Come for a shave, stay for a chat

Istabsir, our weekly series of visual essays, finds a neighbourhood feel in the Happy and Ruby Group gents' saloon.

Happy and Ruby Group Saloon across from Al Wahda Mall provides hair cut and shaving services to their mostly Arab customers.

Presentation goes a long way in Abu Dhabi, and a trip to Happy and Ruby Group saloon for men can make a big difference to your appearance. It offers a full line of hair treatments and cuts, as well as shaving and beard threading for an extra slick look.

Each chair is curtained off and faces its own TV. Depending on what is being done, a trip to Happy and Ruby Group can last hours.

Attention to detail is the name of the game, especially when treating the beard. Straight razors are used for precision shaves and threading gives the smoothest feel possible.

During their breaks, barbers relax in the lobby or chat outside. Some use the time to organise the clutter of hair products and cutting tools on their counter space. Customers chat sociably in the waiting area while they wait to get a shave or a cut.

Located in the Al Wahda district, the shop has the look and feel of a neighbourhood landmark and a community meeting place.

Enjoy the series Istabsir which looks at the various aspects of life in the UAE at http://thenational.ae/istabsir