SULTAN AlDarmaki is a busy gentleman and he always has been. In Spring 2024, as CEO and Co-Founder, AlDarmaki launched a premium private members club in Dubai called 1833 ١٨٣٣. Previously he was a Director at HALPERN, and award-winning founding designer at DAMARKI. His debut shoe collection has been on permanent display at the V&A museum in the fashion department, the first time a Middle Eastern designer has had this recognition. He is a charming human being with oodles of charisma, so the D1 team had to ask him ten Qs in quick-time:

#1 If you could have any famous writer (past or present) pen your biography, who would you most love to commission? ‍

Naguib Mahfouz with absolutely no doubt. I've always been captivated by Mahfouz's novels, which profoundly influenced my appreciation for his narrative style. Mahfouz, with his unparalleled ability to weave intricate tales, would be the perfect author to capture the nuances of my life journey. The thought of Mahfouz applying his realistic approach, rich with psychological depth and philosophical undertones, to my story excites me. Imagining my life portrayed through his lens, with all its realism and depth! The dream!

#2 There is one song that defines your energy when you enter a room, what is it? Not sure why, or maybe I am, but the song is Flight Facilities - CRAVE YOU, featuring Giselle 

#3 You don't collect this item but you could so easily have indulged in building a museum of...? Miniature spoons. I mean why do they exist, but also why not! 

#4 It's 11am on a Sunday morning, what are you most often doing at that time? If I were in London, Rupert, my dog, and I would already be enjoying our routine of grabbing coffee and pastries from a quaint spot we adore. I'd likely be indulging in my fourth mini canelé with caramel by then (and to my doctor, if you're reading this, I apologize). After our treats, we'd head to the flower market to pick out blooms for my apartment for the week. Meanwhile, in Dubai, Sundays paint a different picture. You'd find me basking in the sun at the Mandarin Oriental until the sun dips below the horizon.

#5 You've decided to have a dinner party with friends, and the first thing you organize is:

Similar to my approach in business and personal relationships, I prefer not to mix my hosting duties with close friendships. In essence, I do not co-host. It’s not chic.  

#6 Which motto defines your way of being?

Live.

#7 Do you play to win at chess or play to enjoy the game?

‍Depends on who I am playing against. ‍

#8 What would no one ever expect you to think before you enter an event, but you often do?

Why am I HERE.  

#9 What emotionally moves you more than anything else?

‍An animal in pain, my god that absolutely shatters my heart. Unlike humans, who can articulate their emotions and pain—at least for those of us who have benefited from therapy—animals lack this means of communication. I recently stumbled upon an Instagram Reel featuring a dog shedding tears, and it deeply moved me, leaving me in tears for days.

#10 Describe yourself in one word.

Love.

Club 1833 ١٨٣٣ launched in Spring 2024.

LISTEN TO… AlDarmaki’s Young Arab Talent playlist that gives LAX to DUBAI long-haul flight vibes.