Irish Arab Journal Issue 11

Spring 2016 ISSN 2009-499X (PRINT) / ISSN 2009-6216 (ON-LINE ISSUE)

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THE ARAB-IRISH JOURNAL THE ARAB-IRISH JOURNAL THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE AICC – CONNECTING THE CONNECTED IN IRELAND AND THE ARAB STATES

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In This Issue

CO N N EC T I N G T H E CO N N EC T E D I N I R EL A N D A N D TH E A R A B STATES

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE AICC

THE ARAB-IRISH JOURNAL

ISSN 2009-499X Publisher Abbeyville Publications Limited The Arab-Irish Journal Suite 127 Grange Hill, Baldoyle Ind Park, Baldoyle, Dublin 13, Ireland Tel: +353 (0) 1 806 3000 Fax: +353 (0) 1 806 3001 Int: +353 1 8063000 Email: info@arabirishjournal.com Web: www.arabirishjournal.com

ie.linkedin.com/pub/arab-irish-journal Managing Director and CEO Dermot Hogan dermot@arabirishjournal.com Business Development Manager Shane Sutton shane@abbeyvillepublications.ie Advertising Sales Manager Emmet O’Connor emmet@abbeyvillepublications.ie Journalist Lynne Nolan Photographer Paul Byrne paul@arabirishjournal.com - 085 826 6339 Middle East Editor Amanda Gavin amanda@arabirishjournal.com +971 55 556 1588

WELCOME W

elcome to the Spring 2106 Issue of the The Arab-Irish Journal.

Sincere thanks to everyone who made this issue possible and all the staff at the ArabIrish Chamber. We have some fantastic content in this issue.

Sincere thanks also to all our advertisers for their continued support. The highest praise to all involved in the 2016 Arab-Irish Business Forum, The Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce, Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland, Dept of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Emirates Airlines and supporting sponsors, Jenkinson Logistics and Clyde and Co. Many thanks to H.E Ms. Soha Gendi Egyptian Ambassador to Ireland for her time to be interviewed and the information she provided for this issue. We would also like to thank Simon O’Neill from William Fry for his editorial on Islamic Finance.

Gulfood 2016 and Arab Health 2016 were very successful expos for Bord Bia and Enterprise Ireland who offer excellent professional advice, guidance and support to Irish companies who to do business in the Middle East.

And thanks to Amanda Gavin in Dubai for another excellent Women in Business editorial and for her interview with Gerald Lawless.

As mentioned previously, we have been overwhelmed by the marvelous response to the Journal. Our intention is not to simply maintain the standard set so far, however, but to raise it. We always welcome comments and criticism and positively encourage these; without your feedback, we cannot improve.

With this mind, please do let us know how and where we might be able to improve content in the Journal; what type of content you would like to see added (or even removed); and what events might be covered in future editions.

We return again later in the year with our next issue for 2016.

In the meantime, enjoy the read!

Dermot Hogan Editor

Member Firm Supported by Legal Advisor Peppe Santoro www.venturelaw.ie Graphic Design Rob Lewis www.minx.ie Web Design Eric Hewson www.his.ie Distribution www.lettershop.ie

AICC 34 Fitzwilliam Place, Dublin 2, Ireland.

Tel: + 353 (0)1 662 4451 Fax:+ 353 (0)1 662 4729 Email: info@aicc.ie Web: www.aicc.ie Ahmad Younis Secretary-General & CEO Evelyn Harrington Trade Services Manager Orla Treacy Office Assistant Dima Shannan Office Assistant Rafal Sabir Head Of Translations Ruth Spain Trade Services Assistant Manager

Disclaimer: All rights reserved. The opinions and views expressed in this publication are not neccessarily those of Abbeyville Publications, The Arab-Irish Journal or the Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce. Readers are requested to seek specialist advice before acting on information contained in this publication, which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the readers particular circumstances. While every effort is taken to ensure accuracy of the information contained in this publication the publisher Abbeyville Publications or the Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce are not liable for any errors and/or omissions contained in this publication.

The Arab-Irish Journal | 1

In This Issue

8

10

Contents 1 4 6 8 10 16 22 24 26

Welcome from Editor Dermot Hogan

Address from Ahmad R. Younis CEO Arab Irish Chamber of Commerce Arab Irish Chamber of Commerce Chairman Joe Geoghegan The New Arab Irish Chamber of Commerce HQ in Dublin

The Arab Irish Business Forum 2016 Gulfood 2016 with Bord Bia

Invest NI in Dubai

Islamic Finance with Simon O’Neill of William Fry H.E. Egypt Ambassador to Ireland Ms. Soha Gendi on opportunities in Egypt the Gateway to the Arab World.

16

30 34

Aer Rianta Internationa (ARI) bringing expertise to the Middle East.

Atlantic Flight Training School Flying High for 20 years

26

www.arabirishjournal.com 2 | The Arab-Irish Journal

In This Issue

38

38 42 44 48 50 54 56 58 60 62 64 68

Women in Business Amanda Gavin talks to leading business women in the Middle East Niamh Keohan new PR Boss at The Burj al Arab Amanda Speaks with Gerald Lawless Head of Travel and Tourism Dubai Holdings.

Arab Health Expo with Enterprise Ireland Ovelle 80 Years of Trust

44

Ireland and Jordan co-chair Major UN Summit on refugees The Irish Village in the Heart of Dubai The Bonnington Jumeirah Lake Towers Hotel 1916 Commemorations

Motoring: Mark Gallivan The Bently Mulsanne Arab Irish Companies Directory

Dates for Your Diary.

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48 60

16 www.arabirishjournal.com The Arab-Irish Journal | 3

AICC

The Arab-Irish Chamber Of Commerce Mr. Ahmad R. Younis, Secretary-General & CEO A very warm welcome to this latest issue of the T​he Arab-Irish Journal.

As we enter summer of 2016, the ArabIrish Chamber has had a number of very successful activities, including, notably, the Arab-Irish Forum. The event was organised by the Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Bord Bia, Emirates Airline and Enterprise Ireland, and supported by Tipperary Crystal, Jenkinson Logistics and Clyde & Co. The Forum - which took place at the Printworks, Dublin Castle and was attended by over 250 guests - was an enormous success.

It presented a unique opportunity for Irish businesses to obtain valuable exposure to a wide range of insights from acclaimed speakers, all of whom offered practical advice, drawing from their own experiences, to address some of the pressing issues in Middle Eastern and other Arab markets.

Domestically, the Irish economy grew by 6.7% in 2015, which, in turn, had positive repercussions on Ireland’s trade with Arab world. In line with the country’s economic growth, Irish merchandised exports to the Arab nations grew by 30% to a record €2.5bn from a previous high of €1.9bn in 2014. An incredibly impressive statistic, this highlights the significant role Arab trade plays in the Irish economy. Irish merchandised imports from Arab nations, meanwhile, fell by 72% from €683m to €191m.

It is estimated that, currently, more than 450 Irish companies provide goods, services and personnel across the Arab region.

A number of key trade missions in the past two years have been vital in encouraging and facilitating more Irish and Arab companies to do business together. The missions’ activities have been complemented by the inaugural Arab-Irish Business Forum, which was held in Dublin in 2015. In addition, the wider availability of direct flights from Dublin to Arab regions has helped to improve connectivity for companies looking to collaborate and develop trading partnerships.

Despite such significant growth potential, the Arab works represents a vast market that is changing rapidly and which, in turn, presents considerable challenges, not least those arising from the impact of lower oil revenues.

4 | The Arab-Irish Journal

Despite a tightening of fiscal policy in oil-producing countries as energy prices slump, there are still massive opportunities for Irish companies to enter or grow in these markets. These challenges and opportunities were discussed in great detail at the 2nd Arab-Irish Business Forum which was held at the Printworks, Dublin Castle on April 15, 2016.

Arab merchandised imports experienced market challenges, mainly due to a drop in the importation of petroleum products from Algeria and Libya, which dropped from €571m in 2014 to €74m in 2015. Ireland’s top three import markets were Saudi Arabia (+114% at €25m), the United Arab Emirates (+83% at €34m) and Egypt (+58% at €40m).

However, data analysis shows that there were gains made in some key industry sectors: miscellaneous manufactured products (€27m), machinery and transport equipment (€24m) and food and live animals (€17m).

There is every reason to expect that this growth will continue in the years ahead, especially considering the import requirements of Ireland and the ability of Arab countries as they develop and grow to deliver on these demands.

Looking at the year ahead and its prospective opportunities, the Irish economy is predicted to grow by as much as 5% in 2016.

If this happens, trade levels are expected to rise, just as they did last year – the benefits of which will obviously be felt across the well-established trade relations that have been fostered between Ireland and the Arab nations.

A factor that may impact that growth, however, is the value of the Euro, which continues to fall against the US dollar by as much as 20%. If the UK exit the European Union, this could also have an impact on international trade. However, while these factors might dampen Irish imports, they are unlikely to effect Irish exports, which are expected to increase again this year, regardless of the surrounding global economic circumstances.

Finally, may I extend a heartfelt thanks to you, our readers, and wish you continued success as you grow your business and build on already successful trade relations. Your endeavour to foster and grow trade partnerships has not gone unnoticed and the benefits are evident in the strength and growth of the economies of both Ireland and its trading partners across the Arab nations.

Best regards, Ahmad Younis

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EXPERTISE to the table.

The Arab region presents vast potential for commercial, investment and economic exchanges. It also presents particular challenges.

The AICC is uniquely positioned to help you through or around obstacles. We’ve been in the business for 25 years. We’ve forged strong relationships with the Arab embassies and local chambers of commerce, giving us close ties to the decisionmakers and the people of influence at every level right across the region.

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The Arab-Irish Journal | 5

Joe Geoghegan

Growth in ArabIrish Trade expected to continue in more challenging times Mr Joe Geoghegan, Chairman of AICC

Mr Joe Geoghegan, Chairman of AICC

6 | The Arab-Irish Journal

Irish merchandise exports to the Arab markets grew by an impressive 30% in 2015, and the total value of merchandise and services exports is estimated to have reached â‚Ź5.3bn, up from â‚Ź4bn in 2014. This confirms the Arab markets one of the most important trading blocs for Ireland outside of Europe and North America.

The GCC countries account for around 71% of this business with Saudi Arabia alone representing 40% of the total.

This is not surprising. In a recent report, Ernst & Young estimated that the GCC would be the ninth biggest economy in the world if it were one single entity, and if it continued to maintain an annual average growth rate of 3.2% over 15 years it would be the sixth biggest economy by 2030.

It is right that Irish businesses and the government promotional agencies should continue to maintain a strong focus on this important and attractive market region.

However, as has been well reported, there are significant factors developing which will present new challenges, and indeed opportunities as well, which exporters will need to address in the short and medium term. Not least is the collapse in oil prices, which will cause the main producing countries to take measures to address the impact of this; and these measures are likely

to affect public and private spending patterns over the coming years.

These and various other expected changes will be discussed and explored at the ArabIrish Business Forum on 15th April 2016 in Dublin Castle, and hopefully the insights and experience of the strong panel of speakers will help Irish exporters to understand the challenges and to adapt and develop their plans accordingly.

The Forum will also turn the spotlight on three other Arab markets, Jordan, Morocco and Egypt each of which may offer new opportunities outside of the Gulf. Morocco is the nearest Arab market to Ireland with daily flight connections and very good transport facilities.

Irish merchandise exports to Egypt jumped by 83% in 2015 to â‚Ź305m and this large market offers further growth opportunities for many of our exporters.

Jordan is strategically placed in the Middle East and is increasingly seen as a hub through which to develop and service surrounding markets including Iraq, Saudi Arabia and the Gulf countries. There are many good reasons to consider Jordan in this context and these will be discussed in some detail at the Arab-Irish Business Forum as well.

Joe Geoghegan

The Arab-Irish Journal | 7

AICC

Richard Bruton TD opens the new AICC headquarters

Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce opens new HQ The new headquarters of the Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce (AICC) was officially opened on Oct 22nd

by Richard Bruton TD, Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation.

The AICC was set up 28 years ago to promote commercial, industrial, tourist and financial relations between Arab countries and Ireland.

Speaking at the official opening ceremony, Ahmad Younis, secretary general, AICC, said: “Our new headquarters will serve as a focal point for The Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce engagement activities, providing members with access to the Chamber’s complete depth of experience for all member organisations and individuals who are involved in, or have an interest in, commercial relationships between Ireland and the Arab world. The expansion our Chamber shows our commitment to continuing to promote Irish export and services to the Arab world, and to show the importance of the Arab region to the Irish commerce.”

Joe Geoghegan, chairman, AICC noted that the value of 8 | The Arab-Irish Journal

Irish exports to the Arab markets had grown from €256m when the Chamber was set up in 1987 to an expected total of around €5bn in 2015.

“There is every reason to expect this growth to continue in the years ahead bearing in mind the import requirements of the Arab countries as they develop rapidly, and the growing ability of Irish companies to meet those requirements over many of the main growth sectors,” he said.

Richard Bruton TD added: “Over the past three years there have been nine Government visits to the Gulf and we were delighted to welcome delegations to Ireland as these visits are a key mechanism in bringing together commercial opportunities for companies. I am delighted to be here today to open the new headquarters of the Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce. Over the past 28 years the Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce has been fostering and developing links between Ireland and the Arab world. I look forward to continuing to develop our trading relationship within the region and wish the Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce continued success.

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The Arab-Irish Journal | 9

The Arab-Irish Business Forum

The Arab-Irish Business Forum 2016 Arab-Irish trade figures set to reach €6bn three years ahead of forecast Photos issued by Naoise Culhane

10 | The Arab-Irish Journal

Business leaders from the Arab world joined their Irish counterparts attend the 2016 ArabIrish Business Forum on April 15th where it was announced that Irish exports to the Middle East and Gulf are set to reach €6bn by 2017, three years ahead of forecast.

According to Ahmad Younis, CEO of the ArabIrish Chamber of Commerce, “This announcement on Irish exports really demonstrates the scale of possibilities and opportunities for Irish businesses in this region. Should this growth trend continue it is anticipated that by 2020, 16,000 Irish jobs would be supported by Irish exports to the Arab world, almost double the current number.”

Irish exports to Arab markets last year also surpassed forecasts with the value of goods and services topping €5bn, from a previous high of €4bn in 2014. With countries and regions such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt and Jordan offering considerable opportunities for Irish businesses, this year’s Arab-Irish Business Forum examined a range of issues that could have a significant impact on those doing business or looking for new opportunities in the region such as low oil prices,

political instability, currency issues and growing populations.

Ahmad Younis said, “This year’s forum has provided a platform for exploring and discussing new and emerging markets by focusing on Egypt, Jordan and Morocco. Egypt registered the highest level of Irish export growth to the region, soaring by 84% to €307m in 2015. Other star performers were Saudi Arabia, with Irish exports in 2015 growing by 33% to €1bn, Kuwait (+28% to €117m) and the UAE (+23% to €441m).

Ahmad Younis continued, “These phenomenal levels of growth are largely attributable to the chemicals and pharmaceuticals sectors, valued at €1.6bn and representing 60% of total Irish exports to the region. The agrifood sector grew by 10% last year to €450m with Irish companies in this area doing really great things in the Middle East.”

Keynote speakers included Mishal Kanoo, one of the most powerful and influential Arabs in the world and CEO of the Kanoo Group, one of the largest, independent and oldest family-owned groups of companies in the Middle East operating in sectors including shipping, machinery, travel,

The Arab-Irish Business Forum

Ahmad Younis (Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce); Aidan Cotter (Bord Bia); Enda Corneille (Emirates); Peter Jackson (Enterprise Ireland) and Joe Geoghegan (Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce).

oil and gas, industrial projects, freight, chemicals and engineering. When advising Irish companies on doing business in the UAE and Gulf, Mishal Kanoo stresses the importance of trust and respect and having an on-the-ground presence in the region – trying to do business at arm’s length is not enough.

Delegates attending the Forum included those already doing business in the Arab world together with those interested in hearing about new opportunities in a region where the population is expected to grow by more than 33% to 461m over the next decade. The Middle East and Gulf import a significant proportion of their goods and services and Ahmad Younis commented that the rise in birth rates could lead to an even greater demand for goods and services from Ireland including medical and educational services, construction and engineering works and food and drink.

The programme of speakers and panellists included some of the vanguards of Irish business people who headed east including Gerald Lawless, Honorary President of the Jumeirah Group and Chairman of the World Travel & Tourism Council; There are more than 450 indigenous Irish companies currently operating in the Gulf region including Keogh’s, Miagen, Blackwater Engineering, Byrne Looby, Glen Dimplex and Glanbia.

HE Pat Hennessy Irish Ambassador to The UAE and Michael Hussey MENA Manager Bord Bia.

Ahmad Younis CEO AICC, Peter Jackson Enterprise Ireland, Declan Fearon Tipperary Crystal and Thomas O’Dowd Astron Engineering

The Arab-Irish Journal | 11

The Arab Irish-Business Forum Alastair McGuckian honoured for contribution to Arab-Irish business relations

AICC Chairman Joe Geoghegan.

Alastair McGuckian honoured for contribution to Arab-Irish business relations

Widely regarded as one of the pioneers of the vertically integrated dairy industry, founder and former CEO of Masstock, Alastair McGuckian was honoured for his contribution to the development of Arab-Irish business relations and the role he played in putting Ireland’s dairy expertise on the map, not only in Europe, but also in the most unlikely of countries, Saudi Arabia.

The Antrim businessman was presented with an Outstanding Achievement Award in recognition of 12 | The Arab-Irish Journal

his major contribution to the development of ArabIrish trade. Alastair McGuckian founded Masstock in 1970 and together with his brother Paddy, developed and installed new intensive farming projects for hundreds of farmers throughout Ireland and the UK. Masstock helped establish a modern day dairy industry in Saudi Arabia and in 1977 McGuckian founded Almarai, (meaning the pasture in Arabic) a joint venture with HH Prince Sultan Bin Mohamed Bin Saud Al Kabeer. Almarai became the leading food company in the Middle East with 40,000 employees, a 65% share of the milk market in Saudi Arabia, together with one of the largest dairy herds of its type in the world. The desert land in Saudi Arabia where the temperature frequently hits 45 degrees Celsius, was the location for what is widely regarded as the one of the largest and most impressive dairy operations in the world.

Almarai was established as part of a general movement in Saudi Arabia to achieve food security through self-sufficiency, with Alastair McGuckian the driving force behind the enterprise.

For four decades Masstock was a market leader in the agrifood sector with activities in food, farming and agrichemicals in the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe, the UK and the USA. Joe Geoghegan, Chairman of the Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce said, “Alastair McGuckian was a trailblazer for the dairy industry and the

The Arab-Irish Business Forum Mishal Kanoo CEO Kanoo Group

agri sector in general and it is fitting that he is being honoured for his relentless work and vision.

Who’d have thought it would be possible to establish a dairy farm of such scale in the middle of the desert, but that’s what the McGuckian brothers did. Alastair has lead the way for the more than 450 Irish companies doing business in the Middle East and Gulf region today and Masstock/Almarai is a wonderful example of what can be achieved in what has become a land of opportunity for Irish businesses. Irish exports to the Middle East are growing year on year rising from €4bn in 2014 to more than €5bn in 2015 and the forecasts for 2016 and beyond are even stronger.”

The forum, which was organised to provide a unique insight into the changes taking place in the Middle East and Gulf was jointly organised by Enterprise Ireland, Emirates Airline, the ArabIrish Chamber of Commerce and Bord Bia and supported by Clyde & Co and Jenkinson Logistics.

It has never been easier to do business with the Arab states with Emirates airline operating two daily flights direct from Dublin to Dubai, with 50 tonnes cargo capacity and onward connections to 17 destinations across the Gulf region.

Those interested in exploring business opportunities in the Middle East and Gulf region can contact Enterprise Ireland or visit www. enterprise-ireland.com For more information on the Forum visit www.arabirishbusinessforum.com

H.E UAE Ambassador Al Shamsi with AICC CEO Ahmad Younis

Delegates at the Forum.

The Arab-Irish Journal | 13

The Arab Irish-Business Forum

Conference Programme: Facing The Changes in Arab Markets 07.00

Registration and Networking

08.30

Welcome Remarks: Clearing the Path for Irish Enterprise - An Taoiseach (tbc) Forging relationships, developing new opportunities and creating value for Irish businesses. These are the three key planks in Ireland’s trade strategy for the Middle East. Hear directly from An Taoiseach on his government’s plans to enhance economic cooperation and two-way investment, not least in areas such as agriculture, food, ICT, transport, tourism and finance.

08.45

Keynote Address - Gerald Lawless – Head of Tourism and Hospitality, Dubai Holdings

09.00

Setting the Scene: Opportunities and Risks in the Middle EastTrevor McFarlane, Founder and Chief Analyst of Emerging Markets Intelligence & Research (EMIR), will outline the main trends and challenges currently influencing business strategy for Irish companies in the markets of the Middle East. Trevor will discuss the extent to which firms are being impacted by global and regional events and how organisations can navigate this macro environment.

09.20

Q&A

09.30

Coffee & Networking

09.50

Strategic Advice: Getting Market Ready and Managing Your Success (Panel Discussion) Three seasoned professionals will offer strategic advice on the issues that will impact your business, no matter scale, strategy or sector. Benefit from forward looking insights on critical issues, such as talent, government relations and doing business with family run conglomerates—all of which will allow you to approach the region more informed and better equipped to succeed: • Mishal Kanoo, Chairman, Kanoo Group - Doing business with family run companies in the Gulf • Martin McGuigan, Partner, Aon Hewitt, Middle East - Attracting and retaining the best talent in the Middle East • Mirna Sleiman, Head of Government, Middle East and North Africa, Thomson Reuters - Interaction with Government Entities

14 | The Arab-Irish Journal

The Arab-Irish Business Forum

10.40

The Practicalities and Legalities of Doing Business in the Region - Niall O’Toole, Partner, Clyde & Co and Stephen Mc Kenna, Senior Associate,Clyde & Co

11.00

Feeding the Gulf region – Opportunities and Implications for Irish Companies – Ali Omar Abdulla, Director Policies & Strategy, the Abu Dhabi Food Security Centre

11.20

Business and Email Break

11.40

Focus on Newer Markets (Panel Discussion) Egypt - Hany Salam, Managing Director, Salamtex Jordan - Mohammad Tahboub, Chief Executive, Bayanat Jordan Morocco - Abdelhakim Marrakchi, Chief Executive, Maghreb Industries

12.25

Market Case Studies (Panel Discussion) Miagen – Teddy Murphy, Chief Executive Keogh’s Farm - Tom Keogh, Managing Director Blackwater Engineering - Colman Doyle, Operations Director

13.10

Q&A

13.20

The Business Outlook: What to plan for in the coming 12-months Trevor McFarlane, Founder and Chief Analyst of Emerging Markets Intelligence & Research (EMIR), will offer a forward-looking analysis of the region, including a vitally important viewpoint on the business strategy needed to deal with major regional trends, such as political instability, low oil prices and currency issues. This critically informed regional round-up will provide insights and strategic analysis on market shaping events, leaving business leaders better placed to plan for 2016/2017.

13.30

Lunch and Networking Presentation of Forum Achievement Award to Alastair McGuckian, founder of Masstock/Almarai Event Partners

Supporting Sponsers

The Arab-Irish Journal | 15

Gulfood

Trade up for Irish food and drink exports January 2016

The Middle East region has been growing in importance as an export destination for Irish food and drinks products in recent years. In 2015, exports to the region continued to follow an upward trend, with dairy exports leading the charge.

Trade to the Middle East showed an increase of 12 per cent on 2014.

Exports reached the value of €288 million for the first nine months of 2015, this represents over €30 million in added value for Irish exports to the region compared to 2014 figures.

Quotes:

“One of the things that stand out in 2015 is dairy exports, which are well up in value terms from €192 million to €219 million in the region. This is an increase of about 14 per cent, which represents a big jump in volume because prices have fallen during the year, so volumes are well up on last year. The one market that shines is Saudi Arabia, which is up 59 per cent in value,” says Michael.

Exports of dairy products to Iraq, Israel and Iran also grew in volume and value in 2015.

“Beef is also making inroads,” Michael explains.

He says Irish beef is seeing continued growth in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia. Michael says the Irish Government, Bord Bia and exporters are hopeful of news on the opening of Bahrain and Kuwait to Irish beef exports in the near future. Oman opened earlier this year to beef and sheep-meat from Ireland.

Michael says seafood exports are also on the rise, especially into the UAE. “In the first nine months of this year have gone from €125,000 to €725,000, which is a 480 per cent increase.”

Across the entire Middle East region, seafood exports, as a whole, increased by 125 per cent in the first nine months of 2015. Michael says Irish oysters are showing signs of strong growth and are enjoying success in the foodservice category where they are proving popular for brunches.

Irish salmon, he adds, also delivered a growth in exports.

It is not just bigger Irish companies that are experiencing success in the region. Michael says many smaller, family-owned companies have 16 | The Arab-Irish Journal

also secured listings with leading retailers in the Middle East.

Michael highlights the success of Irish eggs in Spinneys. “For the first time, all the private-label eggs going into Spinneys are coming from Ireland. That’s big business. All Spinneys free-range, organic, and corn-fed own label eggs are Irish.”

Saudi Arabia’s largest retailers, Panda and Tamimi have also added new Irish lines, along with Géant both in the UAE and Bahrain.

Gulfood 2016

Bord Bia Middle East and North Africa, the regional arm of the Irish government organisation responsible for the promoting of Irish food and drink sales in world markets, marks its tenth year at Gulfood with 15 Irish food companies exhibiting on the Bord Bia Ireland stand. The 2016 edition of Gulfood, the world’s largest annual food and hospitality trade show, will welcome more than 5,000 international companies from 120 countries and more than 85,000 visitors. It takes place at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 21-25 February. Gulfood highlights Dubai’s strategic role as a key global food industry trading hub and will connect Irish food and drink companies to suppliers and distribution channels. The trade show offers a chance to present Ireland’s unique message of sustainable food production to an audience in a growth market.

The Global Forum for Innovation in Agriculture, GIFA

February also sees Aidan Cotter, CEO of Bord Bia visiting the Middle East Markets. He will present the Origin Green programme to The Global Forum for Innovation in Agriculture (GFIA) in Abu Dhabi on February 16-17. GFIA is held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE, Minister of Presidential Affairs and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority, and in strategic partnership with ADFCA, the exhibition and conference at GFIA will feature more than 300 nextgeneration agricultural solutions that could shape the future of sustainable farming around the world. Bord Bia will have an Origin Green stand

Gulfood at the exhibition. With sustainability gaining traction amongst retailers and more discussion in the media, Irish companies who are part of the Origin Green programme are set to benefit.

Origin Green and the Middle East

The Middle East region is a significant food importer, with 90 per cent of its food requirements supplied from export markets. The region faces challenges in food production and an important consideration for governments across the Middle East is security of supply. In contrast, Ireland’s domestic market is too small for all of the food and drink products produced on the island. As a result, Ireland exports approximately 80 per cent of its food and drink outputs. This symmetry makes Ireland an attractive trading partner for the Middle East region.

Ireland – Aiming to become World Leader in Sustainable Food & Drink

With the global population expected to rise by 2.4 billion before the year 2050, the world will need to produce up to twice as much food from increasingly limited resources. It has been said that over the next 40 years, we will have to produce as much food as we have in the last 8,000. In order to meet these challenges it requires everyone involved in the food industry to commit to producing more from less, necessitating the adoption of more sustainable practices. It is with these challenges in mind which led to the launch of Origin Green, an initiative by Bord Bia, the Irish Food Board, a government agency under the department of agriculture. Origin Green is the first national sustainability programme of its kind.

Ireland enjoys a strong reputation as a source of natural, high quality food, drink and ingredients and with our temperate climate and our green countryside, we have started from a strong position for sustainable food and drink production. Research by the European Commission has found Ireland to be the most carbon efficient producer of dairy in the EU and the fifth most efficient for beef production. Furthermore, research from Cranfield University, UK, also shows that, in a world of fresh water scarcity, Ireland has one of the lowest water-stress measurements in the world.

Launched in June 2012, Origin Green is Ireland’s national sustainability programme for Irish food and drink producers to demonstrate their commitment to operating in a sustainable manner. Working across the entire supply chain – from farm to manufacturing - it is the only programme of its kind operating on a national scale.

On Irish farms, carbon footprint assessments occur on an 18 month basis in a process of mea-

surement and continuous improvement. To date, over 110,000 independently accredited carbon footprint assessments have been carried out on Irish beef and dairy farms.

At manufacturing level, companies develop target driven, long-term sustainability plans which are independently verified by SGS – a world leading auditing body – and are reviewed on an annual basis. To date, almost 500 of Ireland’s food and drink companies have registered for the programme, accounting for over 90% of Ireland’s total food and drink exports.

In November 2015, three years into the programme the Irish Food Board launched their first Sustainability Report providing proof of the Irish food & drink industries commitment to sustainable production www.origingreen.ie/sustainability-report-2015 For more information please visit: origingreen.ie The Arab-Irish Journal | 17

Bord Bia

Working With Nature The Arab-Irish Journal spoke with Michael Hussey, Regional Manager for Bord Bia in the Middle East about sustainable dairy products from Ireland and their latest successful campaign Origin Green.

The Irish Government has set a target to grow overall food exports to the Mena region to €500m by 2020.

By 2020, dairy production in Ireland is expected to grow by 50% to over 7.5bn litres. In 2015, Irish dairy exports are estimated to have increased by 8% to the GCC to €225 million.

Sustainability is a journey with nature. It poses each of us a simple question that may take a lifetime to answer - can we leave the world in better shape than we found it? The Irish dairy industry invites you to join the sustainability journey. It’s the future of the industry.

As an island on the western edge of Europe, Ireland has many natural advantages for sustainable dairying – a temperate climate, plentiful rainfall and rich soils. Average herd sizes are smaller than in most other major dairy regions and our family-farm tradition makes the highest 18 | The Arab-Irish Journal

production standards a matter of deep personal pride for Irish famers.

The outdoor grazing of dairy cows in their natural environment is also deeply embedded in Irish agriculture. Over 80 per cent of Irish farmland is grassland and dairy cows graze outdoors, for up to 10 months every year. Ireland has the lowest water stress index in the world – this means we do not suffer from drought or have any need to irrigate our land.

The Irish dairy industry is building on these firm foundations through the Sustainable Dairy Assurance Scheme (SDAS), which is now being implemented among Ireland’s 18,000 dairy farmers. This is the first national dairy scheme of its type anywhere in the world – a rigorous, independently verified and internationally accredited (European Standard for Product Certification - ISO 17065: 2012) programme that not only

Bord Bia

sets out the requirements for best practice in Irish dairy farms but provides a means of measuring and improving the performance of every participating farmer.

SDAS calculates the greenhouse gas emissions of each dairy herd – taking into account factors such as the length of the grazing season, breeding details, calving intervals, fertiliser and energy use, manure management and milk production – and shares the information with farmers. In addition, we provide them with on-going feedback to improve their sustainability performance.

Our food safety standards are recognised as being among the most stringent in the world and, each year, over â‚Ź3bn of dairy exports are sold in over 90 countries across the globe including the Middle East.

With global demand for dairy growing over the long term and Ireland committed to delivering a

Michael Hussey MENA Manager Bord Bia and Aidan Cotter Bord Bia CEO.

The Arab-Irish Journal | 19

Bord Bia

Aidan Cotter, CEO Bord Bia

HE Ambassador Pat Hennessey, UAE Ambassador and HE Ambassador Tony Cotter Saudi Arabia Ambassador with Aidan Cotter, CEO Bord Bia

20 | The Arab-Irish Journal

50 per cent increase in production in milk by 2020, exciting new opportunities are emerging for longterm trading partnerships.

Ireland’s dairy industry has unrivalled experience in the international marketplace – and our €3bn + export market has been built on our reputation for rigorous food safety standards and the enduring strengths of our extensive farming tradition. SDAS helps write a new chapter in this story, giving international buyers access to a safe,

secure dairy supply chain that meets and exceeds international sustainability criteria and does so with integrity and transparency.

SDAS is hugely important in its own right, but is also part of a bigger picture. Launched in 2012, Origin Green is a voluntary programme that is driving the sustainability journey across all the Irish food and drink industry and is the first national sustainability development programme of its kind to be rolled out anywhere in the world.

Origin Green will ultimately encompass the entire food industry chain in Ireland, including farming, processing and manufacturing, and the expectation is that, by the end of 2016, 100 per cent of Irish food and drink exports will be from verified Origin Green members. We are well on the way with 85 per cent of exports already from verified members. Origin Green is being developed with the full support of the Irish Government and under the auspices of Food Wise 2025, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine’s roadmap for growth. This industry-led strategy sets out ambitious targets for growth across the agri-food sector in the years 2015-2025, with sustainability at its core.

The SDAS journey is now underway.

To learn more contact: info@bordbia.ie

Bord Bia

Ireland’s new contract with nature is your proof of sustainable dairy produce.

Origin Green, Ireland’s national sustainability programme, is helping businesses like yours to put their sustainability beliefs into practice.

On our farms and in our businesses, we are measuring and improving, taking tangible steps to provide essential and verified proof that the dairy produce you source is sustainably produced.

So, in working with Origin Green members, you will be making good on your commitment to sustainability within your business while protecting the world’s scarce resources for generations to come.

origingreen.ie

The Arab-Irish Journal | 21

Invest NI

Jonathan Bell is pictured in the Belfast MET Culinary College kitchen with one of the biggest celebrity chefs in the United Arab Emirates, Alexio Pasquali.

Bells joins Dubai chefs as they cook Northern Ireland’s finest food and drink Enterprise, Trade and Investment Minister Jonathan Bell recently joined five chefs from top Dubai hotels as they took part in a ‘larder challenge’ with Northern Ireland chefs at Belfast MET Culinary College.

The event, organised by Invest Northern Ireland, formed part of an inward visit programme to showcase Northern Ireland’s unique food and drink heritage and the pure, natural, quality of our food produce.

A number of local companies submitted products which the chefs used to create a Year of Food & Drink Tasting Buffet. The producers of these ingredients then had the opportunity 22 | The Arab-Irish Journal

to meet the chefs who used their produce and also network with buyers from key retail and foodservice outlets in the Middle East.

The ‘larder’ was stocked with Quality local produce from all over Northern Ireland.

Minister Bell said: “This larder challenge and networking showcase organised by Invest NI is an exciting opportunity for influential chefs and buyers in Dubai to sample the quality and innovation of our local products.

“The Northern Ireland food and drink industry is making a big effort to showcase the pure, natural, quality of local food and drink. Invest NI and Tourism NI’s efforts, in arranging one to one

Invest NI

meetings with buyers and site visits to producers, will help build on the international reputation of the local products already exported to the Middle East and support our producers to leverage new sales.”

Commenting on the experience, Ben Tobitt, Head Chef Jumeriah Hotel Group, said: “It has been inspiring to meet the passionate producers of Northern Ireland’s award winning food and drink and to get hands on with some of the finest ingredients.”

The delegation of Dubai chefs included: • Ben Tobitt - Head Chef Jumeriah Hotel Group • Eleni Manousou Chef Nobu Restaurant Atlantist, The Palm • Chef Lohou – Nobu Restaurant Atlantist, The Palm • Haiko-Michael Schäfer - Executive Chef, Emirates Flight Catering • Alexio Pasquali - Celebrity Chef – www. alexiopasquali.com

The delegation of Dubai buyers included: • Mark Taquet Corporate Chef & Product Development, JM Foods – Dubai • Sile Sweeney – Buyer & Head of Foodservice UAE, Pan Euro Foods MENA • Mathilde Coquelet - Buyer & Sales, Trofima Foodstuff Trading LLC & Fresh Express The Northern Ireland chefs participating in larder challenge are: • Simon Dougan – Yellow Doors Portadown Co Armagh; • Danielle Barry – EIPIC Belfast Co Antrim; • Michael Deane – DEANES Belfast Co Antrim; • Noel Mc Meel – Lough Erne Hotel Enniskillen Co.Fermangh; • Sean Owens – Montgomery’s Clogher Co.Tyrone Dean Coppard – Uluru Armagh Co. Armagh The trip was in celebration of the 2016 Northern Ireland Year of Food and Drink. Further details online at www.buynifood.com The Arab-Irish Journal | 23

Finance

The Islamic Finance Industry in Ireland Introduction

Significant progress has been made in Europe in recent years to establish Islamic finance. The UK and Luxembourg have made headlines with their sovereign Sukuk issuances, and the establishment of task forces to target the development of initiatives which will foster Islamic finance.

Meanwhile Ireland has been a quiet but steady performer in comparative terms, but there are signs that this is set to change. Ireland’s strengths as a jurisdiction have been recognised in a variety of reports on Islamic finance in Europe.

The Irish government set about laying the cornerstone for the establishment of Islamic finance with the enactment of the Finance Act 2010 in order to ensure that Shari’ah compliant transactions would receive equivalent taxation treatment in Ireland.

International Recognition as a Jurisdiction

In June 2013 the European Central Bank in its report ‘Islamic Finance in Europe’ (di Mauro et al Paper No. 146/June 2013) noted that Ireland’s strengths as a jurisdiction for Islamic finance included “a comprehensive tax treaty network with Muslim na24 | The Arab-Irish Journal

tions and provision in its tax code specifically for Islamic financial instruments, such as those involving ijarah (leasing), murabahah (sale on the basis of cost plus mark-up and Islamic Insurance (takaful). … a significant location for Islamic funds, with an estimated 20% of the Islamic funds market outside of the Middle East being located in Ireland.”

More recently, a study carried out by Deloitte ‘Corporate Sukuk in Europe’ (2015), carried out a similar comparative analysis of key European jurisdictions for Islamic finance. Once again Ireland was ranked alongside the UK and Luxembourg, citing the tax equivalency measures introduced by the Irish government but also the strong infrastructural supports including a developed funds industry, a legal system which facilitates ‘true sale’ structures through legally recognised SPV and bankruptcy remote corporate structures and established trust law concepts unlike many civil law jurisdictions.

The Irish government continue to support the development of Islamic finance as a key part of the International Financial Services Strategy (IFS 2020) strategy and through the specialised subcommittees tasked with implementation of the strategy.

Finance

What are the practical opportunities in Ireland?

Muslim Population Ireland’s current Muslim population (per census 2011) is approximately 50,000, representing 1.1% of the population. Forecast to exceed 100,000 by 2020 and become Ireland’s second religion by 2043, this population is unable to access Shari’ah compliant banking services in Ireland. In contrast, there are 100,000 Islamic finance retail customers served by 5 licensed Shari’ah compliant banks and a further 15 banks offering Islamic finance services in the UK with assets of approximately $4.5billion at the end of 2014.

The Irish Property Market

Middle East investors have significant expertise in the UK property market which can easily be deployed in the Irish market, which operates a comparable common law system. The last number of years have seen massive deleveraging by financial institutions through the sale of loan and asset portfolios.

Very recently the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) was part of a consortium which acquired a prime 6.8 acre site located in Ballsbridge, Dublin 4, once dubbed ‘the Knightsbridge of Dublin’. This acquisition by ADIA, a sovereign wealth fund owned by the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, marked a significant commitment and deployment of capital from the Middle East in the Irish market.

Whilst the sale of interest bearing loan portfolios would not be appropriate for Shari’ah compliant investment, the continued flow of property portfolio disposals by banks, receivers and loan acquirers will give rise to investment opportunities for Shari’ah compliant investors to achieve attractive returns. It is inevitable that further opportunities will arise from such loan portfolio acquisitions as investors seek to fund acquisitions from entities which have purchased distressed loan portfolios or borrowers seek investment to exit/refinance portfolio loans.

Shari’ah compliant structures could be implemented to structure investment in these areas.

It is worth noting that Ireland has an established international reputation in the aviation and leasing industry, a sector which has seen landmark Sukuk transactions in recent years.

Conclusion

Ireland has demonstrated its strengths and success as a jurisdiction for Sukuk and Islamic funds, ranking second only behind Luxembourg (and ahead of the UK) in terms of the number of European Islamic funds by domicile as at 17 September 2014 (Source: MIFC). It has a conducive taxation system for Shari’ah compliant transactions and a growing Muslim population. This trend of a growing Muslim population is mirrored across Europe and has seen the establishment of KT Bank in Germany in 2015. Ireland remains one of the most significant jurisdictions for Islamic finance in Europe, but without a Shari’ah compliant bank, for now…

Simon O’Neill William Fry 2 Grand Canal Square Dublin 2

Asset / Project finance

A housing crisis in the residential market for social and affordable housing and the residential rental sector in Ireland has given rise to long housing waiting lists which local authorities and government are unable to deal with. A multi-million euro scheme has been established by the Department of the Environment to source supply from the private sector through a 20 year lease scheme with the Housing Agency.

In addition, severe lack of supply in the student accommodation sector has highlighted the requirement for good quality dedicated student accommodation facilities in well located city centre and regional locations.

BIO Simon O’Neill is a Senior Associate Solicitor in the Banking and Financial Services Department of William Fry, a leading Irish law firm with offices in Dublin, London, New York and Silicon Valley. Simon is also Secretary of the Islamic Finance Council of Ireland and has authored a number of articles on Islamic Finance in Ireland.

The Arab-Irish Journal | 25

Egyptian Ambassador

Gateway to the Arab World Egypt’s Ambassador to Ireland, H.E. Ms. Soha Gendi, speaks to the Arab-Irish Journal about improving visibility of the enormous investment opportunities in Egypt and drawing investment to Ireland.

Stereotyping is one of the biggest challenges facing the Arab and Muslim world today, according to H.E. Ms. Soha Gendi, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to Ireland.

“There is good and bad in all countries but in the Arab world it has been the few fundamentalists and terrorists who have given a bad name to the Arab civilisation which is one of the oldest in the world and which helped shape modern science and physics in Europe,” she says.

Installed as Egypt’s Ambassador last April, Ambassador Gendi has worked for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Egypt for over 27 years now.

“In the Ministry, I was in charge of a number of desks and departments, including the 26 | The Arab-Irish Journal

Africa Department, the UN and International Organisations Department. I have worked as Acting Director of the UN Specialised Agencies Unit, Head of Japan and the Korean Unit, and most recently I assumed the position of Deputy Assistant Foreign Minister for North America.

“Abroad, I have worked in the Embassies of Egypt to, Germany, Romania and in our Mission to the United Nations in New York, I worked as Head of the Human Rights Division and as Deputy Permanent Representative of Egypt Mission to the United Nations.”

Her previous work in Europe, both east and west, made her “a front-runner for the position of Ambassador and Head of Mission to Ireland.

Egyptian Ambassador

I had gained a fundamental understanding of the demography and culture, a comprehension of the challenges and prospects for the further development of our relations with a view to investigating new opportunities and new spheres of cooperation.”

Her main goal is to “foster the already good relations existing between our two countries and peoples. To build upon the already thriving business relationships and to seek out and forge new economic opportunities to benefit both countries.” She hopes to “give visibility to what Egypt is all about, the rich culture, the fantastic civilisation and the good kind, loving, tolerant people. And finally, to give visibility to the

An aviation agreement between both countries has been initially signed and is awaiting ratification in the Dáil, which will make Ireland the first country to have access to eight of Egypt’s airports.

The Arab-Irish Journal | 27

Egyptian Ambassador H.E. Ms. Soha Gendi Egyptian Ambassador to Ireland

enormous investment opportunities in Egypt.”

Egypt is one of the biggest countries in the Middle East, a nation of 90 million people. It is one of the big five hubs of the United Nations, worldwide, which speaks tonnes about its connectivity, airport network and relations with the world, Ambassador Gendi comments.

Last year 26 African leaders met in Sharm elSheikh, Egypt, to establish the biggest FTA Zone in Africa; having access to Egypt’s markets is like having access to 26 of the biggest countries in the continent, she explains.

“Our relationship with the Arab world and our geographical position as a ‘connecting’ country because of the Suez Canal, the most important water pathway in the world facilitating world trade, adds immensely to the importance of the country.”

The current Government recently introduced Mega Projects that provide golden opportunities for investors all over the world; projects like the expansion of the Suez Canal, which was successfully executed within one year, led to faster passage for world vessels through the Suez Canal. The development of the surrounding area of the Suez Canal to transform it into a habitable

The greatest opportunities lie in food production, agriculture, aviation, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, housing, infrastructure, and telecommunication technology.

28 | The Arab-Irish Journal

community with services and resorts and the Golden Triangle Mining Project - specifically gold excavations, is another.

There is the North Coast Project as well as large projects of renewable energy (solar and wind); Irish companies were especially interested in that field and many of them have already succeeded in winning tenders in this sphere. Another huge project, the building of the new Administrative Capital, will be situated in the area between Cairo and Ein Elsokhna.

On the highlights of her time in the role to date, the Ambassador recalls that “gifting a library of reference and mother books about the Arabic language, religion and civilisation to the Middle East Department of Trinity College Dublin, was probably one of the highlights of my work in Ireland so far. To help support such an amazing, world-renowned, university was a significant development in bridging gaps and reaching out between civilisations.”

Inviting large Egyptian pharmaceutical companies to build factories and invest in Ireland was another milestone, she says. Another highlight has been “supporting Irish renewable energy companies to engage and win tenders in joint ventures in Egypt and to help transfer usage in Egypt into dependency on clean energy. “A lot has been done and much more is in the pipeline on this path to bring Egypt and Ireland together.”

An aviation agreement between both countries has been initially signed and is awaiting ratification in the Dáil, which will make Ireland the first country to have access to eight of Egypt’s airports, she says.

“This aviation services agreement will create direct flights to Cairo airport and seven other larger destinations in Egypt. It is a privilege no other country in the world have been granted. It will have a huge impact on trade, investment and tourism in both our countries. Let’s hope that the newly elected Dáil will give this priority. Anything that helps people’s lives and raises their standard of living should be a priority and that agreement for sure is a step in the right direction.”

Ireland and Egypt are culturally united in their love for music and art, she says. “An amazing Egyptian singer, Fatma Said, won the Veronica Dunne International Singing Competition, an achievement I am so proud of and one that gives visibility to the powerful women of Egypt and how they have shaped the world and ruled our great nation.”

On further parallels between the two countries, Ambassador Gendi continues: “We share the bond of our Christian heritage and, politically, Egypt and Ireland fought for independence from British occupation together circa 1918, which proves how close as nations we have always been. Socially, we have the same respect for family values, cherishing

Egyptian Ambassador

children and honouring Women. We live for tolerance and harmony. We have more in common with the Irish people than not.”

Although there are many opportunities for development in business between Ireland and Egypt, Ambassador Gendi believes the greatest opportunities lie in the areas of food production, agriculture, aviation, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, housing, infrastructure and telecommunication technology, which was first introduced to Egypt by Ireland.

“We are contacting and visiting companies in these fields, and many others. If a company wants to introduce a new field or a new product to us, we welcome that wholeheartedly and we try to match them up with others that would be interested in Egypt. We are trying to build relationships and explore opportunities for development and we can see there is interest on both sides.”

She gives the example of a new deal with Ireland for the importation of live cattle to Egypt.

Ireland had been cleared to export the live cattle after an inspection by the Egyptian Ministry of Agriculture during the week of the interview.

Asked how the two countries could cooperate even more closely, she says “field visits, in my opinion, is the name of the game. We can organise visits for interested Irish companies to meet with Egyptian authority figures and officials and counter parts in the field so they can see for

Socially, we have the same respect for family values, cherishing children and honouring Women; we live for tolerance and harmony. themselves how things are done. We give the same advice to Egyptian companies who are interested in being introduced to the Irish market and technology.”

Egyptian businesses and consumers currently don’t hold as well-defined an awareness of Ireland, and what it offers, as they could and “more work needs to be done by the relevant associations in Ireland,” she believes.

On Egypt’s main draws for Irish people, Ambassador Gendi comments that Egypt is already a very familiar place due to biblical stories and for those interested in their Christian heritage it is a must-see. “For relaxation and to unwind, you will be spoilt for choice. El Guna is a particular favourite of mine but there is also Sharm el-Sheikh, Hurgada and El Sokhna.”

Cairo is an incomparable city for its history and visiting the Egyptian civilisation in Luxor and Aswan is once in a lifetime experience, she says.

“Businesswise, just as Ireland is considered the gateway to Europe, Egypt is the gateway to the Middle East, Africa and the Arab world. Let’s explore access to these markets and reach new spheres together.”

The Arab-Irish Journal | 29

ARI

Sky’s the limit for ARI Middle East Aer Rianta Middle East has developed ideas that will set new benchmarks in airport retail, as the Arab-Irish Journal discovers.

Aer Rianta International (ARI) is the world’s longest-established and one of its most successful travel retail companies thanks to a unique blend of commercial expertise, innovative culture and consumer focussed approach to retail.

ARI’s subsidiary company, Aer Rianta International (Middle East) W.L.L. (ARIME) is the leading multi- location travel retailer in the Middle East region, involving current operations in Bahrain, Lebanon, India, Cyprus, Qatar, and of course Oman. ARIME has also operated elsewhere in the region including Egypt, Kuwait and Syria.

ARI is part of daa, the state-owned Dublin and Cork Airport authority. As the only travel retailer owned by an airport, ARI has a singular insight into the varied priorities of airports and in particular, the importance of a great retail experience in enhancing a passenger’s overall perception of an airport.

This insight was undoubtedly a factor in helping ARI to win the competitive tender to retail perfume, cosmetics, sunglasses and fashion jewellery categories at the new Midfield terminal building in Abu Dhabi International Airport from December 2017.

30 | The Arab-Irish Journal

Abu Dhabi Airport is now one of the fastest growing hubs in the Middle East and being selected is hugely significant for ARIME due to the scale and growth potential, according to Abdulla Buhindi, Chairman of ARIME. Abu Dhabi Airport posted a sharp +18% rise in passenger traffic in the first three quarters of 2015, with the total hitting 17.5 million. “The new Midfield terminal where we will be operating has capacity for up to 27 million so there is significant potential to grow the current business,” he added.

“It capped off a great year for ARI in 2015, following our success in winning and opening Auckland Duty Free and the hugely successful commercial redevelopment of Terminal 1 in Dublin Airport. It also reinforces our position as the leading multi-location retailer in the Middle East and we are looking forward to working closely with Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) to build a global duty free brand,” According to John Boland ARI’s Global Business Development Director The Midfield terminal building in Abu Dhabi Airport is scheduled for opening on the December

ARI

2, 2017 and there are currently over 16,000 people working on the construction site. These stores cover an area of 2063m² and will be fitted out to the highest standards. The quality of finishes planned, coupled with a high-level of retail theatre, technology installations and the general ‘wowness’ mean that ARI will be making a very significant capital investment per square metre.

H.E. Ali Majed Al Mansoori, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “Offering an unrivalled, sensational travel experience to passengers sits at the heart of everything we aim to deliver at the Midfield Terminal Building - the future gateway to the capital city. We received several very strong bids for these contracts, but Aer Rianta International Middle East came up with ideas that will set new benchmarks in airport retail.

We selected Aer Rianta International as their technologically-advanced, unique concepts were perfectly aligned with our ambitions.”

With them on board, we are confident that the Midfield Terminal Building retail offering will impress travelers, creating a distinctive sense of purpose and sense of place that they will want to experience again and again.”

Left: John Boland, Global Business Development Director

The Arab-Irish Journal | 31

ARI

ARI will bring to Abu Dhabi its global experience of successful airport retail operations and strong local, airport and supplier partnerships, according to Boland. “We can draw on our unparalleled understanding of the passenger mix in the Gulf region which has been honed by over 25 years of successful operations and partnerships in the Middle East.”

On being selected, Boland commented that ARI’s proposition “put the customer and meeting and exceeding their needs at the heart of our category, marketing and design plans.

Leveraging our global research programme we had a deep understanding of the needs and behaviours of all the passenger groups for Abu Dhabi and centred our plans on delivering against these.”

ARI is “excited at the prospect of seeing our innovative designs, marketing campaigns and retail concepts brought to life at the new Midfield terminal,” Boland added.

“We also took our cue from the strong tradition of hospitality that is at the heart of 32 | The Arab-Irish Journal

Emirati culture and something that ADAC stressed in the RFP.” With regards to specific categories for Perfume and Cosmetics, ARI will build one of the world’s best beauty stores at Abu Dhabi Airport; it will be much more than a collection of brands, it will become a destination in itself, he promised.

In Fragrances, ARI will be famous for a fully immersive multi-sensory fragrance shopping experience that tells the story of fragrance from its native roots in the Middle East to its place in the Abu Dhabi Duty Free of today, he continued.

“Our Skincare experience, will combine an expert, skincare consultative experience with a range of global and regional brands tailored to the changing Abu Dhabi passenger mix. We will offer the best and most differentiated range of makeup in the region complemented by innovative use of technology in our service.”

ARI’s Skincare category draws inspiration from Bu Tinah Island Marine Reserve with our Waterfall Bar and Bu Tinah Spa. “It will be an oasis where passengers can take a rest and

ARI

Jack MacGowan, C.E.O Aer Rianta International

sample some non-alcoholic hydrating beverages and take the time to browse and test some truly innovative products.”

For Sunglasses, ARI’s Magic Mirror and Green Screen technology will allow customers to have some fun choosing their sunglasses.

In addition, local artisans will also be on hand in ARI’s jewellery store to provide an engraving service for customers with their chosen name in Arabic in either gold or silver.

“These innovations will create real theatre and a sense of place leaving a lasting impression of Abu Dhabi with the customer.”

According to CEO MacGowan, what winning Abu Dhabi shows is that some airports really understand that a differentiated, tailor-made offer designed first and foremost for the customer can grow the overall commercial pie for everyone involved.

“It also reinforces my belief that there is room in the industry not only for the big, low-cost operators but also for customer-centric, small, agile players that deliver tailor-made experiences.”

Mr. Abdulla Buhindi, Director ARI Middle East

The Arab-Irish Journal | 33

AFTA Atlantic Flight Training Academy

ATFA Flying High for 20 Years AFTA (Atlantic Flight Training Academy, based in Cork, Ireland) was founded almost 20 years ago by Captain Mark Casey, an airline pilot with a deep interest in flight training and education. The Arab-Irish Journal recently spoke with Captain Casey about the company, the services it offers, and its plans for the future.

Can you tell us about the background of the AFTA, the scale of the organisation and what sets you apart from other training organisations?

With the advent of the JAA, (Joint Aviation Authorities, now succeeded by EASA), we saw a significant opening for a flight training organisation which complied with the new European standards, where pilots could be trained to obtain professional licences valid across the whole of the continent. The EASA commercial pilots license, which our students are granted on completion of their training, is now a worldwide standard.

The company has been based, since its commencement, at Cork International Airport in the south of Ireland, which is a busy terminal for flights to and from many destinations across Europe. Students therefore experience intensive commercial operations from the very start of their training. The underlying aeronautical knowledge is delivered in new classroom facilities which avail of the latest information technology teaching aids.

Flight instruction takes place on a modern fleet of Cessna and Piper aircraft, as well as state-of-the-art Boeing 737 NG and FNPT II approved simulators.

34 | The Arab-Irish Journal

AFTA’s professional training staff, in the air and on the ground, is drawn from a diverse background of airline, military and general aviation experience. Thus our programmes benefit from a wide spectrum of aviation knowledge and creative thinking about modern instructional practices. But equally important, the company aims to maintain a focused, personal relationship with its students, listening and responding to the requirements of individual trainees. To facilitate that, the student pilot is allocated a supervising instructor who monitors his or her progress, and acts as liaison with the company, to creatively solve any learning issues as they arise.

Another element that sets AFTA apart is its focus on advanced concepts such as CRM (Crew Resource Management) and TEM (Threat and Error Management) from the very start. This means students are thus exposed to modern operating principles from day one of their training.

This is enhanced by other non-technical skills tuition. A further unusual feature of our integrated course is an early training session, including both flying and systems operation, in the Boeing 737 simulator. This increases students’ exciting sense

AFTA Atlantic Flight Training Academy

Boeing 737

of the “end goal” of their professional learning, and stimulates them to align and energise their own studies accordingly.

Can you tell us about the organisation’s track record and successes to date (success rate, placement records, Middle East-headquartered airlines graduates have secured jobs with etc.)

The company has graduated over 1800 professional pilots since its foundation, with the vast majority of them finding placement soon after obtaining their qualification. Former students can be found flying in every part of the world.

Many graduates come back to AFTA for refresher training when renewing licences or ratings, or moving between employers. At present there are over 200 students training with us. Former students are successfully flying with several airlines in the Middle East, including Etihad, Qatar, Emirates and Flydubai.

Atlantic Flight Training Academy (AFTA), recently announced a significant contract win with award-winning Turkish Airlines, to train its cadet pilots from AFTA’s base in Cork Airport.

What is the impact of the deal, and what will it involve?

The Cadet Pilot Training agreement with Turkish Airlines, represents the first for an Irish company, which is regulated by the Irish Aviation Authority under the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). To facilitate the programme, AFTA will recruit 10 new highly skilled Instructor Pilots, and additional ground support staff. AFTA has

initially been contracted to train 20 Cadet Pilots annually and the first group of Turkish trainee pilots have recently commenced training at the company’s base at Cork airport. In announcing the agreement, Mr Murat Balandi, General Manager, Turkish Airlines Ireland, said: “Turkish Airlines will celebrate ten years in Ireland in 2016, and we are delighted that an Irish company has been chosen to train 20 of our new cadet pilots this year.

Our pilots are trained to the highest standards available in the industry for our fleet of 299 passenger and cargo aircraft. It is really beneficial for us to see the cadets in their training ground at AFTA in Cork and we look forward to see them in the air as Turkish Airlines pilots over the years to come”.

Boeing 737 Cockpit

The Arab-Irish Journal | 35

AFTA Atlantic Flight Training Academy

What is the significance of this contract for AFTA and your work with airlines based across the Middle East and Africa?

This contract is an example of AFTA’s established expertise at working, with non-European companies, to the level of quality and training required of EASA operators and regulators. We are already co-operating with the Libyan government to set up a national infrastructure in pilot training, and we are in discussions with authorities in Uganda regarding the commencement of a flight school to train pilots for a new national airline. Also we are in talks with Moroccan aviation companies to conduct licence conversion to EASA standards.

The Academy has been training international cadets for many years with more recent contracts including Air Astana, Kazakhstan and the Libyan Ministry of Transport. Can you tell us a little about the organisation’s expertise in working with the Middle East market?

These, and similar companies, tell us they find many benefits in working with AFTA: • We know, like and respect their national cultures, while at the same time training their students in the global skills and attitudes required in a vast international industry such as aviation.

• In training with us, their students are immersed in a native English language environment, with significant benefits for their communication skills in the international language of aviation.

• The immigration authorities in Ireland are aware and supportive of our needs and we liaise closely with them to ensure that students’ visa and residency requirements for their stay in Ireland are dealt with swiftly and effectively.

• Not least, we train pilots in real weather! Their experience of significant wind, low cloud and poor visibility at an early stage gives them hands-on experience of the actual challenges to be faced in public transport flying. Building their skills and confidence-level in dealing with real-world conditions is an essential part of our programme.

36 | The Arab-Irish Journal

Cork Airport is the international gateway to the south of Ireland and Ireland’s second busiest airport after the capital Dublin. What are some of Cork’s other advantages and draws as a place to do business?

Well, first, it’s a very friendly place, where visitors are warmly welcomed! The city is easy to get around, and it is close to the sea, in a part of the country surrounded by spectacular scenery. Because our courses are full-time, intensive and demanding, it is important that students take structured and restorative breaks, and in Cork there are many recreational and cultural things to do in “down time”. From a training point of view, the ability to integrate with busy line operations, while availing of nearby huge open airspace offers a matchless learning environment.

How would you sum up the different training programmes you offer and what you do as an organisation?

While our programmes meet all the regulatory requirements, we offer much more in our personal focus on the progress of each individual student.

Early training is something a pilot will never forget during his or her career. Our aim is that those memories will be of obtaining impeccable professional skills, while at the same time learning much more about piloting at a deep level, and also making firm friendships and lifelong connections as they enter the worldwide aviation community.

What are some of your future plans with AFTA? We will be working to deepen the quality and scope of existing programmes, as well as introducing new ones, such as the MPL (Multi-Crew Pilot Licence).

Shortly we will be making an announcement about approval of our first MPL courses, which will be conducted with a prestigious airline partner.

Any other recent news or developments you wish to share?

AFTA have recently been chosen to supply up to 60 graduates over an 18 month period to a very large European low cost carrier. It is an exciting development for AFTA and we look forward to the challenge. Also are at an advanced stage of negotiations with the DAA (the state airport operator in Ireland) to extend and improve their flight dispatch, operations centre and airside maintenance facilities. We hope to make an announcement regarding both of these developments by the end of May 2016.

AFTA Atlantic Flight Training Academy

The Arab-Irish Journal | 37

Women In Business

Women In Business With Amanda Gavin Gulf Editor of The Arab-Irish Journal and CEO AMG Consulting.

Public Relations & Marketing (Dubai) 00971-555561588 (Ireland) 00353-831740598

Aideen Hopkins Executive Expatriate Relocations

What brought you to Dubai and how have you found living and working in the UAE? Like many women here, my husband was relocated to Dubai and I was very excited at the prospect of moving! I had been in banking for 17 years and I was ready for a change. Before moving here I had approached recruitment agencies and companies directly seeking work but I quickly learned that I needed to be on the ground in order to be taken seriously. When I arrived in Dubai, I immediately started to look for work but it was through networking rather than the traditional route through recruitment agencies that helped me find work. You certainly work hard in Dubai and put in long hours, especially if you work on a global scale given the time differences and the different weekend structure here. However, at the weekends, there is so much to do that you are able to make the most of the down time.

In your position you deal with assisting Expats in relocation and business set up, can you tell us more about your role there?

At EER Business Services, we provide relocation, immigration and company incorporation services tailored to the specific needs of our clients and their employees across the UAE, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and Iran. As Operations Manager, I oversee the running of the business on a day-to-day basis across the Middle East Region. When working with clients, we view our relationship as a partnership – an extension of their HR departments - and it is our role to ensure that their employees and their families settle into their new life as quickly as possible. We manage their visa requirements, find homes, school places as well as managing all the administration requirements such as driving licences, bank accounts, government registrations etc. My team is highly professional and motivated with an in-depth knowledge of the markets in which we operate and as expats themselves ensure a smooth transition for our clients and their employees.

Have you seen an increase in interest for new business setups in Dubai and what are the greatest challenges for companies?

We have certainly seen an increase at EER Business Services. Dubai has a great entrepreneurial spirit and is certainly very business friendly with a great geographical location. However, you need to work hard to enjoy success. Companies need to have clear 38 | The Arab-Irish Journal

business objectives and a plan in place so that they can best decide on the most suitable company structure as well as location for their business. Companies can establish themselves in one of the many free zones or in Mainland Dubai, which provides foreign ownership restrictions but also has its advantages.

At EER Business Services, we work closely with our clients to deliver the best solution for their business. It was recently announced that VAT at 5% will be introduced in 2018 and companies must account for this when preparing their business plan For companies and individuals who maybe thinking of relocation to Dubai what 3 top tips would you offer them?¡ Have a clear plan in place and ensure you have access to funds for a minimum of 3 months whilst you get yourself established.

Ensure you have all your documentation in place and attested and ensure you have plenty of copies and photographs.¡ Network!

We were all new once and understand what it is like and expats are more than happy to share their experiences, provide introductions and give advice.

Can you tell us about other areas you are involved in outside of your current position and have you any major plans for the coming year?

I am a member of the IBN Committee, which provides a networking platform for Irish Professionals in Dubai. We arrange regular networking events as well as dedicated industry gatherings to promote business and commercial activities across the UAE. We are currently planning our annual seminar, which will take place in September 2016, which supports young Irish Professionals who have just moved to Dubai as well as those who are already here and are looking for new development opportunities.

For more information email: aideen@eerme.com

Women In Business

Christianna Tsiterou Founder & CEO of The Gift Concierge Can you give us a brief overview of your business and how you launched in the UAE? The Gift Concierge is a luxury, bespoke, gifting service for the most thought out, personalised gifts and experiences.

The objective of our highly specialised team is to cater to our clients’ fast-paced and eclectic lifestyles, ensuring our unique service is always in line with their personal celebratory needs and desires.

Our motto is as simple as it is elaborate: “EVERYTHING is possible” – especially when it comes to celebratory experiences that money can’t buy. In order to deliver on our promise, we have established exclusive partnerships in London, Paris,Milan and New York, with many more to follow.

This allows us to access, tailor and customize anything from fashion items to exclusive experiences in never-before accessed venues, to limited edition artwork and memorabilia, thus providing complete exclusivity, status and differentiation.

Our high-end service further extends to Corporate Gifting, offering a level of unprecedented luxury and personalisation that separates us from what is already available in the GCC region.

Why did you choose the UAE for a luxury concierge service?

The UAE seemed like the obvious choice for me for two reasons: first and foremost, it’s the place I have called home for the last 12 years. Secondly, the GCC overall is the market with the largest potential in terms of both the disposable income and the profile of people. People who appreciate the finer things in life; those who, while busy, look for ways to make spending easier but without taking away the personalised touch.

In other words, our service is specifically for the ‘moneyrich and time-poor’ who would like to make events, occasions and celebration even more special, and the UAE fully fits the profile.

that the gift or activity is intended to achieve. We develop solutions for all practical considerations involved (cross-cultural concerns, timing, budget), and we guide them every step of the way.

Have you had much interest in the corporate sector?

We received enquiries from corporate clients during our soft launch and actually worked on a couple of very exclusive and high profile projects. This led us to the official launch of our Corporate Gifting Service in February of this year, with the aim of filling a clearly identified need for high profile and VIP corporate gifts and bespoke experiences and events.

What differentiates us with the corporate sector is again our approach and very clear positioning: we understand the science behind the complicated business of Corporate Gifting and hold the mastery of effective, high-end and bespoke corporate gifts and experiences.

Our teams follows the very same principles that are followed with private clients. We provide clients with consultancy services to achieve the most impactful and tailormade gifts. We consult on defining the role and purpose

As a woman in business what advice would you give to other women interested in pursuing their business ideas?

I would share three key pieces of advice that was given to me and which I live by: • Trust your instincts/believe in yourself • Do your homework (market, partners - everything and anything related to your business idea) • Be patient - sustainable, long term success doesn’t happen overnight

What are you plans for the The Gift Concierge?

The main plan and objective is to establish The Gift Concierge as the preferred partner for exclusive gifts, celebrations and special occasions, for both private and corporate sectors. The plan is to eventually expanding the service to cover the entire Gulf region (which in a way we already do), as well as key European locations where we have established partnerships. Already, we can cater to London, Paris and Athens!

Who or what inspires you?

I am inspired by people who follow their dreams and who demonstrate (maybe different word than demonstrate..can’t think of one now) gratitude in everything they do; being able to pursue your true calling and what makes you happy - and being able to appreciate the circumstances that allow you to do so - is one of life’s most precious gifts!

The Arab-Irish Journal | 39

Women In Business

Bernice Moran The Be Sweet Company

Being a women in business has its challenges at the best of times. You are a mum of 3 and also have a full time position as an airline pilot for Virgin Atlantic. How did you find the time to launch your successful confectionery business called The Be Sweet Company?

One night departing Havana on a star-filled night on my Virgin Atlantic B747, I came up with the concept to create my own opulent brand of confectionery with a unique twist. Being a long haul airline pilot gives me a fantastic opportunity to dedicate to my business as I have plenty of time to invest while I am down route. Now we are at the stage we have a strong senior management team to take over the day-to-day running of the business. Hence The Be Sweet Company was born mid Atlantic Ocean!

What have been the main challenges you have had to overcome since launching the brand?

We automatically began exporting as the business was only establishing. We failed to realise that on building an export market takes time to acquire the sales and are slow burners.

The Be Sweet Company was faced with many challenges in breaking into new markets worldwide. Challenges include labelling requirements for certain regions, cultural and political differences, ingredients had to be modified and hot climates were a big issue logistically.

You have received advice from one of the worlds most famous businessmen Sir Richard Branson. Can you give us 3 of his top tips for success?

Sir Richard gave me the inspiration to develop our brand on global confectionary platform and is an amazing business mentor to The Be Sweet Company. What I earned from him is: Make money while you are sleeping!

Build your brand first based on your passion, belief and vision.

Once you create your brand identity, doors will open‌...be FEARLESS against the global brand players!

What do you most enjoy about being an entrepreneur?

I feel as if I haven’t worked a day in my life entwining both my passions of flying jets and running my own chocolate company.

We are currently working with our UAE distributor and other distributors within the MENA region targeting department stores, gourmet halls, hotels, duty frees and other independent stores.

Our strategy for 2016 is to continue to build brand awareness of our products and have taken the initiative to exhibit at the Yummex, Sweets and Snacks show in November 2016. This we believe will strengthen our brand awareness and validate our position within the confectionary ME market

What are you plans for The Be Sweet Company in the Middle East?

The Middle East excites The Be Sweet Company as Linda Moran, Director has been based in the Middle East over the last three years and has gained vast experience and feedback in tailoring our products for this region and building awareness of our fashion lead luxurious brand. Our brand is receiving positive response by the ME consumer and is set to grow for us over the next three years playing a vital part of our overall company growth strategy. As Linda is based between both Ireland and Dubai, it was critical for the company to appoint a new Sales Director position for this region to target and provide strong brand coverage within this market.

What sets your brand apart from other confectionery?

Our brand is the first fashion led luxurious confectionery company that creates unique high end packaging with a style of glitz and glamour that has not been seen before in the industry to date. We discovered this niche as our market research reconfirmed that our brand, packaging and quality of our Irish products have no comparison to any other company in the marketplace.

Our products are produced with the best of ingredients from Ireland which particularly attract the European, North American, Middle Eastern, Asian customers.

For more information check out www.thebesweetcompany.com

40 | The Arab-Irish Journal

Women In Business

Margaret Naughton Action Recruitment, Dubai.

How long have you been living in Dubai and what prompted you to make the move to the UAE? We moved as a family in January 2014. My husband who is also a hotelier and managed Druids Glen Resort, Wicklow for eight years took up a role managing a hotel with Marriott in Dubai.

We moved mainly for an adventure the children were young and we felt it was a good time to travel and had always wanted to live in Dubai.

Tell us about your company Action Recruitment and how you came to set up the business?

I had been a client and a candidate of Action Recruitment over the years as they are very much the market leader in the 4/5star market for senior talent in the Hospitality sector in Ireland.

Brian Fahy who established the company over 40 years ago is also one of life’s gentlemen.

He knew I was anxious to work here in Dubai but with three children I was ideally hoping for a part -time role ( a full time role is 48hrs min). Part -time is not something businesses encourage so Brian called me one day and suggested I establish the Dubai office of Action Recruitment.

So with the invaluable the help and guidance of Noel Cafferkey, Action Recruitment, Dublin who showed me all the IT logistics and got me set up with emails etc.. Many a long distance phone call and lots of IT issues later I was started.

I was always a passionate hotelier and had worked in Ireland, USA,Scotland Switzerland, Germany over the years for great companies such as Dromoland,Jurys, Doyle’s, Hilton,Adare Manor, Four Seasons and the role I enjoyed most was General Manager of Hayfield Manor, Cork – I was a very young taking on the role at 27 years of age but achieved and learnt a lot… Recruitment has always been a crucial part of any role I have had and as someone who has been the GM hiring I feel I know the quality and calibre of candidate people want.

We also have a lot of Irish candidates who have that something special to offer in relation to hospitality a warmth and a ‘can do attitude’.

In Dubai, the job market is very different to Europe and it is hard for a candidate to get their CV to a decision maker as most hotels use online hiring portals – I feel I can bridge that gap and through relationships with the HR teams and General Managers to assist candidates find the right role.

How have you found running your own business in Dubai as apposed to Ireland. Has there been many challenges?

There are always challenges but I suppose the biggest for me was getting out there and building a network of clients and candidates. Also I found navigating the business set up and opening a bank account a bit of a challenge – I now have learnt not to go too far without my company stamp or business card.

I remember going to a network event one of my first few months here and being asked for my business card– culturally that is different than Ireland where they would think ‘you

had notions’ if you were flashing your business card.

Being a working mum and an entrepreneur can be very time consuming, how do you achieve a life balance?

At first I struggled with trying to take calls and answer emails when the children were home and that was very stressful – I would be on a skype call with a senior candidate and one of the kids could burst into the room screaming the other had his lego!!!!

I find the network of moms has been invaluable we all help with each other’s pick-ups etc.. as you don’t have the family here who can support you so that has greatly helped me with late work commitments.

You will never get it a 100% right but you only ever can do your best and at times homework will slip or you will miss an email – but you can only do your best.

I like the quote focus on being productive not busy – I think that’s the key just use your time well.

If you were to give 3 points of advice for running your own business what would they be?

Invest in a good chair!! I haven’t and as I type, my back is aching.

Its not always easy but neither is working for someone else so if you are having a bad day ring another person running their own business or meet for a coffee you often you find your challenges are the same.

I know it’s the old cliché but set a goal for yourself and push yourself.

What are your plans for the future in relation to Action Recruitment?

We presently have grown our client base to include clients in Saudi, Qatar and Singapore which is great and hope to build on our client candidate base.

We want to always offer the personal service that we can to clients and candidates and most of all enjoy what we are doing.

Buy myself a new chair and desk!!!

The Arab-Irish Journal | 41

Niamh Keohan

New PR at The Burj al Arab Amanda Gavin meets with the new Burj al Arab PR Guru Niamh Keohan Getting to PR the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel might seem like a dream job. Tell us what brought you to become part of the exceptional team here at the Burj. What is your professional background?

I started my marketing career working in a pharmaceutical company in Dublin, followed by a Brand Manager role in P&G. It was when I moved to the UAE, over seven years ago, that I discovered the hospitality industry. I was part of the preopening team with IHG on Abu Dhabi’s famous Yas Island followed by two years at Anantara Dubai and then I was very fortunate to get my current role here at Burj Al Arab, The Most Luxurious Hotel in the World.

In 2015, the Daily Telegraph voted1 the Burj Al Arab “The Best Hotel in the World” for the third time in a row. What makes the Burj unique among the world’s finest luxury hotels? Tell us about some of the facilities and features.

There’s something very special about Burj Al Arab, it’s like no other hotel in the world! Personally, I believe it’s the service and hospitality that differentiates it from anywhere else.

The Dubai skyline is again littered with cranes and scaffolding with exciting new projects and the Burj Al Arab appears to have some interesting developments happening.

What can you tell us about the new features here?

2016 is set to reveal a number significant addition to the hotel’s offering. The hotel is an iconic landmark in Dubai and is one of the most photographed in the world. When we first opened in 1999, we made waves in the industry and it’s vital that we keep doing so. We need to keep evolving, surprising and re-imaging the guest experience by providing exceptional facilities and F&B outlets - our programme of refurbishments and additions is just part of our ambition and vision. The most exciting of which is the arrival of North Deck to Burj Al Arab. The structure is a global first in hotel construction with a breakthrough combination of creative marine design, ingenious engineering and guest-friendly planning. Due to open to guests in the second quarter of 2016, the 10,000m2 private luxury deck will fan 100 metres out into the Arabian Gulf and accommodate 32 cabanas, 400 sun loungers, one fresh water pool and one salt water pool, a restaurant and a bar. We are really pushing the boundaries of innovation with North Deck and are demonstrating how committed we are to positioning Dubai as the most exciting destination in the world and Burj Al Arab as the finest provider of luxury experiences.

I can’t imagine coming to work here and not feeling in awe in some way or other each day. What is it that you love about working here? Tell us about the most rewarding aspects of working in the Burj.

Yes, some mornings as I drive across the bridge towards this striking building, I find it hard to believe that this is my place of work! Despite the amazing structure and facilities, it’s definitely 42 | The Arab-Irish Journal

the people I work with that I value the most. Where else in the world can you come to work each day and get the opportunity to interact with over people from over 80 different nationalities around the world. I learn so much every day about different cultures and backgrounds from my colleagues which I will never tire of.

You must get a considerable spectrum of guests staying here.

One can see several languages on the various plaques. Who typifies the Burj Al Arab guest? Where are they coming from?

Our guests come from all around the world. Dubai’s year-round good weather and sunshine attracts people from Europe, China, US, CIS countries, India and, of course, is extremely popular with our neighbouring GCC countries.

Have you had the opportunity to meet many unique and interesting people here?

Apart from the unique and interesting people I work with every day, yes, I’m very lucky to welcome and host guests of and visitors to Burj Al Arab from around the world on a daily basis.

Readers back home in Ireland are likely to recall Formula 1 cars spinning or Rory McIlroy teeing off atop the helipad.

Why is the hotel such a draw for corporate entities to showcase and promote?

It’s such an iconic building and the addition of the helipad only makes it more impressive. The views across the whole of Dubai from the helipad are spectacular.

The United Arab Emirates is home to over 8,000 Irish expatriates, most of whom are resident in Dubai. Have you had the opportunity to work with many Irish and, if so, in what sectors?

Having only worked in hospitality in the UAE , I’ve worked with Irish Chefs and Executive Housekeepers, however my job enables me to deal with Irish people from other industries on almost a daily basis.

With year round sunshine and blue skies, some would think you the envy of friends and family working and living in Dubai. Tell us about the positives of life in Dubai and what you miss about being away from home.

For me, it’s the year-round sunshine and the outdoor activities that that I love the most, followed by the comfort of living in a very safe environment. I miss family and friends from home and wandering around Dublin city.

Finally, what advice would you like to offer professionals, businesses or even young graduates seeking to explore the UAE as somewhere to establish their positions and grow within their industries?

The UAE is and exciting place to grow your career and offers opportunities you would not find at home.

Niamh Keohan

The Arab-Irish Journal | 43

Gerald Lawless

Interview with Gerald Lawless – Head of Travel & Tourism at Dubai Holding Amanda Gavin speaks with Mr. Gerald Lawless, the newly appointed Head of Travel & Tourism at Dubai Holding, about the future of the hospitality industry in Dubai and his time as the CEO of the Jumeirah Group.

AG. You arrived in Dubai in 1978 when it was a very different place to what stands here today.

Making the decision to move to the UAE would have taken much foresight on your behalf given the fact that country was only formed several years prior. What influenced your decision move to Dubai?

GL. In the early 1970s, I had attended the Shannon Hotel Management College in County Clare. The four years spent at the college was spit between Switzerland, the United Kingdom and Shannon. During my time in the UK, I worked with the Trusthouse Forte. I started in Southampton in 1974, then moved to Swindon and then to Glasgow. I got married to my wife Neasa in 1974, before we even both graduated.

At the time we had an ambition to work abroad, however I had just completed an interview with Forte for a position in Manchester. The morning after the interview, I called my manager and 44 | The Arab-Irish Journal

asked to be removed from the list for the post in Manchester because we knew we wanted to move abroad. A few days later, I received a phone call from Forte asking if I would be interested in taking up a post in the Middle East, in Dubai.

I accepted the position and arrived in Dubai in August 1978.

Like many other people at the time, we came for two years but stayed for four. I was again approached by Forte Hotels regarding becoming a General Manager. I had set a goal for myself to be a GM before I was 30, and at that point I was rapidly running out of time, as I was already 29. The General Manager’s position was in South Africa and I had some reservations as I had heard that the company was not investing in that particular hotel and were considering a sale. I made inquiries with the Area Director who advised that they had no intention of selling the property. Therefore, I took the position and

Gerald Lawless moved to South Africa with Neasa who was at the time seven months pregnant with our first child Tom. About two days into the new position, I was called by reception to meet with two gentlemen. I came to the lobby and introduced myself: one of the gentlemen produced a letter from his pocket.

It was from the real estate division of Forte authorising them to view the property for sale purposes. They later placed a bid for the hotel, though in the end it wasn’t accepted. In fact, it took them another two years before they sold.

This allowed us to stay for a further two-and-a half-years in South Africa.

Given your vast career to date spanning 23 years beginning with the hospitality company Trusthouse Forte Hotels and then 18 years with the Jumeirah Group. Can you give us an insight into what constitutes the secret for your success?

GL. I think you inherit ambition from your parents and your background. My father was a dairy farmer in Galway. He was extremely ambitious and built the farm into a sizable property. He was an excellent business man, so I suppose a bit of that rubbed off. When I have spoken at various forums and events, I have explained the importance of allowing young people to take the lead. We are very conservative in this area; I feel we were more progressive in the 1970’s in terms of trusting younger people to do the job. This subject is something I speak about with graduates of the Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management at Jumeirah. During my time with the Jumeirah Group, I banned the term “management trainees”: they have graduated from university with a Bachelors Degree and after four years of study and training, they are not trainees, therefore we referred to them “Graduate Managers”.

In my case, I feel the trust that Forte Hotels had in me at the time to do a job six thousand miles from head office contributed greatly to my confidence and success. It is that trust from an employer to its employees that allows young people to grow and build on their ability. While employed with Forte, I went on to work in Bahrain, and for a time I was General Manager of The Shelbourne Hotel in Dublin. In late 1991, I returned to Dubai. Unfortunately, the company was taken over in a bid in 1996. If that hadn’t happened, I would not have had the opportunity to come on board and set up the Jumeirah Group.

AG .The Burj Al Arab is an icon of luxury hospitality throughout the world. When you look back on your career with the Jumeirah Group, how does it feel to know you were at the helm of introducing and marketing the world’s

only “seven-star” hotel globally? Were you ever daunted by the task or did it come naturally given your hospitality experience?

GL. At the time I was responsible for over 25 hotels in the Middle East and Caribbean, therefore I was quite accustomed to running multiple units. I came on board to open the Jumeirah Beach Hotel and set up the corporate structure in 1997. On 26 June of that year, I stood on the sixteenth level of the Jumeirah Beach Hotel and watched the implosion of what was then the Chicago Beach Hotel – to make way for what is now the Wild Wadi Waterpark and other developments. It was a further two years The Arab-Irish Journal | 45

Gerald Lawless after, when Burj Al Arab opened, which gave me time to work with the brand. Even before I joined Jumeirah Group, the whole concept of Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Burj Al Arab was pretty much well laid out. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum had a clear understanding and vision of what he wanted to achieve with Burj Al Arab.

to conferences on a worldwide basis. I also look forward to being a spokesperson for Tourism and Hospitality for Dubai Holding as things evolve and move forward. Dubai Holding have other hospitality projects that are not necessarily related to Jumeirah, therefore I will offer the benefit of my own knowledge and experience to these projects as they progress.

AM: The global tourism and hospitality industry is continually evolving. What has enabled you to remain abreast of these changes and move with the times?

GL. The use of technology to enhance and personalise the guest experience has always been extremely important. We know more about our guests now and can use technology to connect with them easily. For example, we are reviewing how to facilitate visas worldwide. From a tourism point of view by using technology we can enhance security because we will know more about the traveller. We also want to enhance the visa issuing process as well as the entire process of getting a person through an airport quickly and efficiently. We are focusing on address these issues within the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) and the World Economic Forum. Other areas we are focusing on through technology is acknowledging that different guests will have very different needs during their stay. We can ascertain from the kind of booking made, if the guest is a frequent business travellers or a leisure guest. Frequent travellers like to arrive at the hotel with maximum efficiency. Most probably, they already have all the information about the property in their phone and travel with a trolley bag so they do not necessarily need porters. If their room is 1101, chances are high that it is on the 11th floor – and these travelers will work it out. A month later the same person may return, stay at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, a family resort, instead of Jumeirah Emirates Towers. They are accompanied by their family and would like more of the personalised experience – and we can ensure that through the correct use of guest profile information and modern technology.

AM. When it was announced that Dubai would host the 2020 World Expo did you feel it a concern that hotel groups from all over the world would want to have a presence in Dubai causing an influx of extra hotel rooms prior to the event? Do you think it will be a challenge to sustain the growth after 2020?

GL. I remember when the Hyatt Regency opened in 1981, a spokesperson for another company advised there were now enough hotels in Dubai.

At that time, we only had about eight or nine hotels across Dubai. If His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum had taken the advice of many experts, we would never have the tourism industry we have today. We would also not have one of the most successful airlines in the world – Emirates. The balance between supply and demand is always something you want to achieve. We have seen a softening of the average room rate but the occupancy is still very healthy in Dubai. Most destinations around the world are striving to achieve what we have in terms of occupancy. When you look at the ambitious targets, we will have 20 million visitors by 2020, therefore we will need all those new hotels. It can take between two to four years to complete a hotel which is why construction is currently underway.

We are also seeing a change in the kind of accommodation being offered. The Dubai Government have made it very clear that they want to develop budget, three- and four-star segments in addition to five-star hotels. We can look forward to a continued increase in supply at all levels which will allow the customer to always have sufficient choice without compromise on quality.

AM. You now start a new chapter of your career as Head of Tourism and Hospitality in Dubai Holding’s Corporate Office. Can you give us an insight into this new role and how you intend to use your experience to drive tourism and to improve the customer experience in Dubai?

GL. During my new role with Dubai Holding, I will be responsible for the portfolio of Tourism and Hospitality. Dubai Holding recognises that I am the Chairman of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) for two years. It is important to have the time and ability to travel 46 | The Arab-Irish Journal

AM. Giving you career and experiences to date in the hospitality industry what do you deem as your biggest achievement?

GL.The recognition of Jumeirah as a global brand always makes me feel proud. Even people who may not fully know the Jumeirah Group are aware of the company’s high standards and its global presence. The foundation of the brand has been very much the employees of the company, the “colleagues” as we call them. I feel so proud that they have taken the direction to understand that they are the most important area in terms of the guest. If they look after a guest correctly, that

Gerald Lawless

Amanda Gavin with Gerald Lawless

is what really drives the brand. The uniqueness of “Jumeirah STAY DIFFERENT” is the way our colleagues look after you as a guest. This is something that I am particularly proud of.

The Jumeirah Group employees have come to Dubai from all over the world. We have over 130 different nationalities currently working with Jumeirah. All of them are friendly, positive and share great pride in their jobs. All of them are true ambassadors of Jumeirah and its three Hallmarks, which are the essence of Jumeirah’s culture: I will always smile and greet our guests before they greet me.

My first response to a guest request will never be no.

I will treat all colleagues with respect and integrity.

AM. As recognition of your contribution to the Jumeirah Group, you now hold the title of Honorary President of the Jumeirah Group and Chancellor of the Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management. How much involvement will you have in the Emirates Academy as it is an important factor in sustaining the standards of the Jumeirah Group?

GL. I am to remain as Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management. It is important that the academy is not only dedicated to Jumeirah employees, but it is a fully accredited

university offering a Bachelor’s Degree course in International Hospitality Management and an MBA. Our graduates are very highly sought after across the hospitality industry. We have had over 500 graduates in the last 10 years who have been trained to the highest standards. Both courses, the Bachelors and MBA, are fully recognised and accredited by the Ministry of Higher Education of the United Arab Emirates.

We have also approached our colleagues within the industry – companies such as Hyatt, Kempinski, Starwood, Hilton, InterContinental and Marriott. All of them have given placements to our undergraduates as they are aware of the academy’s high standards. In fact, we invite all these companies to interview our graduates every year alongside with Jumeirah to make sure that our graduates have the best choice of employment.

AM. Who or what inspires you?

GL. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, given his foresight and vision for Dubai and the broader Arab world.

Not only he has the ambition to be the best, he also understands and looks after his people.

He has just appointed a Minister for Happiness which shows his dedication in this area as he recognises the importance of keeping the citizens and residents of Dubai feeling positive about the place they are living in. His Highness has developed Dubai into a perfect example of modern excellence.

The Arab-Irish Journal | 47

Arab Health

Sean Davis EI Regional Manager MENA with Enterprise Ireland clients at Arab Health.

Arab Health Expo 2016 115,000 visitors, 4,000 companies from 163 countries.

Arab Health Exhibition & Congress 2016, the Middle East’s largest healthcare event and the second largest in the world, was officially

by Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Finance on January 25th 2016.

The event spanned over four days from January 25-28, 2016 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre and welcomed more than 115,000 visitors to the 41st edition of the show.

The exhibition showcased more than 4,000 companies exhibiting their latest innovations to visitors attending from 163 countries.

This year upstaged previous years by adding 3D printing to the Arab Health agenda in a newly added 3D Medical Printing Conference and a 3D printing zone, a unique open space for all those seeking dedicated educational 48 | The Arab-Irish Journal

experience about the latest 3D technologies. The evolution of 3D printing is changing the ability doctors have on impacting patients’ lives, it has moved from being theoretical to a reality as major medical advances are witnessed because of this technology.

Humaid Al Qatami, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Director-General of the Dubai Health Authority, said: “Dubai is a realistic and excellent model for a highly developed modern city that constantly demonstrates elements of success and excellence. Dubai is the ideal and preferred destination for those looking to set a leadership example and achieve a distinctive healthy experience, as a result, Dubai attracts international and specialised, scientific, and cultural exhibitions, forums and conferences.”

Enterprise Ireland hosted 33 Irish companies at Arab Health 2016, which was one of the

Arab Health

largest groups of Irish Medical and Medtech companies to exhibit at Arab Health.

Enterprise Ireland, the export agency of the Government of Ireland, supports Irish companies to build overseas sales and partnerships through our network of offices in 32 locations globally, including Dubai and Riyadh Ireland is Europe’s largest Medtech employer and is globally recognised as a major centre of excellence in the medical technologies and healthcare sector. Nine of the world’s top 10 leading multinationals have operations in Ireland and the sector had exports in excess of €7.3bn in 2011.

Today Ireland has a large cluster of highly innovative Irish companies researching, designing, developing, commercialising, manufacturing and marketing complex medical devices and services throughout the world.

HE Pat Hennessy Irish Ambassador to The UAE visiting Arab Health

For further information on the capability of Irish companies in the healthcare sector, please contact: Clare Roche Market Adviser – Middle East Phone: 00 971 4 3760406 Email: clare.roche@enterprise-ireland.com The Arab-Irish Journal | 49

Arab Health

80 Years of Trust Founded in 1934 as a traditional manufacturing chemist in Dundalk, Ireland, Ovelle Pharmaceuticals is a fast growing and highly adaptive international skincare company.

Today they produce fast growing advanced skincare formulations in a fully integrated research and GMP manufacturing facility in Ireland and have developed a significant network of importers and strategic partners in over 30 markets worldwide.

Ovelle are constantly pushing the boundaries in skincare through total research focus and continue to develop industry leading formulations with a specific focus on consumer needs centred on sensitive skin. The advanced skincare they develop draws on their unique broad expertise in formulation development across multiple skincare categories. Ovelle’s flagship brands and research pipeline reflect this and their R&D facility has a significant range of projects under development.

Ovelle operates in a highly regulated area and is fully licensed by the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) to manufacture multi-dose liquid and semi-solid pharmaceuticals. They have significant quality compliance standards subject to regular audit including EU GMP, EU GDP, EU GLP, IMP, ISO 13485, ISO 22716, ISO 14001, HACCP, ECOCERT, BRC. Ovelle’s growth is supported by multi-award winning skincare brands and a strong retail market in Ireland, UK & Online combined with established routes to market internationally.Their in-house specialist research and development resource allows Ovelle to match advances in skincare and a long tradition in dermatology with consumer needs & market opportunities.

According to Joanna Gardiner, Managing Director, “Ovelle sees the future of skincare centred on formulations that are safe, natural and sensitivity focused. This is becoming increasingly important to consumers as they become more aware & question the ingredients in skin care brands, live longer and experience medical illnesses, like cancer and diabetes that also affect the well-being of their skin.

Ovelle are advocates for sensitive skincare, producing formulations 50 | The Arab-Irish Journal

of the highest efficacy that help ensure safe effective treatment and management of skin on a daily basis”.

Ovelle have a world class pipeline of new dermatological formulations and innovations to meet the changing needs of the skincare market & off patent opportunities. The Ovelle Pharmaceuticals range of brands include the Ovelle Skincare Brand and the Elave Sensitive Skincare Brand.

Ovelle Skincare is a family skincare apothecary brand built upon the trust earned since its foundation in 1934. It provides proven safe solutions for skin conditions. The brand includes traditional and contemporary skin remedies and medical devices and as part of the Ovelle Skincare development it will launch the Ovelle™ Dermatological diabetic skincare range in 2016.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates there are 347 million diabetes sufferers worldwide. People with diabetes have significant and serious dry sensitive skin problems that require careful management on a daily basis. If a diabetes patient has poor glycaemic control which is common place the skin epidermis dehydrates and becomes sensitive, dry and itchy and can be prone to topical fungal infections. Ovelle have developed a strong skincare medical device solution with specific diabetic skincare claims to target this growing problem.

Elave Sensitive Skincare is a new generation range of advanced skincare, founded on the principal of “beautiful skin, zero harm”.

Many skincare products contain harsh chemicals linked to sensitive skin conditions. Elave has a promise of absolute purity with no unnecessary chemical ingredients like Parabens, Sulfates and more.

This multi-award winning, dermatologically tested and clinically proven brand covers six skincare categories, Dermo-Renew AntiAgeing, Baby, Junior, Dermatological, Men’s and Sun. You can find more details about the Elave Skincare range at www.elaveskincare.com and for commercial queries for the Middle East contact Conor McEneaney, Business Development Manager at conor@ovelle.ie

Arab Health

The Arab-Irish Journal | 51

UN Ireland-Jordan

King Abdullah of Jordan and President Michael D Higgins

Ireland and Jordan to co-chair major UN summit on refugees Ireland and Jordan will co-chair a major United Nations summit of world leaders on the subject of refugees and migration in September this year. The event will be hosted by President Barack Obama.

The aim of the summit will be to agree on a new set of global policy principles – the first of their kind – on refugees and migration.

The process will be led by Ireland’s Ambassador to the United Nations, David Donoghue, and his Jordanian counterpart, Dina Kawar.

Among the issues expected to be considered are increased and sustained support for UN humanitarian appeals, provision of more resettlement places and expanded opportunities for refugees to take up education and legal employment.

Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan said the appointment highlighted Ireland’s strong role and reputation 54 | The Arab-Irish Journal

at the UN and followed Dublin’s successful co-chairing of negotiations last year leading to the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals, a blueprint for global development up to 2030.

Mr. Flanagan and Taoiseach Enda Kenny discussed the appointment with King Abdullah of Jordan and foreign minister Nasser Judeh during their visit to Ireland on 5th February this year. King Abdullah also met President Higgins when in Dublin.

The summit will be the last major UN event before Ban Ki Moon steps down at the end of the year.

We've got the warmest welcome.

It starts with the warm welcome of our signature chocolate chip cookie. And that's just the beginning of all the personal touches we make before you arrive, from our Sweet Dreams™ bedding and healthy food choices to the can-do attitude of every member of our staff.

DoubleTree by Hilton. Where the little things mean everything.™

Upper Leeson Street, Dublin, 4 T +353 (0)1 6185600 F +353 (0)1 6185644

Dublin.DoubleTree.com Hilton HHonors™ membership, earning of Points & Miles™ and redemption of points are subject to HHonors Terms and Conditions. ©2016 Hilton Worldwide

PUB OF THE YEAR 2016

Irish Village

The Irish Village a real Irish Experience in the heart of Dubai.

Historically Irish pubs are renowned throughout the world for their vibrant and friendly atmosphere, full of character and characters and above all, a place where you immediately feel at home.

The Irish Village in Dubai is no exception. The traditional wooden pub is steeped in its own character and has its own story to tell. Whether you decide to sit inside the traditional wooden pub or out on the terrace overlooking gardens and lake, let the traditional Irish music entertain you while sampling authentic meals served with a warm and friendly Irish smile – what better way of experiencing Ireland in Dubai!

How it all started?

In 1994 Dubai Tennis Championships were taking place at The Aviation Club for the second consecutive year in a temporarily-built stadium. At that time, spectators would not exceed the few hundreds. At the end of the final match after handing out the prize to the winner, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum announced that the following year Dubai Tennis Championships would be played in a real stadium with a capacity of 5000 people..

So in 1995 the current tennis stadium was ready to host the 3rd Dubai Tennis Championships.

Acknowledging the great spaces created beneath the stadium terraces, Mr. Colm McLoughlin, Executive Vice Chairman at Dubai Duty Free, with the support of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, came up with the idea of building a permanent outlet that would cater to visitors on the different events held at the stadium.

The idea of The Irish Village was born.

The Village was designed using Irish craftsmanship and materials which were shipped to Dubai and reassembled on site, creating an authentic experience in the heart of the city. Even the paving stones came all the way from Liscannor in County Clare, on the west coast of Ireland. All props and décor items around The Village, from the telephone box down to the shop windows brica-brac, are genuine Irish pieces.

In the fall of 1996, The Irish Village opened its doors with a full complement of Irish staff; a tradition that has been kept to the current days!

With the ongoing success and the increasing demand, The Village terrace has been expanded over the years to satisfy Dubai patrons and can now accommodate up to 3500 people during special events and concerts.

Famous performers have played at The Village: Sir Bob Geldof, Finbar Fury, The Human League, The Pretenders, Paolo Nutini, Macy Gray, The Wailers and Midge Ure to name just a few.

Over the years, The Irish Village has celebrated its birthday with big parties and concerts featuring popular Irish bands. To commemorate the 10th anniversary in 2007, a life-size bronze sculpture of three traditional Irish musicians, depicting the rural charm of the Emerald Isle has been installed in the center of The Village terrace. The sculpture, entitled “The Session” was commissioned In Ireland and created by Irish artist Austin McQuinn. It was then shipped to Dubai and unveiled in the presence of An Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, Ireland prime minister, to grace The Irish Village terrace.

This year The Irish Village will be celebrating its 20th anniversary, one of the few who can say that in Dubai!

The Arab-Irish Journal | 57

The Bonnington Hotel Dubai

The Bonnington Hotel Dubai 188 rooms and 20 suites, 272 deluxe serviced hotel apartments comprising 1, 2 and 3 bedroom units, 5 outstanding restaurants and bars and 6 fully equipped conference suites The Bonnington Hotel Dubai is ideally located in the heart of Jumeirah Lakes Towers along Sheikh Zayed Road, just opposite Dubai Marina and is within walking distance of a host of luxury shopping facilities and malls, restaurants, bars, metro line, numerous beaches, world’s top golf courses & a few minute’s drive away from the international airports, making the Bonnington Hotel an ideal location for tourists and business visitors alike.

Stay at the Bonnington and enjoy luxurious surroundings, quality service, outstanding facilities and traditional Bonnington hospitality. All rooms are fully furnished with top class amenities including complementary free WIFI and wired internet access points, bedside room control console as well as a MediaHub™ entertainment connectivity panel which allows guests to connect their laptop, PDA or MP3 player directly to the television in the room. The beautifully designed hotel features 188 rooms and 20 suites, 272 deluxe serviced hotel apartments comprising 1, 2 and 3 bedroom units, 5 outstanding restaurants and bars and 6 fully equipped conference suites. The hotel also offers a unique Leisure Deck on the 11th floor which has an infinity style swimming pool and a panoramic pool bar where you can enjoy a refreshing beverage or a quick bite along with breathtaking views of Dubai’ glittering skyline.

To make corporate life easy, the Bonnington Business Centre provides our clients with 6 fully equipped conference suites. With quality meeting room facilities, the best workplace equipment, high speed wireless internet and a dedicated, fully trained team.

Furthermore, the Bonnington Business Club Lounge located on the 10th floor is a dedicated business venue for our corporate travellers or guests seeking that “little bit extra”. This Club Lounge offers extensive business facilities and services and is the ideal place to meet with colleagues or network.

Our guests are invited to choose from the varied selection of restaurants and bars available at the Bonnington throughout their stay.

Cavendish Restaurant and Terrace: This restaurant prides itself on serving delicious food with a creative twist that can only be described as the ‘Dubai taste’. The Cavendish caters for every preference with a unique fusion of delicious international cuisines. The restaurant has recently expanded its experience outdoors, under the shade of the impressive Bonnington Tower and set amongst lush greenery and shooting water features, guest can now enjoy breakfast in the sun, lunch, brunch or a romantic candlelight dinner at the Cavendish.

58 | The Arab-Irish Journal

Healey’s Bar & Terrace: This modern and stylish cocktail bar is the ideal venue to relax and unwind with friends after a long day’s work. Enjoy a masterly mixed cocktail or a fine glass of wine. During the balmy autumn and winter months, guests can chill out on Healey’s Terrace - an open-air terrace which overlooks the Almas Tower and surrounding lakes.

With expertly mixed music the terrace provides a chilled out atmosphere making it the perfect place for a sunset cooler and some light snacks to welcome the evening.

The Authors’ Lounge: Welcome to a bustling cafe venue located in the heart of Jumeirah Lakes Towers. Pop in for freshly brewed teas, coffees and a tempting selection of homemade pastries. While here, guests can grab one of the many local and international newspapers and magazines on offer or sink into our cozy armchairs with a book from the Authors’ Lounge library. In the evenings, our open fire place adds to the atmosphere and provides the perfect setting for a late night snack and a catch up with family and friends.

The Leisure Deck: Bonnington’s unique, double-height, Leisure Deck is located on the 11th floor. This level is open to the elements on three sides and features a large infinity style swimming pool. Our panoramic Pool Bar is the ideal place to sit back, cool off and enjoy a refreshing beverage or a light snack with breathtaking views of Dubai’ glittering skyline. This level also features a gym, salon, jacuzzi, children’s play area, steam and saunas room.

McGettigan’s Irish Pub: McGettigan’s is the latest chapter in a fine tradition of hospitality, which began in 1964 with the opening of the first McGettigan’s Pub on Queen Street in Dublin. McGettigan’s Irish Pub brings to Dubai a dimension of truly authentic Irish hospitality never before experienced in the Middle East. The beautifully designed and finished pub offers the best of all things Irish. Here you will find well poured beverages, delicious Irish breakfasts and other fine Irish fare in a modern, yet warm and homely environment. McGettigan’s has it all – live sports, entertainment and the friendliest service in town. The Pub also features a large beer garden – ideal for the cooler months and a frequent venue for live music concerts and comedy shows For questions or enquiries, our dedicated team is on hand to assist in any way possible.

T: +971 4 356 0000 | E: reservations@bonningtontower.com | www.bonningtontower.com

The Bonnington Hotel Dubai

The Arab-Irish Journal | 59

1916

1916 Commemorations The Government is committed to respecting all traditions on this island of Ireland equally. It also recognises that developing a greater understanding of our shared history, in all of its diversity, is essential to developing greater understanding and building a shared future.

The Irish State’s Programme for 2016 was launched in April 2015. Ireland 2016 is an ambitious and wide-ranging national commemorative initiative, embracing seven distinct programme strands each with an extensive programme of events: State Ceremonial, Historical Reflection, An Teanga Bheo, Youth and Imagination, Cultural Expression, 60 | The Arab-Irish Journal

Community Participation and Global and Disapora.

2016 will belong to everyone on this island and to our friends and families overseas – regardless of political or family background, or personal interpretation of our modern history.

The Government is committed to ensuring that 2016 will be a year of rich and diverse activities when the full complexity of the last 100 years on this island can be explored and celebrated.

In addition to the State Ceremonial events each County has a programme of events taking place in 2016. Further details on the plans for 2016 are available from the Ireland 2016 website www.ireland.ie

1916

The Arab-Irish Journal | 61

Motor Review

2015 Bentley Mulsanne Still crafting the best at Crewe

By Mark Gallivan

62 | The Arab-Irish Journal

If you like historical twists and turns, you’re bound to appreciate this one. We’re at the Bentley factory in England with Nigel Lofkin, our genial Bentley Customer Host. He’s recounting the afternoon of December 29th 1940 when a German plane bombed Crewe - the very factory we’re standing in. “My Mother still has the scar on her leg she got from running away”. Fast forward to 1st January, 2003 and the Germans are back having completed the purchase of Bentley under Volkswagen.

Nigel has worked at Crewe since 1980, starting out as an apprentice in the trim shop working his way up to become a Corporate VIP host. He wears a suit nowadays but his former workmates still stop for a chat and a laugh as we walk around. Although he bears the hallmarks of a man trained to communicate a message, deep down he passionately loves Bentley - his Bentley – and could go misty-eyed given half the

chance. Very slowly the corporate visit to see the Bentley Mulsanne being made is glacially going off message into a personal story. We even meet one man that’s been at Crewe over 40 years. It’s engaging and refreshing at the same time. Good luck finding something similar at Mercedes.

The Crewe factory is located in the countryside about 35 miles south of Manchester. It’s here they produce the Continental GT, Flying Spur and the flagship Mulsanne. We even get a close look at the new Bentayga SUV. If you like big SUV’s, you’ll doubtless love it. We’re told around 11,020 Bentleys are manufactured annually and you can add a further 3,000 or so when the Bentayga starts production. Volkswagen have committed £840 million over 2 years for the 80 acre site with new engineering and R&D facilities but it’s the Mulsanne we’re here to see and starting at £269,950 (before VRT and VAT) in Ireland, it’s still a lot of money.

Motor Review

To give us a taste of how the Chinese and Americans live (it’s Bentley’s biggest market), we’re given VIP badges and ushered into CW1 House, a separate, salon-type showroom where the current or future owners can pick and choose his or her colour, trim and configure their new car. After an hour of cossetting, we’re beginning to think too much money isn’t so bad for you.

During the day we visit different parts of the factory like the body-in white assembly area, the trim and wood shop where 17 sheets of wood are needed for each car and we learn that it takes over 500 hours to build one Mulsanne (versus 200 for the Continental GT). Unrecognisable facts from within the global motor industry emerge: 90 hours alone are spent crafting the bodywork, 16-17 bull hides are used for the leather, 22 hours are devoted to final inspection, each door cap is made from a solid piece of wood: resulting in 5 new Mulsanne cars rolling off the production line every day. Ever wondered why a Mulsanne costs so much? That’s why.

Even the Mulsanne’s 6,752cc Twin-Turbo V8 with 530bhp and 1100Nm/ 752lb.f engine is pure Bentley theatre, dating back to the 1950s and not the Volkswagen derivative as used in the Continental GT. We learn secret things as well. The Bentley badge has 9 wings on one side 10 on the other to outsmart counterfeiters (we’re annoyed we didn’t spot that one before).

All of which rubbishes the notion that Bentley is just a posh Volkswagen nowadays. Not in

Crewe and nowhere from where we’ve seen.

Indeed, Volkswagen has taken particular care not to besmirch the Bentley brand by cleverly cultivating a good working culture at Crewe.

So then, back to the Mulsanne. Should you buy one? It’s honestly such a lovely thing and frankly if you’re thinking about it you’ve probably made up your own mind long before now, without needing anyone’s opinion - including ours. But if you do – and apart for us hating you enormously (no, genuinely we do) - you must, absolutely come to Crewe. It’s such an important part of the Bentley Journey. You never know, if you’re lucky enough, Nigel might show you around.

The Arab-Irish Journal | 63

Useful Contacts

Irish diplomatic representation in Arab countries Irish diplomatic representation in Arab countries Country accredited

Embassy location

Contact

Algeria

Berne, Switzerland

Tel: +41 31 352 442

Djibouti, Iraq, Somalia

Paris, France

Tel: +33 1 47 27 49 22

Mauritania

Paris, France

Tel: +33 1 4504 8854

Egypt, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Sudan

Cairo, Egypt

Tel: +202 27358264

Libya

Rome, Italy

Tel: +39 06 6979 121

Morocco

Lisbon, Portugal

Tel: +351 21 330 8200

UAE, Qatar

Abu Dhabi, UAE

Tel: +971(0)24958200

Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Tel: +966 1 488 2300

Tunisia

Madrid, Spain

Tel: +34 91 436 4093

Yemen

New York, USA

Tel: +1 212 421 6934

Consulates in Arab Countries Country

Consulate

Contact

Bahrain

Jonathan Stark

+973 1 772 8146

Egypt

Hisham Helmy

+203 2 263 8236

Jordan

Ramsey George Khoury

+962 6 533 3616

Morocco

Benanni Abdelhak

+212 52 2272 2721

Oman

Dr Mohammed Hassan Haider Darwish

+968 24 701282

Sudan

Ronald Eliaho Shaoul

+ 249 1 5511 7886

Syria

Naji-Pierre Chaoui

+963 11 334 2144

Tunisia

Moncef Mzabi

+216 9830 7364

Consuls in Ireland Country

Consul

Contact

Tunisia: Honorary Consul of Tunisia

Louis Maguire

louis.maguire@yahoo.com

Jordan: Honorary Consul of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

Joe Geoghegan

geoghegan.joe@gmail.com www.jordanconsul.ie

Oman: Honorary Consul of Oman

Dettia O’Reilly

info@ccps.ie

64 | The Arab-Irish Journal

Useful Contacts

Arab Chambers of Commerce Country

Consulate

Contact

Algeria

Chambre Algérienne de Commerce et d’Industrie (CACI)

www.caci.com.dz

Bahrain

Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry

www.bahrainchamber.org.bh

Djibouti

Chambre Internationale de Commerce et d`Industrie (Djibouti)

Email: sic[at]intnet.dj

Jordan

Jordan Chamber of Commerce

www.jocc.org.jo

Jordan

Amman Chamber of Industry

www.aci.org.jo

Kuwait

Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry

www.kcci.org.kw

Lebanon

Federation of Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture in Lebanon

www.ccib.org.lb

Arab countries

Secretariat General of the General Union of Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture for Arab Countries

www.gucciaac.org.lb

Iraq

Federation of Iraqi Chambers of Commerce

www.ficciraq.org

Libya

Federation of Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Agriculture

Tel: +218 21 334 2916

Mauritania

Chambre de Commerce, d`Industrie et d`Agriculture de Mauritanie

www.chambredecommerce.mr

Morocco

Fédération des Chambers Marocaines de Commerce, d`Industrie et de Services

www.fcmcis.ma

Oman

Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry

www.chamberoman.com

Qatar

Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry

www.qatarchamber.com/

Saudi Arabia

Council of Saudi Chambers

www.csc.org.sa

Saudi Arabia GCC

Federation of GCC Chambers

www.fgccc.org

Saudi Arabia

Jeddah Chamber of Commerce

www.jcci.org.sa/jcci/en/

Somalia

Somali Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture

Tel: +252 1 80726 or 81866

Sudan

Sudanese Businessmen and Employers Federation

www.sudabiz.org

Syria

Federation of the Syrian Chambers of Commerce

www.fedcommsyr.org

Syria

Damascus Chamber of Industry

www.dci-syria.org

Tunisia

Tunisian Union for Commerce, Industry and Handicrafts

www.utica.org.tn

UAE

Federation of United Arab Emirates Chambers of Commerce & Industry

www.fcciuae.ae/en/

UAE

Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce

www.abudhabichamber.ae

UAE

Ajman Chamber of Commerce

www.ajmanchamber.ae

UAE

Dubai Chamber of Commerce

www.dubaichamber.com

UAE

Fujairah Chamber of Commerce

www.fujcci.ae

UAE

Ras al-Khaimah Chamber of Commerce

www.rakchamber.ae

UAE

Sharjah Chamber of Commerce

www.sharjah.gov.ae/EN

UAE

Umm al-Quwain Chamber of Commerce

www.uaqcci.com

Yemen

Federation of Yemeni Chambers of Commerce and Industry

E-mail: fucci@y.net.ye The Arab-Irish Journal | 65

Useful Contacts

Arab embassies accredited to Ireland Country

Embassy

Contact

Egypt

Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt

12 Clyde Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 +353 (0)1 660 6718.

Morocco

Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco

39 Raglan Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 +353 (0)1 660 9449.

Saudi Arabia

Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia

6 & 7 Fitzwilliam Square East, Dublin 2Â +353 (0)1 676 0704,

UAE

Embassy of the United Arab Emirates

45-47 Pembroke Road, Dublin 4 +353 (0) 1 669 8588.

Algeria

Embassy of Algeria, London

+ 44 (0) 207 2217800 www.algerianembassy.org.uk

Bahrain

Kingdom Of Bahrain Embassy, London

+ 44 (0) 207 2019170 www.bahrainembassy.org

Iraq

Embassy of the Republic of Iraq, London

+44 (0) 207 5940180 www.iraqembassy.org.uk

Jordan

Embassy of Jordan, London

+44 (0) 207 9373685 www.jordanembassyuk.org

Kuwait

The State Of Kuwait Embassy, London

+44 (0) 207 5903400 www.kuwaitculturaluk.com

Libya

Libyan Embassy, London

+44 (0) 207 2018280 www.libyanembassy.org

Oman

Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman, London

+44 (0) 207 2250001 www.omanembassy.org.uk

Qatar

Qatar Embassy, London

+44 (0) 207 493 2200 www.qatarembassy.net

Sudan

Sudan Embassy, London

+44(0) 207 8938080 www.sudanembassy.co.uk

Syria

Syrian Embassy, London

+44(0) 207 2459012 www.syrianembassy.co.uk

Yemen

Yemen Embassy, London

+1 212 421 6394 www.yemenembassy.org.uk

Enterprise Ireland Offices in the Middle East Country

Markets covered

Contact

UAE Enterprise Ireland Middle East/ North Africa (MENA) Office

Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Libya, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Sudan, Pakistan, Yemen, Palestine and Kurdistan

4th Floor, Office 4b, Monarch Office Tower No 1, Sheikh Zayed Road PO Box 115425, Dubai +9714-329-8384 Contact: Sean Davis Email: Sean.Davis@enterprise-ireland.com www.enterprise-ireland.com

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia, Bahrain c/o Embassy of Ireland

Diplomatic Area PO Box 94349, Riyadh 11693 Tel: +966 1 488 1383 Contact: Ikram Ur Rehman Email: ikram.urrehman@enterprise-Ireland.com www.enterprise-ireland.com

66 | The Arab-Irish Journal

Useful Contacts

Irish Ministries and State agencies Irish Ministries and State agencies Chambers Ireland

www.chambers.ie

Department of Education and Skills

www.education.ie

Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation

www.djei.ie

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

www.dfa.ie

Dept of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

www.dcenr.gov.ie

Dept of Transport, Tourism & Sport

www.transport.ie

Dept of Agriculture Fisheries & Food

www.agriculture.gov.ie

Dept of Health

www.dohc.ie

Enterprise Ireland

www.enterprise-ireland.com

Government of Ireland website

www.gov.ie

IDA Ireland

www.idaireland.com

Irish Business & Employers, Confederation

www.ibec.ie

Irish Exporters Association

www.irishexporters.ie

Irish Food Board

www.bordbia.ie

Radiological Protection Institute

www.rpii.ie

Irish Medicines Board

www.imb.ie

Companies Registration Office

www.cro.ie

eTenders

www.etenders.gov.ie

IFSC

www.ifsc.ie

NAMA

www.nama.ie

National Tourism Development Authority (Fรกilte Ireland)

www.failteireland.ie

Irish Naturalisation & Immigration Service

www.inis.gov.ie

Bord Bia-Irish Food Board (Dubai) 4th Floor Office 4b, Monarch Tower Tower No. 1 Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates PO Box: 115425

The Arab-Irish Journal | 67

Dates for your Diary

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY 2016 EVENTS EVENT

VENUE

DATE

MIDDLE EAST PETROTECH Middle East Refining & Petrochemicals Conference & Exhibition

Manama > Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre (BIECC)

15.05 - 18.05 2016

ELEARNING AFRICA International Conference on ICT for Development, Education and Training

Cairo

24.05 - 26.05 2016

AFRO PACKAGING & FOOR MANUFACTURING International Packaging and Food Processing Technology Exhibition in Egypt

Cairo > Cairo International Convention & Exhibition Centre

26.05 - 29.05 2016

PROJECT IRAQ International Trade Exhibition for Construction Technology, Building Materials and Equipment

Erbil > Erbil International Fairground

05.10 - 08.10 2016

INTER-BUILD JORDAN Fair and Forum for Construction & building technologies. INTER-BUILD JORDAN includes Building Industry, Architecture, Decoration, Lighting, Marble and Stones, Granite, Installation Techniques for Buildings, Solar Heating and Cooling Systems, HVAC...

Amman > Zara Expo Amman

22.08 - 28.08 2016

THE BIG 5 KUWAIT International Exhibition for Building, Water Technology & Environment, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration, Cleaning & Maintenance, Glass & Metal in Kuwait

Mishref > Kuwait International Fairs Ground

25.09 - 27.09 2016

MOROCCO AUTOMOTIVE International Automotive & Spare Parts Exhibiton in Morocco

Casablanca > Parc d’Exposition de l’Office des Changes (CICEC)

Sept. 2016 (?)

QATAR INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW Qatar International Boat Show

Doha > Mourjan Marinas - Lusail City

25.10 - 29.10 2016

MILIPOL QATAR International Exhibition of internal State security, Police Equipment, Industrial Site Security and Civil Defense

Doha > Doha Exhibition & Convention Center

31.10 - 02.11 2016

SAUDI AGRICULTURE Water Technology and Agri Industry Exhibition

Riyadh > Riyadh International Exhibition Centre

Oct. 2016 (?)

SAUDI AGRO FOOD International Food, Equipment & Catering Show

Riyadh > Riyadh International Exhibition Centre

Oct. 2016 (?)

SAUDI FOOD-PACK International Exhibition for Food Processing and Packaging

Riyadh > Riyadh International Exhibition Centre

Oct. 2016 (?)

ATM - ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET Arabian Travel Market

Dubai > Dubai World Trade Centre

22.04 - 28.04 2016

AL AIN EDUCATION & CAREER FAIR Education & Career Fair

Al Ain > Al Ain Exhibition Centre

25.04 - 27.04 2016

ABU DHABI INTERNATIONAL BOOK FAIR Abu Dhabi International Book Fair

Abu Dhabi > Abu-Dhabi National Exhibition Center - Adnec

27.04 - 03.05 2016

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Spring 2016 ISSN 2009-499X (PRINT) / ISSN 2009-6216 (ON-LINE ISSUE)

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