Our 10th Tapputi Shoot: A Dream Realized in the Heart of the Fayoum Desert

There are moments in life that feel like pure magic — where a dream whispered years ago finally comes to life in golden light and swirling desert winds. Late September 2025 was one of those moments for us at Tapputi.

From the very beginning of our journey, it’s always been our dream to shoot in the middle of the Fayoum Desert — one of Egypt’s most breathtaking and mystical landscapes. And after years of planning, countless sketches, and endless “one day” conversations, that dream finally came true.

After months of preparation led by internationally acclaimed Art Director & Photographer, Dina Yosry, and our own Creative Director, Danelle Liebenberg ElFar, I flew to Egypt to meet our incredible Egyptian team.

The drive from Port Said to Fayoum took about six hours, but it was the best kind of road trip — music, laughter, and that unmistakable pre-shoot buzz. We knew something unforgettable awaited us beyond those endless dunes.

We arrived at the most authentic desert villas, surrounded by golden silence and ancient air. We feasted on the best falafel, prepped gear under starlit skies, and dreamed about the shoot that was about to unfold.

Our “quiet” scouting day quickly turned into an adventure for the books! The two local drivers who took us exploring gave us the wildest dune ride imaginable — screaming, laughing, and clutching onto cameras as we soared over sand hills.

Then came sandboarding, which was equal parts daring and hilarious. Covered in sand but full of joy, we returned to the villa for a magical dinner and early rest, knowing the next day would be monumental.

The following morning, two more crew members joined us with additional lighting and frames, and we kicked off with our Valentine’s shoot featuring Rola and Youssef at the villa. You’re going to love this one coming January 2026 — soft, romantic tones, drenched in that Tapputi glow.

Then came the grand moment — heading deep into the desert for the main Tapputi shoot.

Two Land Rovers. A horizon of dunes. And wind — lots of wind. For a moment, I thought, “Oh gosh, this is terrible! We’re not going to be able to shoot.” Visibility dropped as sand whipped around us. But our incredible team didn’t flinch. The drivers guided us deeper into the desert, where the wind softened just enough. Cameras up. Spirits high.

And then — magic happened.

As the sun dipped low, the desert transformed into a sea of molten gold. Our Tapputi Bottles shimmered against the dunes, embodying everything we stand for — Egyptian Heritage meeting Modern Glamour.

This wasn’t just another shoot. It was a celebration of our 3rd Birthday, our 10th shoot in Egypt in 3 years, and the launch of our Nefertiti’s Garden Limited Edition Luxe Box, dropping 25 October.

Every frame captured the essence of Golden Essence – A Gift of Timeless Luxury and the spirit of One Tribe. One Essence.

For those unfamiliar, the Fayoum Desert is one of Egypt’s oldest and most mystical regions. It’s home to Lake Qarun, one of the world’s oldest natural lakes, and the Valley of the Whales (Wadi El-Hitan) — a UNESCO World Heritage Site where ancient whale fossils rest in the sands, telling stories from 40 million years ago.

Fayoum is often called “Egypt’s Secret Oasis” — where desert dunes meet lush oases, salt lakes, and Bedouin villages. It’s cinematic, spiritual, and deeply Egyptian — the perfect backdrop for a brand rooted in ancient artistry and modern beauty.

Every great shoot is powered by the people who make it happen — both in front of and behind the camera.

✨ Art Direction & Photography: Dina Yosry

✨ Creative Direction: Danelle Liebenberg ElFar

✨ Video: Mahy Ahmed

✨ Models: Rola Kather, Youssef Elezaby, Omnia Hussein, and Danelle Liebenberg ElFar

And a massive thank-you to the unsung heroes behind the scenes — our stylists, lighting crew, drivers, assistants, and coordinators — who braved the heat, the wind, and the sand to make every frame extraordinary. Your dedication, laughter, and resilience made this dream possible.

One Tribe. One Essence. Always.

As the last light faded over the dunes, we stood in silence, knowing we had captured something timeless. Our 10th shoot. Our 3rd birthday. A dream realized under Egyptian skies.

This one’s for you — our tribe. For every like, share, story, and message of support. For believing in Tapputi and walking this golden journey with us.

Here’s to more dreams turned reality, more sand between our toes, and more moments that remind us that together, we are One Tribe. One Essence.

Love, 

Alishia - Founder & CEO:  Tapputi International Ltd.