A leading figure in the Egyptian capitals design scene opens her little black book of places to shop.

Manuel Obadia-Wills

Cairo, it seems, is having a major moment.

Here, Neamatalla shares some places to get a glimpse of Cairos artistic side.

Pair of photos from Cairo, one showing Laila Neamatalla, and one showing textile art hanging in a gallery hallway

From left: Laila Neamatalla in the showroom of Siwa Creations; textile-art pieces at Ramses Wissa Wassef Art Centre.Credit:Manuel Obadia-Wills

Nuniz

I have always loved the leather handbags from this brand, which was founded by Nadia Zarkana.

Theyre handmade by female Egyptian artisans and have clasps in the shape of lotus flowers or scarabsmy favorite detail.

Diwan carries everything from contemporary fiction to art and design books.

Pair of photos from the Villa Belle Epoque hotel in Cairo, one showing the interior, and one showing the courtyard

From left: Period details abound at Villa Belle Époque; the 1920s exterior of Villa Belle Époque.Manuel Obadia-Wills

His products will also be sold in the new museums gift shop.

This country doesnt have a global reputation when it comes to craftsmanship, but its full of talented artisans.

Pair of photos from an art center in Cairo, one showing a tree on the grounds, and one showing a woman weaving at a loom

From left: The Ramses Wissa Wassef Art Centre’s flowering landscape; an artist at work in the center.Manuel Obadia-Wills

Pair of photos from Cairo, one showing an artist, and one showing a hotel pool

From left: Louis Barthelemy, founder of the textile company Udjat; the pool at Villa Belle Époque, in Cairo’s Maadi neighborhood.Manuel Obadia-Wills