Austria Special Report 2012

Austria SPECIAL REPORT | OCTOBER 26, 2012

Winter HOLIDAY DISCOVER THE MIGHTY MOUNTAIN SUMMITS

AUSTRIA

SPECIAL REPORT | OCTOBER 26, 2012

EDITORIAL

Executive Editor Patrick Michael Supplements Editor Suchitra Steven Samuel Reporting Farhana Chowdhury

PRODUCTION

Designers Mohammad Ejaz Khan Sidharthan Imaging Venugopal Prabhu

ADVERTISING

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A Publication of GALADARI PRINTING & PUBLISHING L.L.C.

CONTENTS Strengthening trade ties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 04 Austria’s exports to the UAE may reach €600 million . . . . . . . . . 05 Leaders in formwork technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06 Growing strong . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08 Melting pot of Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Austria’s latest attraction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

12

Specialist and generalist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

14

Maximising the water economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Winter vacation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Nothing but nature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Bearing a strong presence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

03

AUSTRIA

AUSTRIA

KT SPECIAL REPORT

KT SPECIAL REPORT

Strengthening trade ties The Austrian Trade Commission is actively facilitating business links between Austria and the GCC

More than 200 Austrian companies and their subsidiaries are operating in the UAE

Latha Krishnan

T

he historical relationship between Austria and the United Arab Emirates dates back as far as the 18th century, especially in trade. In recent times, Austria has been a trading partner of the UAE since its formation and continues to be supportive in the country’s development. “We can only congratulate the UAE on its great success in its spectacular progress and confirm that we intend to further increase not only our trade and commerce with the UAE but also tourism between the two countries,” affirms Peter Elsner-Mackay, Ambassador of Austria to the UAE. Austria is fast becoming a very attractive destination to visitors from the UAE and other GCC countries with about 155,000 of them visiting Austria last year – a two-fold increase from four years before.

The Austrian embassy is planning to continue this valuable mutual interaction by bringing more high-ranking government officials from Austria next year to give further boost to tourism and trade relations 04

Austria’s exports to the UAE may reach €600 million

UAE Foreign Minister Shaikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan held meetings with the Austrian Foreign Affairs Minister Michael Chandler on the sidelines of the 67th United Nations General Assembly session in New York recently

Wolfgang Penzias Trade Commissioner

Moreover the UAE is a strategic investor in Austria with some companies becoming shareholders in large Austrian companies. The Austrian embassy is planning to continue this valuable mutual interaction by bringing more highranking government officials from Austria next year to give further boost to tourism and trade relations.

The Austrian Trade Commission is responsible for trade facilitation between Austria and the GCC. “Our main objective is to be the Business

to Business contact for companies. For this we have offices in Kuwait, Oman, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Bahrain and two offices in Jeddah and Riyadh,” explains Wolfgang Penzias, Trade Commissioner.

According to Penzias, the sustainable development that the UAE and the GCC countries are undergoing as well as the low taxes and low labour costs, have already attracted many Austrian companies to this part of the world. In addition the Austrian government’s double taxation agreement, wherein an entity that operates in both countries is not taxed twice, is further favourable to trade.

There is a strong presence of about 220 Austrian companies in the UAE with most of them being in Dubai, which is a regional hub. In Abu Dhabi, the Austrian company Borealis partners with ADNOC to produce different products including modern high quality plastics. Austria is also involved in imparting vocational training to industry personnel in the UAE. Providing specialised health-

care services is another strength of Austria. Several clinics in Austria offer their services for patients from the UAE especially for rehabilitation after surgery. In April this year, world-renowned Austrian company MED-EL, opened its first specialised hearLIFE clinic in Dubai Healthcare City to provide cochlear implants – a boon to children who have never heard before and for people living with hearing loss and deafness. Austrian companies supply equipment for hospitals as well as high quality prosthesis all over the UAE. The Austrian Trade Commission supports all trade promotion activities including participation in exhibitions in the UAE with an Austria booth or stand. “If an Austrian company wants a government contract, we support them in that too. Our trade bond with the UAE is robust with figures happily standing at what we had in 2007-08. The same is true for other GCC countries too. In total Austria is currently exporting 1.5 billion Euro worth of goods to all the GCC countries,” informs Penzias.

A

ustrian exports to the UAE, its most important business partner in the Middle East, are expected to reach €600 million in 2012 compared with €570 million in 2011, said the new Austrian ambassador to the UAE Peter Elsner Mackay.

Mackay, who arrived in the UAE in September, told Khaleej Times at the inauguration of the Austria Business Centre last month that Austrian imports from the UAE were €73 million in 2011.

“The first six months of 2012 have shown good results and we are confident of positive growth,” he said, adding, “Business relations between Austria and the UAE are developing very well. There are 220 Austrian companies and their subsidiaries operating in the UAE, while there is a further need to establish more.”

Talking about the importance of business centres, the ambassador said Austrian businesses mostly comprise of

Officials and guests cutting the cake to mark the opening of the Austria Business Centre at Jumeirah Lake Towers in Dubai. — KT photo by Mukesh Kamal

small- and medium-sized companies and facilities like Austria Business Centre at the Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT), which can serve the wider GCC region out of Dubai.

Mackay also said he would work to increase trade between the two countries and planned to bring a high-level government delegation from Austria to the UAE next year.

Valeri Babak, President of Austria Business Centre, said the business activity is on the rise in Dubai and his centre offered ready-to-start work facility for new businesses. He

said JLT was selected as the venue because it is a suitably located free zone and made for mix use.

Ludmila Yamalova, managing partner of legal consultancy HPL Yamalova and Plewka JLT, explained that the demand for offices in the free zone was high because it offers a broad range of licences at affordable rates. “Many new companies want to take one step at a time. Once they have a ready office, it becomes easy for them to get a licence,” she said.

The Austria Business Cen-

tre, founded by the Kleindienst Group, is a modern, contemporary business centre for small-, medium- and largesize companies. It offers a stylish and contemporary office environment for all types of businesses.

Any type or size of business can find its home in one of the office facilities of the Austria Business Centre. The office solutions are easy to start up, fast and efficient and they can be accessed without any administrative or financial obstacles.

The tenants choose from a wide range of intelligent office solutions and business set-up packages.

Trade between Austria and the UAE continues to grow

05

AUSTRIA

AUSTRIA

KT SPECIAL REPORT

KT SPECIAL REPORT

Strengthening trade ties The Austrian Trade Commission is actively facilitating business links between Austria and the GCC

More than 200 Austrian companies and their subsidiaries are operating in the UAE

Latha Krishnan

T

he historical relationship between Austria and the United Arab Emirates dates back as far as the 18th century, especially in trade. In recent times, Austria has been a trading partner of the UAE since its formation and continues to be supportive in the country’s development. “We can only congratulate the UAE on its great success in its spectacular progress and confirm that we intend to further increase not only our trade and commerce with the UAE but also tourism between the two countries,” affirms Peter Elsner-Mackay, Ambassador of Austria to the UAE. Austria is fast becoming a very attractive destination to visitors from the UAE and other GCC countries with about 155,000 of them visiting Austria last year – a two-fold increase from four years before.

The Austrian embassy is planning to continue this valuable mutual interaction by bringing more high-ranking government officials from Austria next year to give further boost to tourism and trade relations 04

Austria’s exports to the UAE may reach €600 million

UAE Foreign Minister Shaikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan held meetings with the Austrian Foreign Affairs Minister Michael Chandler on the sidelines of the 67th United Nations General Assembly session in New York recently

Wolfgang Penzias Trade Commissioner

Moreover the UAE is a strategic investor in Austria with some companies becoming shareholders in large Austrian companies. The Austrian embassy is planning to continue this valuable mutual interaction by bringing more highranking government officials from Austria next year to give further boost to tourism and trade relations.

The Austrian Trade Commission is responsible for trade facilitation between Austria and the GCC. “Our main objective is to be the Business

to Business contact for companies. For this we have offices in Kuwait, Oman, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Bahrain and two offices in Jeddah and Riyadh,” explains Wolfgang Penzias, Trade Commissioner.

According to Penzias, the sustainable development that the UAE and the GCC countries are undergoing as well as the low taxes and low labour costs, have already attracted many Austrian companies to this part of the world. In addition the Austrian government’s double taxation agreement, wherein an entity that operates in both countries is not taxed twice, is further favourable to trade.

There is a strong presence of about 220 Austrian companies in the UAE with most of them being in Dubai, which is a regional hub. In Abu Dhabi, the Austrian company Borealis partners with ADNOC to produce different products including modern high quality plastics. Austria is also involved in imparting vocational training to industry personnel in the UAE. Providing specialised health-

care services is another strength of Austria. Several clinics in Austria offer their services for patients from the UAE especially for rehabilitation after surgery. In April this year, world-renowned Austrian company MED-EL, opened its first specialised hearLIFE clinic in Dubai Healthcare City to provide cochlear implants – a boon to children who have never heard before and for people living with hearing loss and deafness. Austrian companies supply equipment for hospitals as well as high quality prosthesis all over the UAE. The Austrian Trade Commission supports all trade promotion activities including participation in exhibitions in the UAE with an Austria booth or stand. “If an Austrian company wants a government contract, we support them in that too. Our trade bond with the UAE is robust with figures happily standing at what we had in 2007-08. The same is true for other GCC countries too. In total Austria is currently exporting 1.5 billion Euro worth of goods to all the GCC countries,” informs Penzias.

A

ustrian exports to the UAE, its most important business partner in the Middle East, are expected to reach €600 million in 2012 compared with €570 million in 2011, said the new Austrian ambassador to the UAE Peter Elsner Mackay.

Mackay, who arrived in the UAE in September, told Khaleej Times at the inauguration of the Austria Business Centre last month that Austrian imports from the UAE were €73 million in 2011.

“The first six months of 2012 have shown good results and we are confident of positive growth,” he said, adding, “Business relations between Austria and the UAE are developing very well. There are 220 Austrian companies and their subsidiaries operating in the UAE, while there is a further need to establish more.”

Talking about the importance of business centres, the ambassador said Austrian businesses mostly comprise of

Officials and guests cutting the cake to mark the opening of the Austria Business Centre at Jumeirah Lake Towers in Dubai. — KT photo by Mukesh Kamal

small- and medium-sized companies and facilities like Austria Business Centre at the Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT), which can serve the wider GCC region out of Dubai.

Mackay also said he would work to increase trade between the two countries and planned to bring a high-level government delegation from Austria to the UAE next year.

Valeri Babak, President of Austria Business Centre, said the business activity is on the rise in Dubai and his centre offered ready-to-start work facility for new businesses. He

said JLT was selected as the venue because it is a suitably located free zone and made for mix use.

Ludmila Yamalova, managing partner of legal consultancy HPL Yamalova and Plewka JLT, explained that the demand for offices in the free zone was high because it offers a broad range of licences at affordable rates. “Many new companies want to take one step at a time. Once they have a ready office, it becomes easy for them to get a licence,” she said.

The Austria Business Cen-

tre, founded by the Kleindienst Group, is a modern, contemporary business centre for small-, medium- and largesize companies. It offers a stylish and contemporary office environment for all types of businesses.

Any type or size of business can find its home in one of the office facilities of the Austria Business Centre. The office solutions are easy to start up, fast and efficient and they can be accessed without any administrative or financial obstacles.

The tenants choose from a wide range of intelligent office solutions and business set-up packages.

Trade between Austria and the UAE continues to grow

05

AUSTRIA

KT SPECIAL REPORT

Doka's efficient formwork service management portfolio offered to customers includes ready-to-use preassembly and most recently launched onsite assembly.

With its high-tech and leading Austrian manufactured systems, Doka is contributing to infrastructure programmes in the UAE.

DOKA

Leaders in formwork technology The Doka setup in Dubai provides faster and more costeffective solutions to the Middle East's construction methods and market DOKA, a name synonymous with construction excellence, is one of the world’s leading companies in formwork technology. With presence in more than 160 locations across 70 countries, the company is headquartered in Amstetten, Austria. Doka designs, manufactures in Austria, and supplies formwork systems and components such as floor, wall, safety, climbing and load bearing systems for every type of project involving cast-in-place concrete construction.

Doka Middle East has 12 subsidiaries across Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Lebanon and Jordan, and each subsidiary has its own office, engineering, warehouse, and yard. The regional head office, which was previously in Austria, is now based in Dubai, following a decision by the company to appoint Dubai’s Jebel Ali Free Zone premises as the regional hub. The new Doka setup is one of the largest regional stocks and reconditioning services and provides 06

Karl Heinz Riedl, Managing Director, Doka Gulf

closer, faster and more costeffective solutions, which are relevant to the Middle East's construction methods and market.

The success story for Doka Gulf is not only captivating but also speaks highly for the phenomenal growth of the country over the past 20 years. Doka opened its first office in the UAE in 1993 with just four employees. Today with branch offices in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah, led by General Manager Karl Heinz Riedl, the company has over 170 employees in the UAE. Doka’s footprints include thousands of completed projects including several iconic ones such as Burj Al Arab and

Emirates Palace, Capital Gate Abu Dhabi, the famous Burj Khalifa, for which Doka engineers invented a brand new safety protection screen for working at a great height. Doka’s infrastructure footprints are strongly established with complex scope on key projects within Jebel Ali and Khalifa Port, Saadiyat and Hodariyat Bridges in Abu Dhabi, and most recently two independent bridges in Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai, and a new 250-metre long bridge in the remote area of Hatta. Ongoing noteworthy projects include Fujairah Commercial Complex, Bab Al Qasr Hotel Abu Dhabi, and construction of very challenging dome structures using

the unique ready-to-use service for Al Jubail Market in Sharjah. In short, right from the design phase, with its globally networked engineering, and access to thousands of project solutions, Doka optimises the most effective customised solution for every client with the right material and logistics to support sale/rental.

In a recent interview, General Manager Karl Heinz Riedl elaborates on the industry and especially the need in a recovery market for contractors to engage with and rely on a ‘Formwork Service Manager’ such as Doka. The newest service innovations in the UAE, ready-to-use pre-assembled formwork and now onsite assembly provide relief towards the tight cost and time schedules of the industry. Says Riedl, an Austrian, “Being a part of a global group gives our clients local access to cutting-edge European innovations. Here in the UAE, we tap into the very latest technology and techniques required for the market. The biggest advantage is our full-service operation running out of the country itself and proximity to our many customers.”

Commitment to support the market is important and therefore, Doka Gulf will be showcasing new systems at the Big 5 Construction Show in Dubai from November 5 to 8 at Stand MEC C51, Saeed Halls.

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KT SPECIAL REPORT

HAMRIYAH FREE ZONE AUTHORITY

Growing strong Director-General of Sharjah Department of Seaports and Customs and Sharjah Free Zones Authority Dr Rashid Al Leem shares his views about Hamriyah Free Zone Authority and its remarkable growth since inception

“FREE zones are a major driver of economic development and inward investment worldwide and Hamriyah Free Zone Authority (HFZA) is no exception. By attracting investment of more than $6 billion in FDI (foreign direct investment) to the region, HFZA has strengthened its enviable position as one of the fastest-growing business hubs in the Middle East.

“Widely regarded as a free zone that fosters entrepreneurship and economic development, HFZA has, since its inception in 1995, played an important role in accelerating business activity within Sharjah by attracting environmentally friendly industries and enhancing the overall economic development of the country. Whether it is multinational firms expanding operations or a budding entrepreneur with big dreams, HFZA today offers a range of services and facilities for every need and budget.

“With 5,700 companies from across 140 countries now oper-

ating out of Hamriyah, our year-on-year performance is in line with the vision set for HFZA as a growth engine of the local economy.

“Our remarkable growth has, by no means, been accidental. We follow a strategic approach in achieving our well-articulated plans and provide outstanding services and facilities to our customers every day. This encompasses a responsible regulatory environment, world class infrastructure, innovative services and facilities such as total ownership of businesses, repatriation of capital and profits, application of a one-stop-shop concept for quick issuance of licences and a viable visa solution for business owners and their employees.

“Our consistent adherence to international standards of excellence coupled with an excellent investment atmosphere and a customer-centric business policy has enabled us to provide quality environment to our customers to thrive in

Dr Rashid Al Leem

their business. In addition, by being hands-on with the emerging social concerns and priorities of both our internal and external stakeholders, we have made a significant, visible difference to the HFZA community.

“From our base in Sharjah, we have now extended our reach to investors and customers across six major continents.

It has been a terrific year for

HFZA so far. HFZA has already notched up contracts from 1,020 new companies, the most recent being from Taiwan, Kazakhstan and South America. At HFZA, it is our mission to adopt responsible and open working methods as we move forward in our next phase of growth.”

Warm regards, Dr Rashid Al Leem

HFZA offers a regulatory environment, world-class infrastructure, innovative services and facilities, a one-stop-shop concept for quick issuance of licences and a viable visa solution for business owners and their employees

08

AUSTRIA

AUSTRIA

KT SPECIAL REPORT

KT SPECIAL REPORT

Melting pot of Europe Austrian cuisine is a result of its history as a multinational empire, where different cultures contributed their own nuances

O

ver hundreds of years of Austria's existence, a unique tradition of Austrian cuisine has emerged. Its traditional and well-known recipes attract millions of tourists each year. Austria's rich cuisine is a result of its history as a multinational empire, where all kinds of different cultures contributed their own nuances.

The Habsburg Empire stretched from the borders of imperial Russia to the Adriatic and consisted of more than a dozen nationalities with over 51 million people speaking 16 languages. Within the last seven centuries, the cosmopolitan Habsburg rule extended over Switzerland, Alsace, Burgundy, Spain, Holland, Bohemia, Moravia, Slovakia, Poland, Hungary, Croatia, Slovenia and Italy — influencing Austria's cuisine in their own way.

But not all of what can be enjoyed at Austria's restaurants and cafés nowadays has peacefully found its way into Austria's kitchens. Many of the recipes and ingredients have been washed ashore by Austria's melting pot of pan-european cooking by accident or as a coincidence or war. The Turkish invasion of Europe for example heralded the birth of Austria's coffee culture by introducing coffee beans to the Viennese cooks. Furthermore, "Apfelstrudel" is an Austrian 10

olate. The same can be said of the Mozartrolle, roll-shaped and of traditional structure: Core of marzipan covered with light and dark hazelnut/ nougat cream and coated with delicate whole milk chocolate.

Austrain chololates are sweet ambassadors of the past

version of a Turkish delicacy introduced during the Turkish occupation. The Wiener Schnitzel probably originated in northern Italy, while the delicious Palatschinken (crêpes) and the Gulasch came from the Hungarian plains; the roasts and sausages were originally Southern German delicacies, and the pastries originated in Bohemia.

Apart from the foreign influences on Austrian cuisine, every Austrian region features their own local dishes: Frittatensuppe (crêpe soup) comes from Styria, Speckknödel (bacon dumplings) from Tyrol; and Salzburg, Mozart’s home, has contributed the so-called Salzburger Nockerln, a sweet soufflé made from egg whites.

FOOD SPECIALITIES FROM AUSTRIA Manner — cream-filled wafers Founded in 1890, Josef Manner and Comp. AG is famous far beyond Austria’s frontiers for its high-quality confectionery. The product range embraces a large variety of chocolates, sweets and biscuits. The top-selling product is Manner Hazelnut Cream-filled Wafer, a speciality from Vienna. Also popular in many countries are the Rum Coco Dragees and

“Schoko-Bananen” from Casali, “Manner Nuß Würfel” (hazelnut cream-filled) and “Mozart Würfel” (marzipan and praline-filled) chocolates.

Salzburger Mozartkugeln Mozart products from Mirabell are well known worldwide as a special kind of Austrian confectionary. The genuine Salzburger Mozartkugel from Mirabell has a spherical core of marzipan embedded in light and dark hazelnut/ nougat cram and coated, to the original recipe, with delicate plain chocolate. Coin shaped, the Salzburger Mozarttaler is another exquisite speciality from Mirabell: Fine marzipan cream within layers of light and dark hazelnut-nougat cream and coated with delicate milk choc-

Red Bull Energy Drink Trying to fight his jet lag in East Asia, the Austrian entrepreneur Dietrich Mateschitz learnt about the Thai energy drink Krating Daeng. Adapting the idea for European markets, he founded the Red Bull Company in 1984. After huge sales growth in Austria, the brand was exported to Hungary and soon to every corner of the world, selling billions of cans in

about 130 countries — making Red Bull the best selling export of Austria. Besides its products, Red Bull also concentrates on sports sponsorships, like soccer, skiing or sports flying.

Sachertorte, Sacher Cake Sacher Torte is a famous Viennese cake, probably the most famous chocolate cake of all times. It consists of chocolate sponge cake cut into three layers with apricot jam thickly spread between the layers and on the top and sides of the cake.

The whole cake is then iced with a velvet-like chocolate and

Sachertorte is an all time favourite

served with a side dish of whipped cream. Sacher Torte was created by pastry chef Franz Sacher in 1832 for Prince Clemens Lothar Wenzel Metternich, the Austrian State Chancellor. d'arbo For more than 100 years, the firm Adolf d’Arbo AG is engaged in the production of pure jams, honeys, natural fruit syrups, compotes and more. The products are free from chemical preservatives or artificial

colourings and flavourings. The line-up ranges from 200 gm (7oz) jars of fruit-and-honey jams (sweetened with honey only) through 250 gm (8-oz) and 450 gm (16-oz) jars of preserves and 18 gm mini-jars and cups to bake-proof jams in 13.3 kg packs.

Pumpkin Seed Products This cold pressed Austrian pumpkin seed oil is a true culinary delight. It is delicious, has

unique nutty flavour and is ideal for salad dressing, bread dipping and drizzling. Pumpkin seed oil is rich in chlorophyll, vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids. It contains vitamins A as carotene, B1, B2, B6, C, D, E and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron and phosphor, selenium, zinc and a wide range of trace elements. The healing qualities of pumpkin seed oil have been recorded over many centuries. It is especially effective in treating and preventing inflammatory disease, prostate problems and bladder irritations. It also strengthens the immune system and both the raw pumpkin seed and the oil may also be used to reduce high blood pressure, relieve kidney problems, arthritis, poor skin conditions or any ailments related to the deficiency of essential fatty acids (omega 3, 6, 9). Its use goes as far as ones imagination in the kitchen. However, it should not be

Health advantages of pumpkin seed products are manifold

heated since this will cause a loss of its nutritional value.

— Austrian Press & Information Service

AUSTRIA

AUSTRIA

KT SPECIAL REPORT

KT SPECIAL REPORT

Melting pot of Europe Austrian cuisine is a result of its history as a multinational empire, where different cultures contributed their own nuances

O

ver hundreds of years of Austria's existence, a unique tradition of Austrian cuisine has emerged. Its traditional and well-known recipes attract millions of tourists each year. Austria's rich cuisine is a result of its history as a multinational empire, where all kinds of different cultures contributed their own nuances.

The Habsburg Empire stretched from the borders of imperial Russia to the Adriatic and consisted of more than a dozen nationalities with over 51 million people speaking 16 languages. Within the last seven centuries, the cosmopolitan Habsburg rule extended over Switzerland, Alsace, Burgundy, Spain, Holland, Bohemia, Moravia, Slovakia, Poland, Hungary, Croatia, Slovenia and Italy — influencing Austria's cuisine in their own way.

But not all of what can be enjoyed at Austria's restaurants and cafés nowadays has peacefully found its way into Austria's kitchens. Many of the recipes and ingredients have been washed ashore by Austria's melting pot of pan-european cooking by accident or as a coincidence or war. The Turkish invasion of Europe for example heralded the birth of Austria's coffee culture by introducing coffee beans to the Viennese cooks. Furthermore, "Apfelstrudel" is an Austrian 10

olate. The same can be said of the Mozartrolle, roll-shaped and of traditional structure: Core of marzipan covered with light and dark hazelnut/ nougat cream and coated with delicate whole milk chocolate.

Austrain chololates are sweet ambassadors of the past

version of a Turkish delicacy introduced during the Turkish occupation. The Wiener Schnitzel probably originated in northern Italy, while the delicious Palatschinken (crêpes) and the Gulasch came from the Hungarian plains; the roasts and sausages were originally Southern German delicacies, and the pastries originated in Bohemia.

Apart from the foreign influences on Austrian cuisine, every Austrian region features their own local dishes: Frittatensuppe (crêpe soup) comes from Styria, Speckknödel (bacon dumplings) from Tyrol; and Salzburg, Mozart’s home, has contributed the so-called Salzburger Nockerln, a sweet soufflé made from egg whites.

FOOD SPECIALITIES FROM AUSTRIA Manner — cream-filled wafers Founded in 1890, Josef Manner and Comp. AG is famous far beyond Austria’s frontiers for its high-quality confectionery. The product range embraces a large variety of chocolates, sweets and biscuits. The top-selling product is Manner Hazelnut Cream-filled Wafer, a speciality from Vienna. Also popular in many countries are the Rum Coco Dragees and

“Schoko-Bananen” from Casali, “Manner Nuß Würfel” (hazelnut cream-filled) and “Mozart Würfel” (marzipan and praline-filled) chocolates.

Salzburger Mozartkugeln Mozart products from Mirabell are well known worldwide as a special kind of Austrian confectionary. The genuine Salzburger Mozartkugel from Mirabell has a spherical core of marzipan embedded in light and dark hazelnut/ nougat cram and coated, to the original recipe, with delicate plain chocolate. Coin shaped, the Salzburger Mozarttaler is another exquisite speciality from Mirabell: Fine marzipan cream within layers of light and dark hazelnut-nougat cream and coated with delicate milk choc-

Red Bull Energy Drink Trying to fight his jet lag in East Asia, the Austrian entrepreneur Dietrich Mateschitz learnt about the Thai energy drink Krating Daeng. Adapting the idea for European markets, he founded the Red Bull Company in 1984. After huge sales growth in Austria, the brand was exported to Hungary and soon to every corner of the world, selling billions of cans in

about 130 countries — making Red Bull the best selling export of Austria. Besides its products, Red Bull also concentrates on sports sponsorships, like soccer, skiing or sports flying.

Sachertorte, Sacher Cake Sacher Torte is a famous Viennese cake, probably the most famous chocolate cake of all times. It consists of chocolate sponge cake cut into three layers with apricot jam thickly spread between the layers and on the top and sides of the cake.

The whole cake is then iced with a velvet-like chocolate and

Sachertorte is an all time favourite

served with a side dish of whipped cream. Sacher Torte was created by pastry chef Franz Sacher in 1832 for Prince Clemens Lothar Wenzel Metternich, the Austrian State Chancellor. d'arbo For more than 100 years, the firm Adolf d’Arbo AG is engaged in the production of pure jams, honeys, natural fruit syrups, compotes and more. The products are free from chemical preservatives or artificial

colourings and flavourings. The line-up ranges from 200 gm (7oz) jars of fruit-and-honey jams (sweetened with honey only) through 250 gm (8-oz) and 450 gm (16-oz) jars of preserves and 18 gm mini-jars and cups to bake-proof jams in 13.3 kg packs.

Pumpkin Seed Products This cold pressed Austrian pumpkin seed oil is a true culinary delight. It is delicious, has

unique nutty flavour and is ideal for salad dressing, bread dipping and drizzling. Pumpkin seed oil is rich in chlorophyll, vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids. It contains vitamins A as carotene, B1, B2, B6, C, D, E and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron and phosphor, selenium, zinc and a wide range of trace elements. The healing qualities of pumpkin seed oil have been recorded over many centuries. It is especially effective in treating and preventing inflammatory disease, prostate problems and bladder irritations. It also strengthens the immune system and both the raw pumpkin seed and the oil may also be used to reduce high blood pressure, relieve kidney problems, arthritis, poor skin conditions or any ailments related to the deficiency of essential fatty acids (omega 3, 6, 9). Its use goes as far as ones imagination in the kitchen. However, it should not be

Health advantages of pumpkin seed products are manifold

heated since this will cause a loss of its nutritional value.

— Austrian Press & Information Service

AUSTRIA

AUSTRIA

KT SPECIAL REPORT

KT SPECIAL REPORT

available at www.redguide.at or as an application for your iPhone. The special travel service is just for you.

Austria’s latest attraction Austrian Airlines extends the meaning of quality by introducing outstanding features on its fleet AUSTRIAN Airlines is Austria’s largest carrier and offers a global route network of 130 destinations worldwide with around 40 destinations in central and Eastern Europe. The airline is the market leader throughout the region. Thanks to its favourable geographical location at the heart of Europe, the company’s hub at Vienna International Airport is an ideal gateway between East and West.

Austrian Airlines is part of the Lufthansa Group, Europe’s largest airline group, and a member of the Star Alliance, the first global alliance of international airlines. In the UAE, Austrian Airlines operates a Boeing 767 aircraft daily out of Dubai to Vienna.

Take off in comfort Between November 2012 and spring 2013, the airlines will be modernising the interior of its entire long-haul fleet. Passengers can look for-

12

ward to the following outstanding features aboard Austrian Airlines: • High-tech business class seats with horizontal bed and innovative details • A new entertainment system with video on demand for non-stop entertainment • Award-winning service and first-class cuisine from DO and CO

for passengers. These include:

The Star Alliance Terminal The new Austrian Star Alliance Terminal, Check-in 3 (301-399) at Vienna Airport opened on June 5, 2012. At the new terminal travellers will experience modern architecture, light-flooded halls, short transfer ways and a great variety of shops and catering outlets.

Austrian Airlines has six new lounges, which has both Schengen and non-Schengen areas. Each lounge features both a modern ambience and an Austrian flair through the use of Austrian-made materials, motifs and furniture designed by Austrian designers.

Austrian Airlines offers a wide range of products from domestic producers and Austrian culinary delicacies on board its flights. red|souvenir gives you the chance to enjoy Austrian products or give them as gifts even when not on the flights.

Just order your piece of Austria easily at www.redsouvenir.at and have them comfortably delivered at your home. The airlines’ cooperation partner AustrianGrocery.com delivers reliably around the world.

red|services In 2011 and 2012, Austrian Airlines introduced a range of extra services designed to make travelling an altogether more comfortable experience

es, the basis for its third place rating globally in the category “Signature Dish” i.e. an airline’s own dish used as a trademark. In the overall ranking of the best airlines in Europe, Austrian Airlines was rated once again among the top 10, at the eighth position.

red|blog

lowance. By using the Austrian web check-in, choose this service and check in an extra piece of luggage for only €50.

red|souvenir

their departure in Vienna for just €35, enabling them to enjoy the wide-ranging culinary product of DO and CO, free W-LAN connection, internet access, and national and international newspapers and television. red|space

red|cab

With web check-in from 24 hours before departure, customers can ensure they are placed in the sought-after seats in the emergency exit row for just €70 per seat.

Passengers can book the red|cab service up to 24 hours before departure at www.redcab.at from as little as €29 per way, which can carry up to three people between the airport and the city of Vienna.

The modern red|cab fleet includes cars of the Mercedes E-Class and VW Sharan types, and minibuses of the Mercedes VITO Minibus brand.

Austrian offers economy class travellers the option to purchase an upgrade to business class at short notice, when checking in over the web 24 hours or more before departure.

red|lounge

red|xbag

Passengers holding an economy class ticket can now purchase lounge access before

With redxbag, passengers can simply and easily increase the quantity of their luggage al-

red|upgrade

red|guide Get insider tips about the best places to shop in Paris, great places to eat in London and where to enjoy a night out in Hamburg. Austrian Airlines 25 city guides are

The red|blog connects social media such as Facebook, Twitter where you can find all the latest news about Austrian Airlines. You can invite your friends with just one click, recommend exciting stories, stimulate discussions or share valuable hints and tips. The redblog is perfectly integrated into social networks.

Upgrade for your palate Passengers can turn their Austrian flight into a culinary highlight now. In addition to the regular free selection of food and beverages, passengers can order the exclusive DO and CO à la carte service in economy class. Choose from nine Austrian and internation-

al dishes for €15 and order your desired menu up to 36 hours before your departure, either while booking your flight on www.austrian.com or directly at alacarte.doco.com.

Awards Austrian Airlines has maintained its position as one of Europe’s top airlines. It received a top rating for the third year in a row as one of the best airlines in the world for business class catering, ranking second this time around.

Austrian Airlines also scored points with passengers for its Viennese coffee house servic-

Austrian Airlines UAE: Contact information Reservations and Ticketing: 04-2112538 to 42 / 02-6776621 Inquiries on fares, reservations and ticketing: travel.uae@austrian.com Inquiries on packages: holidays.uae@austrian.com Limo service requests: transfers.uae@austrian.com www.austrian.com

AUSTRIA

AUSTRIA

KT SPECIAL REPORT

KT SPECIAL REPORT

available at www.redguide.at or as an application for your iPhone. The special travel service is just for you.

Austria’s latest attraction Austrian Airlines extends the meaning of quality by introducing outstanding features on its fleet AUSTRIAN Airlines is Austria’s largest carrier and offers a global route network of 130 destinations worldwide with around 40 destinations in central and Eastern Europe. The airline is the market leader throughout the region. Thanks to its favourable geographical location at the heart of Europe, the company’s hub at Vienna International Airport is an ideal gateway between East and West.

Austrian Airlines is part of the Lufthansa Group, Europe’s largest airline group, and a member of the Star Alliance, the first global alliance of international airlines. In the UAE, Austrian Airlines operates a Boeing 767 aircraft daily out of Dubai to Vienna.

Take off in comfort Between November 2012 and spring 2013, the airlines will be modernising the interior of its entire long-haul fleet. Passengers can look for-

12

ward to the following outstanding features aboard Austrian Airlines: • High-tech business class seats with horizontal bed and innovative details • A new entertainment system with video on demand for non-stop entertainment • Award-winning service and first-class cuisine from DO and CO

for passengers. These include:

The Star Alliance Terminal The new Austrian Star Alliance Terminal, Check-in 3 (301-399) at Vienna Airport opened on June 5, 2012. At the new terminal travellers will experience modern architecture, light-flooded halls, short transfer ways and a great variety of shops and catering outlets.

Austrian Airlines has six new lounges, which has both Schengen and non-Schengen areas. Each lounge features both a modern ambience and an Austrian flair through the use of Austrian-made materials, motifs and furniture designed by Austrian designers.

Austrian Airlines offers a wide range of products from domestic producers and Austrian culinary delicacies on board its flights. red|souvenir gives you the chance to enjoy Austrian products or give them as gifts even when not on the flights.

Just order your piece of Austria easily at www.redsouvenir.at and have them comfortably delivered at your home. The airlines’ cooperation partner AustrianGrocery.com delivers reliably around the world.

red|services In 2011 and 2012, Austrian Airlines introduced a range of extra services designed to make travelling an altogether more comfortable experience

es, the basis for its third place rating globally in the category “Signature Dish” i.e. an airline’s own dish used as a trademark. In the overall ranking of the best airlines in Europe, Austrian Airlines was rated once again among the top 10, at the eighth position.

red|blog

lowance. By using the Austrian web check-in, choose this service and check in an extra piece of luggage for only €50.

red|souvenir

their departure in Vienna for just €35, enabling them to enjoy the wide-ranging culinary product of DO and CO, free W-LAN connection, internet access, and national and international newspapers and television. red|space

red|cab

With web check-in from 24 hours before departure, customers can ensure they are placed in the sought-after seats in the emergency exit row for just €70 per seat.

Passengers can book the red|cab service up to 24 hours before departure at www.redcab.at from as little as €29 per way, which can carry up to three people between the airport and the city of Vienna.

The modern red|cab fleet includes cars of the Mercedes E-Class and VW Sharan types, and minibuses of the Mercedes VITO Minibus brand.

Austrian offers economy class travellers the option to purchase an upgrade to business class at short notice, when checking in over the web 24 hours or more before departure.

red|lounge

red|xbag

Passengers holding an economy class ticket can now purchase lounge access before

With redxbag, passengers can simply and easily increase the quantity of their luggage al-

red|upgrade

red|guide Get insider tips about the best places to shop in Paris, great places to eat in London and where to enjoy a night out in Hamburg. Austrian Airlines 25 city guides are

The red|blog connects social media such as Facebook, Twitter where you can find all the latest news about Austrian Airlines. You can invite your friends with just one click, recommend exciting stories, stimulate discussions or share valuable hints and tips. The redblog is perfectly integrated into social networks.

Upgrade for your palate Passengers can turn their Austrian flight into a culinary highlight now. In addition to the regular free selection of food and beverages, passengers can order the exclusive DO and CO à la carte service in economy class. Choose from nine Austrian and internation-

al dishes for €15 and order your desired menu up to 36 hours before your departure, either while booking your flight on www.austrian.com or directly at alacarte.doco.com.

Awards Austrian Airlines has maintained its position as one of Europe’s top airlines. It received a top rating for the third year in a row as one of the best airlines in the world for business class catering, ranking second this time around.

Austrian Airlines also scored points with passengers for its Viennese coffee house servic-

Austrian Airlines UAE: Contact information Reservations and Ticketing: 04-2112538 to 42 / 02-6776621 Inquiries on fares, reservations and ticketing: travel.uae@austrian.com Inquiries on packages: holidays.uae@austrian.com Limo service requests: transfers.uae@austrian.com www.austrian.com

AUSTRIA

KT SPECIAL REPORT

UNGER STEEL GROUP

Specialist and generalist Unger Steel has an overall annual capacity of 70,000 tonnes and can quickly deliver small-scale projects and ready-to-use solutions for complex building projects

Mall of the Emirates

Burj Khalifa

14

UNGER Steel Middle East, the second production plant and subsidiary of the international Unger Steel Group, offers its know-how gathered over more than 60 years in all areas of construction, which contributes to its customers’ success.

Decades of expertise in the steel construction industry and a holistic project management make the family-owned business a trustworthy and responsible partner.

Together with headquarters and production facilities in Austria, Unger Steel Middle East represents a further logistical hub for its international presence. With an overall annual capacity of 70,000 tonnes, small-scale projects right up to ready-to-use solutions for complex building projects can be delivered quickly and to the customer’s satisfaction. The range of machinery is one of the most cutting-edge in the world and enables steel parts to be formed in virtually any way. They are assembled on the construction site and attain high load capacities whilst having a low dead weight. Production and assembly are highly industrialised and optimised down to the last detail. This means speedy assembly, high levels of reliability and tailor-made solutions with the highest quality levels. Not to mention the compatibility of steel with other materials such as concrete, glass and even wood.

Besides the headquarters in Austria, around 20 offices in Central and Eastern Europe as well as the Middle East offer direct access to all of the services provided by the Unger Steel Group.

AUSTRIA

KT SPECIAL REPORT

Reputable customers place their trust in Unger Steel Group's tailor-made and customer-oriented solutionsFormel1_ Rennstrecke_AbuDhabi

Formula 1 race track in Abu Dhabi

Dubai International Airport

Zinkpower Middle East

One of Unger Steel Group's projects 16

Product portfolio The comprehensive product range comprises the entire construction trade: Sports-, leisure- and multi-purpose constructions, hall constructions and industrial buildings, car dealerships, plant engineering, office buildings, hotel and house buildings, multistorey car parks, power plants, airports, exhibition and event buildings, shopping centres, architectural steel constructions and many more.

International projects to customer specifications The product portfolio of the Unger Steel Group encompasses the entire construction industry. The following reputable customers, who have placed their trust in its tailormade and customer-oriented solutions are OEBB, the new Vienna railway station; Red Bull, Draexmlaier Group, Metro, Magna, Airbus, Globalfoundries, Siemens, Knauf, Lafarge, Gebrueder Weiss, Toyota, Lexus, BMW, Audi, Daimler or Mercedes. Worthy of particular note are the references of Unger Steel Middle East, like the Dubai airport, Mall of the Emirates, the Formula 1 race track in Abu Dhabi, Doha airport, entrance portals at the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, and the research institute Kapsarc in Saudi Arabia.

Further renowned customers are Petrofac, Zinkpower, Zublin, Alpine, Mero, Siemens and many others. The Unger Steel Group with its 1,200 employees has been synonymous from the very outset with quality, customer-orientation, flexibility and on-schedule deliv-

ery. Within Europe, Unger is the Number One in steel construction.

The success of the Unger Group is based on three pillars: STEEL: Years of experience in structural as well as in architectural steelwork guarantee customers a high degree of creativity, quick realisation and perfect implementation.

GENERAL CONTRACTING: As general contractor and specialist for overall solutions, Unger undertakes the complete project control and management right from the beginning.

REAL ESTATE: Unger Immobilien forms the platform for real estate development and strategic consulting. The services include holistic development, planning and implementation of internal or external projects.

As a one-stop shop, the Unger Steel Middle East offers a wide variety of projects, anything from small projects to complete solutions for complex and technically demanding construction projects. Unger is known for on-time delivery, quality and customised solution.

AUSTRIA

KT SPECIAL REPORT

Maximising the water economy Austria-based WaterLead is successfully fighting water shortage, one of the most critical threats to global survival WaterLead has developed a brand new concept that pools in the latest water-loss reducing technologies. The company is formed by a highly renowned group of European interdisciplinary water experts, who share one common goal: Providing a new and comprehensive response to the problems of water supply and treatment.

Based on synergetic combination of new and already existing technologies, the research team of WaterLead has designed the "4C" concept (conceiving, cooling, cleaning and controlling). The result: Maximum water economy that can reach up to 80 per cent in water saving.

The first “C” (conceiving) involves an area of expertise that includes a hydro-geological research team and infrastructure planning. It explores, on-site, the best source of water for public and/or industrial use. This part is covered by the Austrian engineering company Mach & Partners GMBH, lead by Thomas Mach, who provide state-ofthe-art hydro-geological assistance, wherever needed.

Specialised in Arab countries, WaterLead, with their local co-operating partners, have created a unique network of information systems. As a consequence, WaterLead is in a position to instantly conduct specific calculation of water balance, water-loss analysis, pipe network analysis, digitisation of pipe network and several other tests that have been recently developed. An efficient method, it reduces waterloss and enables long-term rehabilitation strategy for all piping and cable systems.

Interactivity of WaterLead water saving programme (up to 80 per cent)

Controlling (remote analyser)

Among WaterLead’s cluster partners, a German manufacturer of industrial water-cooling towers uses latest thermodynamic technology with best suited-materials (stainless steel) to undertake the second “C” (cooling). It is deployed in most industrial sites, as well as in hotels and hospitals.

A member of WaterLead has invented a revolutionary electrochemical process, which eradicates all bacteria and scales without using chemical additives involving the third “C” (cleaning). The cooling tower, therefore, becomes independent from any chemical survey and saves a lot of money.

Clean water is finally controlled remotely in real-time by a computer with an online

Cooling (radial stainless steel)

Conceiving (hydrogeology)

monitored system. This final step and fourth “C” (controlling) ensures that the water is pure and can be re-used for irrigation or other uses, free of chemical additives.

The WaterLead cluster is expanding worldwide, seeking industrial partners with skilled

Cleaning (wihout chemicals)

staff, who operate in the field of "water treatment", sharing a common vision and providing best services with fast return of investment.

Intensive contacts with endcustomers and future licence partners are both equally important for the CEO of WaterLead, Frederic Chiha who states that “WaterLead is open to entering into joint ventures for local value creation” underlining that “water is going to be a very important resource in future.”

Information on WaterLead’s newest technologies can be found at www.waterlead.com.

The website contains comprehensive assessment calculation features, showing your own possible contribution to preserve water.

17

AUSTRIA

AUSTRIA

KT SPECIAL REPORT

KT SPECIAL REPORT

Winter VACATION

Take a relaxing walk through its varied landscapes or ski in the Austrian Alps, the country offers a relaxing holiday in Europe

A

vacation in Austria gets you close to nature and allows you to get to know people and the wonderful traditions of the country. Austria's landscapes are incredibly varied and the options are endless: Be it a relaxing walk through Austria's varied landscapes or skiing in the Austrian Alps, keep in mind that you are never far from historic city centres, cultural events and gourmet restaurant.

Most popular ski regions Austria's mountain resorts offer activities for skiers and non-skiers alike. Regions like the Arlberg, Kitzbuehel, Innsbruck, Stubai Glacier and the Montafon ski region offer not only great outdoor activities but also great culinary delights.

Austrain slopes let you unwind

18

The Arlberg Lech, Zuers, St. Anton. The Arlberg region is not only the birthplace of modern Alpine skiing, but also the most popular playground for Europe's royal families.

Located 4,278 – 9,223 feet above the sea level, the Arlberg is serviced by 85 ski lifts, 161 miles of downhill terrain, 124 miles of deep snow and glacier skiing. It has all the right ingredients for winter fun in the Austrian Alps punctuated by variety, historic charm and world-class amenities.

Enjoys Ski bars, tennis and squash, ice-skating, alpine curling, tobogganing and horse-drawn sleigh rides. The cuisine is as dazzling and varied as the terrain.

The nearest airports: Innsbruck, 62 miles; Zurich, 124

Austria is a skier’s paradise with its classic high alpine terrain

miles; Munich, 130 miles.

There are scheduled bus services between Zurich airport and Arlberg on F§ridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Kitzbuehel A perfect Tyrolean town and the world’s most famous ski race "Hahnenkammrennen" define this centre Alpine Skiing. This jewel of the town has an age-old tradition and an international reputation that has helped define winter sports and its entire ski industry. There is probably no winter sport that cannot be practiced in Kitzbühel. The ski area has 99 miles (160 kilometres) of manicured pistes, a top-notch fun park for snowboarders, deep-snow

slopes, and mountains perfect for ski tours. The town is famous not only for sports but also for its hospitality. Enjoy Kitzbühel's excellent hotels, culinary delights, après-ski excitement, and its nightlife.

A name full of magic Let yourself be enchanted by the Kitzbühel-Reith-Aurach holiday region at the foot of the world-famous Hahnenkamm.

Tradition and a cosmopolitan atmosphere combine to produce the distinctive Kitzbühel flair: 160 kilometres (100 miles) of pistes, 60 lifts, a snowboarder's paradise, carving areas, over 50 kilometres (31 miles) of artificially prepared runs, a spectacular selection of bars,

restaurants, and shops, as well as a casino.

Innsbruck & Stubai Glacier Innsbruck has earned the reputation of winter sports capital. The city works hard to maintain and improve its twin character as a top-class ski area and sophisticated urban centre. Innsbruck, with its striking location at the foot of the Alps offers winter guests a tempting choice of great skiing and snowboarding in six different areas.

The Stubai Glacier is an optimum opportunity for people longing for genuine winter sports fun. On more than 50 kilometres of ski runs, visitors can enjoy intensive downhill

skiing, carving and boarding, and practice cross-country skiing on the alpine trail of a length of 4.5 kilometre. Twenty one installations comprising four cabin lifts, six chair lifts, nine ski tows and training lifts and two magic carpets offer ski fans a trendy winter sports resort, and maximum skiing pleasure to active athletes at 1.750 to 3.200 metres above the sea level.

Montafon The Montafon valley is about 25 miles long and includes 11 villages located at altitudes of 1,969-4,757 feet and ringed by majestic peaks of 3,312 metres, or over 10,000 feet.

There are villages with a ca-

sual, sporty atmosphere and a varied programme of leisure activities, cozy localities suitable for families, as well as quiet Alpine villages perfect for relaxing.

S chruns, Gas churn , Gargellen in the Vorarlberg province are easily reached via Zurich, as they are closest to the Swiss neighbours. Winter turns this Alpine valley into one big skiing paradise with 66 mountain railways and ski lifts, around 122 miles of marked, manicured downhill runs, ski tours on the sparkling white Silvretta glaciers, 62 miles of cross-country trails, 119 miles of winter hiking trails, artificial and natural toboggan runs and 10 skiing schools.

19

AUSTRIA

AUSTRIA

KT SPECIAL REPORT

KT SPECIAL REPORT

Winter VACATION

Take a relaxing walk through its varied landscapes or ski in the Austrian Alps, the country offers a relaxing holiday in Europe

A

vacation in Austria gets you close to nature and allows you to get to know people and the wonderful traditions of the country. Austria's landscapes are incredibly varied and the options are endless: Be it a relaxing walk through Austria's varied landscapes or skiing in the Austrian Alps, keep in mind that you are never far from historic city centres, cultural events and gourmet restaurant.

Most popular ski regions Austria's mountain resorts offer activities for skiers and non-skiers alike. Regions like the Arlberg, Kitzbuehel, Innsbruck, Stubai Glacier and the Montafon ski region offer not only great outdoor activities but also great culinary delights.

Austrain slopes let you unwind

18

The Arlberg Lech, Zuers, St. Anton. The Arlberg region is not only the birthplace of modern Alpine skiing, but also the most popular playground for Europe's royal families.

Located 4,278 – 9,223 feet above the sea level, the Arlberg is serviced by 85 ski lifts, 161 miles of downhill terrain, 124 miles of deep snow and glacier skiing. It has all the right ingredients for winter fun in the Austrian Alps punctuated by variety, historic charm and world-class amenities.

Enjoys Ski bars, tennis and squash, ice-skating, alpine curling, tobogganing and horse-drawn sleigh rides. The cuisine is as dazzling and varied as the terrain.

The nearest airports: Innsbruck, 62 miles; Zurich, 124

Austria is a skier’s paradise with its classic high alpine terrain

miles; Munich, 130 miles.

There are scheduled bus services between Zurich airport and Arlberg on F§ridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Kitzbuehel A perfect Tyrolean town and the world’s most famous ski race "Hahnenkammrennen" define this centre Alpine Skiing. This jewel of the town has an age-old tradition and an international reputation that has helped define winter sports and its entire ski industry. There is probably no winter sport that cannot be practiced in Kitzbühel. The ski area has 99 miles (160 kilometres) of manicured pistes, a top-notch fun park for snowboarders, deep-snow

slopes, and mountains perfect for ski tours. The town is famous not only for sports but also for its hospitality. Enjoy Kitzbühel's excellent hotels, culinary delights, après-ski excitement, and its nightlife.

A name full of magic Let yourself be enchanted by the Kitzbühel-Reith-Aurach holiday region at the foot of the world-famous Hahnenkamm.

Tradition and a cosmopolitan atmosphere combine to produce the distinctive Kitzbühel flair: 160 kilometres (100 miles) of pistes, 60 lifts, a snowboarder's paradise, carving areas, over 50 kilometres (31 miles) of artificially prepared runs, a spectacular selection of bars,

restaurants, and shops, as well as a casino.

Innsbruck & Stubai Glacier Innsbruck has earned the reputation of winter sports capital. The city works hard to maintain and improve its twin character as a top-class ski area and sophisticated urban centre. Innsbruck, with its striking location at the foot of the Alps offers winter guests a tempting choice of great skiing and snowboarding in six different areas.

The Stubai Glacier is an optimum opportunity for people longing for genuine winter sports fun. On more than 50 kilometres of ski runs, visitors can enjoy intensive downhill

skiing, carving and boarding, and practice cross-country skiing on the alpine trail of a length of 4.5 kilometre. Twenty one installations comprising four cabin lifts, six chair lifts, nine ski tows and training lifts and two magic carpets offer ski fans a trendy winter sports resort, and maximum skiing pleasure to active athletes at 1.750 to 3.200 metres above the sea level.

Montafon The Montafon valley is about 25 miles long and includes 11 villages located at altitudes of 1,969-4,757 feet and ringed by majestic peaks of 3,312 metres, or over 10,000 feet.

There are villages with a ca-

sual, sporty atmosphere and a varied programme of leisure activities, cozy localities suitable for families, as well as quiet Alpine villages perfect for relaxing.

S chruns, Gas churn , Gargellen in the Vorarlberg province are easily reached via Zurich, as they are closest to the Swiss neighbours. Winter turns this Alpine valley into one big skiing paradise with 66 mountain railways and ski lifts, around 122 miles of marked, manicured downhill runs, ski tours on the sparkling white Silvretta glaciers, 62 miles of cross-country trails, 119 miles of winter hiking trails, artificial and natural toboggan runs and 10 skiing schools.

19

AUSTRIA

AUSTRIA

KT SPECIAL REPORT

KT SPECIAL REPORT

OXYGIZER

Nothing but nature Oxygizer water is non-carbonated, sugarfree, low in sodium and high in natural calcium and magnesium with no artificial colour or flavourings

OXYGIZER improves performance measurably during periods of high physical stress and the resulting regeneration phase. University Professor Dr Wolfgang Marktl, Head of Science at the Institute of Medical Physiology at Vienna University, and his research team completed their scientific ergometry tests in 2001 using a randomised double-blind study and have proven the effective influence and effect of Oxygizer on the body’s performance capability.

“Oxygen and lots of it. Oxygizer is enriched with 150 mg to 180 mg pure oxygen per litre.

Its pure mineral water is sourced from the Tree Peaks Nature Park/Sexten, a conservation reserve in the Dolomite Mountains situated at the border between Austria and Italy.

The water is non-carbonated, sugar-free, low in sodium (1.2mg/l) and high in natural calcium and magnesium, with no artificial colour or flavourings, and comes in a glass bottle from which no oxygen can escape. We first brought Oxygizer to the UAE in 2006. Now we are distributing it in five GCC countries — UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar and Kuwait — with the help of our esteemed partners,” informs Martin Pupp, Oxygizer’s Founder and CEO. Middle East Trading Store distributes Oxygizer in the 20

UAE. The other distribution partners of Oxygizer in the GCC markets include Al Abdulla Group Enterprises in Qatar, Saudi Land for marketing and distribution in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, and Blue Passion in Kuwait.

Mohammed Al Abdulla from Al Abdulla Group Enterprises of Doha comments, “As experts in the field of medicine and beauty, we were very pleased that modern science has provided our region with such a magnificent product like Oxygizer. We believe that Oxygizer has the best and the healthiest attributes compared to other beverages and provides an ideal combination of health and beauty.”

Riyadh A. Bahaian, Chairman of Saudi Land for Marketing and Distribution in Saudi Arabia, says, “As a bottled drinking water expert operating in this market for the last 27 years, I find that Oxygizer, in its unique bottle, is the only oxygenated natural mineral water in the entire region. With increased visibility due to participation in leading regional exhibitions and presence in palaces, five-star hotels, and health clubs, Oxygizer is especially popular with customers who prefer glass bottle to ordinary water in PET bottles.”

Thanks to the unrelenting efforts of its partners, Oxygizer is easily available to consumers.

Over 3,000 outlets in the GCC including hypermarkets such as Carrefour, Al Tamami, Spinney’s, LuLu, Union Co-op, and HyperPanda; supermarkets like Choithram, RAK National Markets, Lifco, Abela and Co; petrol stations like Emarat, Enoc/Eppco and Adnoc, and Sultan Centres market Oxygizer. Also, many hotels in the region including the W Hotel in

Oxygizer is enriched with 150 mg to 180 mg pure oxygen per litre. Its pure mineral water from the Tree Peaks Nature Park/ Sexten, a conservation reserve in the Dolomite Mountains situated at the border between Austria and Italy Qatar; sports clubs like Al Ahli Football Club; Dr Hassan Clinic in Doha, as well as Shaikhs’ palaces in all the countries use and serve Oxygizer.

“Many members of the flight crew of Emirates, Etihad and Qatar Airways realise its benefits and drink Oxygizer on a regular basis. It has become the preferred water for people from all parts of society. Therefore, we want to continue improving the availability of Oxygizer to everyone and strengthen its market position in the key GCC markets where we are currently present. In the future, we will also consider entering other neighbouring markets so that more people can “oxygize” themselves with Oxygizer’s amazing high quality properties and enjoy its health benefits,” affirms Martin Pupp.

21

AUSTRIA

AUSTRIA

KT SPECIAL REPORT

KT SPECIAL REPORT

OXYGIZER

Nothing but nature Oxygizer water is non-carbonated, sugarfree, low in sodium and high in natural calcium and magnesium with no artificial colour or flavourings

OXYGIZER improves performance measurably during periods of high physical stress and the resulting regeneration phase. University Professor Dr Wolfgang Marktl, Head of Science at the Institute of Medical Physiology at Vienna University, and his research team completed their scientific ergometry tests in 2001 using a randomised double-blind study and have proven the effective influence and effect of Oxygizer on the body’s performance capability.

“Oxygen and lots of it. Oxygizer is enriched with 150 mg to 180 mg pure oxygen per litre.

Its pure mineral water is sourced from the Tree Peaks Nature Park/Sexten, a conservation reserve in the Dolomite Mountains situated at the border between Austria and Italy.

The water is non-carbonated, sugar-free, low in sodium (1.2mg/l) and high in natural calcium and magnesium, with no artificial colour or flavourings, and comes in a glass bottle from which no oxygen can escape. We first brought Oxygizer to the UAE in 2006. Now we are distributing it in five GCC countries — UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar and Kuwait — with the help of our esteemed partners,” informs Martin Pupp, Oxygizer’s Founder and CEO. Middle East Trading Store distributes Oxygizer in the 20

UAE. The other distribution partners of Oxygizer in the GCC markets include Al Abdulla Group Enterprises in Qatar, Saudi Land for marketing and distribution in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, and Blue Passion in Kuwait.

Mohammed Al Abdulla from Al Abdulla Group Enterprises of Doha comments, “As experts in the field of medicine and beauty, we were very pleased that modern science has provided our region with such a magnificent product like Oxygizer. We believe that Oxygizer has the best and the healthiest attributes compared to other beverages and provides an ideal combination of health and beauty.”

Riyadh A. Bahaian, Chairman of Saudi Land for Marketing and Distribution in Saudi Arabia, says, “As a bottled drinking water expert operating in this market for the last 27 years, I find that Oxygizer, in its unique bottle, is the only oxygenated natural mineral water in the entire region. With increased visibility due to participation in leading regional exhibitions and presence in palaces, five-star hotels, and health clubs, Oxygizer is especially popular with customers who prefer glass bottle to ordinary water in PET bottles.”

Thanks to the unrelenting efforts of its partners, Oxygizer is easily available to consumers.

Over 3,000 outlets in the GCC including hypermarkets such as Carrefour, Al Tamami, Spinney’s, LuLu, Union Co-op, and HyperPanda; supermarkets like Choithram, RAK National Markets, Lifco, Abela and Co; petrol stations like Emarat, Enoc/Eppco and Adnoc, and Sultan Centres market Oxygizer. Also, many hotels in the region including the W Hotel in

Oxygizer is enriched with 150 mg to 180 mg pure oxygen per litre. Its pure mineral water from the Tree Peaks Nature Park/ Sexten, a conservation reserve in the Dolomite Mountains situated at the border between Austria and Italy Qatar; sports clubs like Al Ahli Football Club; Dr Hassan Clinic in Doha, as well as Shaikhs’ palaces in all the countries use and serve Oxygizer.

“Many members of the flight crew of Emirates, Etihad and Qatar Airways realise its benefits and drink Oxygizer on a regular basis. It has become the preferred water for people from all parts of society. Therefore, we want to continue improving the availability of Oxygizer to everyone and strengthen its market position in the key GCC markets where we are currently present. In the future, we will also consider entering other neighbouring markets so that more people can “oxygize” themselves with Oxygizer’s amazing high quality properties and enjoy its health benefits,” affirms Martin Pupp.

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AUSTRIA

KT SPECIAL REPORT

RAIFFEISEN BANK INTERNATIONAL

Bearing a strong presence Raiffeisen Bank International manages about 14.6 million customers at around 3,100 business outlets and guides Austrian companies in the MENA region RAIFFEISEN Bank International (RBI) considers Austria and Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) its home market. It is a leading commercial and investment bank in Austria for its top 1,000 commercial customers.

In CEE, its subsidiaries cover de facto the entire region. Approximately 14.6 million customers are managed by around 3,100 business outlets in the commercial and private customer segments and investment banking. In addition, RBI appeals to wealthy private customers with services in the areas of premium banking and private banking in selected countries of the region. Apart from focusing on Central and Eastern Europe, RBI is the only Austrian bank with a strong presence in both the world’s financial centres and in Asia, where it operates branches and representative offices in nine locations.

Strong footprints in MENA In the MENA region, RBI has been active for almost 30 years.

As a well-known and respected business partner, it has longstanding and established relationships with banks, central banks and sovereign wealth funds, both in the GCC and across North Africa. RBI has a professional team covering this region, backed by cultural and linguistic knowledge.

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Appeals to wealthy private customers with services such as premium banking in select countries

Partner of the Austrian export economy — bridge-builder to Central and Eastern Europe Austria is an industrial country with a strong export economy. Cross-border trade accounts for six Euros in every 10 generated by Austria, making foreign trade the country’s primary source of wealth creation and one of the pillars of its economic and social systems. Austria is the world’s eighth largest exporter and is ranked among some of the world’s major exporters such as Switzerland, Sweden and Germany. In 2011, Austrian companies exported goods and services amounting to €2.25 billion to the Middle East. More than a quarter of this amount was generated in the UAE, making it one of the most important trade partners for Austrian companies in the MENA region. RBI is a strong and reliable partner for Austrian companies conducting business in the region, and by providing comprehensive export finance products it supports the transfer of Austrian “know-

Together with its partners, RBI offers a wide range of products such as Trade and Export Finance via Cash Management services further into Investment Banking and Asset Management solutions. A cornerstone of its activities includes servicing its corporate clientele active in the region how” to the region.

Furthermore, RBI is the bridge-builder to Central and Eastern Europe (CEE), Europe´s fastest growing region. To date, CEE has weathered the Euro zone turbulence

remarkably well. There are very limited contagion effects in CEE from the crisis in the Euro zone peripherals. CEE economies will benefit from a global economic recovery due to higher export demand and a strong competitive position. A high educational level, a huge investment backlog and availability of substantial EU funds underpin the prospects for long-term growth. RBI has built upon the potential of the region from an early stage. It maintains network banks in 15 CEE countries; many of them top three banks in its respective markets. Numerous renowned industry awards are testament to RBI’s leading role in the region.

Together with its partners, RBI offers a wide range of products such as Trade and Export Finance via Cash Management services further into Investment Banking and Asset Management solutions. A cornerstone of its activities includes servicing its corporate clientele active in the region.