From The Chair Welcome to the summer edition of our magazine. A number of you will shortly be taking a well earned opportunity to visit cooler climates on vacation with your families, and will sit back no doubt and reflect on the year so far. The first half of the year has by all accounts been very prosperous on the back of record oil prices, government budget surpluses and a considerable appetite for international and local private sector investment. This view and the future positive outlook for Bahrain’s continued economic prosperity was outlined by Sheikh Mohammad bin Essa
Al Khalifa, Chief Executive of the Bahrain Economic Development Board, when he addressed a record number of members this month. I am also delighted that the BBBF will be sponsoring approximately 100 Bahraini secondary school students to sit the Young Enterprise Cambridge University English examinations under the supervision of inJAz Bahrain. Sheikha Hessa bint Khalifa Al Khalifa, Executive Director of inJAz Bahrain, addressed the Forum earlier this month and explained the work that inJAz Bahrain undertakes with young people and outlined the valuable impact that the
Contents BBBF sponsorship will have on their development. Letter from
We would like to thank Standard Chartered Bank, as our Platinum Corporate sponsors, for their continued support providing the BBBF with a strong financial base to fund a number of initiatives, throughout the business community, for the benefit of our Members and other stakeholders.
H.M. Ambassador ............ p3 Welcome new members . p4 Member Benefits ............. p6 Application Form .............. p7 Security SIG ..................... p8 Hunger unacceptable ...... p9 News from Platinum Sponsor .......... p10 Financial News ............... p12 Air industry News .......... p16 BSB / BBBF
We hope that you enjoy this edition and look forward to seeing you and your guests at forthcoming functions over the summer months. Austin Rudman
Work Experience ........... p18 Queen’s Birthday ........... p20 What’s new at AMH ....... p22 News from the BIC ........ p24 Bahrain Construction Update ..... p26 Notes from the Eastern Province ........... p30
Cover Image: Buglers Corporal Chip Newbury and Corporal Tom Benbow from 4th Battalion The Rifles added an element of British tradition to the 2008 Queen’s Birthday Party, held at the Residence of the British Ambassador Jamie Bowden on Sunday 15 June 2008.
Bahrain Hotel News ....... p31 Bahrain News ................. p34 And Finally ...................... p40 Registration number SBBB 492
The 2007-8 BBBF Executive Committee
Chairman Austin Rudman Mob: 3969-9475
Deputy Chairman Peter Lyall Mob: 3933-5003
Treasurer Patrick Dornan Mob: 3924-3739
Member Robin Watson Mob: 3669-9605
Member Rob Grey Mob: 3966-3452
Member Linda Jennings Mob: 3962-5004
Member Bill Frost Mob: 3963-5110
Embassy Representative Rebecca Eriksson Mob: 3953-6989
BBBF Tel: +973 1781 3488, Fax: +973 1781 3489, Email: bbbforum@batelco.com.bh Bahrain British Business Forum, P. O. Box 10051, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain
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From Her Majesty’s Ambassador predecessor, Robin Lamb, the Business Development Manager at the Chamber, played a key role. The theme of this meeting was education, and members of the British delegation made promising initial contacts.
April saw the inaugural meetings of two important committees for the bilateral trade relationship. The day after the Grand Prix Lord Digby Jones, the Minister for Trade and Investment, led the UK delegation at the Technical Experts Committee, a Government to Government group dealing with all commercial matters. In a diverse agenda the main subjects were developing the Bahraini healthcare sector, with an emphasis on the role of the private sector, and further co-operation between Bahraini and British Customs authorities. A week later the Bahrain British Business Council, a business to business group, met in Manama. The co-chairs were Khalid Zayani and Sir Roger Tomkys, Chairman of the Arab British Chamber of Commerce and a former Ambassador here. My
There was a good British presence, in quality and numbers, at the major trade fairs and exhibitions over the past three months: GulfBid, GEO, Petrotech, BITE and Property Arabia. We welcomed a trade mission from Wales and a delegation from the Bar Council. The latter had very good talks with the Government and the Bahraini Bar Association and further exchanges are planned. Requests for information and research continue to flow into
Tuesday 22nd July 2008 Speaker: TBC Venue: Golden Tulip Hotel Time: 12 noon for 1 pm Cost: Mbrs BD10, Guests BD12 Tuesday 19th August 2008 Speaker: TBC Venue: Golden Tulip Hotel Time: 12 noon for 1 pm Cost: Mbrs BD10, Guests BD12 Tuesday 16th September 2008 Ramadan evening at the British Club.
our Trade and Investment Section at record levels. Interest in the Bahraini market clearly continues to be high in the UK. On the down side there has been a significant drop in trade in both directions in the first quarter of 2008 compared to the first quarter of 2007. We do not yet know the reason for this, although it seems a fair bet that the relative strength of sterling will have hit our exports. We bid farewell to our Deputy Head of Mission, Steve Harrison, on 15 June. The Embassy and the business community will sorely miss him. His previous experience working with the Duke of York, his understanding of the business world and his remarkable capacity for work were great assets. The good
news is that we have not lost him from Bahrain as he has taken up a new appointment with the Economic Development Board. His successor, Rupert Potter, arrives on 1 July. Jamie Bowden British Ambassador
Below: BBBF committee members meet with staff at the British Embassy to hand over a cheque for this years Chevening sponsorship.
Diary Dates Tuesday 21st October 2008 Speaker: TBC Venue: Golden Tulip Hotel Time: 12 noon for 1 pm Cost: Mbrs BD10, Guests BD12
Thursday 13th November 2008 Poppy Ball (BBA / BBBF joint event) Guests: Chelsea Pensioners Venue: Crowne Plaza Hotel Cost: TBC
10th - 11th November 2008 - TBC New Members Evening Guests: Chelsea Pensioners Venue: British Club Time 7pm
Tuesday 18th November 2008 Speaker: TBC Venue: Golden Tulip Hotel Time: 12 noon for 1 pm Cost: Mbrs BD10, Guests BD12 Forum
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Mr Sayed Ahmed Al-A’ali Managing Director/Owner King Trading Centre PO Box 21228, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1362-2655 Fax:1778-6930 Mob: 3984-7187 /3972-2009 alaali738@hotmail.com
Mr Bleddyn Davies Senior Architect Aedas Architects Ltd PO Box111, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1721-2887 Fax:1724-0199 Mob: 3927-3983 bleddyn.davies@uk.aedas.com
Mr Faisal Omar Alamoudy Country Manager FedEx Express International PO Box 2565, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1733-4448 Fax:1733-2241 Mob: 3960-6517 falamoudy@fedex.com
Ms Maria Hally PA to the Senior Partner BDO Jawad Habib PO Box 787, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1752-7615 Fax:1753-0088 Mob: 3905-4640 Maria@bdojawadhabib.com
Mr Paul Banoob General Manager B.C.S Management Co. W.L.L PO Box 669, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1758-3155 Fax: 1758-2994 Mob: 3943-1081 pbanoob@bcsbahrain.com
Mr David Halstead Head of Operations Securities & Investment Co. B.S.C. PO Box1331, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1751-5022 Fax:1751-4000 Mob: 3991-2361 david.halstead@sicobahrain.com
Ms Jill Boggiss Managing Director Four Communications Group plc PO Box 31017, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1758-7844 Fax:1758-7844 Mob: 3604-4100 jill.boggiss@fourcommunications.com
Mr Garfield Jones Deputy C E O Gulf Hotel PO Box 580, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1774-6464 Fax:1771-6566 Mob: 3655-2655 dceo@gulfhotelsgroup.com
Mr Peter Brown Area Security Manager DHL Express PO Box 5741, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1732-8616 Fax:1733-9146 Mob: 36061128 pete.brown@dhl.com
Mr Tony Mackie Head of Business & Economics British School of Bahrain PO Box 15775, Adliya, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1771-0878 Fax:1771-0875 Mob: 3639-5233 tonymackie@hotmail.com
Our thanks to all the advertisers. Without their support, this issue would not have been possible. Please give them yours. Al Ghalia Group - Mezzaluna .............................................. page 34 Al Osra Supermarket ......................................... Inside Front Cover American Mission Hospital .................................................. page 23 AMEX ................................................................................. page 13 AXA Insurance ................................................ Outside Back Cover Bahrain Centre for Skin & Beauty ........................................ page 39 Best Western Hotel ............................................................. page 33 British Club .......................................................................... page 37 Crown Relocations .............................................................. page 35
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Diplomat Radisson Hotel .................................................... page 15 Euromotors ......................................................................... page 25 Gulf Agency Co .................................................................. page 29 Gulf Air ................................................................................ page 17 Gulf Hotel ............................................................................ page 33 Mansouri Group .................................................................. page 36 Royal & SunAlliance ............................................................. page 2 Standard Chartered Bank ................................................... page 11 TNT Express ..................................................... Inside Back Cover
Welcome to New Members Mr Paul Mason Executive Vice President Zenith Marine Industries PO Box 3210, Suite 304, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1753-6222 Fax:1753-6333 Mob: 3621-1050 paulm@zenith-industries.com
Mrs Kate Simmonds Director of Sales & Marketing Crowne Plaza Hotel P O Box 5831, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrai Tel: 1752-5833 Fax:1753-3992 Mob: 3940-2499 kate@cp-bahrain.comn
Mr James Mc Donald General Manager InterContinental Regency Bahrain PO Box 777, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1720-8300 Fax:1721-0335 Mob: 3933-5366 james.mcdonald@icbahrain.com
Mr Jawad Squalli Sales Manager Sage Software Middle East PO Box 76007, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1755-6901 Fax:1755-6902 Mob: 3960-2001 jawad.squalli@sage.com
Mr Adrian McKay Senior Manager BDO Jawad Habib PO Box 787, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1753-0077 Fax:1753-0088 Mob: 3645-2695 avm235@gmail.com
Mr Roy Stokes Regional Director/Area Manager Aedas Architects Ltd PO Box 111, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1721-2887 Fax:1724-0199 Mob: 3984-0829 roy.stokes@uk.aedas.com
Mrs Petra Oldfield Business Finance / Admin Manager British School of Bahrain PO Box 15775, Adliya, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1771-0878 Fax:1771-0875 Mob: 3926-0690 busfinmanager@thebsbh.com
Mr Abdullah J Wallace Publisher Gulf Business Intelligence PO Box 224, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1729-3131 Fax:1729-3400 Mob: 3677-0407 ajwallace@tradearabia.net
Mrs Bridget Penrose Head of Keystage 4 British School of Bahrain PO Box 15775, Adliya, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1771-0878 Fax:1771-0875 Mob: 3975-5221 bridget_penrose_lyall@yahoo.co.uk
Dr Suzanne White C.E.O. JWZ Insurance Solutions PO Box 75719, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Mob: 3639-0305 suzanne@jwzsolutions.com
Corporate Sponsors 2008 Page 10 & 11
Ms Katie Willis Head of Training BMI PO Box 350, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1721-8753 Mob: 3994-3304 KWillis@bmi.com.bh Forum
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Benefits for BBBF Members Benefits for all our members may be obtained on production of their Membership card at the concerned outlet. We would like to hear your feedback concerning these discounts. Please do not hesitate to offer your services to our members by contacting the BBBF office. If any member has any difficulty obtaining a discount, please contact the BBBF office so we can rectify the situation.
Morgan Price International Healthcare 15% discount on GlobalHealth Individual Insurance Plans on published rates. Contact: Samy Ebrahim Tel: 1753 3151 or 3940 4160 Email: samyaziz@morgan-price.com
Al Faris Auto Centre Special discounts on parts and services Contact: Yousif Eid Tel: 1787 7222 Email: yesadadi@batelco.com.bh
National Hotel Services (NHSC) 5% on beers, 15% on wines and spirits with the exception of products already on special offer Contact: Bill Beddall Tel: 1781-5929 Email: nhsc1234@batelco.com.bh
Azrek Search Associates 20% discount on search and headhunting services Contact: Rory Adamson Tel: 1758 3885 Email: rory@azrek.com AXA Insurance 10% discounts to members on personal lines insurances.(excluding medical) Contact: Stephen Wagstaff Tel: 1758 8222 Email: stephen.wagstaff@axa-gulf.com Bahrain Kuwait Insurance Company (BKIC) Special schemes have been arranged with Bahrain Kuwait Insurance Company (BKIC) for BBBF members for the following classes of insurance: House & Contents, Domestic Servants & Motor Insurance. Special terms are available on production of your membership card.
Royal Over-Seas League The Royal Over-Seas League has clubhouses in London and Edinburgh which include hotel-style accommodation. A quarterly journal issued to members free of charge. Reduced rates for BBBF members. Application forms for membership are obtainable from the Membership Secretary at: Royal Over-Seas League, Over-Seas House, Park Place, St James’s Street, London SW1A 1LR Tel: 0044 20 7408 0214 Fax: 0044 20 7499 6738 Email: fvanicek@rosl.org.uk
Conscious Connections 5% discount on Crystal Therapy and Awareness, 10% discount for group bookings and group workshops Contact: Julie Lomas Mobile: 3960 6712 Email: info@concious-connections.com
Spa Arabia by Betsy 25% Discount on all Spa, Beauty and Hairdressing Treatments and 15% Discount on all Spa Shop Purchases. The Spa Treatments are for ladies only but male members can visit and make purchases from the Spa Shop.( Skin Care, Hair Care, Cosmetics, Sun Care, Aromatherapy Oils, etc and Skin and Hair Consultations) They can also purchase Gift Vouchers at 25% off discounted rate. Conditions are: Discount on full price treatments and products only; Discount cannot be used in conjunction with any other special offers. Contact: Betsy Mathieson Appointments can be booked on Tel 3961 3739
Dessange 15% discount to BBBF Members Contact: Louise Moy Tel: 1771-3999 Email: louise@alghalia.com
Speedy Discount of 15% on repairs and maintenance. 20% on self drive cars through Europcar. Contact: Keith Issitt Tel: 1768-2999 for Car Repairs and Tel: 1732-1249 for Car Hire
Hasan Mansouri 10% discount to members at Mansouri Mansions Hotel and Country Club. Contact: Karim Mansouri Tel: 1772 8144 Email: karim@karimmansouri.com
The MakeOver Experience 10% discount to BBBF members on all individual and group courses, with occasional extra special offers and prize draws. Additional discounts to BBBF corporate members for customised training courses. Contact: Dr. Leila Edwards Tel: 1759 2019 Mob:3966 7623 Email: info@themakeoverexperience.com
Mercure Discount Card Please note that registered members can collect their card direct from Sinan Koseoglu, the Executive Assistant Manager F&B, Mercure Grand Hotel Seef. Mob:+973 397 99 020 Tel: +973 17 584 406 Fax: +973 17 582 352 E-mail: h5685eam@accor.com.bh
This edition of the BBBF Forum magazine was compiled by Andrew Mead at Mead Management Services Ltd. email: andrew@sbtd.co.uk UK Mob: 0044 7940 559 925 KSA Mob: 00966 506 271 151 Bahrain Mobile: 00973 3638 7595 and produced in cooperation with Krishnan Surendran at Jumana House, Riyadh, KSA Tel 009661 402 4785 Fax: 00966 10 405 9861 If you would like to contribute to a future edition please telephone or send an email to info@sbtd.co.uk A full page advert is charged at BD300. A half page advert at BD180, A quarter page advert at BD100 A small panel at BD50 Please note: The BBBF nor its agents do not warrant the services of any of the individual or corporate members of the BBBF. The views and opinions expressed by independent contributors must not be regarded as those of the BBBF or its agents. Publication of any article or advertisement does not imply any endorsement of the views, products or services described therein.
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Why Join The BBBF? BAHRAIN The Pearl of the Gulf has had a long standing relationship with Britain and is still a major trading partner. BRITISH Trade with Bahrain is now subject to significant competition in this era of globalization particularly from countries in Europe and from the USA.
Membership directories are distributed to members of visiting Trade Missions and are available to businessmen visiting Bahrain through the Embassy and business centres in five star hotels. Simply click on “Sign Up” on our website www.bbbforum.org complete the application form and click submit. Sounds simple, it is, it must be worth it.
BUSINESS between Bahrain and Britain must be promoted in order for Britain to maintain its dominant position. The BBBF has been formed to help in whatever way it can to do this and through its close cooperation with the British Embassy seeks to promote exchange of trade and good relations between Bahrain and Britain.
Cost of membership Individual Membership: BD 50 per annum, with an additional BD20 once-only registration fee.
FORUM Is defined in the Collins English Dictionary as, “an assembly or meeting to discuss topics of public concern”. The BBBF provides through its monthly meetings a platform for networking amongst its members and the exchange and dissemination of useful business leads and opportunities. In addition, in return for a modest subscription, members receive the benefit of inclusion in an annual directory describing the products and services they have to offer and a listing on the BBBF website again with a description of activities, contact numbers and useful links.
Corporate Sponsorships Three levels of sponsorship are available:
BBBF Membership Application
Corporate Membership: BD150 per annum (up to 5 individuals) plus BD 40 for each applicant up to a maximum of 10, with an additional BD 50 once-only registration fee.
Platinum: BD 2500 each year for three years Gold: BD 2500 for one year Silver: BD 1000 for one year Sponsor packages include a variety of advertisement opportunities in the Membership Directory, the Forum magazine, the BBBF website and at the regular lunch meetings. Full details are available on request.
Corporate Membership please complete separate form for each applicant
Please complete the membership form and send it to: Individual Membership BBBF Administration Manager, Fax: (00973) 1781 3489, or Email: bbbforum@batelco.com.bh. For further information call (00973) 1781 3488, Web site: www.bbbforum.org Company Name
Website address of business (if applicable)
Title and full name (Surname first)
Describe how you / your company contribute to substantial business interests in Bahrain (Maximum 150 words)
Position in business
Nationality
Date of Birth
CPR Number
Address of business (P.O.Box & Town)
Business telephone
Facsimile
Home telephone
Mobile
E-mail address
I agree to abide by the BBBF Constitution & Internal regulations.
Applicants Signature
Please note that the granting of individual or corporate membership is subject to BBBF Committee approval.
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BBBF - Special Interest Groups SIG - Security As the summer temperatures start to prickle on your skin the Special Interest Group Security, SIG (S), will have completed six meetings of which one was in partnership with the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) where we were invited to attend their bi-annual briefing; of which I will return to in a moment. Since our last article, in the Spring edition of the BBBForum, the SIG (S) has been working hard in the background cultivating partnerships and future speakers in both the Security and Business fraternities with the objective of bringing to the fore issues that impact on us all in the commercial world here in Bahrain. As time stands still for no man nor does the relentless pace of change that confronts us each day as we jump in our cars and set off to work wondering what that day will bring.
it’s Guards to the Guards Training School (GTS) of the Ministry of Interior to complete an intensive course which has a duration of one month.
Security is no different in it’s need to keep one step ahead, be it Technology to Construction, and to the actual role of Manned Guarding. Whatever your view point, the regulation or licensing of the Security Industry has started and although it has a long way to go, it is here to stay.
With this all in mind the Director of the GTS, Andrew Stevenson, joined us for our May monthly meeting and presented an in-depth look at the School, it’s training and it’s objectives especially that of working towards becoming a “centre of excellence” for Security Training for the Gulf and the Middle East. Questions covered a range of issues that will and are affecting not only the impact on the Guarding Companies but also the impact on the Client; as somewhere down the line the cost will have to be borne by them. A more detailed report of the meeting will be forwarded to SIG (S) members but needless to say there are still some quite concerned Guarding companies and individuals who have yet to take the plunge into this new world of regulation.
The law with regards to the Private Security and Guarding Services Companies came into being in 2006 and was supplemented by Ministerial Orders in 2007. These are now being implemented across Bahrain with the Contract Guarding Companies having to send
Two notable achievements for the GTS training Team is the awarding of the City & Guilds and ISO accreditations which came after a lot of hard work by all concerned and some burning of the midnight oil by David Bowden, the person heading the accreditation project.
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Our meetings have been well attended with a good cross section of Security and Business professionals which in turn has enhanced the value of subjects covered and the chance to network across the differing industries present in Bahrain and the Region. We have also been able to reach out to organisations such as the American Chamber of Commerce, Bahrain Irish Business Network as well as the Bahrain British Business Forum to look at ways where we can interact on facilitating the flow of information and assistance to a wider audience. This is especially important as more and more investment is looking at Bahrain as a hub of operations and would like to know more at the grass roots level. As part of our development contacts have been forged with two oganisations that have been set up to assist the Business fraternity world wide and here in Bahrain work in partnership with that goal, namely: • (UK) Security Information Service for Business Overseas (SISBO) • (US) Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) In truth, a number of our membership are members of both organisations so it was with this in mind that
we combined our June meeting with the OSAC biannual briefing after receiving an invitation from their Executive Committee. This was a particularly interesting meeting which included a wider audience and gave a good insight into the workings of an organisation that is world wide in it’s membership; with a very strong interactive group of Country Councils within the Region and here in Bahrain. The SIG (S) will seek to form a business partnership with both organisations going forward which should in turn be to our benefit as our development goes from strength to strength. Finally, I can report a good healthy first six months for the BBBF Special Interest Group (Security) of which I must express my sincere thanks to all those of you who have assisted the group in their continued development and of course a special vote of thanks to the BBBF Committee who have had to put up with the group secretary’s constant badgering for their time. Our next meeting will take place on Wednesday 16 th July where we will be visiting a new facility here in Bahrain of which further details are available from:
Tony Palys at bbbf.sigs@gmail.com
Hunger not acceptable in today’s world Anti-Hunger TNT partners with United Nations World Food programme in reaching out to the hungry
Prompted by a horrifying statistic quoted in an article ‘that every five seconds a child dies from hunger’ which was read by TNT CEO, Peter Bakker in November 2001 on one of his flights, the ‘Walk the World’ Programme, one of TNT’s initiatives to fight world hunger came into action. “The article also noted that while there was enough food in the world for everyone; it just wasn’t reaching the places where it’s needed most. That made it even worse,” recalls Bakker. “So fighting hunger is, to a certain extent, a logistics issue. It seemed to me that TNT was in a unique position to help solve this problem. Our company has the skills, systems and people that could make a real difference”.
A few months later, Bakker began discussions with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) to find out how TNT skills could support the agency in reaching the hungry. They visited some of WFP’s development and emergency projects and saw the incredible work they are doing and together agreed on a set of project initiatives and began to make plans to implement them. The partnership between TNT and WFP is an excellent example of the way private corporations can cooperate with United Nations agencies to do vital life-saving work. TNT has played an important role in raising awareness and funds for WFP’s fight against hunger.
Whether refugees are fleeing war or drought is destroying
global walk raised almost $1,000,000; enough to feed 20,000 children for one year through WFP’s school feeding programme. The numbers are expected to increase in the weeks to come. TNT was able to do this through cause-related marketing campaigns; the dispatch of employees around the world to assist WFP’s School Feeding programme, and encouraging fundraising among employees, suppliers and customers.
Across 24 time zones and in more than 250 locations the
“Walk the World is the event to raise awareness for all the children who suffer from hunger every day,” said Peter Bakker. “At TNT we believe that hunger is not acceptable in today’s world. I am proud that so many employees, their families and friends on all continents of the world have actively taken part in this Walk to show their solidarity and to raise funds to give these children the daily meal they deserve.”
voluntary contributions to finance its operations, with donations made in cash, food or services. Governments are the biggest single source of funding and the agency invites every UN member state to contribute. Private sector and individual donors also make vital contributions.
million people in over 80 countries in a year but at any given moment, many of the agency’s key projects run the risk of a break in food supplies due to lack of funding. This can have a devastating impact on beneficiaries who often rely entirely on assistance from WFP to survive.
WFP operations reach an average of more than 90
For more information see the website at www.wfp.org
Beginning of June, 2008 saw thousands of children, who know what it feels like to be hungry, take to the streets, together with TNT- and Unilever-employees, their families and friends. From Indonesia to Guatemala, more than 250,000 people in 70 countries participated in End Hunger - Walk the World.
The tsunami disaster of 2004 farmland, hunger is often the first emergency.
The number of food emergencies has been rising over the past two decades, from an average of 15 per year during the 1980s to more than 30 per year since the turn of the millennium.
turned out to be a defining moment for the partnership. The way WFP and TNT responded demonstrated the depth andNew strength of their willingness to work together. With emergency operational procedures already in place, TNT was able to move swiftly and efficiently, transporting emergency response goods, staff and food to assist the six countries affected by the devastating catastrophe and it meant that WFP could provide relief aid far sooner than would have been possible in the past.
Whatever the cause - natural or man-made - hunger is one of the first threats to survival. Among the Millennium Development Goals which the United Nations has set for the 21st century, halving the proportion of hungry people in the world is top of the list. The agency relies entirely on
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Standard Chartered introduces the “Dream Account” New unique accounts with the opportunity to win two Lexus Cars Standard Chartered Bank launched its Dream Account campaign in April, a first of its kind range of deposit products in Bahrain, catering to different individual banking needs. The Bank has designed an account for every member of the family focusing on their specific needs. For Women there is a Diva Account, for Children a unique Junior Account and for salaried individuals, an Executive Account. With the launch of Dream Account, Standard Chartered Bank will offer its customers across these three segments a chance to win two Lexus ES350 cars. For Executive and DIVA accounts, there is an instant prize of a Motorola phone for the first 400 accounts opened and for the first 500 Junior accounts, a free ticket to the Lost Paradise amusement park. The minimum balance to qualify
for the draw is BD 500 and with every extra BD 100 customers get an additional chance to win. The promotion will run from 22 April 2008 to end December 2008. Martin Fish, Chief Executive Officer Bahrain said “Customers need different services at different times in their life, The launch of this innovative range of accounts recognises that not all users of financial services need the same kind of bank account.” B. Chandrasekhar, Regional Head Consumer Banking Standard Chartered Bank said, “Our mission is to provide the best services and products to our customers and the launch of the Dream Account is another step in this direction. We have three exciting products aimed at different members of the family, women, children and the
salaried individual. We will continue to introduce more innovative products in the future. Standard Chartered is the First Bank in Bahrain and has a network of 5 branches and a sales outlet. Standard Chartered’s key brand promise is clear and simple, we believe in establishing ourselves as our customers’ Right Partner in their banking and financial needs. We aim to offer
integrated product and services that allows customers to live up to their aspiration. Therefore, Standard Chartered is built on our bank wide “Right Partner” experience platform. The Dream Account is available today at all of Standard Chartered’s 5 branches. For further information on Dream Account Campaign, please contact the nearest Standard Chartered Branch or call 1753 1532.
Commodity Markets: Coping with the global economic slowdown Standard Chartered Bahrain hosted a client event themed “Commodity Markets: Coping with the global economic slowdown” for forty of their top corporate clients in Bahrain recently. The commodity briefing started with an interactive media roundtable led by Sami Mahfouz, Head Global Markets Bahrain & Levant, and three in-house specialists from Standard Chartered global commodity research team as well as regional
Bank extends opening hours 10 Forum
economists – Mary Nicola, Abah Ofon and Dan Smith. The media roundtable was followed by an exclusive client lunch briefing.
commodity markets and the influences of fundamentals. They also presented on the
outlook for the commodity prices and the global, regional and local drives.
During the client event, Martin Fish CEO Bahrain opened the session by presenting a brief overview of the current market situation before handing the stage to the three specialists. The three economists enlightened attendees on highly topical subjects such as cyclical and structural changes within the Standard Chartered Bank have announced extended branch banking hours effective from April 2008. The new extended banking hours will include Saturday at the Diplomatic, Budaiya and East Rifa’a branch and also additional banking hours at the Diplomatic branch from 5:00pm – 08:00pm. For other timings please contact the branch.
Financial News Middle East Rich set to get richer The total value of super-rich or high-net worth individuals (HNWI) in the Middle East region is poised to grow from BD642 billion ($1.7 trillion) last year to BD1.285 trillion ($3.4 trillion) by 2012, according to a global study. The forecast amounts to a compound annual growth rate of 15.3%, almost double the global growth rate of 7.7%, states the 2008 World Wealth Report.
reached 10.1 million last year, an increase of 6% from 2006. Anyone in the Middle East lucky enough to have assets worth more than $1 million (BD378,000) can expect to see their wealth double in five years. The region’s rich are about to get even richer, the report added.
The Middle East also boasts the fastest growth of HNWI individuals, at 15.6% last year compared to 2006, the report said.
The report covers 71 nations accounting for more than 98% of global gross national income, as well as 99% of stock market capitalisation. Bahrain did not feature in the 36-page document and the only Gulf-specific figures related to the UAE and Saudi Arabia. But officials said as the report extended into new markets, Bahrain was likely to be included in future.
It has outstripped the emerging markets of the Asian-Pacific at 8.7%, Latin America at 12.2 % and Africa at 10%, as well as Europe and North America. The number of HNWIs globally
The report, a product of global wealth firm Merrill Lynch and consulting, technology and US-based outsourcing services company Capgemini, does not go into details about the distribution
The report was unveiled in Bahrain at a Press conference at the Diplomat Radisson SAS Hotel in June.
of wealth or touch on the gap between the rich and the poor. Merrill Lynch resident director for the Middle East, Jonty Crosse, said one key finding was that HNWIs in the Middle East sought refuge in safer, more traditional investment vehicles due to market uncertainties. He said this meant domestic markets gained strong favour, as investors across all regions await further developments in global markets. The report also found that luxury collectables among HNWIs in the Middle East such as cars, boats and jets accounted for 16% of the socalled ‘passion dollars’ they spent.This was followed closely by jewellery, gems and watches (15%); luxury consumables (14%); and experimental travel (13%). Other items on the wish-list of HNWIs were collectables such as coins and antiques,
as well as investments in sporting teams. “The increase in the number of private jets probably demonstrates that people are extremely busy around the GCC, the Middle East and the world and they want the flexibility of travel whenever they want to,” said Crosse. Another key finding of the report was that the level of investment in green technologies and alternative energy sources in the Middle East ranks alongside other parts of the world. It found the number of HNWIs willing to put money into the industry was 20% and 21% for ultra high net worth individuals (UNWIs), people with assets of BD11.3 million ($30 million). Crosse said the report’s findings showed that those who targeted the emerging markets gained the highest returns on their investment, but was unable to estimate the impact of rising inflation in the Gulf.
Merrill Lynch Bahrain celebrates historic employee landmark Merrill Lynch’s Global Wealth Management group in Bahrain recently celebrated two historic employee landmarks. Jonty Crosse, (left in picture) Resident Director for the Middle East and Jassim Habib, (pictured right) senior client service officer, joined Merrill Lynch colleagues to mark their 20th and 15th year respectively of employment with the firm at a company lunch. Mr. Crosse, who has been based in Bahrain for 35 years, joined Merrill Lynch in 1988 as a financial advisor. In his role as Resident 12 Forum
their wealth management needs but also their business requirements.
Director, he has worked closely across Merrill Lynch’s global wealth management and investment
banking teams to deliver the full range of Merrill Lynch’s products and services to its clients, addressing not only
Mr. Habib, a Bahraini national, joined Merrill Lynch in 1993 as a client service associate and was promoted to senior client service officer in 2003. Jassim has been instrumental in helping develop Merrill Lynch’s Middle Eastern Global Wealth Management business by managing clients’ investments and providing additional operational services to ultrahigh net worth individuals, families and institutions.
Financial News Bahrain to spend $133m on skills boost Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and chairman of the Labour Fund, Dr. Nazar Al Baharna, (pictured right) says Bahrain will make broad changes in the labour market that will enable the private sector to fuel Bahrain’s future economic growth. The reform project will improve the quality of the workforce and prepare it for the realities of the global economy to make their skills more attractive to foreign companies interested in initiating or expanding operations to the Gulf. The broad effort includes creating job opportunities, providing social security, improving working conditions, and investing in human capital through training and development. In all, the Labour Fund has formulated 14 wide-ranging, proactive initiatives to improve the labour market. Dr. Al Baharna made his comments at the opening of the second Strategy Consultation Forum hosted by the Labour Fund. At the event, public and private sectors addressed the best ways to confront challenges facing the
Under this scheme, 1,500 enterprises and 300 companies in the financial sector will be supported, said LF vice-president for human capital development, Dr Ahmed Abdul Ghani Al Shaikh.
Bahraini labour sector. Dr. Al Baharna praised the event for inclusiveness and promised that the government will continue to consult and work with many stakeholders to ensure new and innovative ideas. According to the Gulf Daily News, the Labour Fund is reportedly ready to inject BD50 million ($132.98 million) into the economy over the coming three years, to train Bahrainis and develop small and medium businesses. Of this, BD29 million will be spent on human capital development, benefiting 12,000 Bahrainis. The remaining BD21 million will be spent on developing mainly small and medium private sector enterprises.
Addax Bank obtains Saudi licence Addax Bank, as part of its regional expansion plans, has obtained an investment banking license from the Capital Market Authority in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, for its SR 200 million Saudi affiliate – Addax Capital. “We have obtained a license to operate in the Saudi Market, the largest market in the Middle East. The launch of Addax Capital in the Saudi market will enable our 14 Forum
investors to penetrate the Saudi market and have access to vast untapped investment opportunities there, said Yousef Al Essa, CEO of Addax Bank. “Saudi Arabia is the largest economy in the GCC and MENA region and one with significant potential. Therefore, we are very optimistic about the future of Addax Capital which will be supported by Addax Bank in
The project includes an Enterprise Development Support (EDS) scheme, which will help enterprises to enhance their business productivity and strengthen their presence in the market. “The EDS programme is a co-financing scheme, with LF contributing between 50 and 70% of the associated costs, up to a maximum of BD10,000 for small enterprises and up to BD15,000 for medium enterprises,’ he said. “The agreements for both human capital development and private sector industry growth were signed last year. However, the projects will be implemented over the coming three years.” said Dr Al Shaikh. “The money will come from the training levy paid by
Bahrain. We have a great group of partners in our Saudi venture that will also be an invaluable source of support”, added Yousef Al Essa. Addax Capital is expected to commence operations during the third quarter of 2008 from its headquarters in Riyadh. Services and products to be provided include corporate finance, financial advisory, brokerage, asset management and direct investments.
private sector companies and establishments and with the new labour fees coming into effect next month, the budget and programmes will increase in the coming years.” The LF’s strategy focuses on capitalising and developing value-added Bahraini talents and skills in rewarding careers, supporting the development and attraction of new and emerging industries and enhancing and leveraging existing industries, said Dr Al Shaikh. Bahrain has taken vital steps towards labour market reform, which is an essential stride to ensure that the human capital of the country is developed and that employment is made more attractive for localisation, as well as to improve business performances, said Dr Al Shaikh. “The strive towards labour reform will impact the Kingdom’s economy and raise standards of living as well as pose a challenging commitment to the improvement of services in Bahrain,” he added.
“Addax Bank is accredited with a series of successful private placement deals in the region and is constantly bringing interesting and innovative investment opportunities to its clients” says the press release. The bank, which has won a number of international awards in the finance sector, further states that it has built its reputation on a commitment to innovation and excellence.
Air Industry News Gulf Air expansion in China
Gulf Air goes 100% e-ticketing Bahrain’s national carrier Gulf Air achieved 100% eticketing across its entire network, well ahead of IATA’s deadline of 1 June 2008. The airline has also completed 90% Interline Electronic Ticketing (IET) arrangement with most of its partner airlines.
After the successful debut of its service to Shanghai, Gulf Air, the national airline of the Kingdom of Bahrain, is aiming to expand operations to more destinations in China, one of world’s fastest developing economies. “With this first entry into China, we hope to make Gulf Air the national carrier of trade and investment between ‘Business Friendly’ Bahrain and emerging world superpower China,” Gulf Air Chief Executive Officer Mr. Björn Näf told more than a thousand delegates. Speaking at the Asia Luxury Travel Market (ALTM) dinner held in Shanghai, Mr. Näf was upbeat about the potential opportunities for trade and investment between the two countries, facilitated by the national carrier. “As the two countries celebrate nearly two decades of diplomatic
relations between Bahrain and the People’s Republic of China, Gulf Air is seeking to play an important part in further strengthening the ties between the two countries,” he said, thanking the Chinese authorities for their cooperation in making the Shanghai connection a reality. Mr. Näf highlighted Gulf Air’s network advantage in the Middle East, which facilitates excellent two-way connectivity to major destinations in the region and further into African and European markets. He also indicated that Gulf Air is looking at expanding its operations to other cities in China so that travellers from China will be able to take advantage of this connectivity. “Whether you want to go to London, Cairo, Khartoum, Beirut, Jordan or Dubai, Gulf Air offers you the best connection through its Bahrain Hub,” said Mr. Näf.
Gulf Air sponsors Pensioners visit Gulf Air have agreed to fly two Chelsea Pensioners to Bahrain foc as part of their support for the BBBF. 16 Forum
The visitors are expected to attend both the New Members evening and the Poppy Ball planned for November.
A dedicated Gulf Air professional team lead by Information Technology embarked on a major project to convert Gulf Air network to electronic ticketing in 2005. Now all Gulf Air destinations are e-ticket enabled, including the new routes to Shanghai and Hyderabad making travel easier and more enjoyable for its passengers. “We are very pleased to be among the world top airlines achieving 100% e-ticketing compliance throughout our network as per our plan and well ahead of time despite the challenges and complexities it involved,” says Gulf Air Chief Executive Officer Mr. Björn Näf. “Our ultimate goal is to provide enhanced customer satisfaction and enhance business travel experience by introducing easier, hassle-free yet secure ticketing system. With the eticketing now fullyimplemented across Gulf Air network and most of our interline partner airlines, our customers can now enjoy the convenience of using a single e-ticket for journeys on Gulf Air and the partner airlines.” E-ticket is by now the default method of issuing tickets for
almost all airlines. It is a secure form of ticketing as the travel data is stored electronically in the reservation system, which can be accessed at any time and is never lost or stolen unlike paper tickets. Passengers can at any time print their e-ticket receipt from the Gulf Air Web site. In addition a passenger with an e-ticket can check in faster by just producing the e-ticket print out and an appropriate ID. “Gulf Air partnered with Sabre Airline Solutions, the world’s leading airline technology provider, to implement the solution and ensure efficient access to the interlining community,” said Gulf Air Director of Information Technology Mr. Jalal Al Qassab. “The solution helps Gulf Air distribute electronic tickets through its own sales channels and travel agencies, as well as checkin passengers with electronic tickets, and issue IETs. We are glad to have accomplished the mission ahead of IATA deadline.” Jim Barlow, Senior Vice President for the SabreSonic Suite of Products, agreed: “It was the partnership and great working relationship between Gulf Air and Sabre that helped this project to proceed so smoothly and efficiently.” In addition to the benefits and convenience to travellers, eticketing also benefits airlines by providing enhanced process efficiency, reduced distribution costs and improved distribution channels.
BBBF members assist Work Experience programme Bridget Penrose-Lyall and Tony Mackie write from the British School of Bahrain to thank the BBBF and its members for their assistance in supporting this year’s Work Experience programme for their 16 to 18 year old students.
Director of the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) was one of those BBBF members who assisted in the programme.
The scheme ran for a week at the end of June and gave fifty plus students the chance to experience business issues covering everything from Dress Code, Timing, Delegation and a sense of responsibility to others.
In welcoming Johana Franz, a student from the school, Alan said: “TRA wishes to support national and international schools in introducing students to the work environment. Further, in 2007 TRA recruited four Bahraini graduates with the view to developing the local expertise in ICT regulation”.
Mr. Alan Horne, General
Johana’s
James Griffiths pictured above left and Lucinda Heaton above right were two of the students who took a look at school life from the other side of the desk. Waleed Zafar and Tariq Mousa got to prepare a special menu at Krumz. Rosephine Fernandes pictured below left spent her time at The Bookcase whilst Justine Lechouc (below right) engaged in a myriad of activities at Ernst & Young.
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one
week
intensive training program focused on the general business tasks and activities such as updating database, writing letters and assisting in day-to-day activities. At the end of the training program Johana will learn about effective business communications, team working, time management, achieving targets and building interpersonal skills.
Real Estate, Hassan Mansouri Group, BIC, Pennys, Jim’s Restaurant, United Adjusting Services, British Embassy, TNT, Dessange, British School of Bahrain, Ernst and Young, Nexus, Bookcase, American Mission Hospital, Golden Tulip Hotel, Gulf Hotel, Solios Services, The British Club, APM Terminals, AHI, Arcapita, KPMG Fakhro.
Participants included:
The experience these students gained is immeasurable and the school is very grateful to all participants.
SICO, Atkins, Royal Sun Alliance, Trowers and Hamlins, Star International
Catriona Mather and Christina Ashmole pictured above left and right got into some serious hairdressing as staff at Jacques Dessange practised for a forthcoming wedding.
Below left; Alan Horne with Johana Franz at the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) Below right; Eman Shaheen in the Star International Real Estate Office.
Nadine Heimhofer, pictured above with Rodel spent her time in training with the Customer Service Department at TNT. Below Olivia Jenkins is pictured helping out at Pennys and pictured right, Holly Groeneveld spent a week at UAS Whitelaw and was able to participate in various meetings and risk surveys.
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Queen Elizabeth II is the fortieth monarch since William the Conqueror obtained the crown of England. Her real birthday is on April 21, but it is celebrated officially in June in many countries around the world. Her Majesty usually spends her actual birthday privately at Windsor with friends and family whilst her official birthday is always marked in the same way with the Trooping of the Colour ceremony and a fly-past over Buckingham Palace. The tradition of having an official birthday for the Sovereign was begun for practical reasons. Monarchs who had their birthdays in the winter months often encountered problems due to cold, wet weather spoiling parades and other outdoor celebrations. The celebrations in Bahrain this year coincided with the departure of Steve Harrison, Her Majesty's Deputy Ambassador to the Kingdom, who is taking up a position with the Bahrain Economic Development Board. Many BBBF members were among the guests.
What’s New at American Mission Hospital So what can you do as individuals? You should know your readings for Blood Pressure, Cholesterol and Blood Sugar but how do you know if you’re unhealthy? Well if your Blood Pressure is over 140/90, Cholesterol is above 200mg/dl ( 6.5mmol/L), Blood Sugar is above 110mg/d (6.1mmol/L). You may be prone to a heart attack, stroke and/or diabetes and if you are overweight as well then you need to do something about it. When you are an institution interlinked with the development of Bahrain, one major challenge is how to keep up with the rapid changes that are taking place all around us. Bahrain is probably growing more rapidly now than at any time during the 105 years that American Mission has been here. So what are we doing to cope with these changes? Our patient numbers have been growing by over 15% through our locations in Manama and Saar. We need to expand Saar in the near future and are also examining ways to take the American Mission brand into other areas of Bahrain to meet demand. A few words about Saar Medical and Dental Centre which has shown tremendous growth since it opened. We have extended our opening hours at Saar to improve services (now 8am – 10pm, 7 days a week) and also added specialties such as orthopedics and 22 Forum
physiotherapy on certain days so that it is no longer necessary to always travel into Manama. We have also started a Sports Fitness Assessment Package in Saar to test your fitness for taking up exercise or starting a new one. In Manama we are expanding the type of care that we offer.
New Services Special Care Baby Unit We have opened a Special Care Baby Unit so that we can now look after babies that need special medical care and attention. For example, premature babies need special care because the systems and organs of their body are not yet fully developed. Babies that have a difficult birth and those with congenital defects again need specialist care. We have recruited a Neonatalogist, a doctor specialising in the care of
babies, to run the unit.
Smoking Cessation Clinic According to World Health Organisation figures, smoking kills 5 million people every year worldwide and that figure is expected to rise to 10 million by 2020. We are lucky to have Dr Babu Ramachandran to head up our clinic. He has been performing that role, but we have now formalised the clinic and given it a dedicated location in Manama. (Just follow the signs)
Healthy Living Smoking contributes to poor health and can be reduced by stopping, but there are other actions we take that contribute to our good or bad health. If you eat too much, drink too much, don’t exercise, drive too fast or don’t get enough sleep, then your health is likely to suffer.
A simple visit to have your blood taken to determine your cholesterol and blood sugar levels is the first step. What is overweight ? As a quick guide try the following Body Mass Index. BMI is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, overweight and obesity in adults. It is defined as the weight in kilograms divided by the square of the height in meters (kg/m2). For example, an adult who weighs 70kg and whose height is 1.75m will have a BMI of 22.9. BMI = 70 / 1.752 = 22.9 20 – 25 is normal, 25 – 30 is overweight and 30 and over is considered obese. There are more details in the AMH Family Health magazine.Reducing calories is always a good idea but make sure you make at least one business lunch a month – the BBBF one!
AMH Corporate Services for Employers Healthy employees are more productive and we have started to run basic medical checks to see how healthy company employees are in Bahrain. With a series of simple tests we can track the levels of blood pressure, obesity and blood sugar in your employees and identify those at risk.
We also offer Basic First Aid courses for selected employees so that at least if there is an emergency you have employees that know how to react. We may be 105 years old but we are still learning new tricks.
Rob Grey Director Communications & Development American Mission Hospital
For all Golfers The AMH Island Classic Golf Tournament dates have been set for 6, 7, 8 November and there are still opportunities for you to join us as sponsors. For more details speak to Rob Grey. Mobile: 3966-3452
Where you live could limit your life expectancy ! Did you know that people living in the South West are more likely to live until their mid seventies than those living elsewhere in England and Wales? According to a survey published in May by the Office of National Statistics males in the South West had a 70% chance of living to 75 compared with a 62% chance in the North East while females had an 80% chance in the South West and 74% chance in the North East. The research also showed that at local authority level males and females were most likely to live into their mid seventies in East Dorset. Women in the area had an 86% chance of reaching 75 while men had a 78% chance. At the other end of the spectrum, males were least likely to live to 75 in Manchester where they only had a 52% chance while femailes had only a 67% chance in Baenau Gwent. The full report is available on line from the Office for National Statistics: www.statistics.gov.uk/statbase/Product.asp?vInk=6725
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News from the BIC New opening hours for Kart Zone Bahrain International Circuit will be opening Kart Zone at all-new times for the summer months. Open three days a week, on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, Kart Zone will be opening its doors from 5pm through to 11pm until the end of August. With karts reaching top speeds of 50kph, drivers can learn the basics and build the foundations to racing. Fastest times will be recorded and podium finishers will be noted, so
visitors to the BIC will be able to race against friends at Kart Zone. The technical team recently modified the track to make for added excitement. Marshals will be on-site to monitor racing on the 700metre long track, as will fire and rescue teams so visitors can race in a safe and secure environment. Many international drivers had their beginnings in karting including Michael Schumacher, Lewis Hamilton, Fernando Alonso and Kimi Raikkonen.
Corporate Summer Special hits BIC Bahrain International Circuit, the home of motorsport in the Middle East, will be doubling the excitement this summer by offering a corporate summer promotion that will extend from June through to September.
Circuit where they will see firsthand the iconic landmark, AlSakhir Tower. Boasting a stunning view of the circuit from the eighth floor, the rooftop overlooks 90% of the track and enjoys a 360 degree view.
The corporate summer package includes three exciting activities for guests to participate in throughout the day in one of the most unique settings in the region.
Visitors will also experience a whole new world at BIC including visits to the Media Centre, home to 450 journalists and photographers during international sporting events, and to Race Control, the central nervous system for all racing events.
Clients wishing to book the offer will be taken on an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Bahrain International 24 Forum
New
Following the tour of the circuit
guests will be invited to experience the thrills of our unique 4x4 off-road course, which features over 32 daring obstacles, driving either a Hummer H2 or H3. This fantastic experience will be followed by a karting head to head finale at Kart Zone where the winners of the day will be rewarded with trophies and
certificates as a lasting memento. The package also includes a delicious lunch which can be served either before or after the event and refreshments which will be supplied throughout the tour. Visit the website, www.bahraingp.com for further details.
Bahrain Construction Update Bahrain’s Grand Outdoors The importance of the public realm is of increasing significance in the progression of Bahrain as an internationally acclaimed city. Increasingly renowned for its signature architecture, the landscaping and urban design of public spaces is rapidly becoming just as important. Spearheading the movement is the Sheikh Khalifa Al Kubra Park, situated in East Riffa. The name ‘Al Kubra’ means ‘Grand’ in Arabic, complementing the fact that this Community Park, 8 hectares in size, will become the benchmark in the creation of future outdoor spaces in Bahrain.
Already established within the urban fabric, Al Kubra will offer visitors and local residents an abundance of leisure and recreational uses, including sporting facilities, retail, children’s entertainment zones, water and sculptural features, an amphitheatre, al fresco dining, and a central market square intended to become the heart of the park. Arterial path and cycleways will flow from the central square taking people on a journey to explore and experience the whole park. In 2006, the Ministry of Municipalities and Agricultural Affairs commissioned Atkins to undertake the concept
$3b Qatar-Bahrain causeway contract signed Paris-based Vinci Construction Grands Projets, leader of a consortium of construction companies, and Middle East Dredging Company, Medco have signed the design-build contract for the causeway between Qatar and Bahrain with the Qatar-Bahrain Causeway Foundation. The contract is worth $3 billion. The Qatar-Bahrain causeway project calls for the design and construction of a 40 km two-lane dual carriageway between Qatar and Bahrain. The road will run over a total of 18 km of embankments where the sea is shallow and 22 km of viaducts and bridges over deep water, including two 400 metre cable-stayed bridges over shipping channels. The dredging will be carried out by Medco. Work will start 26 Forum
after nine months of studies and will be completed in 51 months, Vinci said in a statement yesterday. The construction company joint venture comprises VINCI Construction Grands Projets (leader), QDVC (a Qatari subsidiary owned 51 per cent by Qatari Diar and 49 per cent by VINCI Construction Grands Projets, Hochtief and CCC. The Friendship Bridge will create a direct link between Qatar and Bahrain, promoting trade and travel between the two countries. At present, the journey by road takes five hours; with the causeway, it will only take about 30 minutes.
Shaikh Khalifa Al Kubra Park will be the first major public realm development in Bahrain focusing on providing outdoor entertainment and leisure facilities.
through to detailed designs, which were recently granted Ministerial approval. Construction of Al Kubra is scheduled to begin this
autumn, with the park expected to be completed and ready for enjoyment Spring 2010.
GCC invests $18bn in new steel plants More than $18 billion is being invested in 46 steel manufacturing plants throughout the Arabian Gulf in an attempt to close the widening gap between supply and demand for steel. Steel is a major component for the construction industry as well as materials handling machinery for manufacturing.
research company Proleads, which monitors major construction projects across the region from initial study to completion, Saudi Arabia with 17 and the UAE with 16 are leading the way in steel plant projects, individually varying in value from $15 million to $2 billion. Oman has six steel plants on the books, Bahrain four and Qatar three.
While there is talk of a slowdown in other parts of the world, the growth in the Middle East manufacturing base continues to expand with demand for steel far outstripping supply. In the race to plug the supply gap a swathe of new steel plant projects as well as expansions to existing plants have been unveiled across the region with huge potential business opportunities for industry stakeholders.
Topping the list of projects is an integrated complex of steel factories in Saudi Arabia which will turn out 500,000 tonnes a year of railway track, three million tons a year of iron and steel processing and production plant and 800,000 tonnes a year of pipeline manufacturing plant. Of the top 10 projects, four are in Saudi Arabia, three in the UAE, two in Qatar and one in Oman.
According to the database of
Memex provides a unique
Bahrain Construction Update Green Architecture for Sustainable Urbanisation Nicholas Bailey, architectural Design Director of the Northern Gulf, presented to the United Nations Economic & Social Council (ECOSOC) on Sustainable Urbanisation. ECOSOC were in the Middle East in June undertaking regional meetings with sustainable experts to inform and contribute to the Annual Ministerial Review in New York towards the end of the year. 2008’s review will focus on implementing the internationally agreed goals and commitments in regards to sustainable development, and will provide a forum for national governments, local authorities and civil society to assess the evolution of a platform for suppliers to network and conduct business with organisations currently producing or manufacturing in the Middle East or with plans to do so, said a statement. After its successful debut in 2007, Memex has established itself as the region’s leading manufacturing exhibition. New this year will be Industryscape, a complementary vertical show which runs in parallel with Memex. Industryscape will be the region’s first dedicated trade show for industrial, manufacturing and production real estate. Industryscape, managed by the organisers of Cityscape, the world’s largest businessto-business real estate show, will bring together international investors, developers, governments and investment authorities, leading architects, designers and consultants.
unified sustainable action plan. Topics discussed included, the affordability of sustainable technology, the benefits realised so far from the implementation of local ‘Green Architecture’, how the principles of sustainable urban planning can be applied in less economically affluent areas and how to convey lessons learnt in constructing ‘Green Buildings’. Nicholas Bailey also highlighted key sustainable projects that Atkins are working on within the region, notably Mahboula Towers (Kuwait), Durrat Crescent North Horn (Bahrain) and
Bombay Textile Commercial Office (India). This latest project in Mumbai is currently breaking boundaries by undergoing Platinum LEED rating certification solely on its passive energy-reducing techniques, and not including active energy renewables. Other sustainable experts
presenting on behalf of the Middle East included, Dr Ali Abd Akraouf, Associate Professor of Architecture, Mr Parasuraman Ramachandran, Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors, World Green Building Council, and Ms Habiba Al Marashi, VicePresident, Emirates Environmental Group.
Sand dredging project to be ready soon The Undersecretary of Public Works Affairs at the Ministry of Works, Nayef Omar Al Kalali, has announced that the marine sand dredging project, which would pump sand to the local construction market, would be completed by the monthend. The announcement was made following a visit to the marine sand mine borrow area, 20 kms north of Manama main island. Al Kalali was accompanied by Sayyed Bader Al Alawi, head of special projects at the Roads Projects and Maintenance Directorate, T. J. Blum, regional manager Middle East at Boskalis Westminster and Saw Vyapak, resident engineer at Hyder Consulting which is in charge of supervision, and representatives from Dutch company, Boskalis
used in the operation. The sand dredging project began this April and 250,000 cubic metres of sand has been pumped to the North Manama Causeway project leading to the Bahrain Financial Harbour. Westminster, which is implementing the project. The delegation visited the site on board the Hopper Dredger Coastway. The Coastway captain, I. Blokpoel, explained the technique of dredging, transporting of sand on the Hopper Dredger and pumping it into specific locations in Manama and Muharraq. He also referred to the environmental requirements adopted in locating suitable borrow areas. Al Kalali toured various parts of the project and inspected the technological methods
Work on providing the second consignment of another 250,000 cubic metres has commenced in Busaiteen, where 70% of the project has been completed. “Sand pumping into the local market will start soon. This is an effort by the ministry to control sand prices, following directives from the Cabinet,” Al Kalali said. He said 90% of work on the North Manama Causeway leading to the Bahrain Financial Harbour had been completed and the remaining work is expected to be finished by mid-July. Forum
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Bahrain Construction Update GCC construction boom ‘hits basic resources’ The enormous growth in the construction industry across the GCC has put a tremendous strain on basic resources, mainly building materials, equipment and labour.
they continuously face pressure to deliver on their huge fast-track projects,’ said Saudi Readymix marketing and business development manager, Fadi Mujahed.
According to Meed, the business intelligence group, the total value of current projects in the region is $1.3 trillion, with Saudi Arabia accounting for 25%.
‘Specifically, they are looking for suppliers who would share, if not eliminate, the burden of ordering and receiving the required quantities of resources on time.’
The massive demand has led to a sharp increase in construction costs, which local analysts have noted is costing contractors in Saudi Arabia an average of a 20% loss in revenue on their projects. ‘The onus is really on the contractors of mega projects to partner with capable suppliers who are able to provide effective and reliable solutions as
‘Ready-mixed concrete is a prime example of this because it cannot be ordered all at once and stored like other building materials such as steel, wood and blocks. Thus, securing the required quantities is a daily issue for project managers.’ ‘The key question most contractors in Saudi Arabia must ask themselves then
Ithmaar to unveil BD2b realty firm Hotest news in June is that Ithmaar Bank will lead a consortium of regional institutional investors to launch Naseej, a first regional realty firm with an authorised capital of BD2 billion and paid-up capital of BD300 million, aimed at providing affordable housing to the mediumsized income segment of society. The firm plans to carry out the development and construction services, manufacturing and importing building materials, facilitymanagement services, mortgage services, realestate planning and consultancy services as well as marketing services. 28 Forum
“The launch of Naseej is an important milestone in Bahrain’s economic progression and is an example of the successful collaboration of private sector institutions working in tandem to address the growing socio-economic issues. Bahrain’s construction industry has been plagued by constraints and skill shortages for far too long which has caused delays to several megadevelopments and hindered the growth of the economy. ”Naseej was born out of our collective desire to eliminate these constraints and accelerate the development of our nation through the creation of a fully integrated,
is, how do we ensure a reliable and adequate supply of essential resources from suppliers in order to deliver on time?’ This availability of resources directly impacts contractor profit, as project owners and investors are imposing strict financial penalties on contractors who deliver late in order to protect their sizeable investments, Mujahed said. He said that over the next five years, large and mega projects alone in Saudi Arabia will require an estimated 52 million tonnes of cement. This staggering figure, which he believes will continue to increase as more mega projects are announced, is causing a shift in perspective where reliable suppliers are now real estate development company that would manage the entire spectrum of the construction and real estate business from the initial planning stages to the manufacture of building materials, financing and marketing advisory services for developments,” said Khalid Janahi, Ithmaar Bank chairman. The company will initially focus on the Bahrain market but plans to expand its footprint to other Gulf countries and beyond. The consortium consists of nine regional institutions constituting the Ithmaar’s founding shareholders and three-fifths of its initial paidup capital being contributed by the company’s founding shareholders including the
viewed as full-time partners critical to project success. ‘When we sign a contract and establish the timeline and the deliverables, we agree to strict delivery schedules,’ said Consolidated Contractors Company (CCC) general construction manager Mohammed Al Ramahi. ‘If a deadline passes us by without us having met the stated deliverables, we can face liquidated damages of up to 10pc of the total value of the project,’ he said. ‘And with the size and cost of the projects today, the incentive to deliver on time every time is definitely there. The issue becomes the ability to meet project requirements while maintaining a consistently high level of quality and this is why partnering with a trusted and reliable supplier is so important. Social Insurance Organisation (the merged entity of the Pension Fund Commission and General Organisation of Social Insurances), Al Safat Investment Company, Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait (Kuwait), the Eskan Bank, Palm Capital SPC, Venture Capital Bank, Global Investment House (Kuwait), Shamil Bank and Ithmaar Development Company. Shareholders will raise the remaining two-fifths of Naseej’s capital through an initial public offering (IPO) to be listed on the Bahrain Stock Exchange later this year. Shares will be set at 100 Bahrain fils per ordinary share. The government of Bahrain Cabinet approved the IPO a couple of weeks ago.
Notes from the Eastern Province
Summer is rapidly approaching and time for most of us to take a well earned vacation – assuming it can be afforded given the significant escalation in oil price and the resulting knock-on effect on prices generally. Saudi Arabia has just called for a special OPEC meeting to discuss the “unjustified” oil price so maybe we will start to see a return to normality in the not too distant future. Let’s see what happens!
Pictures were taken at the QBP held at he British Trade Office in Alkhobar in April. We are saddened to report that John Evans, husband of Terry Evans, the Head of the BTO in AlKhobar passed away in June whilst on a short holiday in Beijing. John is pictured far right in the photo to the right. 30 Forum
The BBA Annual General Meeting (AGM) was held in April with two new committee members being appointed, namely Michael Rollings, aka Rolly (Events) and Zane Thirlwall (Business Development). While it is always good to welcome new blood it was also sad to say goodbye to Tony Mulrain and Gavin Ames both of whom served with distinction and left their mark on the BBA. We wish Tony the best of luck in his new venture in Abu Dhabi and Gavin who is planning to spend more of his free time with his recently obtained family addition. On the social scene, our annual Summer Ball was held on 6 June at the Golden Tulip, Bahrain and once again it seems a great time was had by all. The regular Khobar quiz nights and the Jubail social programme continue to be well supported. For this
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r e be t o m N ew nu n e on h ep el The British Business Association (BBA) – Eastern Province P.O.Box 1868, Oasis Gardens, AlKhobar 31952 Telephone: 03 882 5288 Ext 1651 Fax: 03 882 5384 E-mail: bbakhobar@atheer.net.sa Website: www.bbaep.com
year’s Winter Ball, BBA is looking to join forces with the Bahrain BBF to hold a joint function in Bahrain – watch out for more information on what should be a memorable evening. I believe this cooperation between other business groups is an excellent way to expand the network of business contacts and is of benefit to all. I would also like to note that the BBA office has moved within the same location – the postal address remains the
same but the new contact number is 03-882-5288 Ext. 1651. In addition, we have a new secretary as Donna has moved on to greener pastures. So a big thanks to Donna and a warm welcome to Pam. If you need to contact us then contact me directly or send an e-mail to our Secretary (Pam) at bbakhobar@atheer.net.sa or via the website www.bbaep.com Geoff Fennah Chairman BBA EP
Bahrain Hotel News GCC tourism sector to create 2.5m jobs The GCC as a bloc will create 2.5 million jobs in tourism and the hospitality sector as a result of the new tourism, hospitality, recreation, travelling and retailing projects that have been launched or those under execution in the region, a leading businessman and entrepreneur said recently. Mohammad Dadabhai, the Chairman of Bahrain Institute of Hospitality and Retail (BIHR) said: “Tourism is the largest international industry that all countries are striving to gain its benefits in order to magnetise the national young workforce.” Dadabhai, who was chief guest at the recent opening of BIHR, under the patronage
of the Minister of Labour, Dr Majeed bin Mohsin Al Alawi, said that through training only would our young generation be able to establish their career development in Bahrain and other GCC states.” Dadabai added: “BIHR’s new name and identity is harmonious with the new orientation to train young Bahrainis in various areas of hospitality, retailing and tourism in collaboration with different government bodies and the private sector.” ”We express our thanks and gratitude to the Minster of Labour for honouring this happy event that marks a new era in our institute’s development march which has been receiving support from the Ministry of Labour
and the Labour Fund since its inception in 1999. Qtub Dadabhai, BIHR’s Managing Director added: “We have signed a partnership agreement with the Australian Retailing Association and have Arabised the literature of the Association in a bid to transfer the expertise to Bahrain. Moreover, our strategic relationship with the Educational Institute of the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) is firmly an ongoing one. We are the representative and the sole distributor of the Educational Institute’s Arabic literature. This AHLA’s Educational Institute is one of the most renowned institutes in
hospitality and tourism training sector. The courses and syllabi of this institute are being taught in 1800 colleges in 151 countries worldwide.” Qutub Dadabai added: “We have invested about $2 million to include the establishment of 20 classrooms, 8 training labs as well as a well-equipped kitchen and restaurant in addition to taking up highly qualified local and outsourced human resources.” Bahrain Institute of Hospitality and Retailing have signed an agreement with the Labour Fund to train 1870 Bahrainis in the coming three years as an initial step in a series of strategic steps of Bahrainisation in the hospitality sector.
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Bahrain Hotel News Kids Summer Camp 2008
Being first... for nearly 40 years It is always tough being the first, the market leader, but for the last forty years Gulf Hotel Bahrain has been taking the Bahrain Hotel industry by storm.
Due to the great success of The Ritz Kids Summer Camp in 2007, this year’s activities will be on offer during the following dates: • • • • • • • •
June 22 to June 25 June 29 to July 2 July 6 to July 9 July 13 to July 16 July 20 to July 23 July 27 to July 30 August 3 to August 6 August 10 to August 13
The Ritz Kids Summer Camp is an exciting mix of fun, learning and adventure for children between 5 and 12 years old. The highlights
include a football tournament and swimming competition, tennis, fishing, boat trips, windsurfing, boxing, snorkeling, badminton, volleyball, camp fire, cooking classes, camp sleepover and the closing ceremonies. The Ritz Kids Summer Camp is priced at BD99 for members of The Sports Club & Spa and at BD119 for nonmembers, per course, for four days. Day packages are also available and priced at BD35 for non-members and BD29 for members and inhouse guests.
Stay, Spend and Win!! The Crowne Plaza Bahrain has launched a “Stay, Spend and Win” 2008 summer promotion, offering special rates from BD55 per room per night, alongside the exciting opportunity to win a luxury Jaguar X-Type in a raffle draw. Guests who use the Crowne Plaza Bahrain’s wide variety of exciting food and beverage experiences will also be eligible for the draw by spending BD30 in any of the food and beverage outlets. The offer is valid for every 32 Forum
stay from July 1st 2008 to August 31st 2008. The Crowne Plaza recently opened its newly refurbished Crowne Plaza Club rooms, Deluxe rooms and suites for its guests. The refurbishment involved upgrading the rooms to international standards, complete with state-of-the-art modern-day amenities including satellite channels and internet access. The grand raffle draw will take place at the Crowne Plaza Bahrain on September 7th 2008.
As the first and only independent five star hotel, it has been welcoming guests since 1969. With the largest room inventory of 357 newly rejunevated rooms, large open and spacious lobby, it has been a recognisable symbol of Bahrain hospitality for over four decades. As the first hotel to offer a fully self-contained world class convention centre- The Gulf Convention Centre. With a capacity to host events from 2 to 2500 delegates, across the 21 meeting rooms and 4000 sq metres of convention and exhibition space. As the first hotel to offer resort leisure facilities within a city hotel, in the form of tropical landscape gardens, waterfall and chilled swimming pool with specific childern’s waterfort and wading pool, separate mens and ladies health club and gyms. Continuing this resort feel, this oasis in Bahrain, is the first to offer a selection of 14 different eating and drinking experiences, from the 8 specially designed themed restaurants to the luxuriously modern lounges and concept orientated bars. Thirty years ago this month, the first Arabian Nights events were started at the Gulf Hotel, allowing the visitors and locals alike to enjoy an evening under the stars with a BBQ dinner,
entertainment and traditional activities like camel rides and henna painting. Today this event, ‘Gulf Night Out’ is still as popular as ever and as the hotel has developed, so has the concept and the ability of the hotel to be able to handle diners of up to 1500 people for outdoor events on the island. And last but no means least, the first to offer five star luxury to the residential apartment industry with the development and opening of the Gulf Executive Residence. Offering 97 luxurious one, two and three bedroom apartment suites for the newly arrived resident of Bahrain, the executive staying on a short term contract or the family looking for space as well as luxury on their vacation. ‘Being first has been tough and it is important to always keep reinventing yourself, especially when you are competiting against the major worldwide hotel brands from Accor to the Ritz Carlton. Over the last 40 years the hotel has been acknowledged as a leader and founding father for the hospitality industry of Bahrain, with numerous awards from Bahrainisation and the development and training of local people.’ stated Aqeel Raees, Chief Executive Officer, Gulf Hotels Group. The award as Bahrain’s Leading Hotel in 2006, was an important accomplishment for Gulf Hotel, as it propelled it firmly onto the international radar as a leader and world class property both as a hotel, a resort, a convention centre and residental accommodation provider.
Bahrain News New EY Tax Service Ernst & Young, Bahrain’s leading professional services firm, recently announced the inauguration of its international tax practice, under the leadership of Mubeen Khadir. Mr Khadir, who was until recently a director with an accountancy firm in Melbourne, Australia, has over ten years experience as a tax and corporate lawyer and is a registered barrister and solicitor. Mr Khadir has extensive project management experience as a result of leading large tax and
corporate structuring transactions. He also has extensive experience in the areas of enterprise reorganisation, transfer pricing, due diligence and the acquisition and disposal of businesses. “These are exciting times for Ernst & Young in Bahrain,” commented Tariq Sadiq, the Office Managing Partner. “We are determined to offer the best possible service to our clients and will continue to invest in our staff and our knowledge base to ensure that we really do epitomise quality in everything we do.”
G4S Completes Acquisition of ArmorGroup International plc G4S plc, the world’s leading international security solutions group, is pleased to announce that it has completed its £43.6 million acquisition of ArmorGroup International plc. The impact on G4S here in Bahrain will be significant as they will take responsibility for contracts that cover the US Navy base, US Embassy and other associated security contracts. General Manager for G4S Bahrain, Jerry Lonsdale said “This development is very exciting news and brings with it a major expansion to our business in Bahrain. We are looking forward to working with our new colleagues and ,of course, the customers they now serve. The acquisition fits well with our growth plans in Bahrain as the leading security provider on the island”. ArmorGroup is a leading provider of defensive and protective security services to national governments, multinational corporations and international peace and security agencies operating in hazardous environments. Headquartered in London, it has approximately 8,500 employees and 38 offices in 27 countries. ArmorGroup provides a wide range of capabilities: protective security; risk management and consultancy; security training; weapons reduction and mine action; and development and reconstruction support services. ArmorGroup will further expand G4S’s unrivalled geographic footprint. G4S already has operations in
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over 110 countries with some 530,000 staff but the acquisition adds new markets including Sudan, Afghanistan, Algeria, and Rwanda. The acquisition also enables the sharing of best practice and the capture of synergies in administrative and infrastructure costs in the 19 markets where G4S and ArmorGroup each have existing operations. ArmorGroup has considerable expertise in key niche service areas such as mine clearance and disposal, risk management, kidnap for ransom and extortion services and training services for the military, law enforcement and government agencies. G4S believes there are significant opportunities to develop these specialist services further and sell them to the Group’s international customer base. Nick Buckles, CEO of G4S, said: “ArmorGroup is highly complementary to our existing operations and we believe that the acquisition is an important and logical step in delivering our strategy for accelerated growth and development. ArmorGroup’s experience in providing protective security and other related services, its international presence and strong customer relationships means that it is a natural fit with our existing business. We are excited about the enhanced growth prospects that will flow from the combination of the two businesses and will now concentrate on integrating ArmorGroup into the Group.”
Bahrain News Bahrain plans ‘secret’ Aids centres A report from the Trade Arabia News service says that the first of a nationwide chain of anonymous Aids testing centres will be set up in Manama in July. “We are looking at various options, but have narrowed it down to the Public Health Directorate and the Red Crescent Society HQ,” said National Sexually Transmitted Diseases Programme manager, Dr. Somaya Al Jowder. “Bahrain would be the second country in the region, after Saudi Arabia, to set up such centres” she added. A new set of proposals are also in the offing for comprehensive Aids checks
New advertising Media for Bahrain
on Indian maids coming to work in Bahrain, Dr Al Jowder told a Press conference at the Health Ministry.This is being done after it has been revealed that the majority of expatriate women sufferering from Aids are Indian housemaids,” she said. “There will be an enhanced level of vigil and more comprehensive tests may also be done as part of the measures,” said Dr Al Jowder. “We conducted premarital tests on 10,000 Bahrainis last year for Aids and found only one of them was HIV positive. That is an encouraging sign, since we know the awareness campaigns are reaching somewhere.”
Middle East Media Marketing (MEM) launched its state-ofthe-art Dynamic Digital Advertising Network at a press conference in Adliya in June. The Chairman of MEM / GMI Group, Sheikh Ali Bin Abdulla Bin Hamad Al Khalifa introduced the network of LED signs, which are located throughout the Kingdom at Bahrain International Airport, Adliya, Seef, Juffair, and the Diplomatic Area. Sheikh Ali explained that this is the first time that an “LED advertising network” has been offered to clients in the Middle East region. Advertisers have the opportunity to run their advert across all 5 screens simultaneously, and the
Al-Ansari Group to open new stores The Al-Ansari Group will be “Opening Soon” it’s new stores – ARMANI JEANS and ARMANI JUNIOR at the Al A’ali Shopping Complex, new extension in Seef. In September 2008, we will also be opening two new stores at the World Trade Centre , namely ‘EMPORIO ARMANI’ and ‘GUCCI’ situated in the Moda Mall. 36 Forum
advert itself can range from as little as 5 seconds long up to 60 seconds duration. In addition, an advert can run for just one day, or part of a day, or for up to a year! Sheikh Ali thanked BARCO, the Belgian global technology company, from which the LED signs were purchased, and First Leasing Bank in Bahrain, who financed the project. MEM plans to increase the LED network further in Bahrain in the coming months. MEM is part of a leading OutOf-Home media group in Bahrain, with interests in airport, outdoor, and mall media throughout the Kingdom.
Publication of the BBBForum magazine is entirely financed from advertising revenue. If you would like to advertise in the next edition or in the annual directory, please call Caroline Wilkie on 3671-8115
The Globe Cocktail Lounge Enjoy a relaxing drink before ordering from our extensive Concorde Restaurant menu or try one of our famous cocktails in a comfortable setting. This refurbished lounge is located opposite the Coffee Shop.
Belgrave Arms Decorated in a traditional pub style this bar is opened from 12 noon until 11pm.
Sports Bar
The John Clarke Lounge Comfortably furnished and decorated in cool pastel shades, it’s the ideal place to meet friends or just relax. Situated adjacent to the Coffee Shop, refreshments and snacks are easily available.
The John Clarke Bar A quiet, smoke free environment with a pleasant atmosphere, situated off the above lounge.
The Sports Bar is adjacent to the poolside area and is open from 12 noon on SaturdayThursday and from 11am onwards on Fridays and on public holidays.
Coffee Shop Adjacent to the Lounge, the Coffee Shop is open seven days per week from 10am until 10.30pm.
Concorde Restaurant The Restaurant seats 85 persons and is open for lunch from noon until 3.30pm and for dinner from 6.30pm until last orders at 10pm daily except Fridays when the Restaurant closes at 3pm.
Poolside There is a swimming pool, children’s pool and poolside kitchen. Waiter service is available with a varied menu. Surrounding the pool are sun-loungers, chairs, tables and adjacent there is a lawn where one can relax and sunbathe, eat or drink and at the same time watch the children on the sanded area which has children’s play equipment.
Library Situated above the changing rooms, access may be gained by the adjacent stairs. It has approximately 7,000 volumes in the adult library and 2,500 in the junior library, with regular additions.
Gallery Bar Situated along from the Library, this room is used for private parties, seminars, small functions etc. Members may book this room for private functions.
Windsor Room A large hall used for entertainment and indoor games such as badminton, aerobics and social functions. An excellent stage and dressing rooms add a professional touch to shows and productions. A function bar services the hall and buffet lunch is provided on Fridays from noon until 3pm.
Health Club – “Velocity Fitness Studio” Here we have state of the art facilities – all you need to keep fit. Our highly trained, dedicated fitness instructors will be only too pleased to help and advise you on your personal fitness needs. Our Mission Statement “To meet and exceed members’ expectations through quality service and instruction and to provide a safe and motivating environment”.
Sports & Leisure Activities For raqueteers, we have two flood-lit tennis courts and an active tennis league for those who enjoy the competitive edge. For the very fit and would-be very fit, our squash courts have excellent facilities. Other sports activities include Cricket, Darts, Cycling, Football, and Aqua Aerobics. Other activities of interest available are Drama, Line Dancing, Badminton and Tae Kwon Do.
Bahrain News Standard Chartered Bank appoints new Chief Executive Officer Standard Chartered Bank Bahrain have announced the appointment of Jonathan Morris as the Chief Executive Officer. Prior to his appointment, Jonathan was the Regional Head of Origination & Client Coverage, Africa Region Standard Chartered Bank. Chief Executive Officer Bahrain, Jonathan Morris said: ” We have demonstrated our ability to support the growth of Bahrain and we will continue to strengthen, and grow our business in this market. We believe that Standard Chartered Bank is the Right Partner to its customers and that our service excellence will continue to be a key differentiator. ”
“Bahrain is expected to see sustained economic growth and strengthen its position within the region against the backdrop of strong government policies. We will continue to bring best-inclass products and solutions to our clients to support our vision of becoming the leading international bank in the region. We already have a highly talented and diverse team of people, and a culture that combines performance excellence with a strong set of shared values.” Jonathan added. On Jonathan’s appointment, Regional CEO for Middle East and North Africa (MENA), Shayne Nelson said:
“Jonathan’s experience across our key markets coupled with his solid track record as a Wholesale banker will further reinforce our aim to build Bahrain as one of the gateways to the region while positioning Bahrain’s unique proposition to the wider markets,” Shayne added.
“Standard Chartered has been an integral part of many
Jonathan joined Standard Chartered Bank in 2000 and
New stores for Alosra Jaffar Al Asfoor, Marketing & Deputy Manager writes to tell us that two more Alosra outlets are planned to open in Bahrain within the year. Their first outlet in Najibi Centre in Saar was opened under the name “Spinney’s” on the 24th May 1994, was rebranded to Alosra supermarket in the year 2000. The other exisiting outlet is an Express Shop at Amwaj Islands. Alosra recently launched a new loyalty scheme called “Dividend Club”. In addition to 5% discount on purchases above BD50, on every BD1 spent the customer gets a point. 100 points entitles the member to BD2.5 which can be used for payment in the store. 38 Forum
markets in the MENA region for 88 years. As the first bank in Bahrain, we are privileged to be the economic partner to the country since 1920. As a bank, we have made significant strides in our journey towards the Bank’s aspirations on scale and competitive positioning. We have built a sound business platform in the country and will continue to demonstrate our leadership positioning in core areas of Asia, Africa and the Middle East. has held a number of senior positions in USA, Europe, UAE and Africa. Before his appointment as Regional Head Origination & Client Coverage Africa early this year, he was the Head of Corporate & Institutional banking, UAE & Oman and Regional Head Corporate & Institutional Banking, Europe. He holds Bsc (Hons) Banking and Finance degree from Loughborough University, United Kingdom.
Friendship team reaches Turkey
Alosra regularly runs special promotions and as the Summer months are with us their current campaign “Home Alone” targets husbands who may be staying in Bahrain without their families by offering them items like ready-meals and food to go! As an increasing public awareness of environmental matters develops, Alosra is about to introduce “recyclable” bags into their stores. Products are being sourced now and will be in place later in the year. Meanwhile Jaffar tells us that the counter boys are well trained on how to group customer purchases carefully to reduce the usage of the existing plastic bags.
As the magazine hits the press, the BBBF sponsored Bahrain Team who are promoting friendship across Arabia and Europe have reached Switzerland. The
team will be visiting Land Rover’s Solihull factory July 10 upon their arrival in the United Kingdom where a reception is planned to mark the end of the tour.
New Offices Peter Lyall writes to advise that UAS Whitelaw have moved offices. Their new contact numbers are: Tel: 1782 0520 Fax: 1782 0582
Bahrain News Super Yachts to be built in Bahrain?
Zenith Marine Industries (Zenith) are proposing the development of a major new business sector in Bahrain. This is very ambitious but after 9 months of research and observation Zenith are confident this new industry is possible in Bahrain. The creation of a grand coalition across businesses, society and regulators is required for the “project” to work. Zenith has worked on the “project” for over 4 years now and has spent $8m in
designs, product developments, network liaisons across the world and cost models and market knowledge. Technological developments in numerous areas have been sponsored to date and now all this intellectual property is directly available for the benefit of the “project” and the Bahrain economy. The scale of the project touches very many parts of the Kingdom of Bahrain’s supply chains, the service
providers and the society at large where a 1,000 high quality jobs can be created either directly or indirectly. Zenith does not require or expect any ownership of the shipyards that emanate from the “project”. It is in the interest of Zenith that the “project” exists so Zenith will do all it can to assist the creation and promotion of the “project”. The benefit to Bahrain comes from the export of the products: these are sold at between US$40m and US$140m each item, typically. The factory proposed is scaled to produce up to 10 products a year across the range from 40m superyachts up to the
220m megayacht hotels by Zenith. Industry profitability can easily run between 20% and 40% of gross profit per item. This is an opportunity for those that understand industry and the crossbenefits that come about to whole economy. Sustainable future is key and this is about people. A marine technical and interior design “college” is proposed as a major feature of the factory and such a college can be affiliated with a local University which has design and engineering credentials. New BBBF member Paul Mason has the details for those who want to know more.
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Bahrain News Seminar strikes a chord Jerry Lonsdale, General Manager of G4S Security Services (Bahrain) WLL was the winner of the complimentary VIP place at the recent one day seminar with Dr. Edward de Bono donated by Dr Leila Edwards. The event was held at the Diplomat Hotel on the 1st June. Jerry writes in to Forum to tell us of his experience: As the lucky winner of the free BBBF VIP place at the recent Edward De Bono creative thinking event by virtue of a quick trigger finger on the email response, I was pleased to set aside the day and listen to one of the worlds most respected speakers in this field. We met at the Diplomat Radisson Hotel and it was good to see such a large turnout with almost 300 delegates from across the Middle East and many different nationalities, all determined to learn about taking a different approach to business with particular emphasis on problem solving. Mr. De Bono has a fairly unique (in this day and age) style of presentation. With him sat alongside an OHP and a stack of acetates on which he writes all his notes. There were no handouts and I suspect this has something to do with him being in a copyright battle for some of his previous works which he explained at the start. Edward De Bono says “The main difficulty of thinking is confusion. We try to do too much at once. Emotions, information, logic, hope and creativity all crowd in on us. 40 Forum
It is like juggling with too many balls”. The solution he unscrambles the decisionmaking process with his “six thinking hats”: White Hat: white is neutral and objective, concerned with facts and figures. Red Hat: gives the emotional view. Black Hat: gloomy and negative, the “devil’s advocate” hat. Yellow Hat: sunny and positive. Green Hat: associated with fertile growth, creativity, new ideas. Blue Hat: blue is cool, the colour of the sky, above everything else - the organising hat. Using case studies and reallife examples, Dr. de Bono showed how each of us can become a better thinker through deliberate roleplaying. He outlines a brisk, disciplined approach that both individuals and businesses (from start-ups to major corporations) can adopt to create a climate of clearer thinking, improved communication, and greater creativity. He gave the audience an opportunity to take another look at day-to-day management challenges and decision making, although the techniques he outlined can be adopted to education and life generally just by opening the mind and not taking what seems an obvious route or the first decision that enters your head. I thank the Bahrain British Business Forum for the opportunity and I learnt a great deal from the event.
And Finally Utterly Impartial History of Britain, (or 2000 Years of Upper Class Idiots in Charge) Many of us were put off history by the dry and dreary way it was taught at school. Back then ‘The Origins of the Industrial Revolution’ somehow seemed less compelling than the chance to test the bold claim on Timothy Johnson’s ‘Shatterproof’ ruler. But here at last is a chance to have a good laugh and learn all that stuff you feel you really ought to know by now...In this Horrible History for Grown Ups you can read how AngloSaxon liberals struggled to be positive about immigration; ‘Look I think we have to try and respect the religious customs of our new Viking friends oi, he’s nicked my bloody ox!’ Discover how England’s peculiar class system was established by some snobby French nobles whose posh descendents still have wine cellars and second homes in the Dordogne today. And explore the complex socio-economic reasons why Britain’s kings were the first in Europe to be brought to heel; (because the Stuarts were such a useless bunch of untalented, incompetent, arrogant, upper-class thickoes that Parliament didn’t have much choice.) A book about then that is also incisive and
illuminating about now, 2000 Years of Upper Class Idiots in Charge, is a hilarious, informative and cantankerous journey through Britain’ fascinating and bizarre history. As entertaining as a witch burning, and a lot more laughs. One of the reviews begins: Here is the perfect, ahem, toilet book. Easy to pick up and put down, it lightly dusts over the details of British history to put forward the extremely partial views of the author on some subjects - especially when they can be connected to issues today. As a laugh out loud comedy book this is really rather good. Some of the “jokes” are sub pythonesque and hit you over the head like a hammer. For example, one of the first landlords to be ostracized by his tenants after new land laws were brought in was a Captain Boycott. As the author says, “...this could be a whole new word in the English language” “Yes, if landlords evict anyone we’ll captain them”