudi hospitality blended with contemporary entertainment and artistic installations.
Upon arrival, guests were greeted with traditional Arabic coffee and dates while an oud player provided ambient music and soft tunes. The VIP entrance featured a larger-than-life installation of Assouline's Diriyah Doors book cover, offering a striking photo opportunity for attendees. The evening's program began with speeches from Inzerillo and Prosper Assouline, followed by the official ribbon-cutting ceremony. Inside the boutique, guests were treated to the artistic talents of Leslie Ann Fiestan, a self-taught artist who created bespoke portraits using coffee grounds, while pianist Rami provided musical accompaniment.
The celebration continued on the second floor and terrace, where traditional Arabic musicians Mohammed and Adhwa Shan performed alongside six instrumental musicians. Guests enjoyed views of the night sky through installed telescopes while sampling passed hors d'oeuvres including smoked salmon tartare, lobster medallion, and mushroom risotto.
Maison Assouline Diriyah's fabulous grand opening not only marked a memorable celebration for guests and the Assoulines alike, but also established Assouline Diriyah as an essential shopping and lifestyle destination within the prestigious Bujairi Terrace, where visitors can now immerse themselves in the French maison's world of lifestyle and cultural sophistication.