From The Chair
It was a landmark trip to one of Bahrain’s oldest and closest friends and a fitting celebration of Bahrain’s 40th year of Independence.
Khalid Al-Zayani Chairman Dear Members, Welcome to the autumn edition of the BBBF magazine. I hope that you managed to find an opportunity to recharge your batteries over the recent summer and Eid holidays and you are braced for the final quarter of another busy year. I am delighted that the recent Middle East Oil and Gas Show (MEOS), now in its 30 th year, was the biggest and by many accounts the best ever yet. MEOS also saw its largest ever turnout of British exhibitors. This is a great sign that we have moved on from the interruptions we experienced earlier in the year and that we are collectively focusing on what we all do best – generating profitable and sustainable business. Bahrain returned the compliment by sending a heavyweight delegation from the BBBF, UKTI, EDB, BCCI to the UK for a road show in October (10th14th). The delegation encouraged British firms to invest in Bahrain through joint ventures and other direct investment and also discussed investment opportunities available in the UK for Bahraini firms.
November will be a busy month. We will be hosting three Chelsea Pensioners to mark Armistice Day on Friday 11 th November. The Pensioners will visit a number of schools, clubs, attend a BBBF lunch and they will also lay a wreath to commemorate fallen comrades. We will share a detailed agenda with you in due course so that you will have ample opportunity to meet our very special guests. The following week will see Bahrain host the annual World Islamic Banking Conference (WIBC) with a strong presence expected from the City of London. On 23rd November, the Chairs of the British Business Groups (BBG) throughout the GCC will meet to share ideas and discuss mutual cooperation in Dubai. The meeting will immediately follow the annual showcase “Britain in the Region” conference on 22nd November, which showcases 20 Middle East countries in one action packed day. I would like to remind you that all the British Business Groups (BBG) in the GCC have signed a Reciprocal Memorandum of Understanding. This allows BBBF Members to attend any event held by another GGC based BBG at the local member’s admission rate. This benefit continues to be of particular benefit to a number of our members who travel extensively in the normal course of business throughout the region. Please make use
Registration number ISSN 1985-9929
of the benefit as I have always received a very warm welcome from our peer groups and have had the opportunity to reciprocate when they visit our shores.
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The Special Interest Groups are actively engaging our members and I strongly encourage you to join one or more of the groups, which are free-of-charge for all BBBF members. Keep an eye out for forthcoming events or contact Jill Boggiss, the SIG Chairperson, or one of the SIG Leaders directly, but please do join us as often as your diary permits.
From Her Majesty’s Ambassador ....................3
A special mention also to Gulf Air and HSBC, our 2011 corporate sponsors, who continue to be a great source of financial support and generous encouragement. Their support allows us the financial security to increase the number of initiatives and enhances the quality and quantity of events that we are able to organise for your benefit and enjoyment. We hope that you enjoy this Forum edition and the Committee is looking forward to welcoming you, and your guests, to the forthcoming BBBF functions we have in Q4. We also look forward to hearing more about how we can serve you better. Please see Page 7 for details of our forthcoming events. With kind regards, Khalid Al-Zayani, Chairman
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
The 2011-2012 Executive Committee ......2 Advertiser Index ..............2
Welcome to new members ..................4 Diary Dates......................7 BBBF Business Bazaar ...7 Member Benefits .............8 Why join the BBBF? ........9 SIG Security ..................10 Organizational Effectiveness Update ....14 BBBF & Bizladies ..........16 Focus on workplace skills .............17 Financial News .............18 AXA new approach to Life & Health ..............22 News from the E.P ........28 Health Matters ...............30 Socio-Economic Studies ..........................32 Education Sector ...........34 Hotel & Leisure News ....36 Bahrain Maritime Festival ..........................38 Bahrain News ................42 And Finally.....................52 Cover Image: BBBF Chairman presents the new Ambassador with his Welcome Pack. Forum
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The 2011-12 BBBF Executive Committee
Chairman Khalid Al Zayani
Deputy Chairman Austin Rudman Mob: 3969-9475
Treasurer Peter Petyt Mob: 3657-1105
Hon-Secretary Jill Boggiss Mob: 3604-4100
Member Rob Grey Mob: 3966-3452
Member Julia Atherton-Dandy Mob: 3966-0598
Member Nasser Al Arayedh Tel: 1727-2575
Embassy Representative Rebecca Topping Mob: 3975-0496
Executive Manager Dena Wales Tel: 3969-6191 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 292 0451 Fax: 00966 1 472 6962 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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Our thanks to all the advertisers in this edition of Forum. Without their support, this issue would not have been possible. Please give them yours. 2 Connect ........................................Inside Front Cover Al Ghassan Motors.......................................... page 40 Al Jazira Supermarket ..................................... page 10 Allied Pickfords................................................ page 23 Almoayed Wilelmsen Ltd................................. page 38 American Mission Hospital .............................. page 30 AXA Insurance ............................. Outside Back Cover Bahrain International Circuit ............................ page 41 Bellisimo Cosmetics ........................................ page 47 bmi................................................................... page 29 BMMI ............................................................... page 33 British School of Bahrain ................................. page 34 Crown Relocations .......................................... page 31 DHL ................................................................. page 51 Euromotors ...................................................... page 15 Gulf Agency Co ............................................... page 21 Gulf Air ............................................................ page 43 Gulf Hotel ........................................................ page 37 Gulf Markets International ............................... page 11 HSBC ....................................................Centre Spread Insure Direct .................................................... page 19 Mansouri Mansions ......................................... page 36 Naseej Properties............................ Inside Back Cover NHSC .............................................................. page 23 Phil Weymouth Photography............................. page 8 Sue Anderson Consultants.............................. page 35 Royal Golf Club ................................. pages 13 and 45
From Her Majesty's Ambassador
I am delighted to have this opportunity to say a few words about the UK/Bahrain relationship, in particular my hopes for trade and investment relations. I have been in Bahrain since early August. Bahrainis and Brits alike have made me and my family feel very welcome, for which we are most grateful.
As I have made clear from day one, I want to reinvigorate our longstanding and close bilateral relationship, not least on the business side. The UK and Bahrain have a range of shared interests, for example in a stable and secure regional environment. The platform which Bahrain provides to us and other allies to enable us to contribute to regional, and thus international, security is hugely valued. It is in that context, one of partnership and cooperation, that I
Ambassador Lindsay presents his credentials
would like to see broader and deeper relations between our two countries. In particular, as His Majesty The King and his government seek to develop a more sustainably stable future for Bahrain, I think it important for the UK, as a close friend, to stand ready to provide assistance to Bahrain to help ensure effective implementation of the proposed political, economic and social reforms. Economic development and growth is an important element in helping reforms take root. But at the same time the investment and new business which Bahrain needs is dependent upon clear signs that Bahrain is on the right path, that Bahrain means business. As I said when I spoke to the BBBF in September, I want to see more UK companies in Bahrain, contributing to
Iain Lindsay OBE British Ambassador
this country’s economic development, and more Bahraini investment in the UK. The former is more of a challenge now, but given sustainable stability there are good opportunities here and, accessible from Bahrain, elsewhere in this high growth region. Working in partnership, as we are doing this week in the UK roadshow, I am convinced that UK Trade and Investment, the BBBF and the EDB can make a real difference.
UKTI News The UKTI team hosted a reception of circa 100 guests from the oil and gas sector at the Embassy on 26 September. The reception welcomed the 15-20 UK companies exhibiting at the Middle East Oil Show, either independently, as part of the UK pavilion, or as a member of the “Get Energy Village”. Get Energy is a UK company that brokers links between the oil and gas industry and education and training providers, and is hosting a series of workshops at the Get Energy Village. Bahrain’s activity in oil and gas has increased over recent months, with enhanced production and exploration of Bahrain’s oil and gas sources, and
an anticipated new LNG re-gasification terminal to be built. Bahrain’s trade show to showcase the greener side of energy, the Bahrain Green Tech Expo and Forum, has been postponed from October to February 2012. UKTI / BBBF will take a stand at the event. Any BBBF member who would like to be involved in the UKTI / BBBF stand should contact the BBBF or UKTI office. (uktibahrain@fco.gov.uk) Back to October, UKTI Bahrain will see a delegation of education and training providers calling into Bahrain on 19 October after a hard
week over the Causeway. The delegation will be led by the Training and Vocational Education Trust (TVET UK), who will re-visit Bahrain in February 2012. This brief visit in October is an opportunity to meet informally, and any BBBF members who would like to meet the group at the British Club on 19 October should contact the UKTI office. UKTI teams from all over the MENA region will meet UK companies in Dubai at the UKTI “Britain in the Region conference” on 22 November. This dynamic one-day event will take place in the Al Bustan Rotana Hotel in Dubai. It will combine country-
specific panel discussions, sector discussions (on energy, transport, construction, infrastructure, and education), and 1-2-1 appointments with UKTI sector advisors. In Bahrain, UKTI will hold events at the Embassy on 21 November to welcome UK visitors exhibiting at the World Islamic Banking Conference; and host the second annual “BBBF / BCCI Business Bazaar” on 29 November, open to all BBBF and BCCI members. Rebecca Topping Head of UKTI Bahrain Forum
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Mark Ainger Director Building Engineering Davis Langdon, an AECOM Co. Tel: 1755 6452 Fax: 1755 6457 Mob: 3606 6524 mark.ainger@aecom.com
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Gordon Bennie Partner Ernst & Young Tel: 1751 4717 Fax: 1753 5405 Mob: 3930 8100 gordon.bennie@sa.ey.com
Youmn Al Madani Manager - Business Advisory Keypoint Consulting W.L.L Tel: 1720 6849 Fax: 1720 0026 Mob: 3661 0140 youmn.al-madani@keypoint-bh.com
Dominic Carroll Head of Finance Bahrain Duty Free Tel: 1772 3100 1772 8738 Fax: Mob: 3994 2411 dominic@bdutyfree.com
Fadhel Al Shehabi Resident Partner Mazars Chartered Accountants Tel: 1758 0079 Fax: 1728 0097 Mob: 3966 8819 falshehabi@mazars.bh
Garrett Coogan General Manager Bahrain Duty Free Tel: 1772 3100 Fax: 1772 8738 garrett@bdutyfree.com
Karin Andrews Director of Sales Bahrain Int’l Golf Course Co. Tel: 1775 0777 Fax: 1775 0756 Mob: 3994 5406 k.andrews@theroyalgolfclub.com
Anna Dabrowska Country Director Oxford Business Group Tel: 1758 9873 Fax: 1758 3334 Mob: 3961 3528 adabrowska@ oxfordbusinessgroup.com
Roshan Aravind Corporate Channel Manager Legal & General Gulf Tel: 1758 9777 Fax: 1791 0806 Mob: 3691 9205 roshan.aravind@landggulf.com
Christopher Degano Editorial Manager Oxford Business Group Tel: +973 1758 9873 Fax: +973 1758 3334 Mob: 3832 1204 cdegano@ oxfordbusinessgroup.com
Philip Atkinson Director BDO Tel: 1753 0077 Fax: 1753 0088 Mob: 3657 1102 philip.atkinson@bdo.bh
Clare Dodd Deputy head of HR Bahrain Duty Free Tel: 1772 8738 Fax: 1772 3100 Mob: 3666 9083 clare@bdutyfree.com
Welcome to New Members Pauline Dubuc Director of Marketing and Communications Gulf Hotel Tel: 17 746275 Fax: 17 713040 Mob: 3658 8122 dmc@gulfhotelbahrain.com
HMA Iain Lindsay OBE British Ambassador British Embassy Tel: 1757-4100 Fax: 1757-4161 Anne.Weir@fco.gov.uk
Harry Goodson-Wickes CEO Cluttons Tel: 1756 2866 Fax: 1758 7005 Mob: 3990 2503 harry@bh.cluttons.com
Jim Lynn Head of Research & Consultancy Knight Frank Middle East W.L.L. Tel: 1710 7337 Fax: 1710 4959 Mob: 3638 1863 jim.lynn@me.knightfrank.com
James Grant-Morris Editor, The Bahrain Banker Bahrain Association of Banks Tel: 1782 3000 Fax: 1782 0700 Mob: 3939 1163 editor@banksbahrain.org
Clarke Morton-Shepherd Director Davis Langdon, an AECOM Co. Tel: 1758 8796 Fax: 1758 1288 Mob: 3222 0730 clarke.morton-shepherd@ davislangdon.com
Rupert Hearn Business Co-ordinator Yateem Air Conditioning Tel: 1725 3177 Fax: 1725 0483 ruperthearn@yateemac.net
Hugh Murray Associate Norton Rose (Middle East) LLP Tel: 1650 0200 Fax: 1650 0299 hugh.murray@nortonrose.com
Bill Hedges Business Development Manager Adams Offshore Tel: 1756 4336 Fax: 1756 4337 Mob: 3677 8881 bhedges@adamsoffshore.net
Abdul Wahid Noor Acting Head of HR Bahrain Duty Free Tel: 1772 3100 Fax: 1772 8738 Mob: 3962 6235 noor@bdutyfree.com
Nancy Khedouri Managing Director J.E. Khedouri & Sons Tel: 1725 3567 Fax: 1724 5306 Mob: 3960 5116 nkhedouri@yahoo.com
Syed Ali Raza General Manager Swinton Technologies Middle East Tel: 1756 4781 Fax: +966-501855666 Mob: 3977 7782 ali.syed@swintontechnology.com
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Welcome to New Members
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Thomas Reynolds Solicitor Trowers & Hamlins Tel: 1751 5600 Fax: 1713 1003 Mob: 3969 5007 treynolds@trowers.com
Darrell Stone Business Development Director Legal & General Gulf Tel: 1758 9777 Fax: 1791 0806 Mob: 3993 2268 darrell.stone@landggulf.com
John Sanders Partner BDO Tel: 1753 0077 Fax: 1753 0088 Mob: 3657 1112 john.sanders@bdo.bh
Sohail Sultan Chief Executive Officer Taib Bank B.S.C Tel: 1754 9465 1791 6018 Fax: Mob: 3888 3402 sohail.sultan@taib.com
Imbi Sarv Director of Sales Gulf Hotel Tel: 17 746275 Fax: 17 715373 Mob: 3655 1455 dos@gulfhotelbahrain.com
Stanley Szecowka Editor Gulf Weekly Tel: 1762 5383 Fax: 1762 4593 Mob: 3959 4114 szecowka@btinternet.com
Mohammed Shafiee IT Management Consultant Edcon Fax: 1762 1249 Mob: 3888 8816 mohammed@edcon-consulting.com
Anthony Tesar Director RTI Ltd Tel: 1603 0650 Fax: 1603 0680 Mob: 3339 3007 tony.tesar@rtiforensics.com
Kate Simmonds Head of Sales and Events Bahrain Exhibition Centre Tel: 1755 8804 Fax: 1755 3447 Mob: 3965 1345 kate@beca.bh
Sam Van Campenhout-Geerseau General Manager Marriott Executive Apartments Bahrain Tel: 1736 3999 Fax: 1736 3888 Mob: 3620 7071 sam.vancampenhout@marriott.com
Michelle Solomon Regional Director Oxford Business Group Tel: +971 4 426 642 Fax: +971 4 426 641 Mob: +971 504 451 227 msolomon@ oxfordbusinessgroup.com
Malcolm Wrigley CEO Al Ezzel Power Company Tel: 1756 1888 Fax: 1758 3233 Mob: 3942 3777 mwrigley@alezzelpower.com
Diary Dates Eid Al Adha - 6th - 8th November 2011
Bahrain National Day 16th /17th December
School mid-term break - 6th to 10th Nov 2011
School Winter holidays- 15th Dec 2011- 3rd Jan 2012
10th Nov - 16th Nov 2011 Chelsea Pensioners visit 11th Nov 2011 - Remembrance day Tuesday 15th November 2011 Business Lunch meeting Speaker: Clive Hopewell of Charles Russell LLP Venue: TBC Time: 12noon for 1pm Costs: Members BD12, Guests BD15 Islamic New Year Sunday 26th November 2011 Tuesday 29th November 2011 BBBF SIG Business Bazaar - Mini Exhibition Venue: British Embassy Time: 7pm – 9pm Ashora – Approx 5th- 6th December Tuesday 13th December 2011 BBBF Christmas lunch Speaker: BBBF Chairman Venue: TBC Time: 12 noon for 1 pm Cost: Members BD12, Guests BD15
Bahrain Green Tech ExhibitionSunday 15th to the Tuesday 17th of January 2012 UKTI and BBBF joint stand Tuesday 17th January 2012 BBBF Business lunch Speaker: Adam Vause, of Norton Rose Venue: TBC Time: 12 noon for 1 pm Cost: Members BD12, Guests BD15 Tuesday 21st February 2012 BBBF Business lunch Speaker: TBC Venue: TBC Time: 12 noon for 1 pm Cost: tba Tuesday 20th March 2012 BBBF AGM Speaker: BBBF Chairman Venue: TBC Time: 12 noon for 1 pm Cost: tba
BBBF SIG 2011 Business Bazaar – getting back to business Tuesday 29 November from 7.30 at the British Embassy garden Last year we focused on highlighting the various interest groups and introducing you to those who are heading up the groups – to lay the foundation for business to learn from each other and to share opportunities. To find out from you what you are interested in and how we can help. In response to feedback over the last year we have held a good number of meetings across all of the groups and had some interesting discussions about our sectors. I am certainly hearing that the main interest now is how to get Bahrain back to business, how to respond creatively and productively to the market challenges. It is hard for businesses to do this on their own and we believe we can do more if we work together as a business community. For this year’s meeting we want to take the
opportunity to find out how we can help our members and the broader business community to be more effective at finding the opportunities in the current market conditions. Both the global financial crisis and the recent upheavals that Bahrain is experiencing have created significant challenges and yet some businesses are experiencing very busy times so there are also obviously opportunities to be taken. We have closer relationships with BCCI and the UKTI group and have formed closer ties with the Capital Club and BIZLadies. We want to make these connections and this network more effective and of practical help to our members. Organisations like Tamkeen and EDB have support to offer the private sector and we want to ensure members are aware of the various
incentives on offer – and to hear from you about issues that are still getting in your way and to help to shift these if we can. So we have decided to do three things: 1. Back to business discussions - On the evening of the 29 th each interest group head will facilitate a roundtable discussion for their interest area. There will also be tables set aside for specific general topics facilitated by committee members. The topics will be generated by a Bahrain business community survey 2. Back to business survey - In advance of the evening we will send out a simple online survey to members of the BBBF, BCCI, the Capital Club & BIZ Ladies and find out what is happening in their member’s businesses. What challenges and
opportunities are you experiencing? How as a community can we help each other by making connections and learning from each other? How can we pull our collective skills and experiences together in order to accelerate a recovery of confidence and optimism? 3. Back to business action plan. With the results of both elements we will pull together key issues to be addressed – either by the SIGs or the Forum as whole. This will create an agenda that can shape some of our other activities such as speakers, interest group topics and general opportunities to offer purposeful networking – as well as providing a social agenda. Jill Boggiss, Chairman of BBBF SIGs 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. Azrek Search Associates 20% discount on search and headhunting services. Contact: Rory Adamson Tel: 1758 3885 Email: rory@azrek.com
Expat Angels 10% discount on all packages and services. Contact: info@expatangelsbahrain.com Tel: 3832-0439
AXA Insurance 10% discounts to members on personal lines insurances. (excluding medical) Terms & Conditions Apply. Contact: Stephen Wagstaff Tel: 1758 8222 Email: stephen.wagstaff@axa-gulf.com
Hasan Mansouri 10% discount to members at Mansouri Mansions Hotel and Country Club. Contact: Karim Mansouri Tel: 1772 8144 Email: karim@karimmansouri.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. Bizladies BBBF members can join Bizladies for a 25 % reduction in the fees (BD 75 for 9 events instead of BD 100). For more information, please contact:Dr. Clare Beckett-McInroy (President), Mobile:- +973 38442727, Email:- clare@beckett-mcinroy www.bahrain@bizladies.org British Club Entrance Fee waivered when booking Business lunches in the Ascot Restaurant. (pre-booking only) Group booking welcomed. Contact: Reception Tel: 1771-3999 Craig Consultants 10% discount for members on 1-on-1 Executive Coaching, Contact: Kevin Craig Tel: 36199980 Email: kevin@craigconsultants.com DHL 25% discount from the cash tariff for any personal shipments being sent from Bahrain to anywhere in the world available on production of your membership card. Contact Andy Broughton DHL Customer Service 1736 4100 www.dhl.com.bh
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National Hotel Services (NHSC) 5% on beers, 15% on wines and spirits with the exception of products already on special offer. Contact: Ian Bricklebank Tel: 1781-5929 Email: nhsc1234@batelco.com.bh Protection Insurance Service offers BBBF members special rates on their personal insurance (motor, home, travel and any other insurance cover). Members will just call to select the cover type, share the credit card number and we will deliver the policy documents to his / her office. Please call 3904-3446 or 3645-4282 Royal Over-Seas League The Royal Over-Seas League has clubhouses in London and Edinburgh which include hotel-style accommodation.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 TNT Free Worldshop account to BBBF Members email: worldshop.bahrain@tnt.com for more information
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 globalisation 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 75 per annum, with an additional BD 40 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 Please complete the membership form and send it to: BBBF Executive Office, Fax: (00973) 1781 3489, or Email: bbbfmemberships@batelco.com.bh. For further information call (00973) 1781 3488, Web site: www.bbbforum.org
Corporate Membership: BD 300 per annum (up to 5 individuals) plus BD 40 for each applicant up to a maximum of 10, with an additional BD 100 once-only registration fee.
Platinum: BD 3500 each year for three years Gold: BD 3500 for one year Silver: BD 1750 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
Individual Membership
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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Special Interest Group - Security emergency numbers pre-programmed into your phone such as your Embassy, Consulates, Company Security Manager and to also include the emergency numbers for the Police, Fire, and Rescue i.e. 999. 8. Be prepared to postpone or cancel activities for personal safety concerns. 9. Report any incident to your RSO or Company Security Manager a.s.a.p. Have you ever stopped for a moment and noticed that wherever you look there seems to be a warning sign of some sort or other directing one’s life this way and that; with most cases the actual direction being not the one that you actually want to take. So the “$64000” question is do you heed these warnings or do you take the attitude “that it won’t happen to me” forgetting the age old adage of “being in the wrong place at the wrong time!” These signs can come from so many sources of which Security Warnings from both the activists as well as the authorities hold a position of concern as well as a position of intimidation that at times will impact on your day to day decision making process. For example “should I go out and do the shopping or maybe visit my friends; I would suggest that the example of should I stay at home “again” is common place so as not to encounter any hassle especially when living the Expat life in those far off countries which may be so far away from the motherland and the normal daily practices that one has grown up with and are used to. With this all in mind remember that good old fashioned commonsense must be utilised, as this page has repeated in past editions. So not withstanding repeating myself do please take on board these extracts from recent travel warnings from our friends around the Region and the World: 1. Do not be time and place predictable. Vary your routes and times to and from work. Do not frequent the same shops with regularity. 2. Know where you are going and have a plan of what to do in the event you encounter demonstrations or violence.
10.Have your assistants call you once every two hours to check on you and / or consider calling them as you complete each phase of your itinerary. 11.Adhere to your Embassy & Company Security Advice and Warning Notices. 12.Register with your respective Embassies / Consulates in where you are located, where you are going and any on your route. Arab Spring:
Although the summer temperatures soared the warning notices kept on coming. The wave of protests in the Middle East and North Africa, which began with the self-immolation of an unemployed man in Tunisia in December 2010, continue. This is especially true with the ongoing aftermath of the so called Arab Spring with its actual fallout impacting on the Region and MENA, if not the world. This can be seen with the ongoing conflict in Libya, Syria and of course Egypt where the rising disquiet is very apparent as the citizens become impatient with the slow speed of change. But at the same time some would say that the Arab Spring has led to the Saudi ballot box. For the first time ever, Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah has granted women the right to vote and to run for local office in the Gulf kingdom–but not until 2015. Maritime Security and Piracy:
3. Identify safe areas (for example police stations, hospitals, Government buildings) in your area and how to get to them quickly. 4. Avoid crowds or large gatherings when traveling in public. 5. Tell co-workers or neighbours where you’re going and when you intend to return to include contact numbers. 6. Minimize your profile while in public. 7. Always carry a mobile phone and make sure you have 10 Forum
Now recent events are warning us not to go to within 150 miles of certain holiday locations as the so called Pirates move ashore to carry out their fund raising activities. The latest two incidents which occurred in September include a British woman kidnapped from an exclusive Kenyan
Special Interest Group - Security continued resort and a disabled French woman kidnapped in Kenya and taken to Somalia after a shootout fails to halt the pirates. This change of tactics is arguably in response to the combined maritime policing efforts of various countries such as the US, Pakistan and the UK; to mention just a few, working closely together with a common goal of “duty of care” to the world’s mariners. The other reason could well be due to the bad monsoon storms resulting in high winds and high seas keeping the pirates close to shore for their operations. Maritime Security and Piracy has once again hit the headlines and were key points that were aired and discussed at the recent Maritime Infrastructure Protection Symposium and at a recent presentation given by Vice Admiral Mark I. Fox, Commander, US Naval Forces Central Command, at the IISS – Middle East facility with both events taking place in Bahrain and where members of the BBBF SIG Security Group were in attendance. VADM highlighted a number of facts such as 90% of the worlds economy travels on water with an anuual figure of approxamately 23,000 ships passing through the Gulf of Aden alone. Maritime trade is increasing and with that Piracy is expanding their activity to in excess of 1000kms from their mainland bases. The piracy problem, which primarily stems from the collapse of internal governance and the rule of law within Somalia, has significantly increased in recent years, he said. One key part of the counter-piracy operation, the Counter Piracy Combined Task Force, has pooled together the maritime capabilities of several states, including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Korea, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain and has been successful in containing and thwarting several attempted attacks, he said. He concluded by highlighting the extent of international cooperation in the area of maritime security, and suggested that international cooperation was pivotal in helping secure the maritime routes required for the healthy functioning of the global economy.
Partnerships:
Peter Ford, 4th from the left with committee members Combined meetings and events have included a Social Networking Dinner and briefing at the British Club where once again the Management and Staff pulled out all the stops for our annual Ramadan get together. We were also very fortunate to be able to host a dinner for the visiting Executive Director, Acting, Overseas Security Advisory Council based at the US Department of State, Bureau of Diplomatic Security Peter D. Ford. Peter was very generous in his praise of the Bahrain Partnership and the extensive work it does for the community and business alike. A formal meeting also took place alongside the Maritime Infrastructure Protection Symposium so as to enhance networking opportunities and was kindly hosted by the Management and Staff of the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa by kind permission of the General Manager Panos Panagis and guidance of the Hotel Security Manager Anthony Johnson. To all the Team our collective thanks for a job well done. Members of our Hotel Security Working Group attended the Hotel Security Training Seminar which took place at the Hilton Istanbul – Turkey and from the initial feedback congratulations to the Diplomat Bahrain Team for their excellent presentation which I hope to report on at our next formal meeting. Further details on our next meeting are still in the planning stage and will be forwarded to the membership closer to the time. ASIS Bahrain Chapter 276: Chapter 276 Bahrain is now part of the greater ASIS family worldwide and is currently on a recruitment drive to boost its membership and I encourage those of you within the security industry to introduce potential new members to ASIS and the benefits that they can all gain from in joining such a dynamic organisation. The Chapter has increased its membership by 41% in the last four months and is currently at 24 with further applications being processed now that folks have returned after the summer holidays. At the beginning of September a 14 week CPP review started under the overall guidance of the Chairman, Jean Perois, CPP, with the assistance of Andrew Deamer CPP to prepare those of their membership who are looking for this prestigious
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certification as part of their continuing development in an industry that is always growing and evolving to the ever increasing challenges and expertise of those who would be on the wrong side of the law; so to speak. Vice Chairman Devlin Zents remarked “It is wonderful to see that in spite of the challenges of the past year, we have been able to move forward and are currently seeing the fruits of the labour of a dedicated group of people who are committed to ensuring that ASIS becomes an integral part of the security landscape in Bahrain”. For your information representatives from OSAC HQ staffed a OSAC promotional booth at the ASIS International exhibit and Annual Conference in Orlando, Florida during the period 19-21 September 2011 attracting in excess of 20,000 security, business and government professionals from more than 90 countries including BBBF SIG (Security) Members alongside our partners and colleagues from OSAC & ASIS Bahrain. For more information about membership, check out www.ASISOnline.org/membership or email the ASIS-Bahrain Membership director at Info@IRM.ae with questions
4. Do you or your company need to be kept up to date on security, guarding and policing issues? 5. Does your company’s orientation package encompass security awareness both in the workplace and leisure time? 6. Does your company’s security and safety policy reach out to the families of members of staff? 7. Does your company have a Travel Management Policy that may need a review? 8. Does your company have a BCP Plan that could do with a review? If ‘yes’ to any of the above then you may want to consider the BBBF SIG (S) & OSAC as a forum for future attendance, advice & membership. Please register to view our LinkedIn Group Messages and to add your comments - Linkedin:- OSAC & BBBF SIG (S) http://www.linkedin.com/groupRegistration?gid=2463039
Membership:
Looking Forward:
Ask yourself the following questions:
Keep an eye out for future partnership developments and guest articles from within the security fraternity as we continue to follow up with organizations such as IRM, IISS, K2, CRG, RMI, RTI & Olive. Our next meeting is already in the planning stages with the Maritime theme being continued which may well include a few surprises for those attending…Watch this space!!
1. Is your company a security focused company? 2. Is your company a security industry company? 3. Does your company have a security element to its operations and if so who “heads it up”?
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Organisational effectiveness update Why employee engagement matters – a business case for taking this seriously Research confirms what we all know about ourselves – that we are more productive when we are engaged in our work. People who enjoy their work, who know what to do and take action create better results. A report for the UK Government that was published in 2009 and correlates companies with active engagement programmes with a range of performance indicators that show a very positive result. David Macleod and Nita Clarke, who were responsible for the research, were asked to tackle this topic as the recession was biting in 2008 and the Government was looking for ways to improve competitiveness. Terry Leahey of Tesco’s was quoted as having a light-bulb moment when he realized that Tesco knew more about their customers then they did about their own staff. This is an interesting example of an organisation that recognised early that if you keep your staff happy they will keep your customers happy – and if they are key in this relationship they will have much more vested in the success of their organization than if they simply show up for work every day. Business units scoring in the top quartile of employee engagement, compared to those in the bottom quartile enjoyed on average*: • • • • • • •
12% higher customer satisfaction 16% higher profitability 18% greater productivity 49% lower employee turnover 49% fewer safety incidents 37% lower absenteeism 60% fewer quality defects
*Source: 2009 Gallup meta-analysis across 152 organisations in 44 industries and 26 countries covering 955,905 employees The report is comprehensive and I think is highly relevant to the situation Bahrain is facing. One thing caught my eye as significant in terms of a mindset. I have worked long enough to have seen the HR function to develop from “personnel” to “human capital”. The report looks for reasons engagement is not taken seriously enough and they cite Henry Mintzberg and his observations about the language that is used in organisations to describe people, “A resource is a thing. I am a human being. I am not a human resource. And I think that kind of vocabulary is demeaning. Calling people human capital or human assets is almost worse”. We talk a lot about empowerment but then go on and design organisations and processes that set about to know better than the people at the “sharp end” rather than opening up productive communication. 14 Forum
The Engaged Employee, The Mind Gym report Another interesting report on the subject is one from the Mind Gym that takes another angle on the topic – they reviewed an enormous quantity of literature on the topic (including the Macleod report above) as well as their own work with clients and they posit the theory that the biggest factor in positive engagement is how we choose to think about it, how we look at things each day – other factors obviously contribute to this but overall the main issues are internally referenced by the individual and in our own control. Leadership and line management are important and, for good or ill, impact our thinking but they say engaged employees share traits, they are: optimistic, purposeful, resilient, competent and autonomous and the organisation can affect these by supporting employees to get what they need to reinforce these feelings. They also highlight the management five great distractions (that can actually make things worse). These are headlined as follows: The Survey takes over – we have all experienced this – the goal is to collect the data rather than to figure out what it means. Box ticked in terms of asking people what matters. The debate is parent child – there is a rush from senior leaders to “fix” things, to communicate how leadership is solving things. This reinforces a culture where people are disempowered and incapable A few grand gestures – diversity programmes, flexible benefits schemes, rather than the hard work of discussion, conversation and shared responsibility Easily distracted leaders – initial enthusiasm wanes and other priorities take over – the team briefing cascades that start with real two way conversations but end up being one way Delegated to HR – this becomes a process and is on HR’s list of things to “fix”. It’s a bit like making “communications” the responsibility of the PR dept. Both of these reports can be found in the BBBF organisational effectiveness LinkedIn group or from the authors themselves. The Mind Gym: http://www.themindgym.com/solutions/employeeengagement/white-paper/ Engaging for Success: http://www.bis.gov.uk/files/file52215.pdf
by Jill Boggiss, Managing Director Inside Change
BBBF and Bizladies Bahrain form closer ties BBBF and Bizladies are pleased to announce details of their reciprocal arrangement for individual members. For members of the BBBF you can join Bizladies for a 25 % reduction in the fees (BD 75 for 9 events instead of BD 100). For Bizladies who are not BBBF members the BBBF will waive the joining fee of BD 40. This means that the regular lunches are BD 12 instead of BD 15 (non member rate) and you will get access to the Special Interest Group meetings at no charge (these are BD 5 for non members). Bizladies Bahrain is a
network and business platform for female business managers, owners and entrepreneurs. Bizladies Bahrain organises 9 events per annum for senior business women in Bahrain, where they are able to meet with peers, establish relationships, present current issues and discuss business issues. Bizladies is a network and business platform for today’s qualified and experienced career women internationally. Business managers, owners and entrepreneurs from across all sectors attend monthly events, networking in stimulating locations
across the island. Each e v e n t s features presentations from member companies and invited speakers with topics ranging from business r e l a t e d matters to personal and professional development challenges. Members are eligible to attend all Bizladies events internationally in New York and Vienna, for example, to secure collaborative business opportunities and development opportunities. “There
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are
certainly
many opportunities for Bizladies and BBBF to work together for mutual benefit, networking and sharing expertise is just one of these…” said Dr. Clare Beckett-McInroy, Bizladies President.
“I was one of the first people to join Bizladies Bahrain and I have seen it grow over the past two years. At the last event held at Bushido there were over 60 people attending and it was great to catch up with so many people.” Said Jill Boggiss, Chairman of BBBF Special Interest Groups “We have discussed having a Women’s network as a part of the BBBF. This is a good first step to judge interest from our members” she added.
A focus on workplace skills - Inside Change opens in Bahrain and know the challenge
Focus groups and workshops will be introduced this season. As well as the 9 events, current benefits include:
I started Inside Change because I want to work with businesses who want to get the most out of their people by developing their capability and capacity to be more effective at work. When people have the right skills and support they enjoy their work and are more effective and productive. I am tired of hearing that “people in this region have a poor attitude to work” and think that this region is no different to others and when people feel valued, know what they need to do and get solid support from their managers they are able to achieve much more. I believe that education, development and communication are the key to making this difference in the workplace and I want to contribute to the realisation of the Vision 2030 through my work.
w Access to links on bizladies.org, where contact details and company websites of members of all locations are available. w Eligibility to advertise and use the LinkedIn group. w Entitlement to distribute collateral and marketing material in gift bags, which are handed out at every event. w Possibility to send advertisement and offers to Bizladies for website publishing. For more information, please contact: Dr. Clare BeckettMcInroy President), +973 3844 2727, bahrain@bizladies.org or clare@ beckett-mcinroy.com, www.bizladies.org
of getting the best out of people - this experience has been invaluable to me in designing practical solutions for people development and I have built up the skills and the experience over the years to be of real value to organisations and individuals who want to be more effective.
Jill Boggiss, Managing Director, Inside Change Consultancy WLL
A workforce with the right skills can, and will, build a prosperous future and a sustainable economy – and there are a lot of people entering the workforce in the region who need to learn a range of soft skills that help them to work in teams, communicate and manage well. I believe in people and in their potential – I have been a line manager
Taking the plunge and starting a business is always exciting (and a bit nerve wracking) – I have worked for myself in the UK – returning to being an employee a couple of times to test my skills and to get front line experience. The first time with Barclays Bank to work on leadership development to apply the skills I learned on my Masters degree. The second time to take a global leadership development role for Citi – both really interesting experiences, particularly valuable as working in these businesses tested my skills on real commercial projects. I am working with a network of partners I have built up over my career – here in the region and from the UK and so there is access to a depth of experience and a range of specialist skills. Once my website is finished their details will be available – but they specialise in psychometrics, assessment centres, work and wellbeing, coaching, leadership development, engagement programmes – and I have worked with them all and they are all experienced in their field. Our services are tailor made but break down into three main areas of focus: Employee engagement – do
people know what they need to do and do they believe in the organisation’s strategy – do hearts and minds connect in order to be as effective as possible. Education for employment – are people getting access to the right skills development that improve their effectiveness in their current role and are they getting skills valued by employers so that they are able to progress in their careers. Management and leadership development – do you have the right people in the right jobs and do your managers and leaders have the right skills to get the most out of your people. I am excited to be doing this at this important time for Bahrain and if anyone one is thinking about going through the same process I can help you to learn from my experience in terms of getting your business set up. I have had a lot of support in the process of setting up – thanks to Keypoint who helped me with the official documents and to my visa guy Karim, who has been patient and helpful throughout. I have an office in Salmabad alongside two other BBBF member companies – BIB Mena (thanks to Karen for the office recommendation) and East Innovations (thanks to Mark for helping with my internet and the intro to Karim) – so if you are doing some shopping in Manazil or are one of the (seemingly) thousands of people who drop off kids at the Kanoo school come over and check us out. Forum 17
Financial News
Announcing their strategic partnership VIVA and HSBC Launch an Exclusive iPhone Offer
Shakofa Asghar (Head of Retail Banking & Wealth Management, HSBC Bahrain) & Andrew Hana (COO VIVA)
In a unique partnership agreement, VIVA Bahrain has partnered with HSBC to offer its Advance credit card customers an exclusive deal on the iPhone 4. The deal is first in a series of enticing promotions and activities that customers of the telecom and banking giants can look forward to in the coming months. The exclusive BD40 plan offers HSBC Advance customers a free 16GB iPhone 4 with unlimited data in addition to BD 20 worth of voice and SMS credit. With a very attractive 10 fils per minute flat rate for local calls, the plan is designed for high-usage customers to make the most of their iPhone 4 experience. For a limited promotional period, until November 17th, HSBC Advance customers can sign up for this offer at the VIVA store in Seef Mall. VIVA customers wishing to 18 Forum
apply for a HSBC Advance credit card may do so at any of the bank’s branches. “We’re delighted to partner with HSBC, a bank whose dedication to value and customer service matches our own,” commented Andrew Hanna, VIVA CCO. “This is one of the many ways we try to serve our customers and offer them greater and exclusive value for money across the board,” added HSBC Head of Retail Banking and Wealth Management, Shakofa Asghar. iPhone 4 is the thinnest Smartphone in the world with the highest resolution display ever built into a phone. Users on VIVA’s robust high-speed network can enjoy FaceTime video calling, stunningly sharp images, and high definition video recording up to 30 frames per sec.
HSBC launches HSBC Net Company treasury and finance teams are facing growing pressure and need to evolve their processes and to manage cash and payments in a more costefficient manner. One way of achieving cost-efficiency is to adopt the concept of process automation and straight through processing. Within the banking sector electronic banking provides customers with greater control of their accounts by enabling the centralisation of their finance and treasury management teams and operations. HSBC’s electronic banking services platform is “HSBCnet” and we are pleased to announce its launch to all corporate clients. HSBCnet provides a comprehensive suite of flexible online financial solutions, designed to help increase customer efficiency and manage cash flow, by keeping track of payments, receivables and liquidity, within one secure global solution. The availability of real-time and easily accessible information from anywhere in the world is the key ingredient that makes HSBCnet so successful and one of the leading online banking tools. One of our valued customers commented that, “I was amazed to be able to approve a transaction using my Ipad, HSBCnet allows me to monitor and control all payments from one single screen… which saves so much time and effort”. HSBCnet delivers: Ø
Global account information and transaction management
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independent of physical location Payment and transfer initiation via direct input, templates (for regular suppliers and beneficiaries), and/or file upload Remote access to initiate and/or approve transactions from multiple locations Account administration tools for user access control and transaction limit maintenance Seamless integration with accounting and treasury systems
Key Benefits Ø
Ø
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Accessible anytime anywhere Global account information and reporting, providing access to reliable and accurate information for greater control over cash flows Security features that lead industry standards Enables centralisation of cash management Faster, reliable and cheaper Green solution, eliminates paper completely
Iain Morrison Head of Global and Commercial Banking commented, “By extending this global electronic payments platform to all corporate customers we have made it easier for our customers to control and plan their cash in a cheaper and more efficient manner. In a challenging and highly competitive market more efficient processes lead to lower costs and higher profits for our customers and their shareholders, and ensures HSBC Corporate Banking Bahrain continues to be the banking partner of choice”.
HMRC statement on Full Time Work Abroad In March of this year HMRC issued a statement clarifying the position on UK duties for those who are not resident because they are working full time abroad. We have now been asked about the impact of such duties on those who are not resident because of full time work abroad and who have returned to the UK temporarily because of the political situation in the Middle East. The following applies to those people who have returned to, or remained in, the UK following FCC advice and relates to those countries where HMRC has confirmed that exceptional circumstances apply. This is Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Syria, Bahrain and Yemen. 2010/11 - because the issues in those countries arose towards the end of the tax year, HMRC will accept that individuals who are temporarily brought back to the UK, and who have the intention of returning to their employment abroad, will not have their residence status affected by the duties undertaken in the UK during the period of exceptional circumstances.
2011/12 - given the much longer period that exceptional circumstances may potentially apply for this year, duties in the UK may mean that those affected are no longer working full time abroad. During 2011/12 we would expect that the statement on full time work abroad made on 31 March 2011 would in general apply to UK duties and that HMRC will therefore: w Normally not consider any case where UK duties were undertaken in fewer than 10 days w Look at other cases in light of their facts and circumstances. HMRC said that if anyone felt that this approach would lead to unfairness or hardship for people who have had to return temporarily to the UK because of the political situation abroad, they should let them know so that they can consider the position further.
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Financial News
BFC opens new air-side branch in Bahrain International Airport Bahrain Financing Company (BFC), has opened its second branch at Bahrain’s International Airport to better serve the large number of passengers arriving in the Kingdom. The new airport branch brings the total number of branches BFC operates in Bahrain to 26, giving it unparalleled coverage across the country, and offering customers the best in customer service wherever they may be. The new branch located at Gate 16, is a full service branch offering customers
products such as BFC Smart Money which guarantees the best exchange rates and allows customers to securely transfer money online to anywhere in the world, as well as the EzRemit online cash transfer service. BFC Smart Money customers will now have a choice of sending money online either through international bank transfer or via EzRemit cash pickup locations. Additionally, a comprehensive list of 30 major currencies is on hand to both buy and sell at competitive market prices.
The branch is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and offers all of the standard services and conveniences that customers have come to expect from a BFC branch. Customers will be able to interact with knowledgeable BFC customer service employees, and execute their transactions via a total of 2 transaction desks. As the first foreign exchange company established in Bahrain in 1917, BFC specialises in moving money smartly and efficiently with the best rates in the
market. With an extensive global reach covering over 100 countries, BFC offers customers unparalleled service, a vast array of innovative retail products and unbeatable exchange rates.
Mr Ebrahim Nonoo, Managing Director and CEO of BFC Group Holdings
BFC launches Customer Service Centre in India BFC have announced the opening of a dedicated customer service centre in India. The call centre based in Trivandrum, Kerala will offer personalized services to BFC’s EzCash beneficiaries in India. As part of the service, once the customer funds
have been credited to one of EzCash’s 14,000 cash pick-out locations, the call centre will inform recipients that their cash is ready for collection.
Commenting on the launch, Mr. Ebrahim Nonoo, Managing Director and CEO of BFC Group
Holdings said “Being the number one recipient country in the world, India is undoubtedly a key market for BFC. As part of our endeavour to constantly enhance and simplify procedures for our growing customer base across the country, we have launched our first customer
service centre in India that will provide updates and information on all EzCash transactions. With initiatives such as this, we continue to invest in our customer’s experience and make their lives easier by pioneering new financial tools and services across the markets we operate in.”
G Capital a subsidiary of GFH acquires Adabank in Turkey G Capital a Dubai based company and a subsidiary of the Bahraini investment bank, Gulf Finance House (GFH), in partnership with Gürmen Group, has acquired Adabank in Turkey for US$ 75 million. Adabank is a Turkish Bank headquartered in Istanbul, Turkey and placed for sale by the Savings Deposit Insurance Fund (TMSF).
It is worth noting that G Capital’s parent company GFH, has a long track record in establishing and operating financial institutions across the MENA 20 Forum
region. GFH has played a key role in establishing Arab Finance House (Lebanon 2003), Solidarity (Bahrain – 2004), First Leasing Bank (Bahrain - 2004), Khaleeji Commercial Bank (Bahrain - 2005), Asian Finance Bank (Malaysia - 2006), Qinvest (Qatar - 2006) and First Energy Bank (Bahrain -2008). Mr. Esam Janahi, Executive Chairman of GFH said, “We are very excited about this opportunity and look forward to working with our new partner, the Gürmen Group, as well as
the Turkish authorities to commence operations in the Turkish banking sector. Turkey is a key market for us and we believe that this acquisition will serve as a platform for further co-operation between the GCC and Turkey.” Hisham Alrayes, Managing Director of G Capital said “I’m very pleased with this achievement as we have been working to acquire a bank in Turkey for more than a year. Turkey is a growing market with many good investment opportunities, and this acquisition should
create substantial value for our investors and shareholders.” Prominent Turkish businessman Mr. Remzi Gur, Chairman of Gürmen Group, said: “I am very enthusiastic about this opportunity as the entry requirements for new banks wishing to operate in the Turkish Banking sector are very high. I am also extremely pleased with our new partner G Capital and would like to thank the team which successfully led the transaction and helped to establish our partnership.”
AXA unravels Employee Assistance Programmes in Gulf; offers new approach to manage life & health AXA Insurance [Gulf] - one of the top five insurers across the GCC – has announced that its revolutionary Employee Assistance Programmes [EAP], launched in the Gulf recently, is aimed at helping corporates achieve long-term, healthy and sustainable growth. These one-of-its-kind employee wellbeing assistance programmes, which can be offered in tandem with the health insurance options for corporates, are proven to go a long way in increasing productivity, reducing absenteeism, enhancing corporate brand image, reducing stress and sickness levels and also helping retain/recruit staff. The launch of the new wellbeing programmes comes amidst concerning health trends emerging in the region. According to a study by McKinsey & Co., healthcare costs across the GCC is expected to increase from $12 billion to $60 billion by 2025 – a large majority due to stress at work. Stress has now passed backache and musculoskeletal as the biggest single source of sickness absence. Latest research found levels of stress at work to be reasonably high among employees in the GCC. In fact, statistics from a Bayt.com and YouGov research reveals that 85 per cent of employees in the GCC suffer from stress. Hence, the new product from AXA is a major 22 Forum
extension in its portfolio in the region offered through its subsidiary AXA ICAS Wellbeing one of the world’s leading providers of wellbeing and employee assistance programmes. AXA ICAS has been delivering these services internationally for over 20 years with offices and network of providers and affiliates in more than 30 countries spanning six continents. These services support over 1.8 million employees in 1,700 companies worldwide. The AXA Wellbeing offering – Employee Assistance Programmes – provides this approach that empowers individuals to make healthy choices and give them the tools to address their own, particular needs. It is imperative that as a leading insurance solutions provider, we at AXA support a change to how individuals improve and manage their health proactively. The Employee Health & Wellbeing
Programmes, which are common in most other countries in the world, are still alien in the GCC and we are privileged to bring this to the table first. The employee wellbeing investment is built on three pillars - Human Capital Management (reduced absenteeism, improved productivity, less staff turnover); Health Care Costs (reduced by early and appropriate intervention) and Organizational Benefits (morale, skills development, preferred employer, crisis intervention, management support). An Employee Wellbeing Programme is designed to restore and strengthen the physical wellbeing, mental health and productivity of employees and the corporate employer. It provides information and guidance on different aspects of the employee life, such as Personal and family problems,
Work issues, Drink and drug related problems, Childcare or other family issues, Financial problems and Consumer rights. The EAP is a confidential life management and personal support services which will help employees deal with everyday situations and even serious problems. Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the professional services are provided by teams of skilled specialists. The range of issues include: Financial money management, debt, mortgage arrears, negative equity, child support, financial education; Legal - consumer complaints, insurance claims, neighbour disputes, road traffic accidents, child custody, divorce law; Relationships - family, work, partners; Personal Support - Telephone Counseling and Face to Face Counseling adhering to all confidentially and strict code of professional ethics
Bahrain’s Capital Club hosts ‘The Gradual Instant’ Art Exhibition
The opening ceremony of the art exhibition was attended by Members and their guests. Demi’s latest inspirational series explores exciting new mediums and textures, cleverly combined with traditional methods of oil painting all presented on Italian canvas or linen. The response has been very positive with half the works sold prior to opening night.
worked as a curator before she moved to the Kingdom of Bahrain. As a full time artist, Demi’s artwork brings to life aspects of her past and present encounters and features mainly children, music and animals. Born in Zimbabwe, educated in the UK and having lived in Australia, she has had the opportunity to deal with an array of artists from across the globe during her 20 years in the professional world of art. She currently lives in Bahrain and runs her own studio, the Bahrain Studio in Zinj. In February 2009, she had co-hosted the “Ephemeral Space’ exhibition at the Gulf Hotel.
Demi McLeod trained at the Royal College of Arts, in London. She was the owner of the Art Lounge in Perth, Australia and
‘The Gradual Instant’ exhibition was hosted by Capital Club as part of its series of programs that promote and support
An exclusive art exhibition: ‘The Gradual Instant’, by Bahrain-based artist, Demi Mcleod was held at the Capital Club in September. A collection of more than 26 paintings are on display through out the club.
Bahraini heritage and local and international art by hosting artists, lectures and cultural presentations for Members. As Bahrain’s premier private business club, the Capital Club offers a place to relax, celebrate or network in exclusive surroundings, on the uppermost floors of the iconic Bahrain
Financial Harbour. It regularly hosts social and business gatherings to facilitate networking among Members and to foster an environment of learning from some of the world’s most respected leaders. It offers international privileges through affiliation with more than 250 private clubs worldwide
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East Innovations completes DTZ Qatar web build project With Middle Eastern markets continuing to rapidly evolve towards even more integrated levels of digital communications, it’s more important than ever for businesses and organisations to have an optimised online presence. The rapid pace of technological developments combined with the advancement of online experiences have allowed people to shift the majority of their daily activities to an online world. The primary online platform for many businesses is their official website and for the majority this is the focal point of their digital marketing and communications strategies. In today’s digitalised age, companies without an online presence have already been left behind by the majority of regional consumers. But those with web presences’ that reflect their brand values, communicate with their audience in a meaningful way and adding value to their user experiences’ can define themselves from their competitors in the digital arena.
East Innovations, a leading digital marketing agency located in the Kingdom of Bahrain, recently completed the official online property portal for DTZ’s Qatar division. The project saw the completion of a premium content management system (CMS) within eight weeks, created to fit within DTZ’s existing brand guidelines and international web presence. The property portal features a range of realestate related functions, including commercial, residential and land search options allowing for realtime updates. Designed to include a comprehensive range of features tailored to create an informative visit, the site offers both functionality and flexibility based on a robust operating platform, giving DTZ the presence and usability that it and it’s Qatar audience seeks. The DTZ Qatar website includes an interactive search function, allowing users to browse the
extensive property database based on their personal criteria and needs. Realtime results are generated to fit a user’s individual situation and are tailored to residential, commercial and land property searches. The inclusion of a customisable search function greatly increases the quality of user experience when utilising the website by automating the process of linking user search terms with existing properties found within the DTZ database. In support of DTZ Qatar’s new web presence, East Innovations will be optimising it’s searchability across internet search engines, including Google, Yahoo and Bing, with a twelve month search engine optimisation (SEO) strategy. SEO is one of the most effective methods of achieving maximum online visibility for searches related to a businesses’ t a r g e t audience
and can vastly improve online generated return on investment (ROI). A well thought out campaign can attract a wealth of relevant organic web traffic for search terms related to a company’s product/ service offering, increasing the relevance of web visitors. East Innovations, have produced a variety of premium websites across a range of industries. They also offer a comprehensive range of digital marketing services, including web design, e-commerce development, social media marketing, search engine optimisation (SEO), payper-click (PPC), email marketing, paid search, analytic and metrics reporting, viral marketing and blog development services.
New Call Centre to Serve Tamkeen’s Enterprise Development programme went into effect of private sector enterprises Support Programme recently. In June alone, in Bahrain, in line with the As part of its ongoing support of Bahrain’s private sector, Tamkeen launched a dedicated call centre to serve customers of the Enterprise Development Support Programme. The centre went live as of August 14th.
The call centre will be equipped with a modern automated answering machine to manage and direct call flow, as well as a fully-dedicated customer service team to answer 24 Forum
all customer queries. It is expected that these upgrades will improve call flow by up to 90%.
Tamkeen’s Enterprise Development Support Agency’s number (1756 5393) remains unchanged, with normal working hours 7:30 am – 3:30 pm. This step comes in response to the uptake in demand from business owners since a number of updates and enhancements to the
Tamkeen received nearly 1500 calls (on average 50 per day), which necessitated the establishment of a dedicated call centre to ensure smooth and efficient operations. The updates to the Enterprise Development Support Programme encompass all schemes under its umbrella (Istishara, Techania, Tasweeq, Tarweej, and Jawda), and came as a result of Tamkeen’s efforts to improve the performance
goals of Bahrain Economic Vision 2030. Business owners can also visit Tamkeen’s Enterprise Development Support Agency office at Meral Building, Seef District, or send their query to edsa@tamkeen.bh. They can also follow the latest news and updates about the various programmes through Facebook (facebook.com/ tamkeenbahrain) and Twitter (twitter.com/ tamkeenbahrain) pages.
News from the Eastern Province It was sad to say farewell to HMA Jamie Bowden and we wish him and his family well in their new assignment in Oman. Welcome to new Ambassador, Iain Lindsay and his family and we look forward to meeting in the not too distant future.
I hope you all enjoyed your summer breaks and expect that you are now well settled back into your normal routines – not long until Christmas now!! I don’t know what happened to 2011 but it has certainly passed quickly. It is good to see that life in Bahrain seems to be starting to settle back to normality. Unfortunately, many business sectors were adversely affected and the return to full economic recovery has been slower than hoped for. In contrast, Saudi Arabia and specifically Eastern Province continue to be very busy.
Our AGM was held in late April and saw several changes to the committee. Sadly, we bid farewell to our dynamic duo, Ewen (Membership and IT guru) and Pamela Baxter (BBA Secretary) who decided to return to UK and live in the cold! Gavin Ames, a previous committee stalwart returned to the fold to take over the membership vacancy. We also said goodbye to Terri Nichol (Events) who was replaced by Geraint Isitt who transferred across from our editorial team. Since the AGM we have also added a new committee position with responsibility for IT /Communications and welcome Andy Clark into the new role.
The British Business Association (BBA) - Eastern Province P.O.Box 1868, AlKhobar 31952 Tel: 03 882 5288 ext 1651 Fax: 03 882 5384 Email: bbakhobar@atheer.net.sa Website: www.bbaep.com
In May, it was a pleasure to welcome the UK Energy Minister, Charles Hendry to the Eastern Province where we were able to show him first-hand the scale of growth being experienced in Jubail as well as an overview of the business climate and opportunities in the province. We were also had the opportunity to welcome Chris InnesHopkins, the new Director of Trade and Industry from the British Embassy, Riyadh to the Eastern Province and look forward to him being a frequent visitor in the future. Our regular monthly dinners and the visiting trade missions have ensured a busy first six months of 2011. On the social scene, we are
always looking for something new and Prince William and Kate duly provided a special opportunity with the Royal Wedding on 29th April. A well attended, family oriented garden party provided a most enjoyable afternoon with activities to entertain all including a big screen so the girls could get a good look at the bride and her dress. A great day was had by all. If you have any other ideas or suggestions for the BBA or need to contact us then feel free to call me directly, send an e-mail to our Secretary at bbakhobar@atheer.net.sa or via the website www.bbaep.com Geoff Fennah MBE Chairman, EPBBA
The MEA (Middle East Association) held their 8th Opportunity Arabia event in London in September. Geoff joined the panel and spoke to an appreciative audience about doing business and living in Saudi Arabia. 28 Forum
Health Matters $1 Billion Medical City planned in Salalah A Saudi based business house plans to establish a Medical City in Salalah, Oman, with an investment estimated at $1 billion. The project will be promoted by the Apex Medical Group (AMG) whose founding president Dr Abdulla Aljoaib, President of Aljoaib Holding, said it would house the region’s first multispecialty organ transplant and rehabilitation centre of excellence. Regional media quoted Dr Aljoaib as stating that the project will be integrated with a 530-bed multispecialty hospital and a state of the art diagnostic centre, healthcare resort and healthcare educational complex. The massive development, which Dr Aljoaib said, has the backing of the Ministry of Tourism and Ministry of Health, will be established on an 800,000 sq metre plot overlooking the Arabian Sea. According to AMG, Medical City Oman - as the project is dubbed - has the potential to have a major impact on the range and quality of medical and surgical services provided in the Middle East & North Africa. “We firmly believe that the Medical City Project will bring significant benefits not only to the healthcare sector in the region, but also to the economic and social development of GCC countries. The GCC is currently facing a gap in secondary, tertiary and specialised care and in rehabilitation services. 30 Forum
There are various factors that influence the need for a multi-specialty hospital and transplant centre in the GCC. Furthermore, there has been a tremendous increase in life style diseases which require specialised high quality organ transplant services within the region,” Dr Aljoaib stated. The Medical City Oman promises to be a worldclass medical education, research and development facility with internationally recognised strategic partnerships will facilitate academic and service excellence in the Mena region. In addition, The Medical City will also have a Healthcare and Education Complex, Healthcare Resort with Upscale Hotel, Wellness & CAM Centre, and several other support services establishments. With a strong commitment to exceptional healthcare, the project’s AMG Endowment programme will also offer free medical and educational community support services to poor and needy families who would not otherwise be able to afford such services and treatment. Dr Aljoaib also mentioned that the Academic Medical & Research Centre of this project would be managed and operated by a most renowned North American Hospital Group. Similarly the AMG will collaborate with the world’s best Transplant & Rehabilitation centre operators and managers for the operation of their worldclass organ transplant and rehabilitation facility.
International Hospital of Bahrain organises scientific conference and workshops Over 200 guests and delegates attended a major scientific conference in September, organised by the International Hospital of Bahrain (IHB). “World renowned rheumatologists from Europe, the Middle East and the GCC countries, including Bahrain, presented the latest developments in the field of rheumatology in the First IHB International RheumatologyConference,” says Dr. Emil Hanna, IHB Consultant Rheumatologist and Secretary General of the conference. The conference, held at the Gulf Hotel, Kingdom of Bahrain, presented and discussed recent advances in the early diagnosis and management of various rheumatic conditions, with special emphasis on certain diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and osteoporosis. Surgical management of these diseases was also discussed with the objective of comprehensive management. The event attracted renowned speakers from Germany, Italy, Egypt, Kuwait, Qatar and Bahrain. Two handson training workshops supported the conference; ‘Active Vitamin D’ by Leo Pharmaceuticals; and ‘The Role of Ultrasonography in Early Detection of Rheumatic Diseases’ by Abbott Pharmaceuticals. Prof. Samir El-Badawy, Conference President, initiated the opening ceremony. Prof. ElBadawy is Professor of Rheumatology, Cairo University, Ex-
Above: Dr. Samir El-Badawy, Professor of Rheumatology, Cairo University, Ex-President of the Pan-Arab Osteoporosis Society, and General Secretary of the International League of Rheumatology. Inset: Dr. Emil Hanna, IHB Consultant Rheumatologist. (for further information contact C. J. Lewis, COO, IHB, Mob: 3672 0010)
President of the Pan-Arab Osteoporosis Society, and General Secretary of the International League of Rheumatology. Prof. ElBadawy is a regular Visiting Professor of the last 8 years to the International Hospital of Bahrain.
presentations and awards to the guest speakers with
a Gala Dinner at the Marina Club.
“We are very proud to have organised this scientific event. There is a professional need for continuing medical education (CME) for all medical professionals”, says Mr. Chris Lewis, IHB Chief Operating Officer and Chairman of the Organising Committee. “The event attracted over 150 physicians, surgeons, allied healthcare professionals, nurses and medical students from throughout the GCC countries”, says Dr. Emil Hanna. Delegates were awarded certificates of attendance and earned six accredited CME hours. The event concluded with Forum 31
Socio-Economic Studies Vital for Successful Development Socio-economic issues are challenging to quantify and require a combination of insight into social processes as well as a thorough knowledge of the communities under study to draw valid inferences.
In Bahrain, many local fishing communities have been adversely affected by the many land reclamation projects. The early identification of these impacts through EIAs has allowed Developers to offset negative impacts. One such initiative is the Diyar Al Muharraq Project in Bahrain, where the Ras Raya Harbour has been built adjacent to the development as compensation to the fishing sector. Additionally, individual compensation was given to fishermen in the area that lost their fixed fishing traps, known as Haddrahs. Other initiatives also from this project were the recent fish release programmes within the project boundaries as part of a drive to replenish the fish stocks in Bahrain. The Government is developing multiple fishing harbours around Bahrain aimed at benefitting local fishermen, and the artificial reefs project which is expected to commence in the coming months.
Determining the socio-impact of development projects has become increasingly important across the Middle East and Social Impact Assessments (SIAs) are now fundamental to traditional Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs). SIAs have a direct impact on development strategies and various community development projects. Assessing the socioeconomic impacts of a development has become a legal requirement of EIAs and an important area of cooperation between the Public and Private sectors. Assessing the potential socio-economic impacts of a development can be challenging. Communities are dynamic and in a continual process of evolution; the project is but one factor contributing to this change. Investigations such as stakeholder consultation, community engagement, presentations and public consultation meetings, structured questionnaires, interviews, open discussions and field observations have given URS Scott Wilson insight into many communities across the Middle East. Furthermore these social parameters are regularly incorporated and monitored as part of Environmental Management Plans (EMPs) and other monitoring programmes.
Social impacts are often unavoidable and difficult to mitigate completely. Mitigation strategies should be regarded as strategies to manage change rather than as means to avoid an impact. The development of compensation strategies as described above need to be monitored throughout the construction and operational phases of developments. URS Scott Wilson have been monitoring these programmes for many years, ensuring that mitigation measures remain in place. Successful management of a potentially negative impact has in many instances changed the impact to positive with benefits to the Developer as well as to the local community. URS Scott Wilson offers an expanded portfolio of professional design, engineering and environmental services that are provided for all stages of a project lifecycle. The Environmental Team has conducted numerous studies on communities that have been affected by developments around Bahrain. These studies have contributed to Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (EIA, SIA) and the long term implementation of Environmental Management Plans (EMPs).
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Education Sector BSB extends facilities The new academic year has got off to a flying start at the British School of Bahrain and all indications are that we have a great year ahead of us! We did a lot of work over the summer to enhance the facilities we offer our students and our returning students have been delighted with the improvements we have made.We have opened a number of new classes this year to accommodate the high demand for places at the BSB and we are already full in some year groups and have only a few places available in others. When parents choose a school for their children, we know that they do so very carefully, taking numerous factors into account, in order to find a school that closely
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matches their educational aspirations for their children. In terms of what we offer educationally, we are a selective, private and independent coeducational Kindergartenthrough-Year 13 school. Our curriculum is based on the British National Curriculum, with some adaptations to the local context, but we are a truly international school as our students come from a wide variety of backgrounds. Currently, we have 65 nationalities represented in our student population and we welcome families from all nationalities! The fact that we are one school, not three separate schools, is an important part of our character and ethos and we are
justly proud of the strong family feeling that through progression creates in our school. Every child, from our youngest kindergarten beginners to our young adults, is valued and cared for according to their needs. Like the parents of our students, we have high expectation for students’ academic achievements and we deliver a high quality education across a child’s whole journey through the school years that provides our graduating students with a passport to the best universities and colleges around the world. Of course, the taught curriculum is only one aspect of a child’s education. Like all institutions, schools are not value-free and the kind of adults our students will
become is strongly shaped and influenced by the values a school promotes. In terms of values, we are very clear about who we are and we communicate our values clearly so that parents who choose our school for their children do so knowing what we stand for. We believe that it is extremely important that parents choose the BSB because they share and support the values that are at the heart of everything we do. As an international school located in Bahrain, we value and celebrate the rich diversity of the many nationalities, religions, cultures and traditions of all our students. We do not promote or advocate any particular religion or belief, rather we accept children from all faiths and
we respect the spiritual life of every member of our school community.
Sue Anderson Consultants Information Tour Kicks off
The ethos of the BSB is one of care, respect and consideration towards others. We provide a safe, inclusive and caring environment in which young people can learn to live and work together in a spirit of harmony and mutual respect. Our students work hard and have fun while they learn and we regularly celebrate their many outstanding achievements. The standard of behaviour amongst our students is very high and we have a strong tradition of teachers and parents working together to promote good behaviour. We teach and encourage our students to develop positive attitudes, good manners, care and respect for others, selfcontrol, and the ability and willingness to take responsibility for and to be accountable for their actions. We believe that every member of our community has the basic entitlement to enjoy life at school, free from harassment or intimidation. We know that parent involvement in their children’s education has a strongly positive impact on children’s development and achievement and that a close collaboration between home and school creates the best possible learning environment for children and, to this end, we encourage open, two-way communications between home and school. We are a friendly and inclusive school and we welcome you to make an appointment to visit us and see what a lively and purposeful learning community we are.
Sue Anderson Consultants (SAC), Education Consultants and UK boarding school specialists will kick off their annual information regional tour with a visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) on the 19th of October and will conclude in Dubai on the 29th of October 2011. The Information days will allow parents to interact with the consultants about Boarding Schools, Summer and English Language Schools and Academic scholarships in the United Kingdom.
Visits to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi and Dubai from 19 to 29 October 2011
Parents and families alike can come visit the Consultants in Le Gulf Meridian hotel, Al Khobar on Tuesday the 19th of October 2011 from 1pm to 4pm; and another Information day planned on Tuesday the 25th of October 2011 from 10am to 2 pm. After Saudi Arabia, the team will visit the United Arab Emirates (UAE) starting with Abu Dhabi on Friday the 28 th of October 2011 at the Holiday Inn from 2 to 7 pm and will conclude the tour in Hilton Jumeirah, Dubai on the 29 th of October 2011 from 2 to 7pm.
and help them by giving impartial advice on more than 350 UK Boarding Schools.” For some parents with little experience of boarding schools, the experience can be a daunting prospect. Most rely on friends and family for help and advice. Each child is unique and each school is different. With a little help from the experts you can find that perfect place where your child will blossom and grow to his or her full potential. The Information day is an excellent starting point for selecting the best school for your child by brainstorming ideas and discussing concerns face-to-face” Anderson added. The UK Boarding School
Directory 2011/2012 will be distributed at the Information day and is available through British Council offices in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. The Directory is also available through the British Club, the Dilmun Club, the Rugby club and all Jashanmal Bookshops throughout the Kingdom of Bahrain For more information please visit our website www.andersoneducatio n.co.uk or Email us on: enquiries@andersoned ucation.co.uk, we shall then recommend schools for your consideration. Alternatively contact SAC Bahrain Representative, Ms. Karen El Zein on +973 39469827
Sue Anderson, Education Consultant comments on the Information day, “We have been holding the Information Day for 8 years in the region and it has proved to be a great success. Parents have concerns and questions about schools, the curriculum, activities offered and prefer a more personalised approach than a mere correspondence. During the Information Day, we meet with families, answer all their inquiries Forum 35
Hotel & Leisure News Gulf Hotel’s Loyalty Program Prestige Club Celebrates its 20th Anniversary The Gulf Hotel Bahrain’s Loyalty Program Prestige Club Celebrates its 20th Anniversary this month honoring its members with a special thank you for their custom over the years. Founded in 1991 the key objective of the program was to provide the key elements that would drive loyalty to the renowned Gulf Hotel brand. From the Hotel’s management perspective it helped them to identify who their key customers were and ensure that the best VIP service, recognition and rewards were available to them. Today the Prestige Club is comprised of nearly 3000 members managed by Mai Abdul Kader and her team of enthusiastic telemarketers all based at the Gulf Hotel’s sales office. “The Prestige Club is the leading loyalty program in Bahrain said Mai, providing its members
fabulous room rates and unrivalled dining. Our valued members receive reduction on the total food segment of the bill excluding service charge, tax and gratuities. The deduction of the bill is determined by the number of diners on the table. When dining for two, members can avail of a fantastic 50% discount in any of our restaurants which is great value for money. For business executives looking to reduce their entertainment spend, it provides an excellent opportunity to reduce costs without sacrificing on quality as we pride ourselves in delivering the best cuisine on the island”. For those clients looking to book accommodation, the Prestige Club also offers VIP exclusive amenities, a private checkin desk and personalised accommodation packages.
Mansouri adds to property portfolio Hasan Mansouri has purchased the former Woodfield Inn, and renamed it Mansouri Mansion, in Flat Rock, North Carolina, USA.
site with the historic society. The property enjoys 18 bedrooms, a bar and restaurant, and will be owned and operated by Hasan Mansouri.
Built in 1852, it is a registered
Interviewed by a local
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Members receive exclusive benefits valid in the Gulf Hotel laundry, Business Centre, the Atrium Pastry shop, Ramadan tent as well as ad hoc reductions on key events organised by the hotel like the up and coming Oktoberfest, Gulf Night Out, and the weekly famous Friday Brunches The Gulf Hotel offers quality Bahraini hospitality in a calm and professional environment guests will encounter immaculate service that can cater for their every need. A team of professional staff, many of whom are on first name terms with regular guests, are equipped with a strong work ethic and a desire to create a personal atmosphere. It is this personalisation that sets the Gulf Hotel apart from its main competitors and ensures that it remains at the very heart of Bahraini tradition. reporter, Mr Mansouri said “There are roses and flowers everywhere, it’s beautiful,” Once a popular locale for weddings, the inn is working on making a reputation for nuptials once again. Two weddings have been booked since Mansouri purchased the
Mai Abdul Kader
To enroll in the Prestige Club or for more information please visit our website on www.gulfhotelbahrain.com or call Mai directly on (+973) 17746286 The Gulf Hotel Bahrain is a member of WORLDHOTELS, which is an extensive collection of the most unique and independent hotels around the world. property. He added that he wanted the inn to be a place of “beautiful memories” for couples. BBBF members are invited to visit, the area is very scenic very close to the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Key activities of the Bahrain Maritime Festival
A fund for promoting and supporting maritime education and training through scholarships to Bahraini students has been announced by the General Organisation of Sea Ports (GOP) as the second annual Bahrain Maritime Festival (BMF) kicked off in September. The proposal for establishing the Bahrain Maritime Education Fund was given the green light by GOP’s Board of Directors the day before the opening of BMF 2011. The Fund is being set up to provide scholarships and financial support to assist Bahraini nationals, selected through a fair and transparent process, for pursuing higher education and training. In setting up the Fund, the GOP realises the importance of ensuring availability of well-educated and trained local manpower to help the Bahrain maritime sector to prosper and remain competitive in the global maritime community. The launch of the Fund,
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which is expected to become operational by the beginning of next year, follows a detailed study that has laid out the structure, criteria, possible programmes and selection process for applicants. This initiative is part of a multi-pronged strategy devised by the GOP to enhance capacitybuilding and help promote the career potential of the maritime industry to preserve Bahrain’s deep-rooted seabased tradition. Another important initiative that has reached fruition coinciding with the launch of BMF 2011 is the completion of the Seafarer’s Centre, a project that was initially announced during the first annual BMF last year. The Seafarer’s Centre, located at the Khalifa Bin Salman Port (KBSP), inaugurated on the 29th of September, 2011, will provide a premises for the international seafarers calling at the port and office space to Bahrain International Seafarers Society (BISS). The new Centre will enable BISS to provide international seafarers various amenities, services and support for rest and relaxation. Shaikh Daij bin Salman Al Khalifa, Chairman of GOP, said, “I have great pleasure in announcing these two
global maritime, shipping and logistics industry. The seminar’s topic was chosen to directly tie into the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) theme for World Maritime Day 2011: “Piracy: Orchestrating the Response”.
Shaikh Daij bin Salman Al Khalifa,
major developments at GOP during the Bahrain Maritime Festival 2011. They are the culmination of much hard work, and both reflect the gradual implementation of our Strategic Plan 20112016.” Exemplifying GOP’s commitment to further developing both the hard and soft infrastructure of Bahrain’s maritime industry and ensuring that the Kingdom remains competitive on a global level, these two announcements set a positive tone for BMF 2011, which was inaugurated with an industry seminar entitled “Addressing Piracy”. The topic reflects what has been much on the minds of industry insiders due to the steadily increasing threat of piracy on the
The seminar saw more than 130 maritime industry professionals and stakeholders, with key international speakers visiting Bahrain specifically to address the audience. . The overall objective for the seminar was to help all stakeholders adopt a practical, comprehensive and sustainable strategy to address maritime security and best practices to counter piracy. BMF was first conceptualized by the GOP in 2010, and follows a week-long festival format, with a full agenda of activities, all of which revolve around the IMO’s theme or touch directly on the maritime industry. The BMF embodies the spirit of the IMO’s World Maritime Day, which is a global annual IMO initiative, and aims to generate greater awareness for Bahrain’s growing achievements and developments in the maritime industry and
a viral campaign to engage younger Bahrainis and we have been delighted with the response.”
Reflection of the Two Seas Photography Exhibition at Seef Mall
further positions Bahrain as a pioneer in the global maritime industry. In addition to the “Addressing Piracy” seminar, the Bahrain Maritime Festival includes a photo exhibition that will showcase images taken by photo enthusiasts, as part of a photography competition entitled: “Reflection of the Two Seas”. The competition challenged photographers to capture aspects of Bahrain’s maritime life, industry or landscape. Submitted photos were reviewed by a panel of professional photographers, including Mr. Khalifa Shaheen, Mr. Ali Riffai and Ms. Loredana Montello. BMF 2011 also includes a youth-oriented educational programme to be rolled out over the course of the school-year to enable as many students as possible to attend. The programme, which is being implemented in strategic partnership with Tamkeen, aims to create awareness and generate interest in Bahrain’s growing achievements and developments in the maritime industry among students, as well as to highlight the career potential
of the maritime and shipping industry for interested students. The program will include an overview about the threat of piracy, an introduction to Bahrain’s maritime capabilities and field visits to both the Arab Shipbuilding and Repair Yard (ASRY) and the Khalifa Bin Salman Port (KBSP), where students can see the various facets of ports and shipping operations first-hand. The final activity, the BMF Kids Carnival, will take place in the Bahrain City Center and will run from October 5th - 8th October, 2011. The Carnival will include a number of activities aimed at entertaining children of all ages, and will feature a range of maritime-themed activities. “Last year, we launched the BMF as a pilot initiative to test the level of interest and I am very pleased to report that we received great feedback, spurring this year’s event to be bigger and better,” said Shaikh Daij, “Each year, we aim to have at least one business event, one educational event and one event for families to enjoy. Moreover, our outreach this year included
Multiple channels of communications were used to reach out to stakeholders this year, including social media, which was successful in grabbing the attention of both industry professionals and youth. Updates were regularly posted to the official Bahrain Maritime Festival Facebook page, as well as BMF’s Twitter feed (@BMFBahrain), which helped engage and inform interested participants. Major companies and media partners have come forward as sponsors to support and be a part of BMF 2011 activities to mark World Maritime Day. While the Arab Shipbuilding and Repair Yard (ASRY) is BMF’s strategic sponsor for BMF for the second consecutive year, Tamkeen is the strategic partner for the school visit as part of the festival’s educational programme this year. This is in addition to Bahrain Flour Mills, Al Jazeera Shipping Co. W.L.L., Bahrain Polytechnic, GAC Bahrain, APM Terminals, and UCO Marines. Media
partners include: Al Watan, Al Ayam, Al Bilad, Akhbar Al Khaleej, and Gulf Daily News. The support of these organisations indicates that the business of meetings, incentives, conferences and events (MICE) is very much active in Bahrain and that the maritime industry can contribute positively to this activity. The United Nations (UN), via the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), initiated World Maritime Day to commemorate the international maritime industry’s contribution towards the global economy, specifically in the shipping and logistics sectors. The GOP joins many countries worldwide, including Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States to observe World Maritime Day. The event’s date varies by year and country but it is always celebrated during the last week of September. For more information on Bahrain Maritime Festival’s events, please email us on bmf@gop.gov.bh or visit the Facebook page “Bahrain Maritime Festival” and follow us on twitter @BMFBahrain for continuous updates.
Hassan Al Majed, Director-General of the General Organisation of Sea Ports Forum 39
virtuosity of the McLaren Group.
McLaren Special Operations:
Bespoke Services For McLaren Sports Car Owners McLaren Automotive has announced the official launch of McLaren Special Operations, a division of the new sports car manufacturer responsible for delivery of bespoke projects for McLaren sports cars. McLaren Special Operations
celebrated its launch at Pebble Beach in the US by presenting an example of the groundbreaking new MP4-12C, finished in a unique version of Volcano Orange, and featuring a range of bespoke carbon upgrades.
The exclusive 12C unveiled at Pebble Beach, has been specified with the aim of inspiring existing and future owners of the first ever pure McLaren sports car. Bespoke treatment applied to this car includes stunning satin matte Volcano Orange paintwork, a gloss black roof, diamond cut finish wheels with gloss black inners, MP4-12C branded carbon sill panels, carbon steering wheel, front wheel arch louvres and carbon fibre engine cover vents, rear deck vent and wiper system cover. A short film including footage of this unique MP4-12C can be viewed at www.youtube.com/ mclarenautomotivetv The MP4–12C is the debut model of what will be a range of highperformance sports cars from McLaren Automotive, the independent car division based in Woking, England. The 12C, which will go on sale in the GCC later this year, and future models within the range, will challenge the world’s best sports cars, benefiting from the expertise and
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Paul Mackenzie, (pictured left) Programme Director at McLaren Automotive, with responsibility for McLaren Special Operations, said “For nearly twenty years we have been closely managing relationships with owners of the McLaren F1, and understanding their needs is a great foundation on which to launch a service that will now include 12C customers. McLaren Automotive already offers 12C customers extensive options to personalise their car. However we recognise some owners have specific tastes and we have the knowledge and capability to design, engineer and produce almost anything a customer may desire for their 12C.” McLaren Automotive also presented a second special version of the MP4-12C at the Pebble Beach event. This unique 12C was painted by McLaren Racing (the Formula 1 focused sister company to McLaren Automotive), using AkzoNobel Sikkens chrome coating, which is usually applied exclusively to Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Formula 1 cars. The special lightweight coating is designed to minimize friction and have a low drying time requirement; critical for manufacturing demands of Formula 1. The paint scheme is not available for commercial purposes and is reserved exclusively for the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes F1 programme. Customers with enquiries for the McLaren Special Operations sales team can make contact at: specialoperations@ mclaren.com
Bahrain News FD Adopts FTI Consulting Brand FTI Consulting, Inc. (NYSE: FCN), the global business advisory firm dedicated to helping organisations protect and enhance their enterprise value, have announced that FD Gulf has adopted the FTI Consulting brand across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. FD now will be known as the Strategic Communications practice of FTI Consulting on a global basis.
The Strategic Communications practice of FTI Consulting (formerly FD) was the first specialist financial and corporate communications consultancy in the GCC region when it set up offices in the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain in 2003. The business is composed of a fully resourced strategic communications team that has advised governments, international firms and local
businesses throughout the GCC and wider Middle East region. Shane Dolan, head of the
Strategic Communications practice at FTI Consulting in Bahrain, said: “We are absolutely delighted to adopt the FTI Consulting brand in the GCC region. This integration with our global network is an added advantage that will reinforce our position as the region’s leading specialist strategic communications consultancy. Our clients will be able to benefit from the firm’s broader offering and also have access to our more than 3,700 FTI Consulting colleagues around the world.”
UK Company registers Bahrain Office North Yorkshire based Swinton Technolgy has announced that in line with Swinton Technology’s strategic on-going growth plans, Swinton Technology Middle East S.P.C was registered in Bahrain on 27th April 2011. Ali Syed, who joined Swinton’s as General Manager of Swinton Technology Middle East in April, will be responsible for initially ensuring that
oil and gas metering computer systems users across all GCC countries have access to high quality and responsive support services, regardless of who supplied the original system. Ali has Electronics and Control System experience within the oil and gas industry and in recent years has been providing engineering support to various principals on
Ernst & Young named ‘Best Accountant – Auditor’ by Banker ME Ernst & Young was named as the ‘Best Accountant – Auditor’ in the Middle East region at the Banker Middle East Industry Awards 2011 ceremony held in Dubai. The award recognized Ernst & Young’s exemplary work in advancing the audit practice and upholding high quality standards through its work in 2010-2011. Accepting the award, Noor Abid, Managing Partner, Assurance, Ernst & Young MENA, said: “We are very pleased by this 42 Forum
projects in the Kingdom Of Saudi Arabia; including projects for Saudi Aramco and SABIC. Swinton Technology Middle East engineers will initially work with the Swinton Technology UK team implementing projects with end destinations in GCC countries and will be involved in the installation, commissioning and ongoing support of these systems; however once the
Swinton Technology Middle East team grows to an appropriate size, systems will be implemented in Bahrain.
Condor Certification
recognition. It is a welcome acknowledgement of the quality of the services we provide to clients, and will go a long way in consolidating our market leadership in audit services across the region.” The MENA practice of Ernst & Young has been operating in the region since 1923. Currently the largest among the Big 4 in the region, it has over 1,900 audit professionals across 20 offices and 15 Arab countries.
Pictured above left with CEO Fred Donnelly, Condor Technology’s Finance GM, Velu Sashi Kumar Poomani, has recently completed his Certified Public Accountant tests in the USA and has been issued his CPA certificate and professional license by the Board of
Accountancy from the State of Delaware. Condor has also recently renewed its Cisco Premier Partnership certification. GM IT, Dorwin Caballero, flanked by CTO Ian Plamondon and GNM Sales David Wales, is shown above holding the certificate.
Bahrain News Unisono Signs As Tenmou Partner Bahrain’s first Business Angels’ company, Tenmou, has named Unisono, the award winning integrated communications agency, as official communications partner. Unisono will be providing strategic and creative consultancy for Tenmou and the entrepreneurial candidates, advising on all areas of communication, notably branding, design and PR. Commenting on the partners, Tenmou CEO Hasan Haider said, “Working with partners such as Unisono will accelerate the development of a strong foundation for an entrepreneurial community in Bahrain and positively influence the economy. Our partners are a mix of wellestablished entrepreneurs and industry names with a keen interest in supporting the development of Bahraini entrepreneurs through professional consultancy and advice.” Unisono CEO Amy Morgan said, “Working with Tenmou directly fits with our entrepreneurial, brand centric culture and will be a key part of our CSR plans to be announced over the coming months.
Tenmou has the potential to help transform Bahrain’s commercial landscape, establishing it as an emerging centre for entrepreneurialism. We look forward to working with the candidates to develop brand concepts that maximise the potential of their ideas and enhance long-term business value. It is an inspiring opportunity for Bahrain and Unisono.” Other partners and supporters of this project include Economic Development Board (EDB), Bahrain Development Bank (BDB), ALBA, Unisono, BDO Jawad Habib, 4SPOTS, Ernst and Young, and the Capital Club.
Jeremy Skyrme, TNT’s Country General manager writes to advise that TNT Express Bahrain have launched a new business to consumer product known as “TNT Worldshop”. The product provides consumers with their very own PO Box in the USA and soon to be launched in the UK. Residents of Bahrain are able to purchase goods in the USA/UK that are not available in Bahrain, or deemed too expensive, or not yet launched and shipped to their own personal PO Box in these countries. 44 Forum
About Tenmou Launched with an initial start-up capital of US$ 2.7 million, Tenmou (www.tenmou.me) is the only entity in Bahrain that provides seed stage funding to entrepreneurs in a non-loan/non-credit form. Tenmou will own a percentage of shares in the start-up companies while the young entrepreneurs will own the rest of the shares. There will be a three month mentorship period for each project and an average investment of BD 20,000, excluding the additional services and advice from
Tenmou and Tenmou partners which will incur no additional cost. The unique aspect of Tenmou is this mentorship program that will involve some of Bahrain’s top and most experienced CEOs and entrepreneurs, who will deliver key sessions. Unlike several similar organisations that support start-up growth, Tenmou believes that its main differentiating factor is its understanding of entrepreneurs, as well as the unique private sector approach and willingness to take a risk.
Typically when you buy goods on-line in these countries they will ship domestically for free to your PO Box, from there you then use our services to move the goods to Bahrain. TNT Express is offering all BBBF members a free account so please email TNT on: worldshop.bahrain@tnt.com if you’re interested in getting more information.
Tamkeen supports Elames in Acquiring Revolutionary Machinery Tamkeen has extended its support to Elames, a division of Behzad Group to introduce a new high-tech machine in Bahrain for the very first time through financial assistance from Tamkeen’s Technical Assistance Scheme (Techania), part of the Enterprise Development Support Programme.
processing large batches of raw materials at once, the machine is expected to increase production capacity by around 400%,
The company, specialised in supplying finishing materials to construction projects, signed the contract with Tamkeen at its headquarters in Sitra.
“This technology vastly improves the way we do business,” Behzad commented. “The significant jump in production capacity allows us to confidently bid for mega-projects across the GCC. It also lessens our reliance on unskilled manual labourers who can be replaced with a smaller team of well-trained Bahrainis, which in turn cuts unit cost considerably and improves our profitability.”
The BD65,000 modern piece of equipment uses laser-guided tools to produce precisely-cut finishing materials such as tiles and kitchen countertops from raw materials such as stone, marble, and granite according to any specification and design. By
According to Mr. Mishal Behzad, Product Director at Elames, the new machinery will be key in the company’s ambitious growth plans.
Behzad also revealed
Tamkeen’s Senior Manager of Private Sector Support Mr. Mohammed Bucheery (right) and Mishal Behzad, Product Director at Elames at the signing ceremony
that the company, which currently operates offices in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, plans to expand its presence further by opening more branches across the entire GCC region, and will seek the support of other Tamkeen programmes in this endeavour. The updates to Tamkeen’s Enterprise Development
Support Programme encompass all schemes under its umbrella (Istishara, Techania, Tasweeq, Tarweej, and Jawda), and came as a result of Tamkeen’s efforts to improve the performance of private sector enterprises in Bahrain, in line with the goals of Bahrain Economic Vision 2030.
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Bahrain News Charles Russell Bahrain office expands Real Estate practice Bahrain since 2008 advising a variety of companies, financial institutions, government and other public sector bodies as well as high profile individuals in Bahrain and across the Middle East region.
Simon Green Charles Russell is delighted to announce the appointment of Simon Green as Head of Real Estate, Middle East. He is based in our Bahrain office and joins the firm from Norton Rose. He has been in
Simon specialises in advising on large-scale mixed use developments, city centre redevelopments, real estate investment, management and finance, using both conventional and Islamic finance structures. Simon will be supported by Real Estate associate, Charlie Marlow who has been on secondment with Bahrain Airport Company since March this year.
Charlie will be joining Simon’s team full time in the Bahrain office later this year. Charlie has experience of working on a variety of commercial property transactions and regularly advises a number of high profile clients on landlord and tenant matters, including in relation to investment management, retail and development premises. Clive Hopewell, Charles Russell Middle East Head, commented: “We’re delighted to welcome Simon to the team in Bahrain, his Middle East experience and property sector expertise will be invaluable. Charles Russell has been advising on real estate
Charlie Marlow and construction matters throughout Bahrain and the wider Middle East and his appointment complements the Corporate and Banking expertise of our Bahrain office”.
Oxford Business Group appoints new team to lead 2012 report Oxford Business Group (OBG) has put in place a new team to oversee its latest project on Bahrain’s economic development and investment opportunities. Anna Dabrowska moves to Bahrain from Qatar to take up the role of Country Director while Gregory Kramer has been appointed OBG’s Editorial Manager in the Kingdom for the second consecutive year. The team will spearhead the groundwork and compilation of business intelligence for OBG’s forthcoming publication The Report: Bahrain 2012, which will be available complimentary to all BBBF members. Dabrowska said she was delighted to be playing a pivotal role on OBG’s new report which is expected to provide in-depth analysis of Bahrain’s efforts to drive 46 Forum
growth in services and manufacturing. Kramer added “Our work will also involve closely following the implementation of the recommendations of the National Dialogue which is expected to be pivotal in the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to attract investors.” Dabrowska played a valuable role on OBG’s Qatar project, securing contributions for its most recent report on the State from a number of leading national figures. Her career exploring the workings of emerging economies has taken her to Jordan, South Africa, the Philippines and Mexico. As a key member of OBG’s team in Bahrain, Kramer was instrumental in documenting the important developments taking place
in the Kingdom’s economic development for The Report: Bahrain 2011. The Report: Bahrain 2012 will mark the culmination of more than eight months of on-the-ground research by a team of analysts from OBG. It will provide
information on opportunities for foreign direct investment into Bahrain’s economy and will be a guide to the many facets of the Kingdom, including its macroeconomics, infrastructure, banking and sectoral developments.
Cluttons announces 35th year anniversary in Bahrain
Cluttons is pleased to announce plans to celebrate its 35th year of dedicated real estate services in the Kingdom. This milestone has been affirmed by the promotion of Harry Goodson-Wickes, a rising star within the Middle Eastern team and a dynamic real estate professional, to Head of Country. Goodson-Wickes has enjoyed over eight years
with Cluttons. Starting in London, he then moved to the Muscat office in 2006 before taking on the role to establish the new Cluttons office in Abu Dhabi in early 2010. His promotion to Head of Country for Bahrain underlines his commitment to the company, and ability to both motivate teams and optimise management structures. His role will be to adapt to the restricted real estate context, and drive Cluttons’ business forward in an innovative manner. Goodson Wickes’ promotion follows the departure of Tim Glover, who helped establish Cluttons as a credible force in Bahrain over the past four years. The announcement comes at a time when experts in Bahrain are forecasting slow recovery from the events in early 2011.
Key management appointment for bnl
Bahrain National Life Assurance Company (bnl) – a subsidiary of Bahrain National Holding - have announced the appointment of Mr. Robert Grey as the subsidiary’s General Manager. “We are pleased to welcome Robert as he brings significant experience, knowledge and energy to bnl’s team.”
commented Abdulrahman Juma, Chairman, bnl. Mr. Grey joins the company with over 20 years of experience in the insurance and health care industries in Bahrain; he holds an Oxford Law degree and is a Chartered Insurer and a fellow of the Chartered Insurance Institute in the United Kingdom.
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Bahrain News HSBC Wins First place in U-12 Royal Charity Organisation Football Championship Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Charity Organisation, HSBC Won First place in U-12 Royal Charity Organisation (RCO) Football Championship 2011
which was held on 17 Aug 2011, on the courts of Riffa Views International School for children ranging from 8 to 12 years. This was the first event of its kind organised by RCO. There were 6 teams from different organisations and sectors (Royal charity, Riffa views, BMI Bank and Rcapita). HSBC managed to win with first place and Faisal Al Aali, who is the son of one of the employees, was given the highest scorer trophy with 9 goals in total. As for the youngest player on court it was Leena Najaf’s son Yousif. After the championship, HSBC team were invited by Sheikh Nasser bin
Hamad Al Khalifa and Dr. Mustafa Al Sayed who is the General Secretary of the Royal Charity, where the team were appreciated for their participation and were awarded a trophy. Mahmood Al Aali also presented a gift to His Highness Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa.
News from Norton Rose (Middle East) LLP in Bahrain Norton Rose Group - now a top 10 international legal practice by number of lawyers
Norton Rose Group has expanded and now includes two additional leading law firms: Ogilvy Renault LLP of Canada and Deneys Reitz Inc of South Africa. Ogilvy Renault has become Norton Rose OR LLP and Deneys Reitz has become Norton Rose South Africa (incorporated as Deneys Reitz Inc) (“Norton Rose South Africa”). With more than 2,600 lawyers, including 795 partners, the enlarged Norton Rose Group is a top 10 international legal practice by number of lawyers, with 39 offices throughout Europe, Asia Pacific, Canada, Africa 48 Forum
and the Middle East. Norton Rose Group is recognised for its strength in six key sectors: financial institutions; energy; infrastructure, mining and commodities; transport; technology and innovation and pharmaceuticals and life sciences. The expansion has opened up access to Canada and South Africa, which are both increasingly influential economies for the Group’s clients. In particular there are significant business synergies between Canada, South Africa and the rest of Norton Rose Group in the areas of mining and natural resources, infrastructure, energy, financial institutions and insurance. Integrating these geographies and industry strengths with the Group’s existing capability in
the Middle East, Europe and Asia Pacific offers compelling opportunities for clients. The Group now has significantly increased resources across its principal practice areas, including corporate; banking; litigation and dispute resolution; intellectual property; employment and labour; anti-trust, competition and regulatory; real estate; and tax. Norton Rose Group at the WIBC We have once again been asked to host a women in Islamic finance session at this years World Islamic Banking Conference in Bahrain. Joanne Emerson-Taqi, a Bahrain based partner specialising in noncontentious projects within
the construction, real estate and infrastructure sectors and Farmida Bi, who specialises in Islamic finance and capital markets, will be hosting a networking session for women attending the WIBC. This highlights Norton Rose Group’s commitment to bringing women together to meet one another, facilitate opportunities for networking and discuss common issues. The session is on Tuesday 22 November from 15.00 - 16.00 and if you are attending the WIBC this year we would be delighted to meet with you. If you have not yet been to one of our events we can assure you that it is a relaxed and enjoyable way of connecting with other women in business and law in the Islamic finance industry.
Atkins project team wins client recognition
Atkins’ key role in ensuring the successful implementation of Bahrain’s National Planning and Development Strategy (NPDS) has been lauded by the Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning (MMAUP) in the media. The plan aims to bring long-term prosperity and economic diversification to the Kingdom.
A full time core team of Atkins experts has worked on the project since our appointment in June 2010 by MMAUP. We have drawn on a vast range of disciplines from a 30-strong support team incorporating planning, economics, transport planning, coastal, environmental and infrastructure engineering, heritage, sustainability and urban design.
Our work, which will help shape development in Bahrain for the next 20 years, updated earlier studies looking at demographic and economic trends. We have also created a national land use plan which will be the basis for assessing the Kingdom’s transport and infrastructure requirements to make its vision for 2030 a reality.
Ian Charie, Project Manager, says: "This is a complex, challenging project at the heart of changing the approach to urban planning in the Kingdom, and it’s gratifying to be recognised in this way by the client. What’s more, they have used the opportunity to confirm their intent to implement our good work for the benefit of future generations, to both raise quality of life and achieve more sustainable development. In addition to the land use plan, Atkins delivered strategies to support: • Transport, housing and waterfront development and heritage preservation; • Development of the tools necessary to implement the strategic plan; and • Sustainable development and improved standards of living.
A Balanced Outcome to the Bahrain 11 Draw
Draw proceedings for the four team sports broadcast live on several networks The official draw for the four team sports featured in the first GCC Games (Bahrain 11) took place in Manama on Friday (Sept 9th). The draw, which was presided over by Secretary General of the Bahrain Olympic Committee (BOC) and Deputy President of Bahrain 11 Organizing Committee Sh. Ahmed bin Hamad Al Khalifa. The event’s proceedings were covered live to the region on several networks, including Bahrain Sports and official Bahrain 11 broadcast partner Abu Dhabi Sports. The draw commenced with basketball, followed by volleyball, handball, and finally football. Leading specialists from each sport were welcomed into Bahrain Sports studio to give their impressions following each round. Each round was presided over by esteemed representatives from the sport’s individual committees, Bahrain 11’s committees, or the BOC. In addition, Mr. Khalil Al Taher, head of the technical committee, and Mr. Jassim Al Sindi of the organizing committee were on hand for basketball. For volleyball, the draw was led by Mr. Faraj Miftah head of the technical committee and Mr. Firas Al Halwaji of the organizing committee for volleyball. The handball draw was conducted by Mr. Turki Al Khlaiwi, head of the sport’s technical and organizing committees, and Mr. Mohammed Al Ajlaan,
Secretary General of the Bahrain 11 organizing committee, while Mr. Mirza Ahmed, Assistant Secretary General of organizing committee, and Mr. Abduljaleel Asad from the BOC chaired the draw for football. Bahrain 11, scheduled to take place in October, is expected to be the largest showcase of GCC sport talents ever, with nearly 1,500 athletes representing all GCC member nations coming to the Kingdom to compete in the 10 sport disciplines featured in the first edition of the GCC Games. Forum 49
DHL Express and Southern Air sign new multi-year agreement, adding three new Boeing 777 freighters to DHL fleet Express. The 777 Freighter
that has begun service for DHL Express is one of two 777s that Southern Air currently flies. Southern Air expects to take delivery of an additional two 777s earmarked for DHL Express’ use in March-April 2012 and then introduce them into the DHL network.
DHL, the world’s leading international express provider, is adding three Boeing 777 freighters that will expand its capacity and boost transit times along key growing trade routes between the Americas, Asia and the Middle East. DHL has signed an air service agreement with Southern Air Holdings, Inc. to operate the new 777 freighters, the most fuel-efficient aircraft of its kind. The first 777F, which began service on August 15, will connect DHL hubs in Cincinnati (CVG), Bahrain (BAH) and Hong Kong (HK), moving around the world with each operation. The 777 freighter is expected to burn around 20 to 25 percent less fuel and has a superior max payload range1 on this routing, allowing more markets to be served non-stop, thereby facilitating faster delivery. DHL already has eight other 777Fs in its fleet. The continued upgrade to more efficient aircraft is in keeping with the company’s commitment to increase its carbon efficiency by 30 percent in 2020. Charlie
Dobbie,
EVP
Global Network Operations DHL Express said: “The agreement with Southern Air is another important building block to further upgrade our international air express network. With this additional new round the world service, our customers have the benefit of later pick up times for next day deliveries in the US, Canada and wider areas in the Americas region. Additionally, for the express services from Canada, Latin America and USA provided through our hub in Cincinnati to the Middle East via Bahrain, we are able to shorten transit times considerably, by as much as one full day. This is a significant advantage for our customers from the oil and gas, technology and communications industries.” “This new flight’s intercontinental route from Hong Kong to the U.S. gives DHL customers later pick-up times out of Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta and next-day delivery into the U.S., Canada and much of the Americas region," said Jerry Hsu, CEO, DHL Express Asia Pacific.
“Continuing on to Bahrain from the U.S. hub shortens delivery times by as much as one full day for shipments from Canada, the U.S. and Latin America to much of the Middle East. That’s a key benefit for exporters in the oil and gas, technology, and communications industries as well as the U.S. Government.” Added Stephen Fenwick, regional CEO for DHL Express Americas. “The Boeing 777s are the largest, most capable twinengine freighters in the world, and we are thrilled to be flying these premium aircraft on DHL’s behalf,” said Southern Air’s Chief Executive Officer, Daniel J. McHugh. “Southern Air has seen tremendous growth over the past two years and has continued to enhance its fleet and air cargo capabilities. Southern Air strives to provide its growing, blue-chip client base with reliable, efficient, flexible solutions that best suit their needs.” Under the new agreement, Southern Air will operate three Boeing 777 Freighters on behalf of DHL
The addition of these new 777 Freighters is part of Southern Air’s commitment to providing customers with optimal air cargo solutions in an environmentally responsible way. With the new planes, Southern Air will operate a total of four 777 Freighters and is actively looking to add more 777 Freighters to its fleet. The 777s complement Southern Air’s fleet of 11 747-200s. For DHL Express, the expansion of its network through the introduction of these new aircraft is part of its ongoing commitment to expand its global capabilities and improve its customer service through a significant investment program into infrastructure, its employees and its brand. The company has also embarked on an internal Certified International Specialist (CIS) program to accredit 100,000 employees around the world, aimed at increasing employees’ expertise to help our customers grow their business internationally. The International Express Specialist advertising campaign launched in May highlights their “know how” and will roll out in over 40 markets, including the Americas, later this year.
(Footnote: 1 The B777 is more fuel efficient and therefore can maintain its payload capacity for a longer flight time compared to the B747. This results in less fuel burned per ton of cargo carried and makes more direct links possible.) 50 Forum
DHL has delivered 100 tonnes of team equipment to New Zealand for Rugby World Cup 2011 DHL, Official Logistics Partner of Rugby World Cup 2011 (RWC 2011), has delivered to New Zealand more than 100 tonnes of team equipment and personal baggage needed by the 19 teams competing in the Tournament. The freight has been departing ports all over the world bound for New Zealand since 17 August 2011. The last of the team freight touched down safely on 5 September ahead of the start of the Tournament
on the 9 September. “With the successful delivery of all team freight to New Zealand from 19 different locations around the world, I’m proud to say DHL is doing its part in delivering Rugby to the world. But, as with the teams competing in RWC 2011, our work has just started. We’ll continue to work throughout the Tournament to ensure each team’s equipment, including that for the New Zealand team, is delivered on time for each match,“ said Gary Edstein, Senior Vice President Oceania, DHL Express. During the Tournament, teams from five continents will play 48 matches at 12 venues. There will be at least 130 domestic team freight
moves including those for the local New Zealand team, and at least 200 operational freight moves, with DHL’s dedicated vehicles travelling 30,000 kilometers throughout New Zealand during RWC 2011. In addition to the team equipment, DHL is storing and delivering uniforms and other official Tournament equipment from training grounds to playing venues around New Zealand. DHL is also transporting the anti-doping samples taken from athletes post-match, ensuring they reach the accredited laboratory in Sydney for testing within a 24-hour period. About Rugby World Cup: Rugby World Cup has
provided the financial platform for investment and growth in the Game. The net RWC 2007 surplus of £122.4 million has underwritten a range of major funding initiatives, including annual national Union grants and Strategic Investments via the £48 million programme between 2009-2012 focusing on increasing competition across the global Game. The total invested by the IRB during the period will be £150 million. Rugby World Cup 2011 in Zealand will be attended by over 1.6 million spectators and watched by a global TV audience of well over four billion in more than 200 countries. For more information visit www.rugbyworldcup.com
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Times are really tough ! (for some) With the world’s financial press debating whether or not the latest round of quantitative easing will really work, I’m still attempting to discover what quantitative easing actually means. Certainly the concept of putting extra cash into the economy seems like a good idea but just how do you get extra cash in your pocket? ... Well the answer may be sitting in your attic.
CBS News reported earlier this year that a partial copy of a 500 year old book, The Nuremberg Chronicle, had been found in an attic in a house in Utah. Despite its state, it was literally falling apart at the seams, experts concluded that it was worth about $50,000.
of flavours including honey, coffee, chocolate, cardamom, cloves, oranges and almonds. That being said, I prefer mine with a dash of water, so when my invitation to the tasting comes in I’ll be sure to equip myself with a bottle of Bling H2O, which for those of you unfamiliar with what is described by Forbes as “the most expensive bottled water in the world,” is water from a Tennessee Spring (in the US) which is packaged in frosted bottles decorated with Swarovski crystals. Currently only available through limited outlets, I should be able to pick one up for around $2600 next time I’m in Dublin Airport.
So when you find and sell that priceless item from your attic what are you going to spend it on. In September 2011, a Chinese businessman paid a staggering $200,000 for a bottle of scotch. The 62 year old Dalmore is one of only 12 bottles created and according to the experts has an abundance
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If works of art are rather more your thing, spare a thought for a family in Germany. Faced with a large inheritance tax bill they’ve sold the Darmstadt Madonna, a painting by Hans Holbein in 1526, for around $70 million to a private collector. The painting could have fetched double that on the international market but it is on a list compiled by the State of Hesse of
And Finally
unexportable treasures so any buyer must keep the work in Germany.
Something else which has to remain in position is Updown Court in the Surrey village of Windlesham. Described as the most expensive country house in England it is on the market for £75 million. The neo-classical mansion was aquired by the current owner out of receivership in 2002 for a mere £20 million but has had over £30 million spent on it since. With over 100 rooms and 58 acres there’s ample room to entertain a few friends.
1887 has also completed the London to Brighton competition in the UK. RM auctions sold it recently for $4.6 million, a record for an early motor car sold at auction.
Just in case your tastes are rather more for the unusual, why not take a scroll through the ebay site. Described as a naturally formed “BBQ Pork” rock you can buy it now for $1.25 million if you’re so inclined. And just in case you think
I’m making this up, the photo below is a rock actually on display in the National Palace Museum in Taipei. Approached by a heated marble driveway you might want to consider what vehicle you’d like to arrive in.. A suitable vehicle just might be the 1884 De Dion Bouton. This steam powered car, which has the distinction of participation in the first automobile race in