UAE Digest Nov 09 by Sterling Publications

Not the last, nor the least, Mr Branson!

irgin boss Richard Branson had described Retail, Leisure and Entertainment destination the Atlantis launch party as the last on the Yas Island is set to be the world’s largest ‘party’ of the century. Obviously, he had indoor theme park and the first ever Ferrari two thoughts in mind when he referred theme park in the world when it opens in 2010. to it as our century’s last: the grandeur of the AtlanAccording to owners Aldar, the iconic sleek tis party and the stranglehold of the financial crisis red roof directly inspired by the classic double on today’s world. curve side profile of the Ferrari GT body covers But even before the crisis has run its course, Brana surface area of 200,000 square metres and son has been proved wrong; many times over. features the largest Scuderia Ferrari ‘prancThe glitter and glamour heralding Abu Dhabi’s ing horse’ emblem in the world, measuring 66 By K Raveendran metres in diameter. As much as 35,000 tonnes entry into the world of Formula One Grand Prix is as memorable, if not more, than any ever witnessed cubic metres of concrete, 12,370 tonnes of in this part of the world. Just this one event has put steel, 29,000 square metres of facade glazing Abu Dhabi on the global glitterati stage and the world now and 165,000 square metres of roof cladding were used to has something more glamorous to associate the UAE capicreate the park’s superstructure which was completed in tal with, other than its world-beating affluence and mighty 14 months. Over 4,500 workers have been involved in this sovereign wealth funds. major construction project on a daily basis. Events leading to the successful completion of the The Ferrari World Abu Dhabi theme park will be an season’s last Grand Prix event have unfurled a new genre of intense multi-sensory experience and a must-visit venue for Abu Dhabi, far removed from its self-effacing and underenthusiasts, fans and families, “paying tribute to the passtated image. Unbelievable, Incredible, mind-blowing: this sion, excellence, performance and technical innovation that is how the Formula One fraternity described Abu Dhabi’s Ferrari has established over the years and represents today”. achievements. According to Aldar, the Park will host over 20 state-of“I think it is unbelievable really. The bar has been raised the-art attractions, each designed to bring to life a different by the introduction of several venues, Singapore included, part of the Ferrari story. These include “the world’s fastest then we come here and Bernie has been winding us up for rollercoaster, travelling at speeds exceeding 200km per the past 18 months saying ‘wait until we get to Abu Dhabi.’ hour, the thrilling sensation of being in a Ferrari F1 car, the I mean it is just unbelievable what the country has done to G-force experience that takes passengers on an adrenalinebuild a venue such as this,” said Red Bull boss Christian pumping ride up over 62m through the roof and back down Horner. Ross Brawn, team principal of the championship again, as well as an aerial voyage over Italy, following a winning Brawn GP, BMW Sauber chief Mario Theissen Ferrari.” and Renault boss Bob Bell were all there to congratulate Perhaps the most stunning aspect of the Abu Dhabi the people of Abu Dhabi for the wonderful achievement. Grand Prix is that the grandeur has literally raced the UAE The Grand Prix event has indeed been stunning. But to a new dream world beyond credit crunches and the ravthe value that the facility will add to Abu Dhabi’s tourism ages of the debilitating financial crisis that the world is still and entertainment assets is long enduring. The brand new struggling to cope with.

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 1

November 2009

DH 5

ENTERTAINMENT

A winter of family fun

ADVENTURE

Pole vault from Dubai EVENTS

F1 : Speed and glamour PERSONA

Face to face with the unknown factor SPORTS

Horses for courses

MANAGING EDITOR

Sankaranarayanan sankar@sterlingp.ae

GENERAL MANAGER

Radhika Natu radhika@sterlingp.ae

DIRECTOR FINANCE

Anandi Ramachandran anandi@sterlingp.ae

Editor

Linda Benbow linda@sterlingp.ae

Deputy Editor

Manju Ramanan manju@sterlingp.ae

Associate Editor

Vanit Sethi vanit@sterlingp.ae

Staff Writer

Ambily VijayKumar ambily@sterlingp.ae

DEsign

Harikumar P B Ujwala Ranade

Product Manager

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Account Manager

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salEs anD MarkEting

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Accounts

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Circulation Supervisor

Saleem K U

2 l UAE Digest, November 2009

India matters

K Raveendran ravi@sterlingp.ae

PUBLISHER & MANAGING DIRECTOR :

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Contents 6 Pole vault from Dubai Adrian Hayes, after his recent Greenland adventure, speaks to UAE Digest about his arduous trips, motivational lectures and corporate training sessions

11 The hand of God Some incidents in life bring people face to face with the unknown factor

16 India matters Arab investors have shown interest in investing in the Indian hospitality industry says Sultan Ahmed, Union Minister for Tourism, Government of India

46 8 Global Village For the forthcoming season, to be held for 98 days from 22 November – 27 February, 2010, Global Village (GV) has successfully rented out all pavilion spaces. It will once again be a multicultural extravaganza filled with entertaining shows and fun rides for the whole family to enjoy each evening.

Bigger show, fewer visitors It was bigger than before with new halls and an extended day at Gitex Shopper, yet the zing was somehow missing from this year’s technology show, thanks to the hangover of a long recession

52 Horses for courses There is a host of sporting activities happening this month from watching, to cheering to experiencing the sweat and thrill for yourself.

63 Eco resort in Australia Australia’s first luxury conservation-based resort welcomes its first guests. Built on the same principles as Emirates’ Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa.

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 3

IN THE

Groundbreaking for UAE rail network

Region’s first artificial skating rink The region’s first artificial skating rink spread over an area of 2,000 square metres has been opened in Bawadi Mall, Mezyad Road in Al Ain. The facility consists of a rink with a capacity for 200 skaters, services and spectator area. These types of rinks are found in France, Switzerland, Germany and Malaysia. The new technology is suitable for metal blade shoes and roller shoes, offering a great experience to both professionals and amateurs. The rink’s net area is 800 square metres. The new skating rink is part of the 10,000 square metres Family Entertainment Centre which features a varied mix of entertainment activity, including a12-lane bowling alley, a distinctively rich food-court, and several casual dining options offering delicious varieties of cuisines. A series of round-the-year innovative activities and entertainment are in the pipeline to add a unique flavour to customers’ experience at the mall.

Dubai, the cotton trade hub In a move to strengthen Dubai’s position as a hub for the cotton trade in the Middle East, Dubai Cotton Centre (DCC) has launched a membership drive, offering members a package of new services. Members of DCC, a fully owned subsidiary of the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), can now enjoy real time price quotes, online bidding and a 30-day free storage facility at Jebel Ali port. This announcement was made during DCC’s participation at the 5th International Uzbek Cotton Fair 2009, held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan in October. Through DCC’s membership, cotton traders will benefit from greater interaction and easy access to Central Asian Cotton,

4 l UAE Digest, November 2009

ollowing His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed’s federal decree forming Union Railway’s Board of Directors last month, the groundbreaking project to build the UAE’s railway network gathered recently at the Board of Director’s first official meeting, led by H.E. Hussain Al Nowais, Chairman of Union Railway. The board was briefed on the significant progress made to date by the Abu Dhabi Passenger and Freight Railway Committee since its inception two years ago. Initial steps were also agreed at the meeting to drive the project forward into its next stage of growth. The members also focused on the organisation’s recruitment strategy and emphasised their intent to build a world-class team made up of the most qualified, professional talent. Most recently, industry expert Richard Bowker, who formerly led the UK’s National Express and Strategic Rail Authority, was appointed CEO of Union Railway.

Skating rink for metal blade shoes and roller shoes

requirements through the internet. DCC will process these bids and respond suitably during business hours. These bids would be based on the prices quoted by DCC for various cotton importing countries in Asia on cost and freight basis. Further, members can now avail of the 30-day free From left to right: Dr David Rutledge, CEO of DMCC, storage facility at Jebel Ali presenting DCC membership to Mr. Bobur M. Hojiahmedov, port for cotton purchased Chairman of the Board, Uzprommashimpeks from DCC and shipped from Jebel Ali. This facility caters in addition to obtaining regular price to the need for a neutral shipment hub, updates on a real time basis. With access while assisting traders to manage their to DCC’s online price quotes, members global inventory and logistics. will also be able to bid for their cotton

Empost offers discounted international rates Empost has announced special rates on its International Courier Services. The revised rates offer up to 50 per cent discount on express documents and express non-documents for both cash and corporate customers. Customers can send shipments of up to 1,000 kilos to over 200 destinations worldwide under the

promotional scheme. Under express documents, customers can send items of non-commercial value, such as letters, books and brochures for time-definite and customs cleared door to door delivery. Online booking is avail-

able through the Empost website. Empost courier staff will pick up shipments directly from your doorstep without extra charges. Track and trace facility is also available. For express non-documents, such as samples and personal effects, the same facilities are available for dutiable and non-dutiable shipments.

Stage set for DUCTAC Open Day

VLCC at RAK

Dubai Community Theatre and Arts Centre (Ductac) throws open its doors to the public on Friday, November 6 with an Open Day packed with activities, demonstrations and fun for all the family. Showcasing a wide range of artistic and cultural programmes and workshops available throughout the year, the centre - located on Level 2 of Mall of the Emirates - will have a festive atmosphere with have-a-go workshops in music, drama, dance, painting, paper craft and pottery. The Open Day will also feature demonstrations by expert tutors and artists in theatre, dancing, music, mosaics, sculpture, calligraphy, jewellery design, pottery, and more. Visitors can also watch the creation of one of the largest public murals in the UAE by seven talented international artists. In addition, they will be able to learn more about Ductac’s forthcoming attempt to beat the world record for the largest gathering of people dressed in giant papier-mâché models and sign up to be part of the record-breaking action. For more information visit www.ductac.org.

VLCC, the region’s preventive healthcare services and beauty brand opened its branch at Ras Al Khaimah. This is the 10th VLCC centre in UAE and the 13th addition in its regional network. It was inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Kayed Al Qasimi, ViceChairman of RAK Economic Development Department and attended by Mukesh Luthra, Chairman, VLCC Group and other top officials from VLCC International.

Centrepoint’s latest store Landmark Group opened its news store at RAK. Inaugurated by Sheikh Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman, Civil Aviation of Ras Al Khaimah, the store covers a total of 65,000 square feet and is the ninth in the UAE. According to Vinod Talreja, Director of Centrepoint & Babyshop, the group is looking to expand from the current 65 stores to 70, which will make them the largest retail brand in the Middle East by 2010.

Sho Cho Boto sweeps the Fujairah Classic The UAE’s largest fishing tournament concluded last month with excellent catches at Le Méridien Al Aqah, which aims to boost future fishing tourism, youth development in the sport, and environmental awareness. A team from Umm al Quwain, Sho Cho Boto, won the inaugural tournament with a spectacular total catch of 55.1 kg. The win has given Sho Cho Boto the chance to compete in the International Game Fishing Association (IGAF) world championships in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, next year. The proud team consisted of captain Raed DabFrom left to right: Champions Luke Chang (extreme right) (17.7 kg King Fish) bous, Craig Barnett, Swabir Adi and Luke Chang. Anders Oldenburg (8.5 kg Dorado), and Raed Dabbaus (14.6 kg King Fish) Luke Chang was named winning angler, with a 17.7 kg Kingfish a catch which elevated the team to the overall The second overall winner was the Bite Me team, who used lead in the competition, followed by Anders Oldenburg from De their vast experience to extract 35.9kg. Team Xtreme Derbas, the Jager, a team from Finland with a 8.5kg Dorado and another win Sinbad Classic winner, finished third overall with 24.7kg. The from team Sho Cho Boto - with Raed Dabbaus taking third place Fujairah Classic is sponsored by Le Meridien Al Aqah, Fujairah with a 14.6kg Kingfish. International Marine Club and is organised by Intevents LLC.

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 5

ADVENTURES Adrian in Everest

Pole vault from Dubai Adrian Hayes, after his recent Greenland adventure, speaks to Vanit Sethi about his arduous trips, motivational lectures and corporate training sessions

t seems Dubai-based British explorer Adrian Hayes just cannot have enough of it. After conquering three poles of the earth – North Pole, South Pole and Mount Everest, in the shortest possible time of less than two years (for which he holds a Guinness record) - he has trekked across the icy landscape of Greenland this summer for three months in sub-zero temperatures with the financial backing of Emirates-NBD. But while the earlier three arduous treks were more for testing the limits of human endurance and the immense satisfaction of having accomplished them, this one was for highlighting the issue of global warming and the melting of polar ice caps. As Adrian himself states on his website: “The expedition is not about breaking records, however, nor is it just an extreme physical challenge. Aside from being an adventure, it is also to convey a message - We live on one planet and need to stop living, in countries such as the USA and UAE, as though we have the resources of five to seven.”

6 l UAE Digest, November 2009

Difficult to find faults with that argument, yet will we change? “Three men doing a vertical crossing of the Greenland ice cap can’t save the planet. But we will do our best to make sustainability and One Planet Living a household word during the process,” he states. Intrigued and fascinated by this adventurer with a cause whom I had met earlier at press conferences, we fix up an appointment to meet in person at a coffee joint in Dubai Media City, as I try to delve into the psyche of a man whom nature calls every now and then to explore its myriad beauties and secrets. For starters, Hayes is a corporate motivational coach who tailor-makes sessions for different companies and their employees in need of a pep talk to walk that extra mile in difficult times. But Hayes leads by example – his talk is no fluff... it comes from experience, of having

faced the odds and braved the elements. What exactly motivates him to leave the warmth of his home in search of the wild unknown? Quite simply, “I enjoy them,” he says. “The beauty of all these places is that they are unspoilt. I would also say it’s part of my job as a motivational coach. Most of my trips are done for charity too. The Emirates and NBD have been supporting me in all my ventures and adventures.” The charities that have benefited from Adrian’s trips include Gulf for Food, Children’s Hope Foundation, and Friends Adrian in Greenland

Adrian in South Pole

Adrian in North Pole

of Cancer Patients. The Greenland Quest was partnered with BioRegional and One Planet Living who are furthering the cause of the earth’s ecological preservation.

filming wherever they stop by. Most of his status updates on the website are done via satellite phone, which takes about 15-20 minutes to transmit.

How difficult is each quest in comparison to the others? “Each quest has its own set of problems and challenges.” While the Everest is a true physical challenge, Adrian rates North Pole as perhaps the most difficult and tricky, because of the shifting landmass, which is basically floating ice. Greenland’s trip was more than 4,000 kilometres in a zigzag fashion – the longest of the treks, propelled by kites. The idea for the trip came during the Antarctic crossing to the South Pole. “Since Greenland is one of the major ice caps in the world, we decided to do this as well after covering the three poles.” For the record, the three poles refer to North and South Poles – the top and bottom of the earth, while Mount Everest is the roof of the earth. Greenland, while not a pole, is an area of immense interest for most environmentalists due to the fragile nature of its ecosystem. Global warming activities like increasing industrialisation, urbanisation and even air travel lead to the melting of the polar ice caps.

What about the preparations for the trip? How long does it take to plan the trip and get ready for it? “Typically, it would take about six months or so – the planning, logistics, getting sponsorships, working out the details with team members etc.” Adrian, for the Greenland team, went with two other team members - Devon McDiarmid and Derek Crowe (both Canadians). Using the power of the wind to kite ski and haul 150kg sleds over a 4,000 kilometre route had never been done before. On the way, they had to encounter misadventures like falling into a crevasse, frostbites etc. Of course, they have to be prepared for such emergencies and so have to haul first aid kits along with food (usually chocolates and

How much role do such trips play in his talks or sessions for corporates? “It is helpful to focus on goals. Such trips help you remain focused, since you are all the time dealing with life-and-death scenarios.” For most of his clients however, Adrian directs them to challenging yet not hazardous outdoor tasks like climbing the Kilimanjaro. “It’s not every difficult, but gives you the feel and challenge of the outdoors, which is essential for corporate training.” While on the move in the expeditions, Adrian does most of the video

nuts) and water (three litres per person). After every trip, Adrian does feel disoriented for a while, as “the world of Dubai looks very unreal after a long, hard trip. After those trips, I wonder why do we complain so much sitting comfortably at home.” What about his family (he’s got two sons)? Don’t they complain? “They’re used to my trips as they understand it’s part of my job too.” However, this is not the end of his trekking adventures. As usual, like earlier, he’s tight-lipped about his next adventure. “You’ll get to hear of them,” is all he is prepared to reveal. Until the next mountain to climb and peak to conquer, Adrian’s itinerary is packed with corporate training workshops and motivational talks in different companies across the globe. Most people would get bogged down by their travails within the city, but Adrian Hayes is looking forward to his next adventure... for another day, not too far.

A BRIEF PROFILE

A former Gurkha officer and Special Forces soldier in the British Army, Adrian was educated at the Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst. His life is punctuated with a wide range of experiences – in vocations as well as adventure activities. The MBA qualified executive has worked in senior positions in many industries. He was the Regional Sales Director for Airbus, Middle East, and responsible for selling the aircraft to Emirates. In his chequered career, he has tried out everything from being a farmer in New Zealand to a paramedic in the United Kingdom; from a singer/guitarist in a rock band in the UAE to a diver in the Pacific. A Dubai resident for over 12 years now, he has lived and worked in eight countries, visited nearly 100, and speaks three languages (Arabic, Nepalese and Malay) in addition to English. After having had his fill of working for companies, he decided to launch his own outfit to experiment with a theme close to his heart – motivation and self-development. After studying those subjects for 10 years, he started a coaching firm five years ago, where he lectures on motivation, besides coaching individuals and corporations on unlocking their hidden potential and achieving their desired goals and dreams.

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 7

ENTERTAINMENT

Human cannonball at Global Village

lobal Village, one of the region’s popular cultural, entertainment and shopping venues, has announced that it will showcase participants from more than 45 countries during its 14th season. It will once again be a multi-cultural extravaganza filled with entertaining shows and fun rides for the whole family to enjoy from 4pm until midnight. For the forthcoming season, to be held for 98 days from 22 November – 27 February, 2010, Global Village (GV) has successfully rented out all pavilion spaces within a short time, following an overwhelming response from organisers since registration opened in May this year. It continues to accept registration for kiosks, services and retail outlets that are in high demand for the vast consumer footfall they receive. Currently, the administration team

8 l UAE Digest, November 2009

is scrutinising applications for the remaining100 kiosks that are available for leasing. Suitable to display and sell products ranging from food to handicrafts, the kiosks on offer this year are of various sizes and conveniently located around the pavilions, cultural hub and fun fair grounds. Sa’eed Ali Bin Redha, Project Director, Global Village, said: “We are gearing up to host yet another successful event. This year, the number of applications received from event management companies registered a significant increase and the vetting process for pavilions and entertainment programmes involved stringent evaluation criteria.” “In addition to the regular mustvisit attractions, the venue will feature a number of unique offerings that will make each visit to the Global Village a compelling family outing,” he added.

A shopaholic’s delight, the pavilions are where craftsmen and tradesmen of the world come together to display and sell their wares. The most unique element of Global Village is the pavilions where you can buy merchandise of countries around the world without actually travelling there. It’s probably the only place in the world where you can buy an intricatelywoven Indian pashmina shawl, a Japanese bonsai and fresh Canadian Maple Syrup all from the same place. Located within Dubailand, Global Village has evolved as the region’s premier family venue where diverse cultures from around the world come together for entertainment, adventure, cuisine and commerce. The previous season of the annual event that hosted 35 countries concluded on 21 February 2009, receiving a total of 4.4 million visitors over a span of 102 days.

Attractions: Human Cannonball - A UAE premier with the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;David The Bullet Smith Jrâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. He is the current World Record holder for the longest human cannonball flight home to the family at 180 feet. He has performed over 500 shots where he flies from a cannon through the air. He literally is the flying man. He will be flying twice a day between the 22nd November and the 21st December. Prepare to be amazed. Chinese Flying Poles - A GCC premier with the only Chinese flying poles group in the world. An acrobatic stunt show where eight performers from China will be wowing the crowds as they fly through the air performing tricks and skills which have never been seen at Global Village before. They will be performing between the 22nd December and 21st January 2010. Bounce - A GCC premier for this artist group from Moscow. A trampoline acrobatic show with stunts and tricks. Watch as the artists fly through the air in this amazing live production. They will be performing here from the 22nd December through to 21st February 2010. The Art of Fire - A GCC premier of an amazing fire show production. Six performers from Moscow perform various fire tricks as well as fire breathing and eating in this epic stage show to be performed at Global Village for the first time. A really exciting offering this year for our park guests who will be amazed with the skill and dedication of the performance group. They will be performing between the 22nd November and 21st December. Fun Fair - The Entertainment Fun Fair Area, which attracts millions of people every year, has a lot of exciting games and adventurous rides in store. These games are carefully selected where safety standards are implemented for all ages.

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 9

EVENTS

NASA to address Abu Dhabi forum International space experts to discuss global space policy, regional space and satellite projects, new technology and services at industry forum

or the first time, senior representatives from NASA and the Group on Earth Observations (GEO) are heading to the UAE to address high-level delegates from the region’s space industry at a forum dedicated to space technology. Michael O’Brien, Assistant Administrator for External Relations at NASA, will deliver the keynote address on the opening day of the Global Space Technology Forum, taking place Dr. Jose Achache from December 7-9 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. His presentation will highlight the need for international collaboration for the success of space initiatives emerging in the Middle East and North Africa region. O’Brien will be joined by Dr. Jose Achache, Director, GEO, who will also deliver a keynote address in the opening session of the conference, on Earth Observation Systems – Opportunities and Challenges. Rick Theobald, Commercial Director at Streamline Marketing Group, organisers of the Global Space Technology Forum said: “The presence of NASA and GEO at the event is very significant as it brings recognition to the continuous efforts of regional space and satellite projects. It will be a great opportunity to showcase the region’s achievements in the realm of space technology and provide an opportunity for leading space organisations to seek partner-

10 l UAE Digest, November 2009

ships. Their presence will also spur more governments to consider the opportunities that space provides, and support scientific education and research in their respective countries.” More than 20 emerging national space projects in the Middle East and Africa are actively participating in the forum by attending a series of seminars and scheduled business meetings with suppliers and providers of the required technology from around the globe. ‘Business Direct: MENA Space Projects’ represents the first such hosted-buyers programme for space technology in the region. Several other international space experts will address the high-level conference, including Tomaz Lovrencic, Deputy Director of the European Union Satellite Centre, Dr. Ahmed Al Mansoori, Director General of the Emirates Institution for

Advanced Science and Technology, Dr. Ahmad Talebzadeh, Chairman of the Legal Sub Committee UN COPOUS, Dr. Mohammed Tarabzouni, Director, Saudi Space Research Institute, King Abdul Aziz City for Science and Technology, and Dr. Orhan Altan, President, International Society for Remote Sensing and Photogrammetry, Turkey. Key topics to be addressed at the conference include the need for an organised regional space sector and collaboration, space policy, regulation and economics, commercial opportunities related to space, sustainable earth observation systems, space education and space-borne security and surveillance systems. Staged over three days, the Global Space Technology Forum (www.smg-conferences. com/gstf/) will include a two-day conference on global policy relating to projects in space, a three-day exhibition of the latest space technology equipment and services, a high-level Advanced Sat-Com Conference highlighting the advances in satellite communications and pre-scheduled meetings with key representatives from leading MENA space projects.

UAE’s largest indoor events auditorium

Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC) has completed the transformation of its largest exhibition hall, the 7,920 square metre, multi-purpose, Hall 12, into the UAE’s largest indoor auditorium, capable of seating up to 5,700 spectators. The recent installation of the fully automated-retractable tiered seating system completes the project to turn the hall into one of the most flexible event spaces in the world. It will still be used as an exhibition and wedding hall, but can now also host a range of live events including sports events, concerts and other entertainment events, in a fully air-conditioned environment. At the touch of a button, the tiered seating system unfolds 23 rows of high specification seating finished with black fabric and ice-birch veneer. Additional acoustic panels, moveable partitions, matching tiered mobile units and flat floor VVIP, VIP and multi-use seats complete the 5,700 seater venue.

EVENTS

On the fast track For three days, the Yas Marina circuit in the capital city was powered by the rush of adrenalin as F1 drivers tested the limits of their skills and endurance

he spotlight’s now on Abu Dhabi. Speed, action, adventure, excitement, glamour and big money had all created a combustible mix, causing a blast in the capital city. Formula 1 is the name of the blast. And it’s as big as it could be. For three days from Oct30-Nov1, the Yas Marina circuit in the capital city was powered by the rush of adrenalin and bathed in the glare of the spotlights, as F1 drivers tested the limits of their skills and endurance. Twenty drivers from different countries and teams vied under the arclights to have a go at the Grand Prix. Finally, Sebastian Vettel of the Red Bull team smelled victory on the evening of November 1, when the glorious event concluded in a thrilling day-night race – the 17th and the last one of the year. It was the 22-year-old German’s second win of the season, which cemented his ranking in the second place of the 2009 drivers’ standings. Fighting off a stiff challenge from the early leader Lewis Hamilton of McLaren, Vettel became the toast of the evening as he posted the fastest lap in Yas Marina. Vettel’s quick

lap of 1m 40.279s thrilled the capital’s crowd which had gathered in large numbers on a cool evening. Hamilton, who dominated most of the sessions, was forced into a cautious retirement as McLaren did not want to risk a potential brake failure. Mark Webber fought off a late challenge from the World Champion Jenson Button to finish second. The race was Formula One’s first ever day-night race, starting at 5pm, UAE time. Floodlights used to illuminate the circuit were switched on from the start of the event to ensure that there was a seamless transition from daylight to darkness. The Grand Prix came to the capital city in the guise of the first-ever Formula 1 festival. Announced in January 2007, the event which took place on February 3 the same year - was free and the largest gathering of current Formula One cars and drivers outside a Grand Prix. At the festival, it was announced that Abu Dhabi had won the rights to host a Grand Prix from 2009 until 2016. Later in 2007, Etihad Airways negotiated a three-year deal for the sponsorship of the Grand Prix.

VIP seating at the Paddock Village

Guests on the star-studded night included Oscar winners Jeremy Irons and Marisa Tomei, Scream star Neve Campbell, Janet and Latoya Jackson, Kimberley Stewart, and Indian tennis veteran Vijay Amritraj. The glamorous crowd was treated to performances by Latino legends The Gipsy Kings. R&B diva Beyonce too performed on Yas Island on Thursday night before the event began. Changing costumes three times, she sang her signature songs and performed the dance routines she has become famous for, including the hugely popular Single Ladies. Thus, for more than three days, Abu Dhabi shone in the international limelight. The capital has indeed become ambitious and intends holding more international events like the F1 racing. Recently, it held the third Middle East International Film Festival (MEIFF), which was a glamorous star-studded event spread over 10 days in October. It also held a Festival of Thinkers which several Nobel laureates attended. The capital city is also gaining prominence as an arts centre with the opening of some international museums. Gypsy Kings performed during the event

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 11

MEMORIALS

From paeans to pens, and more Every epoch has its monuments paying tribute to its leaders and events. The 21st century too pays tribute, albeit differently By Manju Ramanan

or generations of people born after a great leader walked the earth, monuments, birth/ death anniversaries, poems, paintings, films, cenotaphs, websites and tomes have proven to be effective references. They are reminders of the leader’s great deeds and his contributions to mankind. When events shape a region’s history, they too are enshrined and recapitulated through monuments, foundation stones, the indomitable Gandhi. plaques or sites. However, in The Mahatma Gandhi Limited this fast-paced world, memoEdition 241, has an 18K (carat) gold, rials have changed in rhodium-plated nib with a shape, size and value. hand-engraved depiction of From concrete Gandhi setting off, with his busts and plaques bamboo stave in hand, on that embellished his famous Salt March that traffic islands, govcommenced in July 1930. ernment buildings The number 241 symbolises and public squares, the distance of 241 miles that currency, stamps Mahatma Gandhi and his and more, many followers travelled by foot have turned into during the march as a protest collector’s items. against the tax on salt levied Two Mont by the British government. Blanc Mahatma The inner barrel of the pen Mahatma Gandhi’s portrait Gandhi Limwhich houses a solid white ited Edition writing instruments - the gold piston, is lined in Indian shot silk Mahatma Gandhi Limited Edition in memory of Gandhi’s movement to 241 and the Mahatma Gandhi Memobreak the British monopoly on clothing rial Edition 3000, launched recently, production. Gandhi had asked Indians have been created to pay tribute to the to boycott foreign-produced textiles wisdom, vision and boundless energy of and wear ‘homespun’ cloth or khadi.

12 l UAE Digest, November 2009

Mont Blanc pens from the Mahatma Gandhi Series

The ‘hand-entwined gold wire’ embellishing the centre of the pen symbolises the spindle of woven cotton –that is reminiscent of how Gandhi encouraged and taught villagers across India to spin their own cloth from raw cotton – khadi eventually became a symbol of Indian independence. The flag of India is represented by the saffron-coloured fever opal embellishing the pen’s clip. The Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Edition 3000, incorporates his signature.

Memorial Dirham Following the discovery of oil, the UAE Central Bank issued a memorial dirham marking the 30th anniversary of exporting the first shipment of liquefied gas by the Abu Dhabi Gas Liquefaction Company LTD (ADGAS). Its diametre is 24mm and it weighs 6.4g. 75 per cent of it is copper, while 25 per cent of the dirham is nickel. The front face of the coin remains as it is and the logo of the anniversary adorns its back.

Sharjah Airport

Stamp commemorating 75 years of Sharjah Airport

Stamp of Honour The Emirates Post Group issued a set of memorial postal stamps to mark the 75th anniversary of the first Airport in Sharjah in July 2009. The development of aviation in Sharjah began on October 5, 1932, when the first aircraft landed on Sharjah soil, marking it as a strategic landing point for Imperial Airways (the forerunner of British Airways), en route from England to India and then Australia.

Diving site memorial A little off the coast of Ajman is a diving site, originally the shipwreck of the MV Dara, a British Indian Steam Navigation Company liner built in 1948 by Barclay, Curle and Co. She mostly travelled between the Arabian Gulf and the Indian sub-continent, carrying expatriate passengers who had employment in the Gulf states and accommodated 20 x 1st Class, 54 x 2nd Class and 1,377 deck passengers. According to reports, a bomb exploded on board, while off the coast of Dubai, on 8th April 1961, which caused the vessel to eventually sink. There was a high loss of life attributed to the incident, despite

The first oil well in the UAE at Ras Sadr -1. Photo courtesy Tribulus Vol.9.1 Summer 1999

UAE’s first oil well The discovery of oil transformed the economy of the UAE. Naturally then, UAE’s first oil well becomes a landmark monument – even if it was empty! The online world pays tribute to the UAEs first oil well through a photograph as well as an article on the same. Peter Hellyer writes in the Tribulus Vol 9.1 Summer 1999 (now online) “The well, named the fact that no one was on board when she sank. Captained by Charles Elson, there was a total of 819 on board, including 19 officers and 113 crew; 238 died from burns or drowning. In 1961, the MV Dara recorded a death toll in peace times second only to the mighty Titanic. Today, the MV Dara lies salvaged and plucked bare under the sea bed and in a plaster of Paris model at Stuart G Scott Ely’s glass case at the Blue Planet Diving Centre at the Ajman Kempinski. “The place is a known diving site now and the centre takes tourists who want to visit it. Locals and expatriate population here already know about it,” says Stuart who The MV Dara on fire

Ras Sadr-1 is on the coast of Ras Sadr, around 40 kilometres northeast of Abu Dhabi. Spudded on 15th February 1950, it was not completed till April 1951. Although it proved to be a dry hole, it reached a depth of 13,001 feet and was at that time, the deepest oil well ever drilled in the Middle East”. Helleyer explains that the Ras Sadr-1 was followed by a number of other unsuccessful wells and it was not until the late 1950s with the Murban-3 well that ADPC made its first commercially viable discovery, the giant Bab field”. Ras Sadr -1 represents the real beginning of the UAE oil industry and to mark its importance, a special memorial has been erected on the site by ADCO. mentions that we need to respect our wrecks for the life forms that attaches itself to it now, as well as its past. Peter Jordan who was ex Chief Officer at the time on the Dara is keen that the dive site is turned into a memorial. On the MV Dara website, he does add that, “I do not wish to put a damper on the Dara as a dive site. However, for me at least, she is a grave site for all the people who lost their lives that terrible day and should be respected as such.” Today, the site is frequented by divers and is known for its abundance in colonies of puffer fish, clown fish, sea horses and turtle fish.

Puffer fish near the MV Dara site off Ajman Beach

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 13

EDUCATION

Practical learning Reforms in regional education system key to addressing evolving job market requirements

ne of the biggest inhibiting factors that continues to derail the development of the MENA regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s local job market has been the failure to adopt education programmes that cater to the current needs of society, revealed a report by TalentRepublic.net, an employment service market. While the region has spent more per capita on education compared with others, allocating five per cent of GDP and up to 20 per cent of government expenditure, the majority of students and graduates remain inadequately equipped to be competitive in the job market, prompting countries, particularly those in the Gulf region, to rely heavily on expatriate workers. The massive expenditure, which has helped increase primary education enrolment by three-fold and higher education enrolment by up to five-fold between 1970 and 2003, has not made a major impact on the economy, particularly in terms of creating gainful employment opportunities in an increasingly globalised landscape. As a result, a significant percentage of university graduates from several Arab and Middle East academic institutions suffer from high unemployment. In this context, a college degree is no longer a sure ticket to employment as it was in the past. Furthermore, TalentRepublic.net cited a World Bank study revealing that MENA countries have extremely young populations with a larger percentage of people under 18. This underlines the critical role of the education sector to ensure that such an overwhelming number of people can

14 l UAE Digest, November 2009

be successfully integrated into the job market, preventing more widespread unemployment in the future. In this regard, TalentRepublic.net emphasised the critical importance for academic institutions to offer more flexible undergraduate and postgraduate programmes that satisfy the evolving needs of the job market. The company also urged industry stakeholders to invest in research to be able to identify specific professions that are in demand, which will subsequently help them develop more suitable academic programmes that are in tune with the changing economic situation. The report urged governments to provide information on occupational opportunities and create awareness about the job market. For instance,

several business establishments that are facing an uncertain economic future are now starting to ease on back-office support services as well as marketing and advertising. On the

â&#x20AC;Ś the report calls for a greater focus on the development of technical skills and the introduction of entrepreneurship and innovation in academic programmes, which are all critically important in both boom times and downturns. Essential soft skills must also be developed, including curiosity, creative and critical thinking, problem solving and collaboration, as well as social skills such as risk-taking, allowance of failure, and acceptance of the unknown

other hand, the financial sector, particularly banks and investment funds, are heavily experiencing redundancies. The report also points out that ‘essential’ professions such as teachers, nurses and doctors remain in great demand and have been recognised to be recession-proof. Nonetheless, careful study will also show that related professions such as dentists and podiatrists are not in strong demand as their services can be deferred and are even categorised under discretionary spending. According to the report, reforms in the educational sector have actually been implemented long ago by various governments, indicating that it has not been a lack of concern that has resulted in the under-performance of the local workforce. However, educational reforms were focused more on engineering aspects such as physical infrastructures and the process of recruiting teachers, while substance – what the schools teach and their teaching methodologies – were largely taken for granted. As a result, conventional strategies prevail in educational systems across the region, which often tend to focus on rote memorisation. To reverse the trend, the report calls for a greater focus on the development of technical skills and the introduction of entrepreneurship and innovation in academic programmes, which are all critically important in both boom times and downturns. Essential soft skills must also be developed, including curiosity, creative and critical thinking, problem solving and collaboration, as well as social skills such as risk-taking, allowance of failure, and acceptance of the unknown. Critical thinking, problem solving as well as communication skills are particularly important in the pursuit of a knowledge-based economy and in the context of a globalised society. Unfortunately, TalentRepublic.net noted that graduates from the region have been ranked relatively low in these areas, despite aggressive efforts by countries in the region to establish a knowledge economy. As such, governments will greatly

play an important role in boosting the performance of the region’s graduates and subsequently the local workforce in these critical areas. Governments may start by initiating programmes that promote public-private partner-

ships to enhance research and development. In addition, appropriate policies can be enacted to motivate educational institutions to offer a wider range of topics that match the new and evolving requirements of the regional job market.

Registration day at Abu Dhabi Men’s College

Specialised courses to meet workplace demands ADMC began its academic year by welcoming over 3,100 students, among them 837 new ones, all specialising in a variety of programmes offered by the college in the fields of Applied Communication, Engineering Technology, Health Sciences, Information Technology, Business Studies, as well as Work Readiness certificates and Masters degrees. The college also announced the introduction of nine new programmes this year, varying between Bachelor Degrees and Diplomas, aimed to preparing and assisting at ADMC students in meeting progressive workplace demands. These courses include Applied Communications, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electronics Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Medical Imaging, Information Technology, Computer Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering, Printing & Packaging, and Transport Engineering. Dr. Simon Jones, Director of ADMC, was present, to wish all students a successful year ahead and to encourage them to utilise the colleges technology labs which have launched a podcasting service allowing students to access and playback classroom lectures via the internet at any time and from any location. The college student council president, Khalid Hasan Al Hosani, was also present to give his welcome speech to students and to offer a review of last year’s events and activities held by the student council.

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 15

TRAVEL

India matters Arab investors have shown interest in investing in the Indian hospitality industry, says Sultan Ahmed, Union Minister for Tourism, Government of India By Manju Ramanan

or years, the Indian subcontinent was the destination for Arabs of this region, with Mumbai being the most frequented of places. The small distance that comprises a strip of the Arabian Sea which separates India from the Gulf countries could be easily covered in a maximum of three hours flying time for medical/leisure needs, tourism, and even shopping sprees. India won its place primarily for its familiarity among Arabs; Indian traders have frequented this region for decades and Indians comprise the largest expatriate population in this region. Other highlights include its vast cultural diversity, food, climate, people and, above all, its cost. However, with the passage of time, the Middle East looked westwards for holiday destinations, with many young Arabs preferring to go to Europe or America instead of India. To reinstate its position as a preferred tourist destination in the world, the Government of India has launched a worldwide campaign called Visit India 2009. Recently, India Tourism’s Dubai office organised a roadshow titled ‘India – The Global Healthcare Destination’ that toured Riyadh, Doha and Kuwait, successfully putting the country’s medical tourism on the agenda of visitors from this region. Calling attention to its booming hospitality industry and the need for more hotels, the roadshow invited a host of Arab investors too

16 l UAE Digest, November 2009

Sultan Ahmed, Union Minister for Tourism, Government of India

and the Arab businessmen have shown interest in investing in the hospitality industry. Sultan Ahmed, Union Minister for Tourism, Government of India, who was on a week-long tour of the Gulf region with the roadshow, interacted with several businessmen who have shown interest in investing in India. “Arab businessmen have shown a specific interest in Kerala where they propose to develop full-fledged projects that include a 5-7 star hotel, related infrastructure, facilities etc. What

is more, they will also get their people to these resorts and luxury places,” he states. The roadshow that garnered a lot of interest across the countries it went to (Qatar, Riyadh and Kuwait), showcased various aspects of India’s tourism industry, especially medical tourism – that has now been given a renewed boost with its Visit India 2009 campaign. Several well-known doctors from India, for instance cardio thoracic surgeons like Vivek Jawali were part of the event. While medical tourism is a strand

the government has picked up to lure tourists, it is a way to showcase several other aspects of the country. For Ahmed, the roadshow just makes the trend more formal: “It has been a trend with a generation of Arabs to travel to India for their medical needs. Now, we are organising the sector. The roadshow has thrown up quite a few suggestions that I will take back and implement. Medical tourists will be assisted by an Arabic-speaking guide right from the time they land at the airport and assist them throughout their journey in India. We will achieve this by liasioning with travel agents, guides and other networking bodies. We have it all, we just have to link one department with another,” he states. Do Indian guides, who are known to speak several languages, speak Arabic too? “Not all of them do, but soon they will go through intensive language courses where they can learn the basics of the language and upgrade their skills,” he says. He also aims to start a campaign with taxi drivers across the country and streamline the entire process of tourist treatment. “We have several advertisements on air as well as awareness campaigns for them. The image of India is changing and we are communicating that,” he adds. Out of the several responses the roadshow generated, some people showed surprise. It was because, though this region has always attracted tourists to India, it is never an organised sector. “Through the roadshow, we aim at streamlining the agenda,” states Ahmed. Is the country well equipped to handle a huge influx of tourists? “We have received 5.3 million tourists in 2009. But India also has a huge inflow of domestic tourists, and given the current time “we are about 150,000 rooms short.

Sultan Ahmed, Union Minister for Tourism, Government of India (centre), Mrs Shreemathi Teacher, Kerala Minister for Health, M Sadana, Regional Director-East Asia, West Asia and Africa-, India Tourism (extreme right), C Gangadhar,Assistant Director-West Asia (extreme left) - at the India Tourism road show in Dubai

This is the reason why we want more Arabs to invest in the Indian tourism and hospitality industry,” he adds. Apart from medical tourism then, what is the Department of Tourism pitching on, since India has several things to showcase? “It is really difficult to put a few pictures and tell the tourists that this is India because the country is extremely diverse. A few years ago, India’s tourism strategy of luring tourists rested on showcasing the country’s monuments. Now we think otherwise. The world knows the Taj Mahal but it is an overkill because there are several interesting and important sites in India that deserve world attention, so this is the time for going thematic” he states. “Tourists can choose where they want to travel – to the seas, mountains, fairs, religious places, rivers, hillsides, sanctuaries, adventure trails, spas, villages,” he says. Does he see an increase in the number of tourists visiting India in the coming months? “We shall surely see an increase in the coming months since it is winter and in most parts of the country, the weather is really good and we shall see a lot of people travel.

Also, we understand that weekend tourism is a norm in this part of the world. People usually travel during Eid or other smaller holidays. With India offering such a wealth of tourism activities that include adventure tourism, monsoon tourism, medical tourism etc, we should be able to attract these visitors. We can take them to see the snow in Srinagar in Kashmir, the backwaters and Ayurveda spas in Kerala, and so many Islamic monuments that dot the Indian landscape,” he states. “Eid in India is another theme we are exploring,” he adds. Till now, the tourism industry’s most visited destinations have been the states of Rajasthan and Kerala. Now, the Department of Tourism is promoting other destinations as well – Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Shillong, Cherapunji etc are some of the newer destinations that tourists from the UAE would like to go to. Another upcoming region is Karnataka, where tourists can have a look at several places that have traces of Tipu Sultan,” he states. The Indian government is on a mission to corporatise tourism. “We are working with tour operators and other allied sectors to offer customised tours– where visitors will be well equipped with everything they are looking for in other world destinations, including star hotels, guides, food and services. The sky is the limit.”

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 17

HEALTH

Promising future Positive outlook for the healthcare sector for the coming year, says Dubai ophthalmologist By Ambily Vijaykumar

“T

here is growth potential in the healthcare sector in Dubai in the future,” says Dr Farooq Ashraf at the Atlanta Vision Clinic in Dubai. The reason for the optimism is the infrastructural investment that the emirate has made in the sector and also the emirate becoming a preferred destination of practice for many doctors from all over the world. “In the last five years alone, there has been a substantial growth in the number of hospitals, the quality of doctors and also the quality of services and equipment that have come into Dubai and that is a reason to be optimistic about the scope of growth in the sector in the future,” Dr Ashraf argues. Through the current crisis, the healthcare sector and especially specialised segments, have witnessed a dip. Laser eye treatment has been one segment that has seen a dip in the number of patients since people consider the treatment a luxury rather than a necessity. “There has been a dip of about 15-20 per cent in the number of patients who come in for laser eye correction,” says Dr Ashraf. The reason behind that is not necessarily because people cannot afford to pay, he opines. The dip is being attributed to the lack of willingness on the part of people to spend money even if they have it. The clinic charges about Dh14,000 for a laser vision correction and that might be a deterrent for many people to go in for this costly method; one of

18 l UAE Digest, November 2009

Dr Farooq Ashraf

the reasons that many in Dubai are opting for availing of medical facilities outside the country, where it is cheaper. A case in point are places like Lebanon and India marketing themselves as medical tourism destinations. Is the UAE losing out to these countries in the healthcare sector? “I don’t think the country will lose out. People have been going outside to save on some money, but now in the past few years, hospitals offering international standards of healthcare and services have set up shop here and that has attracted some very good doctors,” says Dr Ashraf. He further argues that when a patient leaves one’s own country for treatment outside, he is taking a lot more risk than he is when he is at home. “Post-operative care is something that most people don’t consider when they leave the country and go outside for treatment. There

have been cases in the US where people who went out for surgeries have died because of an unattended infection that became fatal,” Dr Ashraf elaborates. But a common complaint that people in the emirate have is that that when it comes to doctors, Dubai does not have the best of the crop. Defending his fraternity, Dr Ashraf says that it is unfair to make a blanket statement about doctors here. It is also to do partly with the patient’s having pre-conceived notions about doctors even before they go for a treatment. He emphasizes the need to do research before going for treatment at any hospital. Another problem that is ailing the healthcare sector here is the higher cost of medicines. That ends up putting a lot of pressure on not just patients but also the healthcare system. But that is a double-edged sword, says Dr Ashraf. “It costs drug companies millions to manufacture drugs. A large quantity of these drugs is manufactured in the US. The company first invests money in making the drug; they then have to wait for an approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). What if the FDA does not approve the drug, the company loses its millions. In the next scenario, if the FDA approves it, the drug company only has a certain number of years to recover their money or make a profit, because after that the drug goes generic. So, from their perspective, they are here to do business. But from a patient’s point of view as well as, at times,

from a doctors’ point of view, I think the drugs are sometimes overpriced,” he adds. What then needs to be done to ensure that necessary healthcare facilities are affordable for all? With Dubai being a free market, it is expected to level out on its own in the future. But another suggestion is that the government intervenes to ensure that those involved in the business of healthcare are also benefited by their stay in Dubai. “When you build hospitals here you have to make sure that there is a steady stream of patients. With the law making 60 as the age of retirement, a large expat population is forced to leave as a result. Pathology is largely meant for the elderly. What happens to the hospitals that have been set up then? This is an issue that the government needs to address to ensure that hospitals get to serve the purpose they are set up for. What this will lead to then, is that if a person has a heart problem, he would compare that a doctor in the UK does about 50 surgeries a day, while the one in Dubai does about 10 in a month so the Dubai doctor would lose out to the one in the UK though he might be equally good,” he elaborates.

But he is optimistic that the steps the government has already taken, especially the one ensuring medical insurance to employees by companies, is a step in the right direction and that would go a long way in giving the healthcare sector a boost here.

Staying positive about 2010, Dr Ashraf says, “I hope next year we plateau, in terms of the dip that we have taken and, just like the rest of the economy, the healthcare sector also stabilises. It won’t come back to earlier standards, but it will slowly start kicking in.”

Eye-mazing eye facts • A shark cornea can be used in eye surgery, since its cornea is similar to a human cornea. • The eye of a human can distinguish 500 shades of the gray. • People generally read 25 per cent slower from a computer screen compared to paper • • • • • • •

and men are able to read fine print better than women can. All babies are colour blind when they are born. The reason why your nose gets runny when you are crying is because the tears from the eyes drain into the nose. The most common injury caused by cosmetics is to the eye by a mascara wand. The highest recorded speed of a sneeze is 165 kilometres per hour and it is impossible to sneeze with your eyes open. Your eyes blink over 10,000,000 times a year and are the most complex organs you possess except for your brain. They are composed of more than two million working parts and can process 36,000 bits of information every hour. The external muscles that move the eyes are the strongest muscles in the human body for the job that they have to do. They are 100 times more powerful than they need to be. The eye is the only part of the human body that can function at 100 per cent ability at any moment, day or night, without rest. Your eyelids need rest, the external muscles of your eyes need rest, the lubrication of your eyes requires replenishment, but your eyes themselves never need rest.

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 19

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Blasting bubbles By Linda Benbow

Relaxation room at The Spa at Natural Elements

limbing up a towelled step to gingerly enter the bath, the first thing you notice are the amount of holes in the sanitaryware, followed by an unspoken question of “why are all those rose petals floating about in the water?” This is the first step towards half an hour of hydrotherapy and water massage at The Spa at Natural Elements, part of Le Meridien Dubai’s holistic wellness facility opened in 2004, which celebrated its fifth anniversary last month. The rose petals are a touch of luxury that bump into you softly while jets of water rush out of the holes in the bath to bombard your body. Some of the jets are more vigorous than others. While laying back with your head on the padded pillow, hold onto the rails built into the bath and move into different positions to allow the waterjets to massage your body and work away at any fatty deposits that you may wish to whittle away. Hips, tummy, calves – just turn sideways, or whatever, to treat the affected area. There are bars at the end of the bath too, for folks of varying heights, so that you can

20 l UAE Digest, November 2009

stretch at full length and not slip under. What next? How about trying a back, neck and shoulder massage, or a specialised facial treatment, or a full body scrub – all half hour treatments, that can be followed by a relaxing time lazing about on indoor loungers, sipping lemon water and eating a banana while flicking through a selection of glossy magazines. There is also an aroma heat cave and the spa and fitness swimming pools (during the day) to use free of charge. “Bearing in mind today’s fast-paced and often stressful lifestyle, the spa experience is no longer a luxury enjoyed by a few, but a way of life for Dubai’s residents and visitors. By offering state-of-the-art equipment, fitness and racquet sport facilities, complemented by a range of internationally recognised relaxation and rejuvenation therapies, we’ve ensured that Natural Ele-

Suwadi-ka, thai cuisine

ments continues to be the preferred wellness choice,” said Stephane Blanc, executive assistant manager, Le Meridien Dubai. The spa offers relaxation and rejuvenation treatments complemented with exclusive offerings, which include scientific and specialty facials, specialised face and body treatments and packages, hair treatments, detoxifying solutions, body wraps, and a variety of massages. Clients can also opt for value-packed deals if they wish to undergo more than one treatment. The Jet Lag Remedy Deluxe package is especially popular for those looking to rejuvenate after long journeys. Natural Elements is also home to Finishing Touches, a hair and nail salon that offers a host of treatments and services, which include a variety of manicures and pedicures, hair re-bonding, protein treatments, and creative nail art. Natural Elements also houses an extensive fitness centre which includes a state-of-the-art gym with the latest in fitness technology and equipment, an exclusive Power Plate studio, as well as individual studios for stretching, free weights, cardio, strength and a ladies-only studio with a separate entrance. Qualified trainers are present at the gym at all times to offer guidance and ensure that members are performing to their optimum level.

The spa’s birthday celebrations included dinner at the hotel’s Sukhothai restaurant which serves Thai cuisine which, surprisingly, is only as hot as you want it to be. The first thing to be placed on the table are a selection of bowls containing various hotnesses of chilli, in liquid and powder form. Add as much or as little as you like – if you want to, that is. Actually, the tastes of individual dishes are tasty enough on their own. Pomelo salad with shredded chicken, coconut and fried onion is a different way to start a meal. Maybe followed by a clear soup with black mushroom, celery and coriander. Both the steamed hammour main dish and the steamed tofu with peppercorn are delightful. And, for a totally different sweetness at the end of a meal, try Tab Tim Grob which consists of crispy water chestnut in coconut milk topped with crushed ice and mint chocolate. Useful to know: Suwadi-krap means “Hello”when spoken by a man Suwadi-ka means “Hello” when spoken by a woman

HOME & GARDEN

Do buy from the tube! Arabic home shopping TV channel sees substantial growth in 2009 sales

itruss TV has seen a substantial increase in home shopping spending from consumers this year. A 35 per cent increase in sales transactions compared to last year has been an unexpected increase given the general state of the retail industry. Presented in 15 countries in the Middle East with direct home delivery, the channel hosts exclusive product ranges such as jewellery, cosmetics, household items, toys, slimming and treatment products. It takes pride in carrying exclusive products that are rarely available through retailers in the region. “We were the pioneers in offering Arabic speakers the convenience of TV shopping from their homes, and I am happy to say that this concept is being welcomed in the region, especially among women”, said Nicolas Bruylants, one of Citruss TV’s founders. “We foresee that the Arabic home shopping market is going to grow substantially in the coming years as it is very suitable to the culture and lifestyle for most Arab women, as it not only respects their traditional values, but also brings them choice at the reach of a channel”, said Michael Trueschler the company’s CEO.

Park membership The Karama Centre, one of the customer service centres of Dubai Municipality, has recently started issuing membership cards of the public parks to the public through its Single Window System. The service, which is under the Public Parks and Horticulture Department of

Hashem Al Awadhi

the Municipality, is being provided to make it convenient to the customers in Karama and surrounding areas.

Laws for pet owners The Veterinary Services Section of Dubai Municipality is spreading its awareness campaign on laws related to pet owners to all areas of the Emirate of Dubai. The campaign started in May 2009 and will continue until the end of December. Hashem Al Awadhi, Head of Veterinary Services Section said that the goal of the campaign is to educate pet owners on local laws as they must register and vaccinate animals against common diseases; should purchase animals or birds only from places certified by Dubai Municipality; and carry health certificates, vaccination records and a CITES certificate if the animals are among endangered species.

The Section has issued laws and regulations for dog owners on the registration and immunisation of their animals, as a dog owner is responsible first and foremost for the actions of his animal during the time it is tamed and taken into the home. And, if it is given to another person, the new owner bears all the legal consequences with the need to commit to using the appropriate neck belt, masks. Anyone who does not abide by the rules is going to be fined Dh200, and, in the case of repetition, the fine will become Dh400. In the case of taking those dogs to parks, beaches, entertainment venues, shopping malls and prohibited places, the owners will be fined Dh200. If the offence is repeated, the dog will be seized and the owner will have to pay Dh500 as fine. Necessary measures should be taken to prevent animal exposure to any person, nor should it damage other people’s property; and, in the case of the owner travelling outside the country, the animal must be put in a place where basic requirements are available for the care and welfare of the animal. Owners must remove the waste of the animal and place it in a plastic bag during its taming. The dog owner should register his pet and he is responsible if his animal is loose or missing.

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 21

PRODUCTS

Fine goods D

esert River introduces Blofield inflatable Chesterfield sofas. This new design was launched in Milan last year and gives the classic Chesterfield sofa a whole new dimension. The Blofield inflates in just five minutes with the aid of an electrical pump – and

when you’re finished with it you can use the same pump to deflate it. No more lumps, bumps or broken springs – have a stylish and comfortable sofa just when you need it! Ideal for using outdoors, or inside when additional seating is required (think parties, events, performances, art galleries etc…) it has a multitude of potential uses. It comes with a hip trolley bag too – adding to its ultimate portability. Unlike other inflatable furniture this is a toughie and made from a durable material to guarantee long lasting use. Available from Claudia@DesertRiver.com

ffective yet lowcost solution to the problem of keeping insulin at a safe temperature, without the need for refrigeration. Diabetes sufferers and others using medication which has to be kept constantly cool have been very limited in their ability to travel. Now, however, FRÍO® wallets have been developed which keep insulin safe for at least forty five hours - even in constant environmental temperatures of 100° Fahrenheit. The principle is simple. To activate the wallet, immerse it in cold water for 5-15 minutes. Crystals contained in the panels of the wallet then expand into a gel, which remains cool for

efal has launched its Clipso Control+ range of pressure cookers. The range offers a host of new features to make cooking using a pressure cooker safer and easier with an exclusive and patented opening and closing system known as “Clac” which can be used with one hand. Another unique feature of this range is foldable handles for easy storage. A pressure cooker cooks up to five times faster than a normal stew pot. For example, cream of chicken would take 14 minutes of cooking time with a pressure cooker while a stew pot would take one hour and

owenta, an eminent brand associated with personal care equipment, such as hair dryers and epilators, has employed the latest nano ceramic technology in a hair straightening product to provide salon-quality hair straightening for the home user. With the use of high heat (230°C) and ceramic particles, the new

22 l UAE Digest, November 2009

several days relying on the process of evaporation for cooling. The Cambrelle® cover supplied with the FRÍO® wallet increases the wallet’s efficiency and allows it to be carried in a pocket or hand luggage as required. Available from Aims (MENA) Fze, 050 2741667. 15 minutes to prepare the same dish. It is versatile and can boil, steam, roast and stew and at the same time preserving nutrients and keeping natural flavour. hair straightening product sets straight even the most unmanageable and rebellious hair and reproduces at home the highly professional salon quality hair styles favoured by contemporary women of today. From the trendy ‘baguette’ look to wavy hair or the versatile Rowenta’s Supremium CF 2760 which uses the

latest nano ceramic particles in the device easily achieves straight hair which is curly at the tips. To control unmanageable hair the straightener automatically disperses negative ions which reduce static electricity which add shine to hair.

erfect mastery of one’s art, great patience and passion are some of the qualities essential for a skipper and a watchmaking craftsman to accomplish their job. These values are the cornerstone of Girard-Perregaux’s commitment as official partner of the Bol d’Or Mirabaud sailing regatta, the biggest inland regatta in Europe. Particularly suited to nautical activities, the Laureato is bedecked for the occasion with rubber on its bezel, its crown and its pushers. Its case is forged from titanium, a light metal well known to sailors for its corrosion

esert River proudly introduces the new Star on their team: Lola. Lola is a beautifully restored 1963 Volkswagen Camper van, converted to a mobile bar and DJ booth. Lola loves to attend any event – she will not only look very attractive, but also assist you by acting as a cocktail bar or DJ booth. Use Lola, www.showgirl.me for service of food and drinks, entertainment or purely as a showpiece at any function. Lola is very well behaved and at ease in many social circles. So, even at your high profile corporate event or product launch she shines like a perfect lady. Lola can be used as a reception booth, a welcome desk, a ticket booth or even a mini media and press centre.

omega, recently announced the worldwide availability of a new generation of the exciting Iomega® eGo™ Portable Hard Drive, featuring a new look USB 2.0-powered model with superior ruggedness and the broadest suite of bundled data protection software in the industry, all backed with a three-year limited warranty. Available in four different colours and up to 500GB* in capacity.

and impact resistance. This chronograph has been adapted to competition. Its flyback function is very useful for getting accurate different racing time readings. In addition, the chronograph’s central hand provides a precise countdown for the crucial ten minutes preceding the start of regattas.

lympus unveiled its revolutionary new Pen E-P1 camera in the UAE recently having revolutionised the markets in Europe and won several awards. It promises the best of two worlds: SLR performance and compact convenience. Having introduced the world to digital cameras 25 years ago, Olypmus’ Research & Development team has once again found something new to excite both professionals, enthusiasts and those who want to take a good picture without too much fuss and bother. The digital era’s next generation Olympus Pen – the first ground breaking Olympus Micro Four Thirds model – also packs all the advantages of Olympus imaging technology including image stabilisation, dust reduction system and bright interchangeable lenses, including the first Olympus interchangeable lenses specially designed for the new Micro Four Thirds format. The E-P1has a variety of creative e-system features allowing photographers to explore new artistic possibilities. It also breaks new ground with the option of video recordings that were previously impossible. Available at Al Sayegh Brothers Trading outlets.

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 23

PERSONA

The hand of God Some incidents in life bring people face to face with the unknown factor By Ambily Vijaykumar

little girl, about three years of age smiled her way into our hearts at the picturesque Manar Mall in Ras Al Khaimah recently where we had stopped for lunch. There was instant bonding as though she knew us from before. Her cherubic smile, curly long locks and a fresh scratch scar running right down her right cheek added that dash of mystery to her.

We ordered food and before we ate, she helped herself from our plate, relishing each morsel. Though we did fear that her family would object, they seemed least concerned. Between us, there was no relationship, no acquaintance. But through her, we got a message that “you never meet strangers in life” and that we are just a part of a larger plan that the unknown fac-

Tom Miles, Director, Al Futtaim Real Estate Group Within a lifetime, there are many such times. But the best example is one that happened about ten years ago when I was nearing 40. Moving along my career path with a fair bit of success, I really enjoyed making things happen. Being a person who specialised in ‘fixing’ broken properties, I was accustomed to moving in on a problem, sorting it out and moving on. I got a call from my wife (since divorced) that my father was in hospital. Tom Miles Dad was a smoker for years and then a closet smoker when we asked him to quit. But he would sneak a smoke now and then. I was in Florida and he and my mom were in Michigan at that time. I flew up to see him the next day. He seemed fine, but the doctors told me that his health was deteriorating. I spent a week sleeping on a chair next to him at night. On a crisp April morning dad passed away. I got the call from my sister after watching my son’s soccer game and rushed to my father’s bedside. As I broke down in tears next to him, I realised that I had encountered something that I had no power to affect, let alone ‘fix’. As I left his room, I turned and gave him one final military salute as he did after tucking me into bed. I thanked God that I was born his son.

24 l UAE Digest, November 2009

tor in our lives, God, has in mind. It was a feeling of powerlessness or lack of control over things that we felt in the presence of that little one. But does this feeling also touch people who are generally ‘in control’ of their lives? Like those sitting in positions of authority and influence? We posed this question to a couple of them, asking them to narrate an incident that made them feel so.

Dr Ram Buxani, President ITL Group It was on 6th December, 1985. I was in Pune (Maharashtra) on the way home after a trip to the Far East. I was in a hurry to reach Dubai since our then Chairman, G B Mahbubani was here and there was a party being hosted for him on 9th December, 1985. My mother, who was in Vadodara (Gujarat) asked me if I could come to Bombay and pick her up for a trip to Pune. Since I was short on time, I told her I couldn’t come in person and so flew to Dubai withDr Ram Buxani out meeting her. However, I made arrangements with a friend of mine in Bombay to receive her and help her with her onward journey to Pune. Just a few hours after my arrival in Dubai, I got a call informing me that my mother had hurt herself after falling off a scooter. With prayers in my heart for my mother, I decided to fly to Vadodara. A couple of minutes later, I received another call informing me of my mother’s death. She died on 9th December, 1985. The incident made me understand that despite being in a position of power and influence in society, I was still powerless in front of the Supreme Power. These events also make one understand the values in life which normally one neglects for material gains.

EVENT

Sea food – and eat it By Linda Benbow

ave you ever wondered how the fish in your bouillabaisse soup got there? A mixture of textures and tastes combined with an assortment of crusteaceans flavour a broth that is very more-ish. Some of it is caught in our local waters; indeed the fish souks around the country are full of tasty morsels, but the local catch is insufficient to feed the influx of expats and visitors, plus residents of the whole country. There is a thriving sea food business between UAE and many other countries. This was evident in the variety of stalls set up at the third annual ‘Sea Food Expo’ held recently at Madinat Jumeirah. Appropriately, the show was opened by Eng. Saif Mohammed Rashid Al Shara, Assistant Undersecretary – Water and Nature Conservation, Ministry of Environment and Water, UAE; and Eng. Ahmed Mohamad Ibrahim Al Zabi, Director of Fisheries, Ministry of Environment and Water, UAE. They toured the 170 exhibitor stalls and asked questions about fish farming techniques, the logistics of transporting, and freshness matters. Attracting buyers and representatives from food service, hospitality, retail, import/export, packaging, aquaculture services and other sectors, the event offered a platform to help global companies satisfy the growing demand for quality sea food products, equipment for preservation and transportation of seafood, and the latest technology advancement in the seafood industry. In line with this, a series of interactive demonstrations involving premium seafood was conducted by Chef Stefan Czapalay, one of Canada’s top seafood research and development chefs. Seafood trade in the UAE has exceeded Dh1 billion, with imports and

exports reaching more than Dh782 million and Dh165 million respectively, and re-exports totalling Dh108.5 million in 2008, according to latest industry statistics. With an estimated 10 to 15 tonnes of seafood being auctioned off within the Dubai fish market on a daily basis, the seafood trade in the emirate remains thriving amidst the current recession. Dubai’s relatively affluent expatriate community and its hospitality sector also make the emirate an excellent hub for Halal seafood imports and exports from across the globe. Government organisations responsible for promoting and expanding their respective country’s seafood industries staged a significant presence at the event, including Department of Fisheries of Thailand, China Aquatic Products Processing & Marketing Association – CAPPMA, Turkish Seafood Promotion Committee, the Canadian Sablefish Association, New Brunswick Depart-

ment of Fisheries (Canada), Marine Export Promotion and Development Authority - MEPDA (India), and the Ministry of Marine Affairs, Fisheries MOMAF (Republic of Indonesia) and Sri Lanka Export Development Board. A 14-member Malaysian delegation set up their stalls as part of extensive plans to increase the value of its overall fish and fishery exports to the Middle East, which is currently at $5 million, according to INFOFISH, an intergovernmental organisation that provides marketing information and technical advisory services to the fishery industry of the Asia-Pacific region. Among the products exhibited were frozen white Hoso shrimp, cooked and peeled sea shrimp, cuttlefish and squid, raw peeled shrimp, frozen tiger prawns, surimi based products, and tuna floss. Vietnam recorded $62.3 million in seafood exports to the Middle East, in which UAE occupies $28.8 million in 2008, according to the VietEng. Saif Mohammed Rashid Al Shara and Eng. Ahmed Mohamad Ibrahim Al Zabi inspected the stalls at Sea food Expo nam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), earning the country a spot among the world’s top ten seafood exporters. With fisheries export positioned as the nation’s fourth largest hard currency earner, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development in Vietnam has called for closer coordination among regulators and businesses to further improve product quality. The country is further aiming to boost its exports of various items, including frozen seafood such as Pangasius fillet, shrimp, Cephalopus and marine fish.

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 25

FOOD

Mushrooms: the new superfood

uperfoods are those with extra powerful health benefits to the body, including nuts, tea and mushrooms. They provide multiple diseasefighting nutrients, fill you up so you can enjoy plenty of food without excess calories, and are easy to include in every day meals.

SUPERFOOD No. 1 : Mushrooms

The health benefits of mushroom include relief from high cholesterol levels, breast cancer, prostrate cancer and diabetes as well as helping weight loss and increasing immunity from disease. Cholesterol Levels - Mushrooms are full of proteins, vitamins and minerals, amino acids, antibiotic and anti oxidants and can lower cholesterol levels by providing you with lean proteins. They have zero cholesterol, fats and very low carbohydrates; certain enzymes they contain also help lower cholesterol level. Moreover, the high lean protein content in mushrooms helps burn cholesterol when they are digested. Breast and Prostate Cancer - Mushrooms are very effective in preventing breast and prostate cancer due to the presence of Beta-Glucans and conjugated Linoleic Acid having anti carcinogenic effects. Linoleic acid is particularly helpful in suppressing the effects of oestrogen, the prime reason for breast cancer in women after menopause; while the Beta-Glucans inhibit growth of cancerous cells in cases of prostrate cancer.

Diabetes Mushrooms can be an ideal low energy diet for diabetics as they have no fats, no cholesterol, very low carbohydrates, high proteins, vitamins and minerals, a lot of water and

26 l UAE Digest, November 2009

fibre and they also contain natural insulin and enzymes which help breaking down of sugar or starch in food. They are known to contain certain compounds which help proper functioning of liver, pancreas and the other endocrinal glands, thereby promoting formation of insulin and its proper flow.

Immunity Ergothioneine, a powerful anti oxidant present in mushrooms is very effective in giving protection from free radicals as well as boosting immunity. Mushrooms contain natural antibiotics (similar to penicillin, that itself is extracted from mushrooms) which inhibit microbial and other fungal infections. They also help heal ulcers and ulcerous wounds and protect them from infections. A good combination of vitamins A, B-Complex and C, found in mushrooms also strengthen the immune system.

Other Benefits Mushrooms are the only vegetable and the second known source (after cod liver oil) to contain vitamin-D in edible form. They are rich in calcium, iron, potassium (good for lowering blood pressure), copper (anti bacterial) and selenium (very good for health of bones, teeth, nails, hair and as an anti-oxidant).

SUPERFOOD No. 2 : 2: Blueberries

Packed with antioxidants and phytoflavinoids, blueberries are also high in potassium and Vitamin C, making them the top choice of doctors and nutritionists. Not only can they lower your risk of heart disease and cancer, they are also anti-inflammatory. When selecting berries, the darker they are, the more anti-oxidants they have. Try to have a serving (about 1/2 cup) every day - frozen are just as good as fresh.

SUPERFOOD No. 3 : Tea

The overall antioxidant power of black tea is the same as green tea but green tea does include ECGC, a powerful antioxidant which is a key to health. A recent Japanese study on green tea found that men who drank green tea regularly had lower cholesterol than those who didn’t and researchers in Spain and the United Kingdom have also shown that ECGC can inhibit the growth of cancer cells.

SUPERFOOD No. 4 : Nuts

Nuts are typically considered for their high fat content, but their protein, heart-healthy fats, high fibre, and antioxidant content earn them a place as a Superfood. The key to enjoying nuts, experts say, is portion control. All nuts are healthful in small doses, and studies show they can help lower cholesterol levels and promote weight loss. Try putting together your own ‘100-calorie packs’ of nuts for easy and portable snacks.

SUPERFOOD No. 5 : Dark Chocolate

Research has shown that dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants and can lower blood pressure. Look for chocolate with 60 per cent or higher cocoa content; the darker, the better. In addition, the darker it is, the lower the fat and sugar content.

Mushrooms/fungi Carluccio’s in Dubai Mall is celebrating this Italian Superfood: Fungi, throughout November with their Caffe and Deli specials, cooking classes with Head Chef Giulio and tastings in the store.

FOOD

Different kinds of fullness By Linda Benbow

hile driving around the roundabout near The Gate at Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), you know, the one with the big ant sculptures on and around it, I noticed a car park at the end of Building 6 allocated for patrons of The Edge. Huh, I thought, remembering that the exclusive venue had opened in 2006 to selected culinary aficionados and society’s elite. And my invitation to dine there had obviously got lost in the post over the past few years. But one invitation did get through recently – now that the club has re-invented itself into a dining experience for foodies, and opened its doors to the public. Yes, I did park in the patrons car park, as I was entitled to. A doorman encouraged me to enter the air conditioned foyer where a lift waited to take guests up to the bar and relaxation area on the first floor. An outside lounging area will be open soon outside on the deep balcony filled with chaise longue loungers reminiscent of ancient Roman and Greek parties. The classic, simple, dining space is on the second floor with a wall of glass looking out onto DIFC’s Gate, offices and surrounding areas. Gentle grey on the floors and walls glows with subtle lighting. The tables are spaced widely apart and are simply laid with luxurious thick white table cloths, good cutlery and large artistic Murano-glass styled vase. There are no menus at The Edge, explained Executive Head Chef Juraj Kalna. When you phone to make your reservation, you will be asked if you have any allergies or food preferences, and from there, you choose your price bracket and leave it up to

the experts to whip up a selection of surprise courses that are made from fresh ingredients and prepared with worldclass culinary expertise. Big Fine dining at The Edge plates and small portions define this nouvelle cuisine experience, but the small and exquisite tastes are rich and filling and before you know it there is a need to undo your belt by a notch. Wagyu fillets, delicate duck liver, foie gras, a froth of lobster, two types of cooked and uncooked salmon served on a smoke filled platter, along with a medley of desserts on a plate are deceptively fulfilling. “You don’t need to ask for anything. Your only worry is what beverage you would like to drink. We do everything else. There is nothing for you to read and nothing for you to choose. The only thing

you have to decide is how much you want to spend; and we will never exceed that price,” explained Kalna. “When you re-book in the future, we will remember your choices and cook something else that is equally delicious. If you book a table for friends, we will prepare dishes that the host prefers.” Set prices range from Dh400 for a business lunch, Dh600 for six courses, Dh800 (up to eight courses) and Dh1200 (soft drinks included). Village Terrace Le Meridien Dubai has brought back its fabulous outdoor all you can eat extravaganza so diners can enjoy a fantastic themed buffet during Dubai’s cooler months. The week starts with Moroccan Night on Sundays, followed by South East Asian Night, Market Night, Roast Night and BBQ Night. Latino Night and Taste of Asia are held on Friday and Saturday respectively. Alongside the extravagant spread, The Flames, the in-house band at the Village Terrace, features live entertainment which makes for a great background to an

Meridien Village terrace

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 27

outdoor/al fresco mood as the group quietly sings topical and international favourites. The buffet and live music are inspired by the respective theme and a fine selection of regular and premium beverages are served to go along with the meal. If you are going to try the Moroccan Night be prepared for a full tum when you leave. It is impossible to eat just a little at this tasty evening which the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own Moroccan chef lovingly cooks from recipes that her mama, and countrymen, have been dishing up for years. As soon as you see the tagines, thick pottery plates with conical pottery lids,

cooked in distinct but not overpowering flavours. And there are three soups to choose from â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all equally delicious. Desserts include Arabic type filo pastry containing nuts and chopped fruits as well as international choices for those who havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t eaten Moroccan food before. A blend of choices throughout the tables ensure that everyone has a pleasant dining experience. Themed nights start at 8 pm every day, with last beverage orders at 10.30 pm. All you can eat and drink prices are Dh90 per head with regular beverages and Dh250 per head with premium bever-

Artichoke and peas cooked and served in a tagine

you know that slow cooked goodies await you. Lift the lids to find artichoke and peas cooked in a mild gravy, or a pile of couscous lying buried under halved vegetables braised in stock, or meat in thick gravy. Move along to the three feet diameter circular dish containing a glistening, roasted whole lamb resting on a bed of vegetables. The nearby barbeque and charcoal grilling stations provide other meats for the plate while nearby serving dishes contain baby marrows, beetroot and a variety of vegetables

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Make sure you are on board by 12.30pm as the boat does not wait for latecomers - after all it would be unfair to the other paying cruisers to make them wait any longer for their brunch and cocktails as these are not allowed to be served until after the boat has left its moorings and has pushed away from the land. After a prompt 12.30 pm departure enjoy not only a leisurely cruise down the creek but an amazing Caribbean and Latin inspired brunch with breakfast delectables, salads, tropically infused entrees, and even an outdoor BBQ making sure you can surf and turf whilst

Latino brunch on Bateaux Dubai

ages. For reservations call 04 7022455 The latest upgrade to the local Friday brunch scene sees what could be the best cruise you have ever had. Jump aboard, well, totter along the entrance gangplank in your best dressy casuals, onto the glass enclosed, fully airconditioned, Bateaux Dubai which departs from the Bur Dubai side of Dubai Creek, opposite the British Embassy. The brunch cruise boards at 12.00 when you will be greeted with a welcome fruit drink.

enjoying the onboard Mojito Bar and an upstairs outside Cigar Lounge. The advocado salad is choc-o-block with big chunks of the high protein, low calorie fruit which is recommended for lowering cholesterol. Tomatoes are sprinkled with lime, potato salad has a tasty but subtle zing. Poached eggs galore are available for those who want breakfast while barbequed prawns, steak and chicken is a good follow-up as a lunch offering. Freshly cooked crepes, or pancakes to

the likes of you and me, are topped with a not-too-sweet sugar cane derived sauce topped with fruit – a delight to the tastebuds. There are, of course, other desserts for those who have a particularly sweet tooth. Eat as much as you like, chefs in the galley at the bottom of the boat ensure that freshly cooked food is always ready to top up empty serving dishes. DJ Sticky Fingers spins latin rhythms, soul grooves and laid back reggae encouraging singalongs and a swaying sashey to and from the buffet tables. The brunch cruise costs Dh 350 and includes full buffet, non alcoholic welcome drink, and all you

Park in the beach side public car park and stroll along the Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)’s boardwalk to Sarai restaurant, opposite the Hilton hotel, which has launched a special Kebab Festival with a new seasonal menu introducing innovative kebab flavours that will satisfy meat lovers’ appetite. Reflecting tastes found in countries of the ancient Silk Road - Turkey, Syria, Lebanon and Armenia, these succulent dishes will delight the most jaded of Dubai’s foodies. The restaurant takes pride in its menu that features carefully handpicked dishes. The Kebab Festival pays tribute

of mild orange sauce) and Kebab Iskandar (grilled kebab mixed with onions and garlic served with a topping of tomato sauce) and much more has been added to the classic Middle Eastern menu Sarai’s most famous for in its other establishments in Kuwait. Customers can also choose from a wide variety of delicacies, such as a rich selection of starters and mezze, including fresh salads and tempting hot and cold appetizers such as Yalangi, stuffed mini vine leaves with rice and oriental spices and Tochka, grilled Arabic bread stuffed with pastrami and cheese delicately seasoned with garlic, parsley and paprika. All dishes are served with the typical

to the other end of the ancient Silk Road, the Orient, and presents eight innovative kebabs, each consisting of Oriental spices and herbs that complete unique colourful mouth-watering ingredients that well represent the true flavours of the Middle East. A breathtaking assortment of succulent Kebabs such as the Kebab Istanbouly (grilled kebab mixed with fresh mint on a bed of mashed grilled egg plants), Orange Kebab (grilled kebab balls mixed with a selection of nuts on a bed

Arabian bread fresh out of the oven throughout the meal, filling the restaurant with a savoury aroma. Each dish costs between Dh4045, an affordable way to dine with friends. The wooden décor of arches, chunky tables and chairs; windows peeping through wrought iron fretwork; chandeliers – lantern style and Arabian artefacts give a welcoming and homely feel to the restaurant. A welcome change to glass and marble, you feel that you have stepped into an Arabian building in Arabia – which you have, of course.

Sarai

can drink house spirits, vintages and hop drinks including a selection of Mojito Punch. Watch your step when hitting the dock at 15.30. It’s a cruise not to be missed. For reservations 04 3994994 If you would like to give this treat to clients, colleagues or loved ones the company, Jebel Ali International, has Bateaux Dubai cruise vouchers which lets them enjoy this unforgettable dining experience. Special rates are available for companies who wish to purchase multiple vouchers.

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 29

HOSPITALITY

Al bustan

Latino House

Meals and deals around the country

ustomers of Al Bustan Centre and Residence can continue to enjoy delectable food service even when their celebrations are not held in the hotel premises, thanks to the catering services and facilities offered by this deluxe property. Everything starts with careful planning, as chefs prepare a custom-made menu that suits the occasion and client’s preferences. The property’s professional culinary team offers personalised service that makes every catering opportunity extra special. Whatever the occasion – be it a wedding reception, a family reunion, or a gathering of friends these gastronomic delights are served by friendly staff. Al Murooj Rotana Dubai has reopened its Latino House Restaurant & Bar and Waterside Seafood Restaurant & Terrace. Latino House Restaurant & Bar is a modern and vibrant two-level restaurant serving Latin food in a friendly and stylish environment. The ‘floating island’ terrace of the restaurant overlooking

30 l UAE Digest, November 2009

waterfalls and gardens offers more privacy for romantic evenings. Open every day for dinner from 7:00 pm till 11:30 pm. The Address Downtown Burj Dubai has unveiled a new events venue, billed to become the newest hotspot for private functions and corporate get-togethers with a difference. The Bajjah Terrace and Lounge offers exquisite views of Burj Dubai, the world’s tallest building, and overlooks The Dubai Fountain, the world’s tallest performing fountain. Located on the 14th floor of The Address Downtown Burj Dubai, Bajjah has a majestic ambience complemented by a wide variety of food and beverage options. Café Chic, Le Meridien Dubai’s award-winning French restaurant, has introduced an innovative new meal deal available three times a month. Groups of seven diners can enjoy style, class, delectable cuisine and 70 per cent off their total food bill when they lunch or dine on the 7th, 17th or 27th of any month also known as ‘Blackjack’ days. Its

only three times a month so don’t miss out on the lucky number 7, 17 or 27! A minimum of AED 420 must be spent on food per person to avail of this offer. Leave the staid and old-fashioned at home and head to this fine restaurant and enjoy a menu of delights including Fresh marinated Tuna and Salmon Carpaccio, Tajine of lobster, Welsh lamb rack roasted in a pot, and finish off with one of Café Chic’s decadent desserts, which include the Chef ’s renowned chocolate soufflé. Coral Hotels & Resorts has launched a massive promotion this season whereby guests can enjoy 50 per cent off on suites at all participating Coral properties across the Middle East. It is a rare bargain packed with VIP extras ranging from free stay for two kids of up to 12 years, late check-out, free Internet, complimentary fruit basket and free airport pick-up and drop. The promotion runs until December 31. Coral Residence Tower Fujairah is offering honeymooners a heavenly

Bajjah Terrace at The Address Downtown Burj Dubai

package to celebrate their marriage during November. The exclusive Bridal Suite is available for Dh999 per night and allows you to stay an additional night absolutely free. The special package also includes sparkling non-alcoholic champagne to toast your matrimony; a delicious and fresh exotic fruit platter; an indulgent cake; and a luxurious honeymooners breakfast. A beautiful flower arrangement adds to the romantic mood in the room. The beautiful and picturesque emirate of Fujairah is a stunning region that offers the very best in terms of scenery and is the perfect destination to enjoy a honeymoon. Situated near the Indian Ocean, the luxury hotel is perfectly located to enjoy all the magic of Fujairah, with lovely beaches, rugged mountains and impressive scenery all waiting to be explored. On the 26th of November celebrate Thanksgiving at Courtyard by Marriot Green Community with friends and family at the Pine Grill for either lunch or dinner. For this special day chefs will prepare roasted turkey with sage and onion stuffing accompanied by home made cranberry sauce as well as other specialties from the hot and cold buffet. Lunch and dinner packages are available starting from Dh135 per person. The little ones of the family under the age of six years old eat for free. For reservations call 04 8852222.

Legends Brunch at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club is now available on both Friday and Saturday, offering fun and frivolity for the whole family. The Creek Brunch serves an international buffet and the choice of dining inside or out on a wide terrace with views of the golf course, the Creek and Dubai’s incomparable skyline - for Dh115 for adults and Dh55 for under 12s (including kids activities), from 11:30am to 3.00pm. Ladies, if you are looking to improve your skills or take up a new sport, then why not take the opportunity to learn golf in a warm, friendly, and relaxed atmosphere, before sitting back to reflect on your progress over EGC coffee and biscuits in the Golf Academy at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club? Package includes: 4 x 1 hour group lessons, 1 hour accompanied session on the Par 3 Course, unlimited practice on lesson days, equipment hire, free use of driving range Sundays to Wednesdays before 3 pm, and coffee and biscuits. Package Cost: Dhs 545 (golf club member), Dhs 595 (non-member). Emirates Golf Club’s Friday Family Brunch provides something for all the family.

Located in The Conservatory Restaurant & Terrace, this informal brunch offers an international buffet with an English carvery, live pasta station and crepes for Dh115 for adults and Dh55 for under 12s, available from 12.00pm to 3.00pm every Friday. Price applies to food only. Escape the stress of city life and relax in a deluxe chalet-style room while absorbing the breathtaking scenery of the Hajar Mountains at the unique Hatta Fort Hotel. Avoid the weekend rush and stay midweek (Saturday – Wednesday) to take advantage of this great deal of Dh595 per person sharing. Valid until 30th

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 31

Hatta fort hotel landscape

November, this exclusive offer includes breakfast and lunch or dinner at Jeema restaurant. Call the hotel on 04 8523211. The world-class stables at Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa cater for riders of all levels. Beginners, experienced equestrians, children and adults can all enjoy trekking, trail riding, training or lessons with experienced instructors at the paddock or outside. From Dh150 for a 30 minute riding lesson to Dh200 for a one hour outdoor ride, the choice is yours. Please note that the stables operate daily, except Mondays, from 7am to 12 noon and again from 4pm to 7pm. For reservations call 04 8836000. Situated in the lower lobby level of the Atrium Wing of JW Marriott Dubai, the JW’s Steakhouse sends out a clear message to diners of what to expect: simple oldfashioned and very good food with knowledgeable and personalised service. From the comfortable armchairs to the lengthy mahogany bar, the award-winning JW’s Steakhouse is a consistent favourite as evidenced by the brass name plates on the tables, listing its many devoted regulars. Food trends come and go but if you want a big, juicy steak, crisp fries and a varied wine list, the JW’s Steakhouse is the place to be, from 6.00pm to midnight daily. To celebrate Loy Krathong, the traditional Thai festival of floating bowls, Le Méridien Al Aqah’s Thai Chef de

32 l UAE Digest, November 2009

JW Marriott Dubai

Warehouse is situated over two floors Cuisine, Praiwan Sriplai, has created and includes a beer garden and malt café, a set menu called Khan Tok priced a wine cellar and vodka bar. A Europeanat Dh360 for two people. Khan Tok inspired bistro serves favourites such as is a northern style of food preparasoups, sandwiches and mussels and the tion which features a combination of Japanese-fusion restaurant on the second salad, curry, rice and vegetables served floor is especially known for serving innotogether in a basket tray. The offer vative culinary creations such as foie gras will be available until November 15. miso soup, grilled rib-eye with chimiViews restaurant, Le Méridien Al churri, fried onions and Masala chips and Aqah’s is offering a value-packed Friday Tasmanian salmon wrapped in Kunaffah lunch from 12:30pm to 3:30pm, priced pastry with poached white asparagus. at Dh199 including pool and beach acA premium location by the sea, more cess. For reservations, call 09 2449000. space than you’ll know Warehouse, Le Meridien Mina Liccione as Audrey Heartburn what to do with and Dubai’s combination of bars, complete convenience lounge and restaurants, has can all be yours at the added another feather to its Oasis Beach Tower with cap as part of its entertainspecial rate available ment offerings. ‘Monday this month. Discover Night Funnies’ features a ensuite bedrooms, troupe founded and led by amazing views and easy Broadway veteran Mina access to The Walk Liccione, with acts incorpoat JBR. Stay in a two rating professional comedy, bedroom apartment improv, tap dance, tap and starting from Dh560 body beats. The interactive per person sharing sets will encourage audi(based on minimum 4 ence members to learn people). Book this offer more about the performand enjoy free transfer ance arts and allow them to to the beach at Jebel Ali discover and flourish their Golf Resort & Spa for inner talents, aside from beach and pool access. providing a fun evening out.

For reservations call 04 3994444 La Moda terrace located on the 2nd floor of the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek welcomes Al Fresco dining every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evenings. Dine with friends and family in Italian chic with a BBQ buffet featuring a variety of pastas, traditional anti-pasto, salads, grilled steaks, sausages and seafood - the perfect way to enjoy the cooler months - for Dh99 per person. Certainly not your average Italian eatery, the recipe behind the success of Dubai’s tastiest and trendiest Trattoria, while showing constant variations to the pleasure of its regular clientele, still contains the same main ingredients. See and be seen at La Moda. Gather with friends and family for Thanksgiving with Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Monarch Hotel – Special set menu for Dh 225, on 26, 27 and 28. Thanksgiving is essentially a harvest festival and traditionally it is a time to give thanks in general. Serving up Radisson Dubai- Certo

US home favourites such as sweet potato casserole and the finest Mid Western USDA prime steaks seared to sizzling perfection at 1800 degrees Fahrenheit, turkey and cranberry sauce followed by apple pie amongst others. Saigon comes to Hoi An at ShangriLa Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi with a feast of traditional Vietnamese cuisine from the south. From 18th to 27th November, expect gastronomy from the former French colony that will ensure a night to remember. Open daily for dinner from 7pm-11.30pm. Abu Dhabi food fans are in for a real treat as THE One Restaurant in its Khalidiya Theatre launches their eclectic new autumn/winter menu. With an international mix of signature as well as daring debut dishes, THE Gourmet Theatre menu promises five star taste bud entertainment. Look forward to tucking into new breakfast options such as Kedgeree – a popular Anglo-Indian

Kedgeree

Preparing for the upcoming season In the midst of the current economic climate and its impact in the hospitality industry, Al Diar Siji Hotel & Siji Hotel Apartments, two luxury properties in Fujairah managed by Abu Dhabi National Hotels, opted to seize the lower autumn season to invest in staff and focus on service quality, instead of cutting their numbers and training budget. “Some hotels have laid-off people as a way of cutting cost. This is being internally focused but as we focus on the

dish that features smoked haddock flakes in mildly curried rice with chunks of soft-boiled egg – and the Spanish-style Merguez, Potato and Feta Omelette. If it is a hearty start to the day you’re after, opt for THE Big Breakfast. At Dh38 this ultimate belly filler comes with chicken sausages, turkey bacon strips, griddled tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms and spinach, homemade baked beans, crispy potato slices and your choice of two fried, scrambled or poached eggs. Now that’s a mouthful! Enjoy the cooler weather at ZUMA’s outdoor terrace, overlooking the courtyard of The Gate Village at Dubai International Financial Centre. The terrace snack menu accompanies a wide selection of beverages, including mocktails and cleansers made of fresh fruits and ingredients. Back after the summer, with new sounds and tempo, ZUMA’s resident DJ Andy Penny adds his unique music mix to evenings on the terrace at ZUMA. For bookings call 04 425 5660. Zuma signature dish of marinated black cod. Photo by Frank Emous | Mouse Media

customer, I believe that we would be on the winning side because when the high season comes we are prepared and well-positioned. Generally, cutting cost at the expense of experienced staff will get hotels through the downturn financially but it will not put them in position for the long term ,” explained Mr. Fouad Melhem, General Manager of the two properties. The series of trainings were attended not only by the employees but also by the managers and department heads to get them reacquainted with the hotel’s facilities, offerings and standards.

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 33

EVENT

Best foot forward UAE Digest talked to Nafees Ahmed, Project Manager, Orange Fairs & Events, about the footwear event which will take place this month

ootwear Expo 2009 is the definitive event for the ‘footwear’ industry in this region. It is set to host leading players within the $190 billion global footwear market, in line with its aims to leverage the growing prospects in the country’s retail industry. Global traders have expressed their confidence in the UAE’s retail market and its infrastructure for re-export, following the latest market findings by research firm RNCOS, that the local retail sector is poised for a 12 per cent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2009 to 2013 amidst the current fiscal crisis. The three-day exposition will open on November 2 at Crowne Plaza Hotel, Dubai, under the auspices of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Is this a trade show, or can members of the public visit the stands too? ‘Footwear Expo 2009’ is strictly a B2B event. It is open to trade visitors who operate within the footwear, leather and travel goods industry. Will companies be looking for import/export opportunities? Yes, and we are expecting this year’s event to open up excellent import/export prospects for all participating companies. This event is happening in Dubai – does that mean there will only be high quality, high priced footwear on offer? With Dubai - a highly fashionable market dominated by varying tastes and preferences of its diverse population - as the venue for this event, participants can expect a wide

34 l UAE Digest, November 2009

selection of high quality footwear products with prices ranging from high to medium. What about those who no longer wish to spend a lot of money on anything – will they find reasonably priced footwear here? Definitely yes. There will be a display of reasonably-priced footwear, along with other leatherware. Are there any specialty companies taking part, i.e. individual measuring for a perfect fit, sports analysis for supportive shoes, etc? We are still awaiting further confirmation from other exhibitors; However, we are confident the show will bring to the spotlight the widest array of footwear for regional customers. The show will also feature highvolume, low-to-medium and medium-tohigh-priced leather products, travelware, handbags and fashion accessories. Estimated to hit an average of Dh1 billion per year, the UAE footwear market is witnessing increasing demand, especially for Gulf Arab sandals for both men and women, which are being manufactured and sourced locally within the GCC region. Leather footwear accounts for about 30 per cent of the market share, with the rest belonging to textile, plastic and rubber. Recognising the opportunities ‘Footwear Expo 2009’ offers for their business, manufacturers of leather and footwear products from China, Vietnam, Australia, Brazil, Canada, India, Indonesia, Iran, Pakistan, The Philippines, Turkey, Thailand, Malaysia, Portugal, USA, UK and the UAE have confirmed their participation to attend the event.

Aéropostale, Inc. (NYSE: ARO), a mall-based specialty retailer of casual and active apparel for young women and men has open its newest store in the Dubai Mall

Dumond, the Brazilian fashion and footwear retailer, has unveiled their new Autumn Winter ’09 Collection this season, available from Shoe Mart stores

Pablosky, the experts in growing feet, has unveiled a trendy collection of party and outdoor shoes for boys and girls across all Shoe Mart stores

The new Bata collection brings comfort and fashion to the forefront with its strong monotones and vivacious shades, eclectic embellishments and sparkling look, a style for every occasion!

FASHION

Dubai Fashion Week

ubai Fashion Week (DFW) was a ‘by invitation only’ fashion trade event aimed at bringing together major advocates of the fashion industry by providing them a single platform. Overseen by an advisory board, DFW enabled local and regional designers and fashion houses to present their collection to global and regional buyers, media, fashion professionals and the general public. DFW is owned and organized by Concept Events, a full service event management company with wide expertise and experience of managing corporate events, seminars and exhibitions, as well as live entertainment, award ceremonies and trade shows. Lamborghini’s reputation around the world is as an automobile brand that embodies perfection in performance, luxury and the best in design. The philosophy is extended to the brand’s fashion range sold under the Collezione Automobili Lamborghini label. Catering to the needs of both men and women the collection features articles such as polo shirts, sweatshirts, trousers, cargo pants, jackets and accessories. Sporting caps, stoles and giant sport bags, the fashion line that is available

Collezione Automobili Lamborghini

Kanzi

in Abu Dhabi and Dubai through Al Jaziri Motors captured the essence of excellence that is synonymous with Lamborghini. Neutrals colors such as grey, black, khaki, olive green and white were the dominant forces at play. However, baby blues, soft pinks and a dash of tasteful bling added to the glamour quotient. Women in trendy trench coats with short beach sarongs and bikinis set the pace for a bright Spring/Summer 2010. Kanzi’s Spring/Summer 2010 collection of abayas and maxi-dresses was inspired by the theme ‘Fairy Tales’. Sure enough, the showing of more than 45 abayas and gowns was fit for a princess’ wardrobe. Established in 2006 by Sheikha Amal Al Maktoum and Raghda Taryam the label is well known in the region for its high-end abayas, jalabiyas, evening wear and custom-made wedding gowns. As with previous Kanzi collections, the showing at the Dubai Fashion Week was appreciated for its style and luxury, by a full house. Gusts of smoke set the tone for a mystical presentation featuring models dressed in the label’s abayas. Made from exquisite and flawless black silk, the abayas used the fabric liberally to work it into luxurious

folds and drapes - across the back, over the shoulders and around the arms. They stood out on account of their imagination and for bringing in magical touches reminiscent of togas and saris and also using tassels, glitter, floral elements, ruffles, leggings, flare trousers, poncho sleeves and complementary colours in a manner that was innovative and enhanced the garments’ appeal. Head scarves and head bands with prominent details from the abayas they accompanied were the perfect finishing touches to an impeccable collection. Designer Mariam Al Mazro showing at the Dubai Fashion Week met with resounding approval from the large contingent of Emirati support it attracted. The homegrown label made a striking presentation of maxi-dresses and gowns that adapted elements from international and modern fashion into the traditional jalabiya and demonstrated the huge appeal and potential that lies in creating contemporary Middle Eastern fashion. Chiffons were the main fabric in play and the long dresses swept across the catwalk as models allowed Mimi Fashion Designs’ outfits to do the talking – sans accessories and other gimmicks. Mimi

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 35

Frilz

Unique combinations of prints and patches were juxtaposed onto a canvas with pretty shades of teal, baby blue and pinks. Gold was used minimally, occasionally functioning as delicate piping on the bodice or as waistbands. The influences ranged from a Mao collar, long peasant sleeves and free-flowing cravats to wraparounds and even the poncho. Layering was in full play as dresses interestingly employed multi-tiers in their silhouettes. With music as diverse as flamenco, bhangra and Arabian beats, the Spring/ Summer 2010 collection by Aisha Saim and Saim Maqsood, under the label Frilz by Ash was as eclectic in its composition. The Pakistani duo’s strength is surface design using multi-head Tajima machinery on silk and cotton-based fabrics such as chiffon, chamois, shot silk, organza and Irish linen. With a multi-hued colour palette at their disposal, the first set featured off-shouldered dresses and short kaftans with details such as embroidered patterns, kimono sleeves and butterfly patches emerging as the highlights. Ethnic outfits from Pakistan were given a contemporary twist in the form of patchwork lehengas, bejeweled corsets and long low-waist flare skirts paired with encrusted bustiers. Traditional shalwars were interestingly reworked as asymmetrical trousers with slits and were worn

36 l UAE Digest, November 2009

Babita M

with embellished kurtas. The label also presented samples of resort wear in the form of sheer chiffon sarongs and tunics. Babita M’s collection of long flowing dresses was designed to appeal to the hip and glamorous side of every woman. Inspired by the marvelous colours of the Agate stone, found in Italy and the western Indian state of Rajasthan, Babita used the stone in her jewellry and the naturally varied palette and patterns recurring in it to create her Spring/Summer 2010 collection. Blues, red, corals, purples, greens and monochromes featured alongside concentric prints of the agate, which were digitally created and laid out for printing on fabrics such as chiffons, silks and satins. The collection revived the jumpsuit and harem pants in a stylish manner with a strong emphasis on freely-flowing fabric, as was visible through the maxi-dresses, resort wear and even the body-hugging dresses that were layered up with kaftans in sheer material.

Steer clear of dry skin woes this winter! Beautybay introduces REN Bio-Active Skincare for moisture starved skin. Put your winter skincare wor-

ries at bay as Beautybay introduces REN’s range for the colder climate that is formulated using the most advanced natural skincare technology. An invigorating range of products, these contain a blend of hi-tech active ingredients that nourish each individual skin type to ensure smooth supple skin. Unique with no pore blocking petrochemicals, they feel light and allow skin to breathe freely. In addition, REN’s products are fragrance and colour free making them an absolute delight! Cleanse with Zostera Marina Cleansing Milk wash, a rich velvety formula enriched with coconut and palm oils that gently emulsify, easily removing dirt and make-up. Its Olive and Rose Hip Seed Oils nourish, restore moisture and boost skin lipid. For the soft and supple feel, infuse long lasting moisture into your dry skin with Osmotic Infusion Ultra Moisture Day Cream. What’s more, REN’s Global Protection Complex helps purify the skin and protect against premature ageing! If you are worried about those expression lines and wrinkles on your face then Frankincense & Boswellia Serrata Revitalising Repair Cream is the one for you. High on bio actives it relaxes facial muscles and revitalizes the skin particularly at night. Recommended for all skin types its vitamin C and citroflavonoids from Calabrian Oranges and vitamins A and E boost collagen formation and cell renewal to firm and repair the skin. The Rose Synergy O12 restoring facial Serum by REN is a magical concoction of the purest steam distilled Rosa Damascena Oil and a synergistic blend of oils from Ximenia, Rosehip Seed, Camellia, Jojoba, Soya, Macadamia, Rice Germ and Arctic Cranberry Seed which help retain elasticity and maintain glowing softness. The exquisite scent of rose oil is also known

for its uplifting, stress-relieving and calming aroma therapeutic properties. Dry chapped lips will be a thing of past this winter as REN brings on its Biomimetic Perfect Lip Honey, a multi-active lip balm that will leave your lips nourished and protected.

First Clarins Boutique in the region The first Clarins Boutique in the Middle East was inaugurated in Dubai Mall last month by Dr. Olivier Courtin, Managing Director of Clarins Group – France and Mr. Osama Rinno, President of Clarins Group Middle East, in the presence of Mrs. Nada Yafi the Consulate General of France in Dubai. Dr. Olivier Courtin-Clarins, son of late Jacques Courtin-Clarins (founder of Clarins), spoke about the essence of Clarins products and the expertise of its laboratories. He is originally an orthopedic surgeon. He, like all members of his family, had a great passion for cosmetics. In 1995, he started to share his medical experience with the company and became Managing Director, overseeing Research, Development and Financing of all Clarins Institutes and Spas. Dr. Courtin-Clarins talked about Clarins success story which emerged from

Titan, one of the world’s leading watchmakers, has enhanced its Raga range of sensuous feminine watches with the launch of Raga Diva, an exquisite portfolio of distinctive designs presented in contemporary styling. The new collection is marked by rich craftsmanship, and accentuated with crystals and intricate enamel work. The collection is available in all GCC markets from authorised Titan outlets, and is priced from Dh280 to Dh600

its philosophy and beliefs in listening to women, fulfilling their desires and encouraging them to take as much care of their skin as they take care of their health. He also emphasised on Clarins’ aspirations to bring women, as well as men, closer to nature through Clarins plant based products and treatments. The first in the Middle East region, Clarins Boutique is open for customers from 10 in the morning till 10 in the evening on week days and from 10 am till 12 pm on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. It offers a variety of skin care products for both men and women and exclusive women skin care treatments with a customised approach. Highly experienced beauty therapists and advisors recommend the best treatments through a personalised and thorough consultation in a premium

area with calm ambience. A customised programme is then specifically prepared for each customer. All clients may benefit from this consultation before any treatment or purchase of any product from Clarins. The uniqueness of the Clarins product formulation makes it one of a kind in the field of skin care: by using the highest quality plant extracts in their most effective concentration, developing textures pleasurable to use and perfectly absorbed by the skin, the benefits of Clarins skin care products are ideally prolonged. Clarins is a French company founded in 1954. It became a European leader in skin care products in the early 1990’s and expanded into other cosmetic segments such as make-up and perfume through four prestigious brands: Clarins, Azzaro, Thierry Mugler, and recently Porsche Design Perfumes.

Treatment room at Clarins Boutique where private consultations are carried out. All clients may benefit from this consultation before any treatment or purchase of any product from Clarins

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 37

ART

Masterful paintings Works of 40 modern artists from New York’s Guggenheim Musem will be on view in Abu Dhabi

ore than 50 masterful paintings from the collection of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York, representing the work of over 40 of the most important artists of the twentieth century, will be on view in Abu Dhabi from November 17 through February 4, 2010 in the exhibition The Guggenheim: The Making of a Museum. They will be on view in Gallery One at the Emirates Palace. Key works from the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum’s collection featured in the exhibition will include Paul Cezanne’s Bend in the Road Through the Forest (1873-75), Piet Mondrian’s Composition 8 (1914), Paul Klee’s New Harmony (1936), Vasily Kandinsky’s Decisive Rose (1932), Jackson Pollock’s Untitled (Green Silver) (ca.1949) and Robert Motherwell’s Elegy to the Spanish Republic, No. 110 (1971) and Willem de Kooning’s, Composition (1955). This is the first exhibition to be organised by the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation in collaboration with Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC) as part of a programme of art and cultural development leading up to the opening of the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi in 2013. Accompanying the exhibition will be a full programme of educational presentations. The exhibition charts the history of

38 l UAE Digest, November 2009

Arabic manuscript in Mohaqqaq script

the Guggenheim’s Collection from 1929, when American businessman Solomon R. Guggenheim began to actively acquire modern art, to 1959, when the landmark Frank Lloyd Wright-designed museum building bearing the founder’s name, opened to the public. The works in the show reflect the particular emphasis of the collection and exhibition programme during these formative years, thereby calling attention to the ways in which the periods, places, and individuals involved in the making of a museum have an impact on the mission of the institution. In this way, the exhibition also points towards the future Guggen-

heim Abu Dhabi. This exhibition explores the history of abstract painting in Western art during the first half of the twentieth century. The pictures in the first three sections of the show represent a particularly fertile period in art history. During the last two decades of the nineteenth century and the first two decades of the twentieth century, artists associated with the most important movements in the West—among them Post-Impressionism, Cubism, Expressionism, and Neo-Plasticism—broke with the traditional view that visual art should faithfully reproduce the visible world. These artists’ pioneering styles opened up a number of new formal possibilities that radically transformed both the look and content of art, and in so, doing inaugurated the history of modern art in the West. This presentation begins with Paul

cover, bilingual catalogue (Arabic/ to launch ‘School and University ProCézanne and Georges Seurat, who pushed English). The 192-page book includes grammes at The Farjam Collection’. These the limits of representation even further a chronology of the Guggenheim from programmes, held on the last Monday of than the Impressionists and helped to so1929 to 2009; an essay detailing the each month from 10am -12noon, offers lidify the status of Paris as the leading centhree decades (1929-59) leading up to students from grade-school through unitre for experimental avant-garde art. The the opening of Frank Lloyd Wright’s versity the opportunity to learn from, and second half of the exhibition considers the museum building; and texts on the enjoy, a range of exhibitions, from Islamic impact of early-twentieth century abstracdevelopments in art history and the art and Quranic manuscripts, to exhibition and Expressionism, represented in achievements of the featured artists. tions on modern and contemporary art. the show by Kandinsky and Franz Marc, Emilie Faure, Collection and Exhibion painting in Europe and the United tions Manager, explained: “Art education States in the decades immediately followThe enjoyment of art is one of the core missions of The Farjam ing World War II. Pictures by Willem de The last Monday of each month is Collection @ DIFC, and we are commitKooning, Adolph Gottlieb and Jackson dedicated to tailor-made programmes ted to engaging audiences with the works Pollock, as well as other leading Abstract for schools and university groups. on display. For our current exhibition, Expressionists such as Mark Rothko, are The Farjam Collection has collaboThe Holy Quran, Start has joined us to featured in the exhibition’s final section, rated with Start, an organisation linking develop materials for school children which provides a rich overview of this wachild development with arts education, about the history tershed chapter in the history of twentiof calligraphy and eth-century abstract painting in the West. illumination. This serves as a fitting endpoint to the The Farjam Collection is one of the finest The guided tours presentation, as many of these artists and privately owned Islamic art collections in the world today. It and materials are some of these paintings were included in brings together items produced throughout the vast region between Andalusia and Mughal India. Its treasures include tailored to specific the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum’s Quranic manuscripts, miniatures and illustrated books age groups, allowinaugural exhibition in 1959. By that on science, mathematics and poetry, as well as finelying children and time, the range of art acquired and exhibdecorated metalwork, lacquer, glasswork, tiles, glazed students to learn ited by the Guggenheim had expanded bepottery, woodwork, textiles, coins, jewellery, carpets and about the artworks yond its early emphasis on non-objective art from the 13th century. Illustrative of Farhad Farjam’s on display at a painting, and the institution had begun to interests, wide ranging affinities and tastes, the collecsignal its interest in a more global orientasuitable level.” tion also includes works by major masters such as Picasso, tion through, among other means, the esTeachers acChagall, Dali, Braque, Renoir, Matisse, Miro, Leger, and tablishment of the biennial Guggenheim companying the Giacometti, as well as modern and contemporary artists International Award in 1956. Even as the including Warhol, Basquiat, de Kooning, Calder, Moshiri, group of students Ehsai, Tanavoli, Al Rais, and Moustafa. Guggenheim underwent these changes, it will also receive continued to collect artworks and mount a school pack exhibitions that containing imtestified to the ages and materials enduring power for use back in the of abstraction, classroom as well a reflection of as the exhibition the institucatalogue in Engtion’s ongoing lish and Arabic. commitment The Farjam to its foundCollection is ing mission open: Sunday to to educate the Thursday, 10am public about the to 8pm; Saturday art of its time. 12noon to 8pm. The exhibiAll exhibitions tion is also and programmes accompanied are free and by a fully ilopen to the lustrated, hardpublic. Children learning the art of calligraphy

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 39

IMPROVEMENT

Wake up By Kevin Abdulrahman

donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what happened that morning, but I woke up with a fire in me. Preceding that, I had been bogged down for a number of days with relationship issues. My head had been in the clouds and I had lost the complete focus I am known to have in setting and achieving my goals in life. So how did I wake up with that burning flame that morning? Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s skip back to the night before where I had an interview on the radio. Before I do any training, talk or interview,

40 l UAE Digest, November 2009

Kevin Abdulrahman

I usually get myself into a zone. I get into a mind frame where I am in a peak state. Mentally I am super alert, completely present and channelling my thoughts to my audience with complete flow. That energy stays on with me for a few hours after any event. Since this was an evening radio show, I happened to have had taken a lot of that energy with me to bed. While in bed, I paid immense gratitude to everything I had in my life, both for the success and the numerous challenges I was facing (yes, be thankful for the

challenges because they shape your strong character). I paid gratitude for the family and friends that I have. I then started to do my visualisation for the future. I thought of my ideal life, my purpose in this world, what I wanted to really do, what impact I wanted to make and what I wanted to leave behind. I was dreaming as if I was there, walking through my day as it would be five years from then. It was the perfect clip, my perfect movie. With that I must have fallen asleep. Although I might have fallen asleep,

I had really just got my subconscious mind into overdrive. The subconscious mind never sleeps, ticking through the night working on the questions you ask yourself and the images you portray of yourself throughout the day. My subconscious mind must have been working on all cylinders throughout the night, because when I woke up the next morning, I really woke up. What do I mean by ‘waking up’? I was grateful indeed to see the sun rise to yet another beautiful day, but I am not talking about waking up physically. I am talking about waking up mentally. I woke up and realised how much of my potential I was leaving behind on the table. I was letting opportunities go to waste by not working at my true full potential. I was doing ok, but I knew that I still had so much more in me to give. I was on fire. I wrote out a plan of what I wanted to do. I wrote my goals again in a list format. Then I thought, let me use this energy to begin working on one of my goals of getting my book published in 40 languages. With that thought, I jumped online to update my Facebook status and emailing some key friends and contacts. People had offered to help me translate the book in the past but I had never followed up on them. I soon realised how much resources I had at my disposal and how many people I was fortunate to know (we all know at least 2000 people on a first name basis by the time we are 18). I reflected as to how many of us have resources in different shapes and forms, yet many never even begin to scratch the surface. These friends, contacts and resources, like everything in life, are all there. What many lack is being resourceful of what is around them. Many, unfortunately, leave too many stones unturned. Literally, within minutes of updating my status, chatting with some friends and firing off some emails, I was entertaining six translation offers for my book. What a change in gears. Overnight, I went from simply moving ahead, to turbo charging forward.

This is what happened. I woke up and chose to utilise everything around me. The resources were always there. I simply wasn’t achieving my goals and moving forward; my mind was fast asleep. Could you say that about a time when you have been like this? How many times have you been preoccupied with everything that is going in your life, that you lose focus about propelling forward? Some sadly spend their entire lifetime asleep. Those winning their game in life, have woken up. They have woken up invigorated by endless possibilities in their lives. They have woken up to realise this world has a lot to offer. Taking you back to the night before, a lady called in when I was on the radio. Her voice was familiar and she was talking about how she enjoyed reading my first book. She said she had been made redundant a few months back and was completely devastated by it. At that point, I remembered she been of my clients I had coached. While she was talking, I remembered how much potential I saw in this young lady which she had yet to discover. Then she said that one comment I made had changed her life: “If only you could see the potential I see in you”. She thought about it all day, and as a result, had turned her life around. She was going through numerous hardships including the shock of being made redundant from her job. Yet, she followed through with what we had discussed in our session of being grateful for the events in her life, which she did. I had her question herself, “what can I do? What am I good at? What resources can I use? What are my strengths? What am I passionate about?” Within a few months of practising being grateful, visualising what she wanted in life and asking the right questions, things started to turn for the positive. She had called in to the radio to say that she was the happiest she has been in her entire life. She was grateful to have been made redundant because she had now started

to make twice as much as what she had made in her previous employment. This young lady’s story was very inspiring, yet there are hundreds of thousands of people who have been made redundant and never go on to achieve such success. Why? Because they are still mentally sleep. So I want to ask you: • How often are you going through life remaining asleep to the opportunities? • How often have you felt that you don’t have the resources you needed to get ahead? • How often have you wondered whether you have what it takes to make it to the next level? • How often will you remain in this phase - the phase of ‘thoughts with no action’? I want you to know that you have so much more to give and so much more to do, to even come close to your full potential. Begin with paying gratitude to everything in your life. As many challenges as you could be facing, there are millions of people out there who would happily switch their lives for yours because it would be an upgrade. Be grateful, and ask to become better instead of asking for your problems to go away. Ask, and seek, to be wiser. Focus on visualising your perfect movie clip. Walk through the movie in your mind, every moment taking an eternity to roll to the next. Do it until you fall asleep but remember that even when you do, your subconscious mind never sleeps. In fact, it would be wide awake. (Kevin Abdulrahman is an international author of the book on Winning The Game Of Life. He is also a world class Inspirational Key Note Speaker, a sought after mind nutrition expert and a mind coach to the elite in every field. Kevin provides customised trainings to his clients including individuals, teams, companies and athletes who want to catapult from where they are, to where they should and want to be. If you want to go from Good to Great, you can log on to www.MeetWithKevin.com)

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 41

ENTERTAINMENT

Backstreet Boys in Dubai

s announced by band members Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, Brian Littrell and AJ McLean during the F1 Grand Prix weekend in Singapore, Backstreet Boys will perform their first ever and only Middle East concert at The Palladium in Dubai on 17th December. Having sold more than 100 million albums worldwide, the group is the best selling boy band of all time. With the new album This Is Us, including the phenomenal single Straight Through My Heart already on high rotation across Middle East radio stations, Backstreet Boys are still picking up new fans. Performing classic hits including Quit Playing Games With My Heart, Everybody (Backstreets Back), and I Want It That Way, the band is sure to pull in a sellout crowd for this concert. A surprise support performance is soon to be announced! Looking forward to their December 17 show, the boys declare: “Finally, we will be playing the Middle East and we can’t wait to meet our fans in Dubai!” Tickets are on sale at www.backstreetboysdubai.com and www. aegliveme.com for Dhs295 for regular standing and Dh495 for front pit standing. VIP tickets also available.

Best-selling boy band The Backstreet Boys are a Grammynominated American vocal group. They were launched by boy band producer Lou Pearlman, and have been together since April 20, 1993. They have 13 Top 40 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 and have sold over 140 million albums worldwide, making them the best-selling boy band of all time. By their return in 2005, their sound had changed, incorporating only live instruments (some of which they play) and a more guitar and piano driven pop rock sound. After the 2005-2006 tour, original member Kevin Richardson left

42 l UAE Digest, November 2009

the group [on June 23, 2006] to start a family, but the four-piece refused to rule out a possible return for the singer. The now four-member group consists of Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, Brian Littrell and A. J. McLean. The quartet has since released two albums, the most recent on October 6, 2009, titled This is Us, which went back to pop music and harmonising, although still considerably different to their classic sound. This Is Us showcases their pre-eminent pop mastery with a collection of indelible tracks that rank among their biggest and best hits. After mastering an organic, more adult contemporary flavour on 2005’s Never Gone and 2007’s Unbreakable, the new album sees them revisiting the ground-breaking dance-pop sound that first made them international superstars. Songs like PDA, Bye Bye Love, and the Red One-produced first single, Straight Through My Heart are classic

Backstreet Boys, bursting with big hooks, unforgettable melodies, and high-energy rhythms that both highlights the group’s classic sound and vision while also placing it squarely in the here and now. “This record here,” says Howie Dorough, “we reached back into what made us who we are – that’s great pop melodies, great harmonies – and made it current and relevant.” “We made a conscious effort to go back to being ourselves,” notes Brian Littrell. “It’s important for the fans to remember what was, but it’s also important for them to know where we’re headed.” “When we first started,” says AJ McLean, “the Euro sound wasn’t really happening yet, but it led to Britney and *NSYNC and all those other people that came after us. Now, music is going back in that same direction, with great pop songs that are just as rhythmic as they are melodic. That’s what and who we are.” “We always want to top our past albums,” says Carter. “That’s always our objective, to create an album where every song could be a single.”

CINEMA

October releases Film: Fame Star cast: Asher Book, Kristy Flores, Paul Iacono, Paul McGill, Naturi Naughton, Kay Panabaker, Kherington Payne, Collins Pennié, Walter Perez, and Anna Maria Perez de Tagle Directed by Kevin Tancharoen

In a world of reality TV and instant celebrities via red carpet meltdowns; and with a generation accustomed to the comfortable streaming of their lives on the web via websites like YouTube, Fame counters Andy Warhol’s 15 minutes theory with the notion of ‘real and lasting fame’ – performances, careers, and success built on the notion of innate talent diligently honed through exhaustive discipline and never-ending practice. Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures, Lakeshore Entertainment and United Artists bring to the UAE, a reinvention of the original 1980 Oscar winning Alan Parker film Fame that follows a talented group of dancers, singers, actors, and artists over four years at the New York City High School of Performing Arts, where students from all walks of life are given a chance to live out their dreams and achieve real and lasting fame. In an incredibly competitive atmosphere, each student’s passion is put to test as they strive for their moment in the spotlight. Mentored by the best and toughest teachers, they discover who among them has the innate skills and necessary dedication to succeed. Allison Burnett bases its screenplay on the original film Fame written by Christopher Gore.

Film: The Rebound Star Cast: Catherine Zeta Jones, Justin Bartha, Jake Cherry, Kelly Gould Written and Directed by Bart Freundlich A romantic comedy set in New York City, the film is about a 24-year-old divorcee Aram Finkelstein (Justin Bartha) and his new neighbour Sandy (Catherine Zeta Jones), a sexy 40-year-old single mum with children. A history of disastrous marriages brings them together and the neighbours strike an easy friendship. When Sandy finds a job, she asks Aram to babysit her kids and soon he becomes an intrinsic part of their lives. Very quickly, a makeshift family forms and though there's a list of reasons why they shouldn't be together, they fall in love.

The Twilight Saga: New Moon Star Cast: Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner Directed by Melissa Rosenberg Based on the best-selling book series by Stephanie Mayer, New Moon is the second installment to the Twilight series. Its third, in the franchise Eclipse, with David Slade (30 days of Night) has already started filming. In the New Moon, Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart) is devastated by the abrupt departure of her vampire love Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson), but her spirit is rekindled by her growing friendship with Jacob Black (Taylor Lautner). Suddenly she finds herself drawn into the world of the werewolves, ancestral enemies of the vampires, and finds her loyalties tested.

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 43

CINEMA

Growing up rich kid By Vanit Sethi

hat is the best age to wake up to your responsibilities? As soon as you’re in the final year of college and on the verge of looking out for a job to support yourself independently without depending on your parents any more. Unfortunately, Siddharth ‘Sid’ Mehra (Ranbir Kapoor) – the spoilt and lazy son of a rich businessman - believes life is one big party, and the city is an extension of the college campus. Reality hits him hard when he fails in his college exams due to lack of any serious preparation, while his friends leave him behind. His father (Anupam Kher) asks him to join his company as a trainee and Sid agrees to try it out reluctantly, showing obvious lack of interest. Meanwhile, he meets Aisha Banerjee (Konkona Sen Sharma) at a graduation party, and the two somehow hit it off. At his father’s office, he fails to perform the tasks expected of him and just runs away from there one afternoon to meet his new friend Aisha. His father is visibly annoyed and kicks him out of the house after a heated argument. Aisha is a girl newly arrived in Bombay from Calcutta to fulfil her dreams in India’s commercial metropolis. She applies for a job in a glossy youth magazine and is taken in as an editorial assistant.

44 l UAE Digest, November 2009

Sid moves in with her because he has no place to go to and nothing better to do. While she is out working, he tries to indulge in his passion for photography. Meanwhile, he also tries to help out in the house without much success, as he’s no good at anything. Aisha, seeing his talent in photography, puts in a word for him at her office, where he is taken in as a trainee photojournalist. Now, this is something that excites him finally and he’s able to do a fairly good job, eventually waking up to his responsibilities. When he gets his first salary, he goes back to his parents who ask him to move back with them. When he comes back to Aisha to inform her of his decision, she is upset and angry as she begins liking him and does not want to lose him. Sid realises the depth of her feelings later when he reads her article in the magazine. A simple tale of growing up and

proving one’s worth in life, both Ranbir and Konkona have essayed their roles well. While Konkona, being a seasoned arthouse actress, performs her role to expectations, Ranbir does a brilliant job as the young, rich and spoilt brat, but lovable and friendly at the same time. Anupam Kher as the rich but responsible father, and Supriya as the less-educated mother who wants desperately to be her son’s friend, have short but well-etched roles. Rahul Khanna as Konkona’s handsome boss Kabir, and Kashmira Shah as her sexy neighbour Sonia have interesting side roles. Ayan Mukherjee, as the director under the Karan Johar banner, has done a creditable job in his first independent venture. Music by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy is catchy and peppy, especially the title track. Anil Mehta’s cinematography is also worth mentioning, especially his capturing of Bombay’s mesmerising beauty during the monsoons. All in all, Wake Up Sid is a clean and decent, uncomplicated film that stands out in today’s line-up of overcomplicated Bollywood plots with conspiracy themes galore.

TECHNO

Preventing computer and data theft

rom banking and shopping to researching and applying for jobs, many aspects of our daily lives have become intertwined with computers. Yet every day, the dark side of technology rears its ugly head. Between the virtual theft of personal information and the material theft of laptops and desktop computers, our dependency on technology can also put us at great risk for loss. However, in addition to digital safeguards like firewalls, filters, and anti-virus software, there are many other security devices that physically prevent theft and block unauthorised access to your computer drives, personal records, and online accounts. Consider these easyto-use solutions: USB Port Block - A USB port block can help bar unauthorised access to your computer’s USB ports. Port blocks are very basic – they’re pretty much just tiny plates that cover USB ports so they can’t be tampered with. Kensington MicroSaver® Alarmed Computer Lock - For those of you who like to lounge around Starbucks with your laptop but are afraid of what might happen to it when you dash to the restroom, a computer lock/alarm combo could be just the ticket. This device secures your notebook computer to a table, desk, or other hard to move piece of furniture. But it really goes the distance by sounding an alarm that can be heard up to 50 feet away should anyone try to cut the lock cable or remove it from your laptop’s security slot. Silex USB Fingerprint Reader - PC security has finally gone biometric, and it’s a good thing, because the only passwords that can’t be forgotten or stolen are the

ones right on your fingertips. It will keep anyone other than you from accessing your passwords, logins, and personal files. 3M Notebook Privacy Filter - Speaking of laptop safety in public places, if you ever worry that someone nearby will glance sideways and take a sneaky look at personal information on your computer screen (like credit card info, or banking transactions), you can ease your mind with this clear overlay which slides over your laptop screen. While you’ll be able to see

about remembering which password belongs to which site but with a bit of creativity it needn’t be too daunting.

everything perfectly, anyone who looks on from an angle will just see a dark screen.

Password Protection – How’s Your IT IQ Online fraud is a growing problem and recent high profile cases such as Twitter and the UK’s tax office highlight how careful internet users should all be with their personal details. But how much caution do you exercise when you go online? 41 per cent of UK internet users only use one password for everything putting - them at real risk; if your password isn’t secure then your bank account could be emptied or your credit card maxed. Having a range of passwords for different sites is very annoying but it really is a necessity. Most people worry

Here are some simple suggestions: • For home use, think about installing software such as BitDefender. It is free and makes sure that you can download and share files safely • Create strong passwords; this usually means a mix of letters, numbers and alphanumeric characters such as ! or #. Most people use birthdays and the names of your partner, children or pet however these are really easy for phishers to find out so consider patterns on your keyboard – e.g. 1q2w3e4r5t is based on alternating letters and numbers on the top 2 rows of your keyboard • If you have a preferred word, swap letters for numbers – e.g. horse could be spelt h0rs3 • An easy way to create a memorable password is through a story with a changing ending - e.g. I always shop at Spinneys = IASAS; I always bank with Dubai Bank = IABWDB • If you run a business system then explore installing password managers or create a protocol that requires users to update their passwords at regular intervals.

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 45

GITEX

Bigger show, fewer visitors

Huge crowds throng the Gitex Shopper at the Dubai Airport Expo

It was bigger than before with new halls and an extended day at Gitex Shopper, yet the zing was somehow missing from this year’s technology show, thanks to the hangover of a long recession By Vanit Sethi

o those coming to Dubai for the first time, the crowds at the Gitex Shopper at the Airport Expo, particularly on the last day, were no less than overwhelming. The amount of goods and goodies people were carrying out would convince a first-timer that the economic recession must have bypassed Dubai. But for regulars at Dubai’s biggest exhibition – barring the DSF – the zing was clearly missing. It is difficult to pinpoint what exactly was lacking. There were more stands and more exhibitors at the main venue, according to official statistics. For sure, it seemed a lot bigger than before – new halls were opened for Consumer Electronics pavilions, and the Shopper was extended by a day to accommodate the weekend crowds. Yet the energy and buzz that was so characteristic of Gitex down the years has yielded to the sober realities of the marketplace. Almost

all the exhibitors talk of reorienting their strategies to suit the new environment, all the visitors insist on driving hard bargains, and all the shoppers eye the new gadgets without loosening their purse strings. This is not to say that nothing new and exciting happened at the week-long event, but the number of novelties has been cut to size or maybe put in cold storage for future use. The biggest happening was the launch of Microsoft’s new operating system Windows 7 a good five days before its international launch. Coming after the Vista disaster, there was a lot of hype and hope surrounding the W7 launch. In fact, the keynote address by Stephen Guggenheimer of Microsoft was so jampacked that organisers had to get extra chairs arranged at the Sheikh Maktoum Hall in DICEC, for which there was a scramble. The video presentation was fabulously futuristic. At the stands too, a lot of

Titan the robot enthralls vistors at the Gitex main venue

46 l UAE Digest, November 2009

interest was evinced in the new OS, though a freely downloadable trial version has already been around for more than six months. Then Panasonic, which launches its electronic wonders at the Gitex, this time displayed its full HD 3D plasma home theatre system in a mini-theatre seating about 25 people inside its pavilion with 15-minute shows at half-hour intervals. If the crowds forming queues outside its pavilion for the shows were an indication, Panasonic had a rocking hit. But one knows from experience that crowds for freebies do not always translate into sales. Moreover, the giant 3D system will not be launched before the end of the year. While Panasonic may treat Gitex as a testing ground for its market in the region, it knows quite well its brand image will pull it through the most difficult of times. Other novelties at the exhibition were an Xbox 360 gaming zone, in-car entertain-

People queue up outside the Panasonic stall to experience the latest 3D technology

ment technology by Monster Middle East and a whole lot of stalls for smart home smart office products by leading suppliers like Alcatel Lucent, Al Futtaim Technologies, Cisco, Edimax Technology, Epson, Genius, Hewlett Packard, Sanyo and Verbatim. The regulars too were there with new and improvised products like Jacky’s, Winsoft and Promethean. Promethean, which is enhancing the classroom learning experience with its Activboard and Activclassroom, has launched an Arabic version of its Activboard – an interactive electronic

board that has the feel and ease of a board with the functions of a computer monitor. One thing the techie bigwigs have learnt is partnering with the educational sector to tide over the downturn. As education is one field that can escape the recession, combining technology with education could be a win-win situation for both. To that effect, Oracle has partnered with the Abu Dhabi Education Council, while Bayt.com has partnered with Dubai International Academic City for new educational and e-learning experiences for teachers and

students across the UAE and the region. So, while ideas are not scarce, big money is. Business leaders may insist that the Gitex is just a platform to showcase their products, while the real business deals are done outside or after the event, but it is clear that cashstrapped companies see no point in being seen at the event, while those with the resources would rather wait and see till the picture becomes clearer. For the shoppers, however – at least those willing to spend a minimum amount – there were enough offers, draws and bargains to keep them satiated.

Technology, entertainment and education A look at some of the novelties at Gitex Windows 7 launch: Steven Guggenheimer, corporate vice-president of the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Division at Microsoft, says the Windows 7 platform is expected to seamlessly bridge technology, creating a unique experience for PC users. Unlike its Vista predecessor, Windows 7 boasts of a simpler and more efficient way of using the computer through built-in technology that allows touch navigation and desktop virtualisation. The new operating system was pre-installed in computers sold during Gitex. Panasonic HD 3D Plasma Home Theatre: If you’re watching the Beijing Olympics 2008, it’s as good as being there! The market and technology leader in HDTV, showcased the world’s first Full HD 3D Plasma Home Theatre System at the Gitex. Panasonic’s Full HD 3D Plasma Home Theatre System enables the viewing of true-tolife Full HD 3D images by using a Panasonic 103-inch Plasma HDTV and a Panasonic Blu-ray Disc (BD) player, capable of distributing Full High Definition (1920 x 1080 pixels) for both eyes. Through technological advancements in transport bandwidth and storage media, consumer 3D entertainment is now capable of delivering true High Definition picture. Using a special pair of active shutter glasses that work in synchronisation with the Plasma Theatre’s HDTV, the viewer is able to experience 3D images formed with twice the volume of information than regular Full HD images. Sony Ericsson’s new mobiles: Sony Ericsson announced the region-wide imminent arrival of its latest smart mobile phone Xperia X2. They also showcased the Satio, Yari and Aino mobile phones. The functionality of the products and compatibility with other technology

platforms such as the Sony PlayStation 3 were also demonstrated at the stand. The Xperia is a new Windows 6.5-based phone that offers the best-in-class email and multimedia experience, and allows users to instantly synchronise their mail and calendar or open and edit Microsoft Office Mobile documents while staying connected at all times. Sony Ericsson’s Yari is the ultimate gaming phone based on state-of-the-art gesture gaming technology, while Satio is a multimedia phone that includes a 3.5 inch screen and a 16:9 widescreen format. Aino, which was also showcased, is a mobile phone specially designed to allow the seamless transfer of music, photos, videos and podcasts from a computer. Promethean’s Arabic Activboard: Promethean is a global leader in interactive learning technology that empowers teachers to engage, educate, assess and motivate learners. Developed by and for educators, Promethean’s products help teachers prepare digital lessons quickly and with greater ease. The technology enables them to create, customise and integrate text, web, video and audio content, so that they can more easily capture the attention of students and accommodate different learning styles. Imagine sitting in a classroom with a teacher using a whiteboard as any other board except that it can also be used as a huge computer screen. Now, the teacher uses an Activwand to click on softwares she would like to use, and behold – the screen comes alive with, say, a large physical map of the world - complete with mountains, rivers, deserts, seas, forests etc. You can do drawings using Activstudio, listen to a Shakespeare play or Lincoln’s speech, provide your feedback using Activote, text a message using Activexpression, and use a multitude of other features that make classroom learning real fun.

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 47

AUTO

The going’s green

ubai International Academic City (DIAC) will allot five per cent parking space out of their total basement parking bays to green cars as part of their initiative that provides reserved slots for low-emitting, fuel efficient vehicles and hybrid cars and is aimed at reducing carbon emissions at the academic cluster. Basement car parks are preferred by DIAC community and due to Green Cars the ‘first-come-first-served’ policy, none of the car parks are reserved for private parking. Only the parking bays for ‘green cars’ are exclusively reserved for the privileged owners of such vehicles. The move aims to raise awareness on ‘cleaner’ automobiles and mo-

Fakes out More than 30,000 counterfeit auto parts destroyed in Sharjah Sharjah Municipality, in coordination with Bosch Automotive Aftermarket and its UAE service providers, recently conducted raids on two warehouses in Sharjah’s industrial area following reports of counterfeit auto parts trade. The Fake auto parts

48 l UAE Digest, November 2009

Low emission and fuel efficient vehicles are defined as vehicles that are either classified as Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) by the California Air Resources Board or have achieved a minimum green score of 40 on the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) annual vehicle rating guide. Low emission car = ZEV (zero emission vehicle) = minimum energy star of 40 tivate people to buy and use those vehicles that utilise green-friendly and fuel efficient technology. Being implemented in association with TECOM’s Sustainable Energy and Environment Division (SEED), the DIAC move will help reduce pollu-

tion from automobiles that contribute to 51 per cent of the CO2 emissions, thereby mitigating the carbon footprint. Studies have shown that each gallon of gasoline burnt creates 20 pounds of CO2 and on an average a vehicle emits six to nine tonnes of CO2 per year.

raids resulted in the confiscation and destruction of more than 30,000 counterfeit auto parts of Bosch and other German brands and the counterfeit dealer was banned from participating in a major regional automotive exhibition. Bosch revealed that the authorities who carried out the raids found that some of the fake products were already packed and ready to be shipped to a neighbouring GCC country. Volker Bischoff, General Manager, Robert Bosch Middle East pointed out that counterfeiters are taking advantage of Bosch’s reputa-

tion of manufacturing top quality auto spare parts. “Motorists around the world know that the Bosch brand stands for excellence and quality, and unfortunately this is what the pirate manufacturers are capitalising on,” he said. “However, in recent years we have introduced several measures to combat product piracy, most importantly the Bosch keySecure label.” The new Bosch keySecure label – comprising a difficult to copy hologram and a unique 15-digit code - provides the aftermarket sector, workshops and ultimately the end user with the assurance that the product inside the packaging is really genuine. Moreover, by just entering the 15-digit validation number under www. protect.bosch.com, users can check if their product is 100 per cent genuine.

2010 Ford Taurus debuted at Gitex

The 2010 Taurus debuts at GITEX Premiering as the official car for Gitex, the all-new 2010 Ford Taurus, made its first appearance in the Middle East. It received great acclaim since its first North American appearance this summer and will not only bring industryleading technologies and craftsmanship to its segment, but it will also define what to expect from Ford’s future car portfolio: cutting-edge technology, benchmark driving dynamics, premier quality and advanced safety features. Other features include: Adaptive cruise control that allows the driver to set cruising speed using radar technology to monitor traffic travelling up to 600 feet ahead, automatically adjusting speed. MyKey™ - allows parents or fleet administrators to activate a restricted driving mode. When enabled, it features a persistent BeltMinder® with audio mute until safety belts are buckled, an earlier low-fuel warning, and consistently engaged AdvanceTrac® stability control, Blind Spot

Porsche Panamera in Dubai

monitoring, Cross Traffic Alert and Forward Collision Warning, restrictions on audio volume, limiting top speed to 80 mph and speed chime warnings at 45, 55 or 65 mph. Ford SYNC® is the fully integrated, in-vehicle voice-activated communications and entertaiment system developed jointly with Microsoft. Multi-Contour Seats with Active Motion™ are an industry-exclusive for both the driver and passenger that reduces fatigue, integrating a six-way lumbar support and subtle rolling pattern massage. The new 2010 Taurus builds on Ford Motor Company’s safety leadership by adding to its leading number of IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) Top Safety Pick ratings. The new model features side air bags that are designed to deploy up to 30 per cent earlier than traditional systems and pioneers the mainstream introduction of active crashavoidance features such as a segment-first, radar-based forward collision warning system that helps drivers avoid accidents. Porsche Panamera

The long awaited Porsche Panamera’s arrival was a treat to customers of Porsche Centre Dubai, Al Nabooda Automobiles LLC. Deesch Papke, Managing Director of Porsche Middle East and Africa states, “This year commemorates the 100th birthday of Ferry Porsche, one of the truly great automobile men. His vision continues with a new icon carrying the Porsche badge and DNA. Packed with true Porsche DNA and a wide range of innovative technologies including five world firsts in motoring, the Panamera combines the looks of a coupé, the opulence of a luxury car, four-seater space and Porsche’s distinctive driving dynamics. The car offers best-in-class performance with maximum fuel efficiency to make this a uniquely engineered sports car. The Panamera fits alongside the 911, Cayenne, Boxster and Cayman ranges as Porsche’s fourth nameplate. It is available for delivery in three versions—the S, the 4S and the top-of-the-range Turb.

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 49

The Honda harmony Automotive Website

Automotive Website

McLaren presents the MP4-12C inside-out

McLaren Automotive has launched a new website to act as an engaging and informative online showroom for the new MP412C. Future customers and McLaren car enthusiasts in the Middle East can view the 12C in detail through an animated ‘explosion’ of the car’s technical features at www.mclarenautomotive.com. McLaren Automotive Head of Marketing, Lianne Daly states that, “Until the car is physically presented in showrooms in early 2011, this website will be the only publicly-available source of official information relating to our range of high performance sports cars”. Jordanian national Ms Rabab Adnan Hassan Yasin as the lucky winner of a sporty Chevrolet Camaro as part of Sahara Centre’s Ramadan Promotion 2009

Eco tech- savvy

World’s first driving system capable of 360 degree movement Pursuing the concept of ‘harmony with people’, Honda has developed a new personal mobility technology and unveiled U3-X, a compact experimental device to provide free movement in all directions just like human walking – forward, backward, side-to-side, and diagonally. The company will continue research and development of the device including Honda technology experiments in the real-world environment to verify its practicality. Honda showcased the U3-X at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show 2009 (sponsored by JAMA) on 24th October 2009 at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan. Riders can adjust speed, move, turn and stop in all directions when they lean their upper body to shift their body weight. This is achieved through application of Honda’s balance control technology, which was developed through ASIMO (Honda’s bipedal humanoid robot) robotics research, and the world’s first* omni-directional driving wheel system (Honda Omni Traction Drive System, or HOT Drive System)

production in the first half of the next decade. Bosch expects the proportion of SB LiMotive, the Bosch and Samsung joint venture, diesel vehicles in has announced the commencement of construction of worldwide autoa 28,000 square metre plant in South Korea that will Hybrid and Electric car batteries mobile producstart commercial production of lithium-ion batteries tion to increase slightly from 25 to 28 per cent by 2016, particufor hybrid cars by 2011 and electric vehicles by 2012. SB LiMolarly in Asia’s emerging markets and in the US and revealed that tive will be supplying lithium-ion battery cells to BMW. The its developing new technology will reduce fuel consumption of German automaker will install the battery cells in its first electric engines by up to one third, while cutting down carbon dioxide car, which is currently being developed as part of the ‘Megacity emissions of diesel cars to less than 99 grams per kilometre. Vehicle’ project. The zero-emission vehicles will go into series

Bosch and Samsung to jointly produce hybrid and electric car batteries

50 l UAE Digest, November 2009

The sixth generation Volkswagen Golf GTI

Sporty and Businesslike Volkswagen Ali & Sons Abu Dhabi has launched the new sixth generation Volkswagen Golf GTI. “We’ve been fielding requests for this car for the last six months,” says Ammar Al Johmani, Volkswagen Brand Manager at Ali & Sons Co. LLC. The new

GTI has a boosted high-tech engine, is more fuel efficient than a large displacement engine, but with the turbocharger. The new GTI succeeds in bridging the gap between a serious business car during the work week, and a sporting competitor on the weekend

The Chevrolet Volt extended range vehicle makes its Middle Eastern debut

GM to launch new vehicles Thrilling new vehicles from Chevrolet and Cadillac will once again be cornerstones of the General Motors stand at the biennial Dubai International Motor Show in December. Chevrolet models include the game-changing Volt, an extended range electric vehicle, the 2011 Spark, a funky five-door, and the highly anticipated Corvette Stingray Concept. New launches include the all-new Cruze and Malibu sedans, as well as the iconic Camaro. The highlight of the Cadillac stand is the CTS Coupe Concept. Also featuring prominently will be

the all-new Cadillac SRX luxury crossover, which will be launched during the show. The SRX has already been hailed as a major competitor in the crossover segment by top Middle East motoring journalists, and will appeal to younger consumers with its dramatic and dynamic exterior design. Alongside several customised cars and full size SUVs from Chevrolet and Cadillac that are sure to attract future car buyers, Hummer will launch its most powerful vehicle ever built, the H3 V8, while GMC will be represented by its ever popular models which include the Yukon Denali and Sierra Denali.

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 51

SPORTS

Horses for courses There is a host of sporting activities happening this month from watching, to cheering to experiencing the sweat and thrill for yourself

eydan has announced January 28, 2010 as the date that global horse racing enters an exciting new era with the first meeting to be staged at Meydan. The first meeting will coincide with the start of the 2010 Dubai International Racing Carnival and feature the opening round of the Group 3 Al Maktoum Challenge for thoroughbreds and Group 1 Al Maktoum Challenge for Purebred Arabians. Commenting on the announcement, the Chairman of Meydan, Mr. Saeed Humaid Al Tayer confirmed, “The racing facilities were completed on October 31. Now all horsemen, whether they are Dubai-based or visitors from abroad, will have time to familiarise themselves with the facility to ensure they are prepared to compete to the highest standard when racing begins in January. Meydan was introduced to the world on the eve of the Dubai World Cup in 2007 and to have it ready for racing in January 2010 is a remarkable achievement.” Meydan will encompass two tracks, a 1,750metre all-weather surface inside a 2,400metre turf course, while its Grandstand is unprecedented in the world of horse racing; accommodating 60,000 people and including a five-star hotel, marina, IMAX

52 l UAE Digest, November 2009

cinema, six haute cuisine Total no. of race days : 45 restaurants and Total race days by month a museum. “The November 2009 : 8 opening of Meydan will December 2009 : 8 be a defining January 2010 : 10 moment in the sport’s February 2010 : 11 global history. Unparalleled March 2010 : 8 levels of luxury, customer comfort and racing technology will be combined to create the ultimate horseracing experience,” Al Tayer explained. “We wanted to develop a world-class facility and I cannot think of any other racecourse in the world that will rival it.” “As we are setting the benchmark in terms of world-class facilities, we want to complement that with increased prize-

announced that tickets to one of the hottest events on golf ’s calendar will SHARJAH MEYDAN DIR C DWC -2010 ABU DHABI JEBEL ALI be free to all. The move 4 days 9 days 1 day 17 days 14 days ensures that golf fans and NOV 7, 21 --8,15,22 6,13,20 those new to the game alike will now be able to DEC 12 --6,13,20,27 4,11,18 see the climax to the inauJAN 9 28 -3,10,24,31 8,15,22,29 gural Race to Dubai take place on what has been FEB -4,5,11,18,19,25 -7,14,28 12,26 called ‘the world’s most MAR -4,5 27 7,14,21 12,19 anticipated golf course development’, for free. designs and resourceful recycling Greg Norman, designer money of $10 million, to continue to as the teams race to give back to the of the Earth course at Jumeirah Golf entice the best horses in the world for the environment, all in good humour. Estates, where the championship will take 2010 Dubai World Cup on 27 March.” Along with generating awareness for place, has regularly visited the course to Derived from an Arabic word meanthe initiative, a donation of Dh10,000 oversee some of the finishing touches, ing where people congregate and race, has been provided by each competing ahead of the tournament. Norman comMeydan takes over from Nad Al Sheba company, with every dirham raised mented: “The course is looking spectacuwhich was Dubai’s centre of racing from going directly to the Emirates Marine lar and I am thrilled that when we open November 13, 1992 until the 2009 Environmental Group (EMEG). the doors on November 19th, everyone Dubai World Cup held earlier this year. The EMEG plan to use the money will be able to enjoy the tournament for The InterContinental Hotels Group donated from this year’s boat race to help free. This course deserves a special tournaproperties in Dubai Festival City in protect the critically endangered Hawksment and what could be more special association with Island Global Yachtbill Turtles. As a result of recent coastal than having 60 of the world’s top players ing (IGY) and Dubai Festival City, developments, their natural habitats in battle it out in front of a huge crowd”. will hold the second Whatever Floats the Arabian Gulf are disappearing at a Fans can register for the free tickets Your Boat recycled boat race competirapid rate. The money raised will fund at www.dubaiworldchampionship.com tion on Friday 13th November 2009. study of their biology, behaviour and The website also provides details and Teams from local companies and schools population structure, which in turn will sales information on the two hospitalare now busily constructing rafts made aid in the conservation of the species. ity packages that have been announced from recycled materials to race along With not many days left to go until – both offering five-star facilities the Dubai Creek, during a fun-filled the Dubai World Championship tees overlooking the 18th green, and one afternoon at the Festival Marina. off on 19th November, Leisurecorp offering the unique experience of be‘Whatever Floats Your Boat’ means and sporting legend Greg Norman have ing amongst the first to play the Earth just that, so be prepared for some whacky

Total race days by location

Greg Norman

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 53

course, following the Championship. It is a rare treat to have the opportunity to be amongst the first to play on a course designed by Greg Norman and inaugurated by the likes of Sergio Garcia, Henrik Stenson, Lee Westwood and Rory McIllroy. This is a ‘must-do’ for any keen golfer”. An increasing number of families are taking advantage of Dubai’s enviable climate, combined with impressive mountains, desert and coastline, to get out and explore their surroundings, according to the organiser of a new adventure event. From dune buggy rides through the desert, to scuba-diving off the coast and camping under the stars, people are leading a more active lifestyle, and sharing valuable time with the family. “Outdoor Adventure Dubai aims to showcase these opportunities as well as an array of other activities so that everyone can bring more physical activity into their lives. We are doing so by providing a fun, family day out where everyone can get a hands-on feel for a huge variety of outdoor sports and pastimes, and create a real sense of adventure,” stated Trixee Loh, Senior Vice President, Dubai World Trade Centre, event organiser. Outdoor Adventure Dubai takes place 19 - 21 November 2009 at Dubai Festival City. In excess of 100 leading companies, agents and distributors, representing some of the biggest international

54 l UAE Digest, November 2009

consumer brands will be taking part, offering a unique try-before-you-buy experience. One such experience on offer will be 80 kayaks and 80 mountain bikes for visitors to try during the show, and experience the excitement of a new sport. Companies already on board include Al Boom Diving, Al Fursan International, Arabian Automobiles, Coleman, SABA, Salomon, Tamreen and Ultimate Heli among others. The show will feature five dedicated zones to invigorate the senses: • Adventure X - which includes travel operators and associations for outdoor sports and adventures; • Vehicle X - covering 4X4s and other off road vehicles; • Outdoor X - embracing camping and outdoor cooking; • Fun X - everything from BMX bikes to sand boarding and archery; and • Water X – including kayaking, scuba diving jet skiing, yachts and sailing. “The experience of family camping is refreshing to parents and children alike and helps build team spirit besides strengthening relationship bonds,” said James Ko-

shy, Middle East Regional Manager for camping and outdoor equipment company Coleman. “Being a more physical activity in the outdoors, everyone improves their health, while having a great time, and all without spending much money.” There will be live demonstrations on desert driving, safety tips for underwater activities as well as specially-designed course for testing SUVs. Visitors will be able to get up close and personal with much of the equipment and vehicles on display.

With the Olympic celebrations still in full swing, preparations are well under way for the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens. The hugely popular annual event will be the first major Sevens tournament to be held after the International Olympic Committee’s momentous decision to include the sport of Rugby Sevens in the Olympic programme. And it promises to exceed all expectations with the hottest rugby action and top-class entertainment on offer from December 3-5. The tournament will be celebrating its 40th year this year, and a number of special activities have been planned to celebrate this historic milestone. Sixteen of the finest teams in the world will once again make the trip to the UAE for the opening leg of the IRB Sevens World Series, which will see defending champions South Africa aiming to claim their fourth Dubai title. Also in the mix will be the likes of Fiji, England and New Zealand, who are gunning to regain the dominance they enjoyed not too long ago. In addition to the international action, over 150 invitational teams will be taking part in various other tournaments taking place on the surrounding pitches over the weekend, with thousands of players converging on Emirates purpose-built venue, The Sevens, for the three-day long festivities. As usual there will be plenty on offer for all ages in the Rugby Village, with an exciting array of children’s activities planned, including bouncing castles and inflatable games as well as crèche facilities for the younger ones. The Air BP family stand will also be available for those wanting to enjoy the tournament in an alcohol-free environment. Once the action has come to an end, over 100 buses will be on duty to transport fans from The Sevens, back to

Carlton’s record in football speaks various convenient locations across for itself as a former England player, Dubai. These are: Barasti, Chi @ The long-time Premiership player and Lodge, Irish Village, Double Decker, manager, while Kirk went right Loca (Dubai Marine), Media City through Manchester United from a (Family drop-off) and Festival City. young age and ended his playing days Tickets to the action are still availat Belgian club Royal Antwerp. able at The Sevens ground on the Al The pair have been able to draw Ain Road, Emirates headquarters, on their years of combined experithe Dnata Travel Centre on Sheikh ence and extensive contacts. FaZayed Road and numerous Costa and bien’s chance to shine at Everton was MMI outlets as well as online through provided through TESA co-founder www.dubairugby7s.com and by calling and ‘Toffees’ player Tim Cahill. Ticketline on 8004669. The public is Because of their pedigree, Carlreminded that a valid licquor licence ton and Kirk are constantly being is required to enter any MMI outlet. approached by scouts looking for Two students from the Transguard untapped talent. The club has hosted Elite Sporting Academy (TESA) former Norwich player and TV comhave held trials at two leading English Premiership clubs – an early result for the Academy, which only opened its doors in March. Fabien Speiss, a 15-year-old goalkeeper who attends Emirates International School, trialled at Everton while nine-year-old Bobby Corish from Jebel Ali Primary School had his week-long trial extended to a month at Manchester United. Fabien also underwent training at Middle Easternowned Notts County. Both boys impressed on trial and Corish is currently waiting for his next opportunity to return to the Man United youth set up during the next school (left to right) Carlton Palmer, Fabian Speiss and Kirk Hilton holiday. Speiss on the mentator Effon Ekoku and former other hand, may accept a professional England player Les Ferdinand, who is contract and negotiations have been now representing Tottenham Hotspur. initiated by a number of English clubs. The academy, in which Transguard The overall success of TESA can Group is the majority stakeholder, be attributed to resident football is set in 1.3 million square feet on coaches Carlton Palmer and his asthe Repton campus in Nad Al Sheba sistant Kirk Hilton, who have quickly with state-of-the-art facilities. struck up a formidable partnership.

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 55

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REAL ESTATE

Rental decline slows in Northern Emirates Umm Al Quwain is the most affordable emirate and Sharjah the most expensive in which to live, says Asteco report

partment rental rates in the Northern Emirates continued to fall in the third quarter of 2009, but at a slower rate than previously, according to a report by Asteco, the largest property services company in the United Arab Emirates. “The average decline in apartment rental rates has slowed considerably to 4 per cent compared with 12 per cent in the second quarter and 21 per cent in quarter one of 2009,” says the Asteco Northern Emirates Q3 2009 report. “However, there has been limited activity in the market due to the summer holidays coinciding with Ramadan, both traditionally quiet periods.” The report by Asteco, which carries out comprehensive property market analysis across the UAE, also found: • Fujairah recording the smallest decline of two per cent to an average of Dh29,625 per annum, making it the second most affordable place for apartments in the Northern Emirates. Average Apartment Rental Rates and Percentage Change (Q2-Q3 2009)

•

Umm Al Quwain continues to be the most affordable emirate with average rental rates at Dh26,625 per annum. • Ajman recording the largest decline in rents from Dh35,463 to Dh33,500 per annum, • Sharjah continues to be the most expensive emirate in which to live. In the second quarter, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah reported decreases of nine per cent, eight

per cent and 11 per cent. In the third quarter, declines were more conservative with records showing four per cent, two per cent and four per cent respectively. “Since the fourth quarter last year, when the economic downturn became apparent in the Middle East, average rental rates across the Northern Emirates fell by nearly 34 per cent from Dh48,450,” the report says It adds, however: “It should be noted that such a substantial decrease is reflective of the sharp increases which were experienced prior to the financial crisis. For example, apartment rental rates in the Northern Emirates had increased by 22 per cent during the first three quarters of 2008.” The Asteco Northern Emirates Q3 2009 report also highlights the continuing decline in Sharjah office rental rates where offices with basic facilities can be found for Dh45 per square foot.

Smart appliance pilot programme Masdar City pilot first to use smart appliances that measure and transmit real time power consumption Masdar City and GE Consumer & Industrial have recently announced a landmark pilot programme that will investigate the reduction of peak power demand through the use of smart home appliances. Involving some of the first residents of Masdar City – the world’s first carbon neutral, zero waste city being built in the UAE capital Abu Dhabi – the programme will test how GE smart (or Demand Response enabled) appliances and Home Energy Manager (HEM) can lower power demand in the home and across the city. GE specifically designed and manu-

factured the appliances and networks for this pilot. The equipment will be installed in early 2010 in the first building to be completed, the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology. The pilot residences in the Masdar Institute building will be equipped with a Home Energy Manager and European-style and size demand response-enabled refrigerators, cooktops and combination clothes washers/dryers that work on 220volt/50HZ platforms. During the pilot, the HEM and appliances will receive signals from the grid, which will simulate peak energy usage periods. In response, the HEM and smart appliances will customise the appliances’ responses to save energy, reducing energy demand on the grid. For example, the HEM and refrigerator will receive a signal that electricity prices are going up. When the refrigerator gets that signal, it can delay the defrost cycle and raise the temperature inside the refrigerator by a couple of degrees, thereby saving energy and money. When the refrigerator receives a signal that electricity prices have gone down, it will defrost the refrigerator and return the internal temperature to the original setting. The entire process does not require any involvement of the person living in the pilot residence, unless they choose to override the demand-response function. Masdar Institute of Science and Technology

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 57

REAL ESTATE

Consolidation is the key Damac says that construction and delivery will remain its agenda for 2010 as well By Ambily Vijaykumar

he shift in focus is palpable. While new launches were the hallmark of the Dubai real estate market until last year, this year, the story has reversed. At this year’s Cityscape, developers were driving home their new agenda: construction and delivery. The situation has to be viewed through the prism of the economic crisis that has swept millions off the real estate market and have left developers virtually cashstrapped. It is now an open secret that several new projects have been shelved and large-scale projects are now being completed in phases because of the cash-crunch. Developers are not only faced with deadlines to deliver their projects on time, they have also had to tighten their coffers resulting in large-scale redundancies. This, in turn, has hit the lending process of banks that are now wary of backing the real estate market or giving loans to those employed in the sector.

Marina Terrace

58 l UAE Digest, November 2009

Niall Mc Loughlin

One of Dubai’s leading developers, Damac, too says that the focus over the last one year at the organisation has been to complete their task in hand rather than take up new ones. “We have been very busy in construction and delivery. Since the last Cityscape, we have handed over three projects to our customers and have topped off five buildings, and soon, we will top off a further two buildings,” says Damac Senior Vice-President for Corporate Communications, Niall McLoughlin. “We have handed over 3,029 units so far and anticipate handing over 7,100 units by the end of 2010. In June, we announced that we would be awarding eight contracts by the end of the year, we are through with six already. The remaining would be awarded by the end of the year. So, the message is that

tenders are out, construction is ongoing and buildings are being built,” he adds. The developer’s shift in focus is being guided by prioritising projects within their portfolio and working with their investor base, whether it is a single unit or multiple unit purchasers to facilitate their investments. Flexibility in giving a helping hand to investors is also the new initiative whereby the developer helps investors consolidate in case there is a lack of available funds. They are also open to moving clients from an off-plan project to ones under construction. “This allows the investor to not only reschedule their payment in terms of the total amount, but also enables them to get finance easily. By shifting customers from off-plan developments to under construction ones, they are able to realise their investments faster. It is a win-win situation for us in the sense that we can prioritise that building and build it quicker and it is also a similar situation for the investor. The initiative has been received very positively,” claims Mc Loughlin. When asked what the rate of such transfers has been, he said that it is difficult to give a statement on that since some customers are satisfied in the project they are in and others wish to downsize their investment. Still others wish to change from residential to commercial and vice versa and that Damac is working with all their clients to assist them in their requirements. This then throws up the question of whether Damac’s properties in Dubai

have been sold out. “No they are not,” says Mc Loughlin. “We do have inventory on some projects, though some are sold out. All of our constructed projects are sold out, all of our near-to-completion projects have high percentage of sale,” he elaborates. With the changing market scenario has also come changes to regulations that the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) in Dubai has put forth. The most talked about them being the new Strata Law. Asked what the developer’s stand on empowering the Home Owners’ Association (HOA) is, Mc Loughlin says, “With our completed projects, we have a facilities management company that works with home owners. Our Executive Heights the law is passed, it is something we will status on the HOAs is that we embrace,” elaborates Mc Loughlin. are very much ahead on the curve on this The developer has, in the meantime, and as soon as the legislation is passed, embraced one reality and that is the we will be in a position to implement it ‘softening of prices’. Damac says that as soon as possible. It is something that though it is difficult to give a blanket benefits the home owners as well as the fastatement with regard to the per cent cilities management companies as well as of drop in prices, it would be safe to say developers once the transparency around that there has been a 30 per cent reducfacilities management is achieved. We tion in prices of property in Dubai. work with RERA on the service charges “Our strategy when we develop a for our completed projects. As soon as property is that we ensure the property is in a prime Emirates Gardens Rose location. So, if we have a building in Marina, it has to on the best location in that area. Our projects have always had a premium price because of its location. However we have also noticed that rentals have stabilised and that residential villa rates are also beginning to come up again,” says Mc Loughlin. So does Damac feel the bottom of the curve has been reached? “We feel it has been reached, but whether it is a V,

U or W, only time will tell. There is light at the end of the tunnel. What is of interest now is how long the tunnel is,” opine Damac. The buzz in the marketplace seems to be tilting towards midsized projects. Would Damac then turn towards the mid-market to keep with the changing trends? “Our brand proposition is ‘live the luxury’. Our niche in the market is about luxurious offering and we are not going to change that. Our objective is to deliver top-end products in top-end locations and we would continue to do so,” say Damac. They maintain that the developers’ offering would not change due to market trends. Their focus, they say, is on offering “the best quality for the projects we develop”. Elaborating on the road ahead for Damac in the year 2010, Mc Loughlin says that on the lines of the year 2009, the coming year will also be a year of construction for the developer where they will finalise and hand over projects. Several handovers will happen towards the end of this year and others will carry on throughout the next year. As for the market, Damac believes there will be clarity only in the first and second quarter of next year. “It is a year that will see a lot of clarity and transparency within the real estate industry. Even though a lot of projects are currently undergoing a slowdown and a lot are in the pipeline, there will still be a shortage of residential requirements till the end of 2010 or 2011. It is very much a situation of companies that will continue to build and they will have inventory when the market picks up. And Damac will do just that, so that we are fit for the upturn when it happens,” concludes Mc Loughlin.

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 59

TRAVEL

Air Arabia begins service to Russia

ir Arabia launched a twiceweekly service from Sharjah to Samara (Russia) last month. The introduction of a service to this major Russian city, located on the banks of the Volga River, marks Air Arabia’s third destination in Eastern

Mashreq and Air Arabia launch loyalty card

Europe, following the earlier launch of direct flights from Sharjah to Almaty (Kazakhstan), and Kiev (Ukraine). Air Arabia now serves 59 destinations from two hubs in UAE and Morocco across Middle East, North Africa, Indian Subcontinent, Africa, Central Asia and

Europe. Roundtrip flights will operate twice a week between Samara and Sharjah on Mondays and Fridays, departing Sharjah at 9.10am and arriving in Samara at 1.40pm. On the same days, return flights will depart Samara at 2.40pm and arrive in Sharjah at 7.05pm.

As part of the offering, customers holding the Air Arabia Mashreq Credit Card will earn up to two per Unveiling an exciting range of travel cent of the value of rewards, Mashreq and the amount spent Air Arabia, recently back as Air Arabia launched the ‘Air Arabia Dirhams. These can Mashreq Credit Card’, be used by customthe latest addition to ers to book flights to the bank’s range of inany of the airlines 47 novative cards. Mashreq destinations around has teamed up with the the world. Additionairline to provide its ally, customers will credit card holders with receive a host of travel a unique combination benefits, including of premium banking complimentary Priorservices and Air Arabia’s ity Pass, for Platinum wide range of travel cardholders, access services. to exclusive lounges The new Classic and in over 600 airports Platinum co-branded around the globe six awards free flights on times a year, compliAir Arabia for every mentary beverages Dh25,000 spent, providin flight, as well as ing unmatched value discounts reaching up in terms of conversion to 10 per cent on Air of spend to free tickets Arabia Holidays, meet currently available in and assist services, the market. Cardholdand duty-free shopers have the option to Adel Ali, awarded world’s Low Cost Airline “CEO of the year” 2008, has been given credit for setting up the Middle East and North Africa’s first low-cost carrier (LCC), Air Arabia. ping, among others. conveniently pay full/ A survey conducted by ‘YouGovSiraj’ earlier this year highlighted that low cost carriers are SMS ‘FLY ‘to 4250, part payment of tickets witnessing a demand increase in terms of both traffic growth and earnings. The survey also with their ‘Air Arabia showed that leisure and business travellers are shifting from premium to low-cost carriers by or call Mashreq on 04 424 4444. Dirhams’ and can check 7 per cent and12 per cent respectively .

60 l UAE Digest, November 2009

the status of the points gained by logging into their account on www.airarabia. com.

Britain abuzz this autumn Middle East travellers booking flights to Britain ahead of Eid Al Adha at the end of November can celebrate the autumn season with a number of exciting events and activities in cities popular among Arab guests including London, Manchester and Leeds. Dining hotspots, not-tobe-missed art exhibitions, and celebrity spotting are among the many activities

Etihad’s Manchester packages for soccer lovers Etihad Holidays, a division of Etihad Airways, has unveiled a series of special weekend packages to watch Manchester City Football Club play in the Barclays Premier League. Two night packages with breakfast at the five star Lowry Hotel in Manchester start from Dh5,060 per person and include match-day tickets, a replica Manchester City shirt, return economy flights from Abu Dhabi, and all applicable taxes and surcharges. In addition to watching the football, visitors to Manchester can also take in some of the city’s other high-end attractions, such as its historical and arts museums and varied ethnic districts. The city is a hugely popular shopping and dining destination composed of department stores, local markets, and boutique

regional travellers can experience. Shopaholics can get their fix at the Regent Street Festival on again this year in celebration of 180 years of shopping history, with London shopping landmarks like Jaegaer, Gap, Ted Baker, Desiqual and UNIQLO celebrating long-term time in the street. For art lovers, the Tate Modern has Sold Out – exploring the ways in which pop

artists like Andy Warhol created their own brands and became self-promoters, Sold Out is on until January 17 next year. Alternatively, the Imperial War Museum North in Manchester is marking the 20th anniversary of opening of the East– West Border in Berlin with its exhibit Living with the Wall: Berlin 1961-1989. The exhibition runs through March 21, 2010.

shops, as well as many of Britain’s finest restaurants. Etihad Holidays customers can now book packages for home matches against Burnley on Saturday, 7 November, Hull City on Saturday 28 November and Chelsea on Saturday, 5 December. To book one of the winter offers, customers can visit Etihad Holiday shops in Al Wahda Mall, Khalidiyah Mall and Marina Mall in Abu Dhabi or call the UAE toll-free telephone number 800 2324. Prices are based on two people sharing a twin room and include return economy class flights to Manchester and two

nights’ accommodation and one match ticket per person in the grandstand of the City of Manchester Stadium and one Manchester City football shirt. Fixtures are

subject change. Etihad Airways flies daily between Abu Dhabi and Manchester.

UAE Digest, November 2009 l 61

For the fourth year in succession, Lufthansa took off from Munich during the Oktoberfest with a crew dressed in a traditional Bavarian costume. Since 2006, a long-haul crew has swapped the usual navy blue Lufthansa uniform for dirndls and traditional Bavarian suits. This year, however, the members of the special crew presented themselves for the first time in tailor-made dirndls created by fashion house LODEN-FREY München am Dom. The new dirndl reflects Lufthansa’s corporate colours – navy blue and yellow. The Lufthansa crew dressed in national costume has proved extremely popular in China, Japan and the United States. To date, the crew has flown to five Asian destinations (among them Beijing, Hong Kong and Tokyo) as well as to five destinations in America (including Chicago, New York and Denver). This year they flew Los Angeles, Boston and Dubai.

Lufthansa offers special fares to Europe Lufthansa German Airlines launched special fares from the UAE, Kuwait, Doha and Oman to over 40 destinations in Europe. A round-trip flight from UAE (Dubai and Abu Dhabi) to Europe can be booked starting from Dh990. Destinations include Amsterdam, Berlin, Brussels, Copenhagen, Düsseldorf, Geneva,

Hamburg, Hanover, London, Lyon, Madrid, Paris, Prague, Rome, Valencia, Venice, Vienna, Zurich and more. Customers from UAE, Kuwait and Oman can book their tickets before November 10 and are required to commence travel latest by April 15, 2010. Hence, Lufthansa is offering a very long travel period. This gives customers the opportunity to buy now and travel in the coming months, either for leisure, business, Eid break, Christmas or even Easter holidays. The maximum period of stay is three months. Contact the Lufthansa office in Dubai on 04 3432121.

Honeymooners’ paradise in Thailand

Special fares to Manila

Samui is the paradise island in Thailand for weddings and honeymoons, and Bhundhari Spa Resort & Villas Samui offers happy couples the perfect setting for their great day and the choice of a luxury room or villa where they can enjoy complete privacy for their honeymoon. Located at the quiet northern end of Chaweng Beach, and set into a hillside with its gardens sloping gently down to the beach, the resort is designed in Southern Thai style and is adult-focused, ensuring an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity without the distractions of children. All kinds of wedding styles are offered, in any selected religious denomination, as a secular ceremony, or a tailor-made ceremony. A Wedding Coordinator will take care of all organisation and details, working with the families of the bride and groom to ensure that everything goes smoothly on the day. The Bhundhari Suite is the resort’s main events venue and is ideal for ceremonies, opening directly onto the gardens and able to hold up to 180 guests. The BuaKiri restaurant, by the side of the main swimming pool, is also a picturesque setting. Couples opting for the romance of a beach wedding have the facilities of the BuaDhaleh restaurant, which is located directly on the beach. Honeymooners have the choice between a luxurious room or a villa, or the larger pool villas with their own private pool and access to the exclusive Club Lounge with its superb views and five complimentary food and beverage servings per day.

Until December 9, Thai is offering fares from Dh1,350 return or Dh810 one way from Dubai to Manila via Bangkok. The all-new Airbus A330-300 also recently joined the fleet serving Dubai/Bangkok, featuring improved cabin layout for greater comfort, extensive range of in-flight entertainment options including audio, video and games on personal seat monitors and 32” seat pitch in Economy – plus convenient departure times. The special fares between Dubai and Manila does not permit stopovers in Bangkok and are subject to applicable taxes and surcharges. The Thai Airbus A330-300 features 263 Economy class seats and 36 Royal Silk Class seats, increased seat width in Economy as well as fewer Business Class seats with greater seat pitch and enhanced in-flight comforts. PC power outlets are provided for all passengers, with one per Business Class seat and more than one per couple in Economy. In-Flight entertainment is provided by Panasonic 3000i with video on demand in six languages in all classes, plus in-seat telephone.

62 l UAE Digest, November 2009

Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa, Emirates’ first luxury conservation-based resort outside Dubai, is located between two of Australia’s most prominent national parks and borders the Blue Mountains World Heritage Area

Emirates heralds luxury travel in Australia Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa, Australia’s first luxury conservation-based resort and Emirates Hotels & Resorts’ first development outside Dubai, welcomed its first guests on October 1. The A$125 million project, built on the same principles as UAE’s acclaimed Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, combines the expectations of the high-end traveller with a commitment to broader social, ecological and environmental sustainability. Located between two of Australia’s most prominent national parks and bordering the Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, the resort features 40 individual secluded suites, and is fully integrated into its environment, supporting wide-ranging conservation practices. The resort occupies only two per cent of

its 4,000-acre land, while the remaining area is dedicated as a wildlife reserve. The location was selected by Emirates Hotels after an extensive research for a location that lent itself to worldclass conservation-based practices. Each suite in the resort has its own indoor/outdoor swimming pool, private verandah, separate living and sleeping areas, luxurious en-suite bathroom and double-sided fireplace. The resort’s architecture is progressive in its sustainable philosophy but classic in its aesthetic approach. Activities at the resort include guided walks to discover wildlife in its natural habitat, four-wheel drive safaris, mountain bike and horse-riding adventures through the spectacular landscapes, stargazing, heritage and aboriginal interpretative tours, guided photographic excursions and visits to the Wollemi Pine Grove.

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END PAGE

He’s got the prize; now give him a chance By Con Clude

ne thing that surprised – and to some extent also shocked - the world recently was the announcement of the Nobel Peace Prize for US President Barack Obama. While right-wingers in the United States were quick to condemn the granting of the award for someone who’s done ‘precious little’ (in their own words) for domestic peace, let alone world peace, well-meaning people around the world dubbed it as ‘too much too soon’. One cannot fault the latter for their views, especially those in the Middle East who rightly feel that apart from words, there is little else to recommend the world’s most powerful man. Many are disappointed by the slow pace of change, if at all, initiated by Obama, compared to the high expectations when he assumed the office of the US President. They have reason to feel the Nobel committee too got taken in by the sheer brilliance of his oratory, and question whether the world’s most prestigious award can be gifted for verbal artistry. In fact, most reactions around the world tended to be one of disbelief. While one can understand their opinions, it is difficult to fully appreciate them, at least for me. First and foremost, which other US President in recent times, was able to elicit a positive, though cautious approach, from persistent anti-West crusaders like Mahmoud Ahmadinejad of Iran, Hugo Chavez of Venezuela and

64 l UAE Digest, November 2009

Fidel Castro of Cuba. The very fact that he has been able to change their mindsets, even a wee bit, goes to his credit. True, a Nobel cannot be given away for mere intentions – however wellmeaning – but isn’t that the first step towards a resolution of long-standing problems (perhaps the committee voted against Bush rather than for Obama, but maybe it also wanted to rectify its biggest mistake of bypassing Mahatma Gandhi for the award). Now, how much time did Obama have before being hauled on the coals – less than nine months. Does anyone seriously expect him to solve a problem more than six decades old in less than nine months, when his predecessors have taken much longer time and failed? Of course, the previous incumbent George Bush had no serious intention either, but what about well-meaning statesmen like Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter. Maybe the Nobel committee rushed into the award just two weeks after he was elected (as the nominations closed at that time), but consider the wave of hope and euphoria that brought him to power. He stood for change, he still believes in it, but you’ve got to give him time and support. If the vicious rightists in US like Fox News and their ilk don’t want to give him that chance, they have their own agendas. As it is, Obama didn’t please too many people in the conservative belts by his breaking of all

stereotypes and actually managing to occupy the world’s most powerful position. But he stands for hope, change and peace. Maybe the award will spur him to act now, as he too felt it was a call for action. Let’s give him that chance at least.

AD vs Dubai It seems the competition between the two front-running emirates seems to be hotting up. While the economic crisis did prove to be a setback for Dubai, the capital seemed to have survived the worst. What’s more, it is entering into fields that Dubai earlier seemed to have a monopoly on. It’s not freehold properties I’m talking about here, nor even tourism, but the arts and culture segment. Abu Dhabi has already established a lead with its patronage of fine arts and classical arts – the museums and Abu Dhabi Classics are a case in point – but now, with the Middle East International Film Festival (MEIFF), it has entered into a direct competition with the Dubai version (DIFF). This year’s selection of films, as reports go, was brilliant, though it could not beat Dubai on PR. The duration of MEIFF was also longer (10 days as opposed to DIFF’s eight days). With more money to spend, it can ensure events on a grander scale. Now, let’s see what Dubai has in store for DIFF this year! We journos are eagerly waiting for December, the lovely weather, and the star-studded gala screenings.