Y Magazine #540, October 18, 2018

Sustainable city

INSIDE OMAN’S AMBITIOUS SANDAN INDUSTRIAL PARK Y Portrait

By A Nation REGISTER NOW FOR THE SULTANATE’S BIGGEST PATRIOTIC TRIBUTE!

News: ROGUE EXPAT WORKERS 10 ARRESTED

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DESTINATION: Sana’a TASTE TEST: Keranadu

YOUR TOP GUIDE TO THE BEST OF OMAN, EVERY WEEK

OCT 18 - 24 2018 / ISSUE 540 • WEEKLY

LEGAL CORRUPTION?

PLUS!

FOR EXPATS BUILDING THEIR FINANCIAL FUTURE IN THE GCC, SECURING THEIR ASSETS MEANS INVESTING IN WEALTH MANAGEMENT COMPANIES. BUT AT WHAT COST? Y EXPLORES THE SEEDY WORLD OF FINANCIAL FRAUD THAT’S GAINING A FOOTHOLD IN OMAN, LEAVING INVESTORS STRUGGLING TO CASH OUT

FASHION: SPOOKTACULAR HALLOWEEN STYLE 01 NOVEMBER 24 / ISSUE 258

40

YUMMY OMAN: TOP 5 NEW MUSCAT RESTAURANTS

44

FIRST DRIVE: VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG

34

EDITOR’S

NOTE

Welcome to Y Magazine – your top guide to the best of Oman every week.

IN THIS ISSUE… A

s expats, for one reason or another, we’ve chosen to leave life in our home countries behind in search of a bet-ter one for ourselves and our families here in Oman or elsewhere in the GCC. From lucrative career opportunities to the luxuries of income tax-free salaries that spell greater financial support and stability, it’s a choice where, for many of us, the rewards outweigh the risks of leaving it all behind.

For those expats planning to make this region home for the long-term; personal financial planning and investment is key as those who have gained non-residency status for taxation purposes in their home countries may no longer qualify for government benefits such as old-age pension, state healthcare or disability. As a result, many expats throughout the GCC are opting to throw their financial hand in with wealth management companies based out of the GCC on the good faith that they’re getting what they’ve signed up for.

An eight per cent interest on your investment – without worrying about tax or any hidden cost? Sound too good to be true? That’s probably because the finance agent isn’t revealing everything to you – a practice that’s given birth to a new form of fraud that finance experts are now terming ‘legal corruption’. In our cover story this week, we focus on several expats who have fallen prey to such agents on the basis of trust – some registered and regulated with-in the GCC, others outsourced from countries such as the UK and US. Is there a way out of the masses of debt they’ve found themselves in? And what legal recourse is available to them in an effort to reclaim their life savings? Turn to page 20 to find out.

Also in this issue, Y is gearing up for its annual Road Safety Pledge campaign happening this Friday, October 19 at Markaz Al Bahja Mall, plus we bring you an exclusive tour of the new Sandan Industrial Park – one of the nation’s biggest and most ambitious economic and social developments.

Until next week, happy reading!

Team Y EDITOR IN CHIEF Sayyida Iman bint Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi ADMIN MANAGER Yousef Al Harrassi ART DIRECTOR Matthew Herbst

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OCT 18 -24 / ISSUE 540

03

contents OCT 18 - 24

Your Oman 08 Voice Of Oman

Sheikh Nasr Amer

Shwain al Hosni 10 News

Rogue expat workers arrested 12 News

Oman sets up UK

trade mission

10 Cars and Adventures 32 Destination

Sana’a 34 First Drive

Volkswagen Touareg 38 Y-Fi

AI ingenuity

38

2018

This Week 18

Comedy Club Rake in the laughs this Thursday, October 19 as some of the best local stand-up comedians hit the stage at the Park Inn

by Radisson

Features 20 Easy prey

A new form of elaborate

fraud is leading expats

in the GCC into debt as

rogue financial brokers

lock them into decade-

long bonds and mutual

funds without prior

warning. Y investigates

the rise of ‘legal corruption’.

24 Sustainable city

Oman’s Sandan

Industrial Park aims

to change the way we

access material

services, while improving the 19 Movies

quality of life for the

Nicholas Cage stars

country’s labourers.

as a forest-dwelling

‘grizzly-man’ who 26 Y Portrait By A Nation

must save his

Registration for the

wife from a violent th annual Y Portrait 5

hippie cult that

By A Nation is now

threatens to overturn

open! We meet artist and

their back-to-nature

PBAN judge Ibrahim

bliss in ‘Mandy’

Gailani to learn

why investment in

the arts is key to our

nation’s cultural footprint.

19

Health and Beauty 40 Fashion

Spooktacular style 42 Beauty

Going grey with

grace

Food and Drink 44 Yummy Oman: Top 5 new Muscat

restaurants

Have you tried these

tasty newcomers yet?

46 Taste Test Keranadu

40 NEXT ISSUE...

FEATURES / COFFEE WITH Y / NEWS / MOVIES / EVENTS / BEAUTY / DESTINATION / TRAVEL / FASHION / FIRST DRIVE

44

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brity ch and the latest celeve got at w to ts tis ar e th e’ From e hits of the week, w gossip to your ultimat from the pulse of the music your superstar dose Radio Oman 100.9 FM world, with Virgin

A baby girl for Kehlani We know Kehlani from songs like ‘Done for Me’ with Charlie Puth, and ‘Ring’ with Cardi B. Now the recording artist has just announced she’s four months’ pregnant with a baby girl. The star took to Instagram to break the news in a heart-warming post that featured a photo of herself embracing her ‘baby bump’: “Dearest little girl, I’m so proud to be your mommy. I’m so proud to have received you, I cannot wait to meet you, I know you will be 50,000 times more special than I can even imagine at this moment”. Congrats Kehlani!

is ‘Camp: Notes on Fashion’, and will be co-chaired

by Lady Gaga, Harry Styles, Serena Williams and Anna Wintour.

Pete and Ariana split?

Alessia Cara drops new single Alessia Cara has dropped the third single off her new album ‘The Pains of Growing’. ‘Trust My Lonely’ is all about moving on from a relationship that was never good for you in the first place. The 22-year-old singer will release her new album later this fall. Other singles from the album include ‘Growing Pains’ and ‘A Little More’.

Little Mix team up with Nicki Minaj

Hologram Amy Winehouse?

After a whirlwind romance and engagement, reports are now circulating that comedian Pete Davidson and popdiva Ariana Grande have called it quits.

The two celebs got engaged after just one month and have conducted a very public relationship since. News of the breakup has left fans on both sides reeling, with sources close to the pair stating that the decision was mutual.

Since her tragic death in 2011, the ‘Back to Black’ and ‘Rehab’ singer has been much-missed. A hologram of the singer will take to the stage in 2019 via the same company that produced hologram tours for Maria Callas, and Roy Orbison. The tour is set to travel the world for three years with Winehouse’s hologram projected onto a stage, with a live band accompanying the voice from her original recordings. All proceeds from the tour will go to the Amy Winehouse Foundation which helps at-risk youth.

And this year’s Met Gala theme is…

Fashion’s most iconic red-carpet event of the year, the annual Met Gala is always over-the-top as it marks the opening of the Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute’s new exhibition. Slated to be held on May 6, 2019, this year’s theme 06

OCT 18 - 24 / ISSUE 540

Michael Bublé steps back After enduring a parent’s worst nightmare – his five-year-old son Noah’s battle with cancer, Michael Bublé has announced plans to step back from music. The ‘It’s A Beautiful Day’ and ‘Haven’t Met You Yet’ singer says his family’s ordeal has prompted him to re-evaluate life’s priorities. The 43-year-old Canadian star plans to take an indefinite break from the music business after his upcoming album ‘Love’, which is set for release on November 16. In a statement he said: “My whole being’s changed; my perception of life. I don’t know if I can even get through this conversation without crying. And I’ve never lost control of my emotions in public. I actually thought I’d never come back to the music business.

I never fell out of love with music, I just needed to put it aside.”

It’s been two years since we got a new album from Little Mix, but that’s soon about to change with the release of the lead single off their upcoming fifth album. ‘Woman Like Me’ features Nicki Minaj and has a reggae-pop sound. The song is about female empowerment and whether or not the person they’re interested in can handle their confidence.

Sia reminds us she’s still here!

Sia is back with a ballad about perseverance with ‘I’m Still Here’. The song was released as it comes along with her new footwear line, which is a collaboration with Maison Repetto.

The song is quite personal as it expands on Sia’s past battles.

Be sure to keep it locked to Virgin Radio Oman 100.9 FM, and don’t miss your Tea Time with Maya Noise, daily on Chad in the Morning.

THE VOICE OF OMAN

SHEIKH NASR AMER SHWAIN AL HOSNI, THE CEO OF FINCORP, OMAN’S LEADING INVESTMENT BANKING COMPANY, TALKS ABOUT HOW A SHIFT IN FOCUS MUST BE MADE TO KEEP INVESTMENTS WITHIN THE COUNTRY

correspondence DEBATE OF THE WEEK WE ASKED: Expats in the GCC are sitting ducks for unregulated finance advisors who lock in investors into decade-long policies without transparency. Do you think this is prevalent in Oman – and what can be done to protect the investor?

Additionally, the new law is setting out guidelines for It is simply the so-called white collared employees foreign investors. As a result, foreign investors can play a critical role in the formation of stable markets. who fall victim to this trap, since very rarely do The proposed law also protects and provides for the ‘blue-collared’ have the wherewithal to go dispute resolution and it involves foreign arbitration, in for expensive policies or investment products. in relation to procedural norms laid down in Expecting a sudden windfall, they accumulate their hard-earned savings and await appropriate the rules of the United Nations Commission on International trade Law. Finally, the amendments avenues to park their funds. Those who do not of the residence law give a chance to foreigners who have the willingness or time to do some market research are sitting ducks for the schemes offered own properties in Oman to receive a visa without a sponsor. by these advisors. It is strange, at a time when information is at everyone’s fingertips, that these DR. TAMANNA DALWAI educated people do not use their intelligence and Investor protection needs to be supported skills to sieve through the good from the bad. by appropriate commercial laws and their The solution is very simple: research thoroughly implementation. According to the World Bank before finalising any investment decisions and ratings, Strength of Investor Protection Index for understand all the pros and cons.

Oman appears to be much safer as the insurance Oman was only 4.7 in 2017, and ranked number five among the GCC countries. Oman was ranked and financial services sectors are well-regulated.

There is transparency, which requires the service 99 out of 137 countries, which definitely highlights that all is not well when it comes to investor providers to explain the details of the product/ protection. Although the rankings have an element scheme to prospective customers, and agents of debate the extent of disclosures expected from cannot coerce customers to buy any products the listed companies are yet to be comparable with under duress. other countries that are well-ranked. For example, countries like New Zealand and Singapore require SANGEETHA SUDHEER related party transactions to be approved by Investors are the key pillars in the shareholders and will also hold directors to account. development of Oman and their Strong investor protection also supports attracting protection is essential. Presently, investment from foreign investors. Oman’s securities expatriates will be allowed to start a business without a native business partner. Moreover, there market is still developing, and taking lessons from is no minimum capital requirement if a draft law the developed markets would go a long way in issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry advancing the economy. is agreed by the governmental authorities. The SARAH FOSTER foreign capital investment law, which is going to As an expat living in the GCC for the past seven be implemented soon, will recognise a complete foreign ownership and will remove the minimum years I’ve watched from the sidelines as friends have become entrapped in bad investments via wealth capital requirement. In short, Oman is going to be a successful open market for foreign investors. management companies in the region. Then, when

MOHAN ANANDAN

T

he world has become one in which there are opportunities for anyone who wishes to invest in their country of choice without any questions asked. There aren’t many boundaries any more.

While this gives the investor a chance to broaden his or her horizons, we must shift our focus to accommodating needs within Oman.

That means opening up the market to allow people to keep their money in this country.

To achieve this, we need to build local tools: this could be anything from real estate to the share market – and showcase how one could benefit from it. Where things really take shape, however, is when you realise that Oman’s track record in investments is great.

The security of your investments here is higher than in other neighbouring countries, and our economy is also comparatively stable.

That said, one must exercise caution when making the decision to invest, too. For example, one needs to undertake research before opting to devote funds to any form of investment.

It needn’t necessarily be from Oman or any other part of the world. Moreover, only agencies and investment firms that are regulated by the Capital Market Authority can operate in this country.

So, anyone trying to contact residents here would be contravening regulations. Such people can be reported to the authorities – and rightly so because, by driving funds outside the country, not only are they breaching the trust of the land but they are also stopping the market from benefiting from local investments.

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OCT 18 - 24 / ISSUE 540

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something goes wrong with their job security here and they have to go back to their home country, they find themselves locked in without escape clauses – often due to lack of transparency or certain agencies that have done a ‘bait-and-switch’ – luring them in with one set of regulations and then presenting them with additional fine print after the agreement has been signed. It’s illegal and completely fraudulent. There was one such UKbased brokerage firm in Qatar that was forced to shut down operations in the country due to incidences of malpractice such as this. When I lived there they would call me many times a week like telemarketers trying to get me to place my money in their hands.

Their agents were quite forceful over the phone to the point where I had to tell them firmly to please remove my number from their contact list. They wouldn’t take no for an answer and

WWW.Y-OMAN.COM

/YTABLOID

came across as quite desperate – always a red flag! Friends of mine have also had similar experiences with agents from other companies too. One friend in Dubai lost her job and had to leave the country.

Her landlord wouldn’t let her out of her lease unless she paid him the four months’ rent remaining. In order to do this, she needed to access her investments with the brokerage firm and activate an early withdrawal of funds. She was within the six-month grace period with this firm to cash out without being penalised. She was then told that she would, in fact, be penalised and then spent a lengthy litigation process to reclaim her funds as she was clearly misled by the broker.

It took her a year to retrieve her investments and she almost became financially bankrupt in the process.

Stay away from these agents and investment firms at all costs!

New Debate: As the global vaccination debate rages on, the death of a Muscat child from H1N1 flu in March 2018 left the city reeling. What’s your stance on inoculation and is there enough educational awareness available in Oman for patients to make an informed decision about their health?

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PHOTO: Anitha Arun

OCT 18 - 24 / ISSUE 540

09

NEWS

LUBAN WARNING

FOR SALALAH

T

he Public Authority for Civil Aviation has issued its sixth alert regarding the category one tropical Cyclone Luban.

As of Monday, the centre of the storm was 240km from Salalah, according to a PACA statement. The wind speed was recorded

as being between 30 and 45 knots (56-83km/ hr).

Residents and tourists alike have been warned to take all necessary precautions, and to stay away from any low-lying areas and wadis.

Heavy rain, strong winds, and floods are set to continue in Dhofar.

ROGUE EXPAT WORKERS ARRESTED

M

ore than 100 expats were arrested and deported from Buraimi in September, the Ministry of Manpower has confirmed.

They had been flouting Oman’s labour laws, according to the ministry.

A MoM spokesman confirmed in a statement: “105 violating workers were arrested and deported last month.”

Last week, 272 people were arrested in Al Wusta and Muscat for similar offences.

In another inspection, in Fahud and Barkha, 289 people were arrested, and face further investigation from the authorities.

EIGHT RESCUED FROM STRANDED SHIP

E

ight crew men on a freight ship have been rescued, the Public Authority for Civil Defence (PACDA) confirmed.

The eight were stranded after their ship got stuck among rocks at Wilayat of Sadah during high waves, PACDA said in a statement.

All eight were evacuated and are in good health, a PACDA spokesman said.

The rescue operation was co-ordinated with the Sadah police force.

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OCT 18 - 24 / ISSUE 540

e t a l f In

When:

19th October, 2018

Where: Jebel Sifah

Adults: 15 OMR kids: 7.5 OMR

your weekend

free

r u o t t u o work

y a y i r F lex E v e ray p m o c s t r o p s s n qaboo

8AM | Sult

nationalobstacleseries.com

YOUR

OMAN

TENT-PEGGING TEAM EYES WORLD CUP

O

man’s national team for tentpegging is all set to take part in the World Cup, to be hosted in the UAE. The event’s World Cup, its third, will be held from October 28 to November 3 in Abu Dhabi.

Oman’s national team were runners-up the first time the event was staged in Oman, and came fourth in the second World Cup in Egypt.

The cavalry sport is only one of ten equestrian disciplines officially recognised by the International Equestrian Federation.

IKEA ASSEMBLES PLANS FOR OMAN MINISTRY TIGHTENS UP ON I PROPERTY DEALS KEA is planning to open a branch in Oman in the next few years.

The Swedish retail giant says its plans for a store in the Sultanate are part of an expansion program.

It aims to enter a dozen new markets over the next few years in a bid to serve three billion customers by 2025.

Inter IKEA, which owns the IKEA franchise, named Oman as one of the territories it was considering.

The company already has branches in the UAE and Qatar.

The flatback furniture and home décor titan did not give details but said it would observe last month’s launch of an outlet in Bahrain.

Inter IKEA CEO Torbjorn Loof said: “We will offer new and different ways to shop for the IKEA product range – online, in remote locations, and in city centres.”

R

eal estate transactions can only be conducted through official brokerage firms, Oman’s Ministry of Housing has confirmed.

Siham Ahmed al Harthi, Director-General of Real Estate Development, said the move had been taken to streamline property deals in the Sultanate.

Now all transactions have to be conducted through brokerage offices licensed by the Ministry of Housing, the official confirmed on Sunday.

She said: “An online system to do the registration has already taken effect from October 2.”

The new rules cover transactions for commercial and industrial establishments. Registrations for residential transactions will start soon, she said.

OMAN SETS UP UK TRADE MISSION

S

ome of the Sultanate’s most prominent business leaders and officials are to visit the UK for trade talks.

Ithraa, Oman’s investment and export development agency, has organised a business delegation to visit London next week.

It will be led by Sayyid Badr al Busaidy, Secretary- General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who will meet UK government officials and business leaders in London between Monday and Thursday (October 22-25).

Among those taking part will be the

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Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ithraa, BP Oman, Muscat Securities Market, and Vision 2040.

Nasima al Balushi, Ithraa’s DirectorGeneral of Export Development said: “As well as having world-class infrastructure, Oman’s political and economic stability gives UK investors great confidence.

“The strength and warmth of the bilateral relationship and the long trading history also add to the attraction. The UK is the largest investor in Oman, with nearly 50 per cent of all Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in 2017 worth US11.8bn and is also one of the Sultanate’s top trading partners.”

OKTOBERFEST FUN

GALLERY

A TASTE OF MUNICH TOOK OVER THE KEMPINSKI MUSCAT’S ZALE BEACH CLUB & LOUNGE WITH OKTOBERFEST CELEBRATIONS IN FULL SWING.

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013

YOUR

FASHION FORWARD

OMAN

DUBAI-BASED DESIGNER AMIRA AL-MASHJARI DREW CROWDS TO THE KEMPINSKI MUSCAT FOR A ONE-OF-AKIND WORKSHOP ON THE BUSINESS OF FASHION.

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EXPO EFFECT

GALLERY

THE 2018 FOOD AND HOSPITALITY OMAN EXPO SAW DIGNITARIES AND INDUSTRY LEADERS ALIKE COME TOGETHER FOR THE OPENING INAUGURATION AT OCEC.

OCT 18 - 24 / ISSUE 540

015

YOUR

FANTASTIC FLORA

OMAN

PHOTOGRAPHER SHAQUEL AL BALUSHI TRAINS HIS LENS ON THE BLOSSOMS THAT MAKE THE DESERT BLOOM ON A VISIT TO A LOCAL FLOWER NURSERY.

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GALLERY

Photography by: Shaquel al Balushi Location: Al Amerat Style: Low-shutter portrait Model Claire De Lune throws a striking pose against a fiery backdrop created by sparklers and captured using low-shutter speed.

OCT 18 - 24 / ISSUE 540

017

Find your funny bone and join in for a night of hilarity with some of the best stand-up comics around, many of whom are making their Muscat début. The show at the Park Inn by Radisson, Muscat starts at 8:00 p.m. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and the show will be followed by a DJ’s set to finish off a great night. The open-air seating at the Park Inn Rooftop Lounge is also a great environment to share some laughs and drinks with friends! For tickets, which are RO10, contact the hotel.

OCT

19

WEEK

WHAT TO DO. WHAT TO SEE. WHAT TO HEAR.

O C T O B E R The biggest Oktoberfest in Oman is returning to the InterContinental Muscat.

Experience a genuine Bavarian party atmosphere on October 25 and 26 and again on November 1 and 2.

Indulge in a scrumptious German buffet and some of Munich’s most famous beverages while the ‘Happy Hour’ band will perform original festive music and performances. Get decked out in your lederhosen and dirndls if you really want to make a night of it!

For bookings, call 9137-3243.

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OCT

18

Get your spook on!! Experience the scariest Halloween chills at Privé Gastro Lounge and indulge in some spooktacular fun as it’s that time of year again to get dressed up in goofy costumes! Celebrate this thrilling night featuring DJ VINYL who will take over the console making sure your feet don’t start trembling. It’s on Thursday, October 18, from 10:00 p.m. onwards. Entry- cover charge; fully redeemable.

Dress code is your scariest best, and there are prizes for the stand-outs. Call 7911-9226 for more information, bookings, reservations, and guest list enquiries.

BEST OF BAVARIA

THIS

HALLOWEEN PARTY

COMEDY CENTRAL

THE WHAT’S ON GUIDE

OCT

25

MOVIES MOVIES FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TIMES, GO TO: City Cinema: citycinemaoman.net Al Bahja Cinema: albahjacinema.net VOX Cinemas: oman.voxcinemas.com Star Cinema: Tel +968 2479-1641

The Old Man & the Gun Cast: Robert Redford, Casey Affleck, Sissy Spacek

Accident

Badhaai Ho

Cast: Roxanne Hayward, Tyrone Keogh, Stephanie Schildknecht When Jess (Schildnecht) and Caroline fancy a trip to Lake Tahoe for a music festival, their plans for getting there go awry.

After trying to hitch (never a good idea), they get a lift from a couple of guys whom they take a shine to.

But every child is told never to take lifts from strangers, aren’t they?

The trip is not the most harmonious and turns out to be a car crash, quite

Mandy Cast: Nicolas Cage, Andrea Riseborough, Linus Roache

literally.

Driver Thomas loses control and flips over several times, and ends up teetering on the edge of a ravine.

Both Jess and Caroline are trapped, hurt, scared and stuck in the middle of nowhere with two strange men. How will they get out of this one? Even Thelma & Louise didn’t have it this bad. This is an obviously low-budget thriller but not entirely unwatchable.

Red Miller (Cage) and Mandy Bloom (Riseborough) are living out their own version of domestic bliss in a secluded forest.

But the loving couple’s alternative lifestyle gets a rude awakening when a violent hippie cult invades their idyllic eyrie.

Cult leader Jeremiah Sand (Roache) claps eyes on Mandy and decides he and she are made to be together.

He sends his ‘disciples’ to kidnap her. Of course, Sand has to get Red out of the picture.

But Red is not an easy capture, and living out in the woods has given him a self-sufficient streak.

Armed with a crossbow, an axe, and a chainsaw, he resolves to take on this crazy gang, and get his wife back before it’s too late.

This is basically a romcom and a horror-thriller rolled into one with plenty of action, violence, and gore.

heist movies have been done to death in the past few years.

However, Redford’s performance in making a villain likeable is terrific, and he pushes all the buttons you want in a movie: action, pathos, humour, drama, romance – the lot basically.

And with a supporting cast that includes Danny Glover, Tom Waits, and Keith Carradine, this light drama is a real treat.

Cast: Sanya Malhotra, Ayushmann Khurrana, Neena Gupta

Forrest Tucker (Redford) is an old villain who has just managed to escape from prison.

Rather than redeem himself and resolving to go straight, he resorts to devoting his last few years to doing what he does best, i.e. robbing banks.

Tucker carries on doing the day job; with a jaded cop (Affleck) on his tale, and meeting the odd love interest (Spacek) on the way.

It all sounds a bit of a cliché as old-guy

!

Nakul (Khurrana) is a successful manabout-town who is not far from popping the question to his gorgeous girlfriend (Malhotra).

But he’s knocked off his stride when his mother Gupta announces she’s pregnant.

Nakul’s bookish dad (Gajraj Rao) has clearly got more lead in his old pencil than he thought, and the upcoming arrival turns out to be a source of benign amusement to the family’s friends and relatives.

This is a simple tale of a likeable but immature man who can’t get his head around the fact that his parents have still got it.

It’s a happy, colourful film that’s very much a crowd-pleaser for all the family, and the verbal interplay between some of the quizzical, bemused relatives is great fun.

In Hindi, with subtitles.

N WI

THIS WEEK'S QUESTION

‘The Old Man & the Gun’s Casey Affleck is the brother of which famous celebrity?

LAST WEEK’S WINNER Ajin Kuvakkat Anuraj

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Experience more VOX Cinemas magic! Discover

Now open near you at VOX Cinemas, Muscat Grand Mall Book your tickets at voxcinemas.com or the VOX app OCT 18 - 24 / ISSUE 540

019

Financial fraud is rife in the GCC, and Oman is no different. We look at how investment scam operators are ripping us off, what we can do to avoid getting sucked in, and how to walk away

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OCT 18 - 24 / ISSUE 540

EASY PREY I

f something sounds too good to be true, the the reality. chances are, it probably is.

Fast forward to today, and Gerard is in a legal Yes, it’s an old saying. But when it comes tussle with the financial firm. to looking after our hard-earned money, the In an interview with Y Magazine, he says: people who get rich from our investments are “There was no looking beyond his (the broker’s) often not us. words. I believed everything he said, though, I This is the basis of ‘regulated fraud’ in the did play my cards then to make sure to see the GCC, in which an extensive network of seemingly supporting documents and verify everything. legitimate agents steal off the plates of those “So, in March of 2016, I signed documents in less privileged. my office in Muscat – all attested and verified by Standing outside Gerard’s* workplace in Muscat the Emirati authorities.”

– donning a designer three-piece suit and armed What Gerard didn’t know, however, was that with a fancy leather-cladded Mont Blanc briefcase, he’d just signed up for the most elaborate scam in a swanky Swiss watch, an Apple smartphone, and the region. Four months into the investment – after most significantly, wearing a Cheshire cat smile – is which Gerard has left his job in Oman and is back finance manager cum broker Robert*, who works in the UK – he receives word from his broker that for an ‘expert’ investment firm based in Dubai. he’s being couriered the legal documents and all His intention? To help Gerard “save the terms and conditions. up for retirement”. At least, that’s what And to his horror, he finds that he isn’t he had conveyed in the cold-call that he signed up for a ‘Savings Account’ at all had placed to lure him in. but rather a ‘Managed Savings Account’.

But everything Robert owns – the This means his returns will stand at a fancy attire, gizmos, and all his assets mere 6 per cent per annum at best after – are all built on the blood, settling the annual account IN SUCH CASES, YOU CAN maintenance fee, finance sweat, and tears of hundreds of expats looking for the FILE A LAWSUIT AGAINST premium for the company, and same thing that Gerard is: an encashment charge that THE BROKER OR THE to invest their hard-earned BROKERING FIRM – BUT IN can go up to 75 per cent if he money in a safe, tax-free MANY CASES, THE AGENTS withdraws from the scheme. haven and earn interest on The most shocking of WILL TRY TO SETTLE their savings. revelations, however, is that FOR AN OUT-OF-COURT Given the prospect of PAYOUT TO PROTECT THEIR Gerard hasn’t been locked into striking gold, Gerard doesn’t IDENTITY AND REPUTATION a 10-year contract but rather a give his fellow Brit’s words a 14-year scheme – and that, to IN THE INDUSTRY second thought. His money him, makes a world will be safely housed in an investment firm on the of difference.

Isle of Man – a tax haven – and the interest will As per the financial institution that has been earn him 150 per cent of his initial investment over known to be involved – indirectly through a period of 10 years. outsourced brokers – in such schemes, too, explains Robert’s charm is such that 42-year-old expat that a ‘Managed Savings Account’ is in fact an Gerard will sign up for the ‘Savings Account’ as investment-linked life assurance policy. soon as he can. His initial investment will stand at As per the company, the investor gets to choose GBP 10,000 (RO5,062), for which he will then pay the number of years to be committed under the in instalments, monthly. account term at commencement but is also offered By the end of the term, his final cash out will be the opportunity to pull out should he wish to.

GBP25,000 (RO12,656) – an incredible amount by While that is true, an investigation into this all means. company’s terms and conditions reveal that such It all sounds wonderful but it was not, and is not, instances would cost the investor big bucks in penalties. While the percentage of penalties vary, we learn that the company charges investors 55 per cent and above in penalties.

But is this legal?

According to financial lawyer Sandeep Sharma – an expert in the field of investment security – working in a leading law firm in Oman, it is indeed permissible for an investment company to cut risks by opting to penalise the investor.

He tells us: “The limit that a company can charge may vary from country to country. In the case of Dubai, the local regulatory board Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) keeps an eye out for such practices.

“While the legal limit that is allowed to be extracted from the investor is still dictated by the financial brokers and the institutions, it must be kept in mind that you can still fight for your rights.”

According to the lawyer, investors must be made aware by their brokers in signing that they have accepted the terms and conditions. Also, they must be made aware of all applicable charges – be they hidden or not – and penalties; and procure in signing that they have understood all possible risks.

“That said, we cannot OCT 18 - 24 / ISSUE 540

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“Expats who come to the Middle East are only here to make money. But, scrutinise the financial institution at face value, either,” he says. then you have these companies that, due to lack of diligence or with the aim “Often, it isn’t the scheme that is at fault, but rather the broker that one to cheat, leave these people in a financial limbo.” deals with – they can be dishonest to make a quick buck. And some very Meanwhile, our interviewee Gerard’s misery continues today, as he learns well-known firms are notorious for allowing their contracted brokers to run such schemes. “In such cases, you can file a lawsuit against the broker or the that as a part of the ‘Managed Savings Account’ scheme, he’d also been brokering firm – but in many cases, the agents will try to settle for an out-of- signed up for a Unit Trust – again, without his consent.

As per Investopedia, an online portal educating readers about investment, court payout to protect their identity and reputation in the industry.” a Unit Trust is an unincorporated mutual fund structure that However, the lawyer represented an American businessman in Oman allows funds to hold assets and provide profits that go straight who had fallen victim to a broker from a UAE-based firm in 2005, which to individual unit owners instead of reinvesting them back saw him losing an excruciating GBP 650,000 (RO329,000) in charges when into the fund. closing his account.

The investment fund is set up under a trust deed To protect the investor’s identity Sandeep doesn’t reveal more information and the investor is effectively the beneficiary – but we understand that several expats, mostly high-paid ones, are under the trust. considered sitting ducks for agents looking to make a quick buck.

While that provides a wider margin for In reality, however, the scams do not end there. While Oman and the profits for the investor, it also puts them at UAE share several unique features, including a boundary, UAE lays victim to several scams involving innocent residents – with some inevitably trickling several risks.

To date, Gerard has lost a total of down to Oman.

RO12,350 in hidden charges, which includes While the accurate statistics of scam losses isn’t known, we are aware that a shocking year’s worth of payment as more than 200 Omani expats, of a total of 3,700 victims, were involved in commission to his advisor – and he continues an overseas investment scam – Ponzi, which was a fraudulent investment to lose money daily. To regain what’s left of operation that worked by paying returns to separate investors with money his hard-earned money in his account, paid by subsequent investors, rather than from any actual profits earned.

That said, the world of financial brokerage reveals that most advisors and though, he is now approaching the UAE authorities for help. agents selling investment schemes are not qualified for the job – which may But, can someone in Oman be the reason several expats are left questioning their policies and ending up proceed with a legal with several loose ends after the signing. action against someone During our research, we come across several job postings on websites such as Bayt.com and Wisdom Jobs Gulf for ‘Financial Advisors’, ‘Financial in Dubai?

As it turns out, yes.

Brokers’, and ‘Insurance Agents/Finance Brokers’ – all looking for British This is confirmed by nationals and without any prior work experience. our source at the Royal All our efforts to contact these companies end in vain. But from the job Oman Police (ROP), descriptions posted online, we learn that these agents aren’t paid fixed who wishes to remain salaries but make their earnings from commissions instead. unnamed. However, he Moreover, the latter title of an ‘Insurance Agent’ merely requires the advises expats and Omanis to candidate to hold a high school diploma – hardly a qualification for a highreport immediately any sales agent risk finance advisor role. working in Oman without a permit Michelle Bianchi, an Italian expat working in the automotive sector as a and a clearance for their company by the leasing manager, reveals that he fell victim to such a scheme in 2015. Much like Gerard, he too was promised high returns – but he says he hadn’t made Capital Market Authority.

He says: “No financial body that isn’t a penny since the day he signed up for the contract.

He says: “When I had just come to Muscat, I decided to save some money regulated by Oman can operate within this country. That means, the funds that these expats for my marriage and other expenses. That’s have taken are all under the jurisdiction of UAE and when I approached a company called the regulatory bodies in the country in which the offshore accounts exist. ‘financial.org’ (a company that has been The Ministry of Manpower (MoM) will take strict actions against anyone known to sponsor British Formula One operating such schemes in the Sultanate.

Team ‘Williams’) and decided to make “It’s perfectly legal for an expat to open an offshore account – an investment there. as any break in the law would probably be settled within the expat “I opted to go for the least risky and the country that issues their passport. But, when someone falls scheme – a savings account. To victim to schemes such as these, then it’s best you immediately report maintain legality, I would only send them to the authorities wherein the companies are based Omani Riyals into my account, out of.” which I was promised would be Sandeep concurs with the ROP official’s statement: AND THERE ARE set up in the Cayman Islands.

“In the UAE, there are separate bodies that take care “But, after signing the NO WORDS TO of regulating such financial institutions taking care of documents, I came to understand DESCRIBE THE that my broker hadn’t been able ANGUISH I’M GOING offshore assets. If the company is based out of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), wherein registered to procure a savings account but THROUGH RIGHT entities are regulated by the Dubai Financial Services instead a mutual fund scheme.

NOW; KNOWING Authority (DFSA), and the Abu Dhabi Global Markets He then had the audacity to keep MY DECADES OF it away from me for a whole 13 SERVICE IN THE GCC (ADGM), then you’d need to approach them to file a case.

“In a few days’ time, you’ll also be presented with a case months (!)

HAVE AMOUNTED TO number – which you can then use to bring up your case.

“When I enquired with my NOTHING But one factor that I can report is that the most common broker about this, he stated that he had just joined the team and that he wasn’t in complaint that we see against financial advisors and brokers here in Oman are for misrepresentation and unsuitable investments (like in the cases of accordance with the company’s and country’s laws, yet. “He also stated that his only way to Gerard and Michelle).”

In short, it’s the classic case of a client believing that they were told earn money was through clients – and even one thing and then finds out after the fact that what they understood to asked me to continue with the scheme. be true was not the case. However, an unsuitability case is one in which a “I refused, and his lapse meant that I broker invests the client’s money in a security unsuitable for the customer’s was reeling for months in court in Dubai investment objectives. before I was awarded my 13 months of But, Sandeep reveals that these scams only form the tip of the iceberg. payments in full.”

As per the lawyer, in the region, such schemes begin with cold calling, Michelle is one of the lucky wherein a sales agent contacts – though calls, emails or fax – victims to ones too, as he rightly confesses: forge a connection. While this is not a scam by itself, our source at the ROP reveals that cold calls by overseas financial companies are illegal in Oman, and that the phone numbers can be reported to the ROP for investigation.

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Other scams include sending out fake emails and phishing. These are common in Oman – and they take the form of banks or financial institutions offering services in exchange for account details and even one’s ATM pin number.

Sandeep adds: “While these scams are generally directed to unsuspecting clients, more elaborate ones like Ponzi schemes; and ‘Boiler Room Scams’ – which are essentially operators offering low value shares to unsuspecting investors. However, these shares cannot be sold as several brokers provide expats in Oman with UK-based addresses and information while the company may not exist at all.”

In an emotional turn of events, Gerard tells us: “Expats who move to the GCC come here leaving behind their lives back home. This means that they’re making a sacrifice in return of money.

“But, if there are others who are looking to pounce upon the misery of these individuals, I’d be surprised to say that I’d ever be able to trust another human being again. This is, in every way, attacking a human, when they’re down at their lowest.

“And there are no words to describe the anguish I’m going through right now; knowing my decades of service in the GCC have amounted to nothing.”

Gerard is currently in a legal battle with his financial company to gain back his money.

But whether he will get his money back remains to be seen. *Names changed

Be wary of the tell-tale signs of a scam such as persons who:

How to avoid being scammed?

You can avoid being scammed by:

● Checking the relevant regulatory agency’s website to see if the company you are dealing with is listed and regulated. You can even contact the regulator to verify whether or not the company is regulated ● Doing general searches (e.g. on Google) to see what information can be found about the company you are dealing with ● Only dealing with people you trust. Dealing with individuals you have never met carries a higher risk ● Getting independent advice before entering into a transaction, or getting a second opinion from a trusted friend ● Using common sense.

● Communicate only via email and telephone with a reluctance or a refusal to meet in person; ● Are reluctant or refuse to provide information on who regulates their activity; and/or ● Use generic email address such as Hotmail and Yahoo; and ● Keeping paperwork safe. When entering into any new relationship ensure that you maintain good records of all paperwork you receive and keep records of all your meetings and conversations. This may not prevent you from being scammed but will assist in the event that you need to take any action.

Remember:

● If you receive an offer of an amazing deal out of the blue, don’t believe it! If it seems too good to be true then it is probably a scam ● If you receive an opportunity to invest in a financial product which ● looks real ● offers bigger and faster profits than real investments ● offers less risk and less effort than real investments ● offers something special that genuine investments don’t offer; and urges you to act more urgently than the real thing.

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Imagine an environment that’s a beacon for business and a home for the staff that help make it happen. Team Y talks to a company that aims to reboot the world of retail while delivering a better deal for diligent employees

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hink about it: you drive to a large mall to scout out options for a new car or buy equipment for your home; all services that are available under one roof, and afterwards you indulge in a spot of fine dining taking in the greenery around you.

This forms the basis of an industrial township – a term alien to those in Oman.

At its core, it takes the basics and blends two of Oman’s leading sectors – the automotive industry and the construction industry with world-class planning and strategy – and merges the two to form the Middle East’s largest drive-through open-top shopping mall.

Sound too good to be true?

Well, bear in mind that business masterminds at the Sandan Development LLC (which came to life quietly in January 26, 2016) aren’t letting your qualms inhibit their journey of setting this architectural marvel in motion.

In fact, the project, ‘Sandan Industrial Park’, which will soon become the heart of the city of Halban (30km from Seeb), will be opening its doors to the public by the first quarter of 2019.

In all its glory, the property will cover 250,000 square metres – and more importantly, can accommodate more than 2,400 outlets – which will include workshops and showrooms, 400 offices, and more than 1,250 residential units.

It will consist of a dedicated section for cars – ‘Auto World’, which will include automotive showrooms, service centres, luxury detailing shops, spare part shops, etc. There will also be a section for construction – ‘Construction World’, which will include offices for architects, draftsmen and designers; all of whom will help you draft your dream house. Also on the agenda is Boulevard, a service area for consumer goods and finally, a residential area to house the staff.

But, numbers aside, there’s a lot more to this project than meets the eye. And the greatest feats that the company strives to achieve are in the sectors of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

In an exclusive interview with Y, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the company, Michael Chee, who is from Malaysia, sheds light on this topic.

He says: “The people of Oman are also the lifeline of this beautiful country. The obvious proximity to the ports and its central stature in the GCC aside, the country’s manpower is one of the reasons it continues to develop into a greater nation.

And, as we here at Y have seen before, the manpower that contributes to the working-class sector in the automotive and construction sectors are considered labourers or blue-collar workers – and are often crammed into small spaces in huge numbers. During a Y

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investigation in 2016, we came across labour camps which housed nearly 12 people in a 60sq.m portable cabin – a violation of Omani housing law.

In reality, only three labourers are allowed to be housed in such a confined space in Oman – and Sandan will be adhering to the rules set by the government.

“Sandan is a living city – and not an industrial zone alone. So, as per our concept, we can house

people in small apartments over their work place. This will also be in accordance with the Oman government’s law stating how many people can reside in an apartment.

“Moreover, they don’t need to travel. So, they do not need to take buses and travel long distances to get to work.

“They’ll live right on top of their office, and this will not only make the business more efficient but also at the same time also improve the living standards of the workers.”

The apartment as a standalone residential unit will come packing their own bathroom, kitchen, washing area, and the sleeping area.

“The stay area is also higher than the norm.

What we see in many other places is crazy, and frankly, inhuman.

“We want to create a place where everybody has their own freedom.

They’ll have restaurants and supermarkets, and everything needed to for them to live rather than staying in those labour camps.

“This is the creation of a lifestyle, and we’re hoping to make a

difference,” Michael adds.

Speaking of which, the mini-city, despite being a hub for automotive and construction setups, will also aim to reduce its carbon footprint as much as it possibly can. It will take the challenge on to Mabelah and Wadi Kabir, which are currently the grease-laden hubs for the automotive and construction companies.

As a part of the plan, which we witnessed first-hand, the roads, pavements, and all the surroundings will be covered in flora. And that’s not all: Sandan will also be the first industrial city of its kind to adopt LED lighting throughout, LED billboards and full-scale recycling.

The firm will also work in conjunction with wastewater management company, Haya.

Michael says: “Our intention is to create a living organism that will make us self-sufficient to an extent. And as a part of that, we’ll be incorporating wastewater recycling, which will allow us to reuse the water as grey water for irrigation and such purposes.

“Also, people needn’t require their cars to drive inside the roads; they can opt for the shuttle buses that we’re putting in place. So, they can save on their fuel and in turn also reduce the carbon emissions.

“It’s a small step – but as they say: ‘It’s better late than never’.”

But is it Michael who is bringing fresh ideas to the table here in Oman? He promptly answers: “No, it’s not.

“The Sandan Industrial Park is the first 100 per cent Omani investment with local sponsors and directors. And all the plans that we have are shared among each other – and such CSR activities are now being given the go-ahead.”

Be that as it may, Sandan is also striving to be completely Omani, with them outdoing the ministry targets and going one step further to train the youth of the nation.

“As we speak now, we have brought in 10 fresh graduates and are training them for work in logistics, business and commerce,” the CEO tells us with pride.

“We are bringing them in to learn about the city. They’ll now be given training for three months – and they’ll know whether what they’ve learnt can be applied in their daily work. Of course, they’re being paid for their work, too.

“The only expat here is me,” he laughs.

“Our intention is to make this city an icon of Oman. It has the potential to become something that Omanis can be proud of. Currently, you see these SMEs everywhere and they’re not ordered.

“But you now have a place where everything is organised, rightfully managed, and coordinated. Everything is in place and all these businesses need to do is come over and begin their services.”

Sandan Industrial Park may only be completing its phase one early next year – but several companies have already begun shifting their services to the location. For instance, we came across a Japanese motorcycle brand that had already begun showing off their rides to the public.

Several construction and automotive-based clients have also shifted shops to begin their operations post the official opening of the city.

On a final note, Michael says: “Oman is a magnificent country with a lot of potential. It is blessed with a strategic location, too – and now it’s up to the people to begin making use of the vast possibilities.

“Sandan Industrial Park aims to be a hub for services but also will focus on manufacturing – and it’ll help develop the export industry of Oman.

“What we’ve learned over the past few years, especially after the oil crisis, is that there has been a shift in focus from oil to other sectors. And it’s uncanny, because human beings have been dependent on oil since the early 20th century after the creation of Daimler-Benz.

“We began relying on oil then, and now it’s the 21st century. So, as you see, we’ve been using it for three centuries. But oil itself has so many byproducts; so many businesses and people are relying on this product.

“But it’s perhaps time to shift this mindset. And Sandan Industrial Park strives to be a hub in the GCC for its services and manufacturing – and that, I strongly believe, will set the tone for Oman’s future.”

“We’re here to help spark a change in the country.” ■

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COMPETITION

Presents

e m i t e f i L A f O e g d Ple Children will write it and parents will sign it – let’s take the pledge together towards safer roads. Y calls out for families to join the ‘My Road Safety Pledge’ happening on October 19 at Markaz Al Bahja Mall

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oad safety awareness plays a significant role in shaping the attitudes and behaviours of children and young people – guaranteeing they become responsible drivers, passengers and pedestrians in the future. To teach children from a young age to be aware of the traffic rules and regulations, the Y magazine is once again conducting the ‘My Road Safety Pledge’ competition.

To participate in the competition children will write a ‘My Road Safety Pledge’ on behalf of their parents in a custom-made card distributed along with this edition of Y. The ‘My Road Safety Pledge’ card has a space wherein children can pen the pledge on behalf of their parents.

The Road Safety Pledge has to be counter-signed by

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their parents as the purpose is also to promote the message of road safety to parents through their children.

The best three pledges will win gift vouchers of RO100 (first place), RO50 (second place) and RO25 (third place).

Once the Road Safety Pledge is written on the supplied card, parents are requested to drop the card at designated drop boxes across Muscat.

Participants can also look forward to an on-ground activation event happening on Friday, October 19 at Markaz Al Bahja Mall where children will colour the cards and take the Road Safety Pledge, with the winners being announced at an upcoming function at the SABCO Media offices in Seeb, where they will receive their prizes.

In Association With

Exclusive Medical Partner

■ Your own safety must be a priority when approaching the scene of an accident. Make sure that all traffic has stopped and that people have been alerted to the accident to prevent additional casualties. If there is any spilled fuel or other fire hazards turn off car ignitions. Always turn on vehicle hazard lights and use a warning triangle if there’s one available.

■ If other people are around get them to phone the emergency services. However if you are on your own, first assess the situation and treat any life-threatening conditions first and then call for an ambulance.

■ Establish how many vehicles have been involved and assess the occupants of all the vehicles to ensure none of the casualties has life-threatening injuries. People screaming, crying and making a noise must be breathing – your priority at this point is to check anyone who is quiet and not moving.

■ If anyone is not moving: Ascertain whether they’re responsive or not. If there is no response, check if they are breathing.

■ Unresponsive and breathing: Ensure they are in a position where they are leaning forward or to one side to ensure the airway remains open. Move them as little as possible and avoid twisting them. Keep talking to the casualty calmly as they can hear you, even if they are unconscious. Keep them warm.

■ Unresponsive and not breathing: If the person is not breathing you will need to resuscitate them. If you are on your own and haven’t called an ambulance yet, you must do so at this point. If necessary, ask their advice on the best way to resuscitate as it’s not easy to do if they are in a car.

■ Only attempt to remove an unconscious person from their vehicle if there is an immediate danger to their life, e.g. from fire, flood, or explosion.

Conscious casualties should be taken care of by bystanders and removed from the wreckage to a safe area. Be aware that casualties maybe dazed and confused.

■ Anyone trapped in a vehicle should be monitored carefully and the emergency services notified immediately. If someone is crushed, note the exact time when the accident happened as this is important in deciding on how and when to release the casualty.

■ Do not allow anyone to smoke at the scene or give the casualties anything to eat or drink following the accident in case they need an operation later.

■ If a motorcyclist is involved only remove their helmet if they are unconscious and there is no other way to assess their breathing or their airway is in danger. There is usually a way of lifting the visor, it may be sensible to loosen their chin strap.

■ If a casualty has been hit by a car and they are lying on their back unconscious and breathing – they should be carefully rolled into the recovery position to keep their spine in line. Ideally, this should be done with the support of others to avoid twisting the spine.

■ If a casualty has been hit by a vehicle or thrown from one and they are conscious in the road, they should be encouraged to keep still. Ensure that someone is directing traffic and maintaining safety.

Support their head and neck, keep them warm and dry and wait for the emergency services.

COMPETITION RULES:

● The competition is open to children aged 16 and under. ● Cards must be completed by children only and then signed by a parent or guardian. Entries will be disqualified if there is evidence of parental involvement. ● Children of employees of SABCO Media or associated companies are excluded from taking part. ● The editor’s decision is final. ● Winners will be notified by email or telephone.

OCT 18 - 24 / ISSUE 540

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Presents

In Association with

48

As the Sultanate gears up to celebrate the 48th Oman National Day, registration is now open for the fifth annual Y Portrait

By A Nation. This week, we sit down with local artist and PBAN judge Ibrahim Gailani to learn how creativity can best be cultivated

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part?

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n honour of the 48th Oman National Day on November 18, Y’s Portrait By A Nation (PBAN) returns for its fifth annual competition alongside presenting sponsor Ahlibank and associate sponsors Shell Oman and Sandan Properties. Once again, young artists from schools across the Sultanate will come together to create a unique piece of art as a lasting tribute to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said.

We met with local artist and recurring PBAN judge Ibrahim Gailani to learn more about how art empowers, his own experiences honing his craft as a painter, and why fostering an environment for the arts is vital to the future of Oman’s cultural heritage.

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: Tell us about your background as an artist. ailani: I’m a self-taught contemporary artist of Iraqi and Pakistani descent living in Muscat, Oman. I’ve exhibited my paintings in the Middle-East, Europe, and North America. My recent work is known for its pop-art-inspired portraits with street graffiti lettering.

I’m also the founder of the Gailani Art Retreat, a creative getaway of self-expression using painting and music that’s engaged more than 800 participants over 50 art retreats since its inception in 2013.

In September 2016, my work was exhibited at the New York Coffee Art Festival and won the Visitor Choice Award. That same month I published my book ‘Gailani – An Artistic Journey’ – a memoir of my life story told through paintings. In December 2017, my painting ‘The Refugee’ won the Jury award at the 3rd annual Show Your World Art Competition showcased at Gallery MC in New York City.

I’ve been dubbed as a ‘debating artist’ and am associated with art that’s self-reflective and with a social message, and I’ve lent my voice to causes of child abuse, anti-bullying, and human trafficking. I recently exhibited my works on ‘Human Trafficking’ at Art for a Cause in Paris in June 2018.

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: What is your previous involvement in PBAN and why do you enjoy taking

ailani: I’ve been part of Y Portrait By A Nation from the very beginning, from the first one held four years ago in November 2014. I was asked to be part of it being a portrait painter with an avant-garde take on creating non-traditional portraits.

I think that helped me judge the competition from a perspective of uniqueness and innovation of techniques used by participants that made their portraits stand out.

To me the biggest joy was to interact with the next generation of artists and to meet their parents to discuss the passions they have. I sometimes get stopped in malls by parents informing me that they sent their child to an art college based on the competition and the encouragement by the judges.

That, to me, is quite humbling and validating.

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: Why are art-centric events such as PBAN important towards fostering a culture of creative expression among youth in Oman? ailani: It’s extremely important that these events take place for the young. Art, although appreciated in Oman, lacks formalisation into the education system. It’s not a specialisation in schools, colleges, and universities. There’s no fine art degree in Oman so there needs to be more of these events to discover talent and, hopefully, enough talent brought forward will lead to the tide changing and art being formally inducted into the [education system].

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: What words of encouragement do you have for this year’s batch of PBAN participants? ailani: I have a few key points that they should keep in mind: ❶ Practise your concept before coming to the venue. Sometimes we feel that the young artist loses their confidence and the end result is not pleasing. This comes across in the judging. ❷ Time management.

Participants should practise

Gailani Art executing their skills in the time defined by practising at home. [There are] so many cases of unfinished works that don’t end up getting high scores. ❸ Innovation. We as judges are seeing roughly 2,000 pieces of identically stenciled outlines of His Majesty – so unless the participants don’t use an out-ofthe-box innovative way of painting or execution, the pieces will not stand out. ➍ Execution and simplicity. Focus on these things rather than over-designed, complex arrangements. Often times we see small pieces of glitter or lace, then bows and other pieces added, that it becomes quite a mix of too many elements taking away from the purity of the image. In the past some of the highest scoring portraits have been those that have been done in a very simple manner but executed to perfection (meaning it was flawlessly neat, no pencil smudges, and no out-of-line shading).

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: What is your advice to a young person who’s interested in pursuing their artistic talent but is unsure of how to approach it or get started? ailani: First of all, I’d say go and research the type of art you want to pursue. Try it out by joining a few workshops. They could go to an art retreat or get some private lessons, or even enrol in an online tutorial class. Then, the next step is for them to practise their craft and see what they’re good at –landscapes, still-life, portraits or abstracts. Once a style and genre is decided then it’s their task to make a portfolio (a collection of their work) and then submit to an art curator or critic to learn from them. And the final stage is to take the plunge and exhibit their art to the public. That will be the true guide of how their work will be perceived.

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: Do you think Oman is doing more on a national level to foster and provide a platform for Omani artistic talent?

Portrait by A Nation Milestones: On-ground Competition Over two weekends, hundreds of children will create their own special pieces of art on the canvasses given to them with a pre-printed sketch of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said. This initiative not only encourages talent but provides children with a platform to bring out their best artistic efforts while taking pride in their work.

On-Ground Competition Dates Nizwa, Sohar, Sur & Salalah: November 9 & 10 • Muscat: November 16 & 17 •

Judging Panel The Y Portrait By A Nation judging panel will include sponsors such as Presenting Sponsor Ahlibank, Associate Sponsors Shell Oman and Sandan Properties, eminent local artists, and representatives of Team Y. The panel will select 16 winners from each age group for a total of 48 finalists.

G

ailani: Yes, (and they should) inculcate it into education. Establish a proper fine arts college; hold regular art exchange festivals; set up government grants for artist residencies where the local artist can use the funds to travel abroad to [art] symposiums.

Y G

: What is the most rewarding part of being involved in PBAN? ailani: Meeting the finalists and their parents at the end on the award night and seeing the pride on their faces – it’s priceless.

Portrait By A Nation

O

ne of the biggest events of the year in Oman, Y’s Portrait By A Nation saw an impressive 2,200 entries received from children ages 5-17 years-old from Muscat, Nizwa, Sohar, and Salalah last year.

Children will receive a different sized canvas and a different portrait of His Majesty, across three age categories of competition: 5-9 years – Canvas size 20cm x 30cm 10-13 years – Canvas size 30cm x 40cm 14-17 years – Canvas size 40cm x 50cm Forty-eight finalists will be selected from participants – 16 in each category, with three winners chosen among them from each age category, for a chance to win prizes worth a total of RO2,550. Each winner will win a prize worth RO500 in each age category, while runners-up will win prizes valued at RO250 in each age category, and there will be RO100 for third place in each age category.

Championing the patriotic heart of the nation through the artistic expression of the young generation, Y’s Portrait By A Nation will be featured across all of SABCO Media’s platforms, including Y Magazine, Koooora Wa Bas Magazine, Merge 104.8, Al Wisal, and Virgin Radio Oman 100.9 FM.

Awards Function Conducted in a 5-star venue, the sponsors will interact with the 48 finalists from the three age categories.

The finalists, along with their families, will be invited to be awarded commendation certificates and prizes.

The event will be followed by dinner.

Special Coverage in Y Magazine After the competition, there will be special coverage in Y which will feature the works of the young artists along with their interviews.

Sale of Paintings After the awards presentation, paintings of all the finalists will be put on display for public purchase at a minimum price-tag of RO25, with all proceeds going directly to the artist.

How To Register • • •

Register online at http://bit.ly/pban2018.

Call or WhatsApp 9405-1770, or call 2442-6900.

Or scan the QR code below.

Registration for participants in the interiors (Nizwa, Sohar, Sur & Salalah) closes November 1, 2018.

Registration for participants in the capital area of Muscat closes November 10, 2018.

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Adventures

CARS AND ADVENTURES

Cars

Y- F i

Gaming

MOUNTAIN RUINS

The past is everpresent in the remote town of Sana’a, as the remains of an historic mosque sit perched among its hills.

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CARS AND OUTDOORS ADVENTURES

D E S T I N AT I O N C a r s

P o s t c a r d s Fr o m

Y- F i

Destination

SANA’A

SHAQUEL AL BALUSHI FINDS A REMOTE VILLAGE, THE TRANQUILITY OF WHICH CONTRASTS WITH THE CITY THAT SHARES ITS NAME 032

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Gaming

houses with mud shielding and uneven window sills, and even taller supporting walls; leaving a sense that old Yemeni tribes ruled the area at some point.

I soon came across an Omani man who pointed me towards a lesser-known landmark in the country that translates to the ‘mountain eye’.

A few minutes of frantic searching revealed a board installed by the government that directs to the location. Don’t get carried away by the intriguing – and in some ways ominous – name, though, as the eye is said to represent an area for campers and trekkers, and nothing else.

In the past, I’d have got a sense of fear from the name but since the skies were still sparkling with sunlight, I decided to make the climb.

Surprisingly, it’s a well- trodden path that’s obviously a hit with explorers coming in from the other side of the eye.

That means Sana’a is a mere dead-end for someone trying to complete the path.

A few kilometres into the trip, however, I realised that it would be best to keep my energy for capturing the photographs and the ride back home later.

That meant I had to rush back to my truck, grab my gear and continue shooting some of the more distinctive architecture, mountain backdrops, and the welcoming greenery in the locale.

Sana’a may not be in the limelight for the right reasons, currently. But, the village in the Sultanate definitely concentrated my thoughts about how troubled the city (in Yemen) currently is, and how a village with the very name here in Oman stands tall and enjoys freedom.

This is how the real Sana’a should always be – peaceful and friendly.

TRAVEL GUIDE

N

estled deep in the heart of the Sultanate, a few kilometres from the coastal town of Quriyat, is a tiny village that shares one of its key characteristics with the capital city of Yemen: its name.

Sana’a is part of the war-torn country that is crying out for help. Those living in the city in Oman believe it’s an unlikely association, one that can be attributed to descendants from Yemen pitching their tents in Oman at some point in history.

That said, Sana’a’ is a well-hidden spot that’s only known to those who know their way around the periphery of Muscat – so it would be best to keep your GPS on hand.

But, in passing Quriyat, you’ll want to hug the coastal line and keep an eye out for a faint board that reads: ‘Sana’a’.

At the time of my trip, the board was so faint that I had to trust my intuition and take the right turn as opposed to carrying onwards. A miss in the turn would lead to another 15-oddkms-long drive back to Wadi Miya and then square one.

Upon driving into the village, though, I was treated to some non-Omani sights.

For instance, the houses – of which a few seemed occupied – appear to be in line with Yemeni culture. Peppering the area are brick

HOW TO GET THERE

From Muscat, take the will see a signboard that road that leads to Al indicates Sana’a.

Amerat until you hit Route 17. Follow the road GPS location: for 10kms, after which 23°26’01.2”N; you must take the exit 58°33’26.3”E towards Yiti. In 8kms you

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FIRST DRIVE

CARS ADVENTURES

I

VO L K S W A G E N T O U A R E G

Team Y checks out an SUV that may just be flawless, and strike fear into its German rivals

t’s a Bentley Bentayga. It’s an Audi Q7.

It’s a Porsche Cayenne. Oh, but it’s also a Volkswagen Touareg. In fact, the greatest rival to VW’s premier SUV is itself – and what could be seen as its greatest strength in the past had also led to its downfall.

While we’re not daft enough to imply that a vehicle that costs a third of that of a Bentley is in any way rivalled by its more prestigious sibling, we’d like to point out that buying into a Touareg has always seemed like buying into a class system buffet, wherein you pay extra for the added thrills and frills (i.e. buying into the Porsche or Audi).

But not anymore.

Now in its third generation, the all-new Volkswagen Touareg brings to the table something it never did in the past: an image. And, as you’d imagine, image is everything – especially when you

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dish out northwards of RO23,000.

For that very reason, we think that the tables have turned – and to an extent in which its rival siblings are now having to play catch-up. Even fellow Germans such as Mercedes-Benz and BMW have nothing on the new Vee Dub: it incorporates the brand’s latest in-house styling nomenclature that blows everything else away.

The clever Matrix-style LED lamps that neatly adapt and sketch the lights on the road (literally), the heavily-accessorised bumper, imposing front grille and the sharp character lines on the hood all add to the persona of the SUV. The SUV sits tall on sporty multi-spoked 20-inch (44mm) alloys, though the overall profile of the vehicle is longer (by a whole 77mm than before) and shorter (by 7mm). At 1984mm, it also sits wider than its predecessor by 44mm, thereby aiding the aggressive stance.

Rounding off the exterior are the LED tail lamps that draw patterns while indicating or braking. The rear may come across as a bit stark but with the dual exhausts and elegant-looking bumpers, the Touareg does transcend its competitors in looks.

It seems that Audi’s Q7 can definitely take a couple of cues – at least those that are legal – from VW’s book.

The surprises don’t end there, either. Only if you’d seen the look on our faces when we first entered the car could you tell the bombshell that was dropped on us. Unlike the Vee Dubs of old, the Touareg doesn’t throng its dashboard and centre console with buttons. Instead you’re presented with a devil-maycare-style 15-inch (38mm) screen, and subsequently, a 12-inch (50mm) screen upfront.

These control everything from your infotainment,

a/c controls, navigation, seat ventilation, massage functions, applications, and above all, the in-ca settings. In short, the only real button you’re presented with is the one that controls the hazard flashers, and there’s an extra knurled metal knob to take care of the volume and a plastic one to handle the vehicle drive modes (Auto, Efficient, Comfort, Sport, Rock, and Snow).

It isn’t a particularly easy system to use, especially given how hard it would be to fiddle with a touchscreen in a moving car. You’ll find yourself spending a few days familiarising yourself with the features before you can learn to operate it while driving.

All the menus are well within an arm’s reach but there are sub-menus that you’d need to memorise beforehand. That said, it’s the most intuitive system we’ve ever used in a car; the graphics are slick and the responses are instantaneous.

The latter screen, though, is meant for the driver:

Destination

P o s t c a r d s Fr o m

Y- F i

Gaming

CARS

VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG Specifications: • Engine: 3.0-litre ‘twinturbocharged’ V6 • Transmission: Eight-speed automatic • Power: 340hp • Torque: 430Nms All-wheel-drive 20-inch alloy wheels 15-inch infotainment screen 12-inch instrument cluster Drive mode selector Matrix LED headlamps Leather upholstery Traction and stability controls Air suspension Head-up display Cruise control Steering-mounted controls Panoramic sunroof Electromechanical anti-roll bars

it’s flexible and can display multiple screens and different vehicular functions. It’s all controllable using the steeringmounted controls, too.

Once settled inside, you’ll find the seats – both in the front and back – to be cushy and supportive, and that the new MLB Evo platform’s larger profile pays better dividends in leg and head room on both corners. The front seats are well bolstered and offer the best levels of lumbar support when compared with any SUV in this segment.

The lack of seven seats in the Touareg is justified by a large boot – 810 litres in volume to be precise. This is a whole 40 litres ahead of the Q7 and (figuratively) miles ahead of the BMW X5.

For the 2019 Model Year – out of European regulations – the VW engineers have dropped the naturally-aspirated for forced induction. This translates to a 3.0-litre twinturbocharged V6 motor that – at its peak – can breathe out 340 ponies and 430Nms of twist.

All of that, coupled with the 8-speed automatic transmission, makes way for a naught to 100kph time of 6.8 seconds.

While the nearly turbo-lag-free engine and all-wheeldrive system on the Touareg makes for a sublime association, the duo are let down by the transmission

that’s slow to shift when compared with that of VW’s other products (Golf, Tiguan, Arteon, etc.). On the upside, however, kick-downs are quicker than expected and the gear changes are slicker and smoother than ever.

Obviously, any lag from the tranny can be negated by taking control of the shifts yourself.

Another department where the Touareg strikes all the right notes is in passenger comfort. Not only does the air suspension provide with a smooth ride, the active anti-roll bars also kick in to aid in fast cornering.

We were astonished – dumbfounded even – when we could push the SUV through a sharp bend at 80kph.

That’s quicker than the Jaguar F-Pace we tested earlier – and much, much faster than any German SUV we’d ever tested.

In true fashion, the electric steering is light at low speeds but gains a fair bit of weight as you tread along. But really, ‘Sport’ mode is where the steering dynamics are at their best. The ratios are superb – and the response from the steering is great.

The brakes are strong with the pedal providing a progressive feel at latter stages. Initially, however, the user can notice a slight jerk – owing to brakes readying itself – especially if the safety systems have detected a vehicle nearby.

VOLKSWAGEN’S TOUAREG MAY NEVER HAVE BEEN A LEADER IN ITS CLASS – BUT THAT MAY CHANGE SOON; VERY, VERY SOON. FOR THIS GENERATION, NOT ONLY ARE THE ENGINEERS APPROACHING IT WITH A RADICAL DESIGN BUT ALSO WITH SOME OF THE LATEST GIZMOS IN TECHNOLOGY With 285/4 rubber wrapped around the alloys, the grip levels are mindboggling. There’s not a hint of underand oversteer during cornering. Even body roll is mitigated to an extent that you’d feel that you’re riding on even roads.

Volkswagen’s Touareg may never have been a leader in its class – but that may change soon; very, very soon. For this generation, not only are the engineers approaching it with a radical design but also with some of the latest gizmos in technology.

It’s not a case you-saw-it-herefirst, but the new Touareg still manages to steal the show from its fellow rivals from Germany by cramming in every possible feature it can. And while that puts it in the front foot on the market, their siblings have a bit of catching up to do. It seems to be that the VW boffins are playing a game of Jekyll and Hyde – and they may have accidentally created the flawless SUV.

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CARS ADVENTURES BEAUTIFUL BAVARIA

Germany’s Bavarian capital offers the best of both worlds – metropolitan life and rural panoramas replete with rustic charm.

1. Step back in time at the Deutsche Museum, a time-travel tardis of technology.

2. Take the kids to Hellabrunn Zoo, home to 19,000 animals in open enclosures.

3. Climb the roof of the stadium at Olympic Park, which hosted the 1972 Games.

4. Enjoy the neo-classical architecture of Konigsplatz and its splendid art galleries.

5. Gaze at the Gothic wonder of the imposing and huge Frauenkirche.

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Cars

Y-Fi

Gaming

POSTCARDS FROM

David Hughes recommends

MUNICH, GERMANY O

k, so Oktoberfest has whetted your appetite for all things German.

After beating that BMW to the last space in the car park outside the posh Muscat hotel doing bratwurst and Bavarian folk music, you’re hungry for more, right?

So where better to start than in Munich?

It’s the capital of Germany’s Bavaria region, the powerhouse city of the world’s fourth largest economy and lies on the River Iser at the edge of the Bavarian Alps.

This is home to 1.5 million people blessed to live in a city with some of the finest neo-classical and neo-Gothic architecture in Europe, a bustling art scene all year round, fabulous shops and malls and, of course, the proximity to the Alps, which includes the ski resort of Garmisch-Partenkirchen and the legendary Neuschwanstein Castle.

A E R IA LV O L Y M P IE W O F IA P A R K

My favourite place Like all petrol-heads, it has to be the BMW Museum. Germany does museums with grandiose grandeur, and this pristine steel and glass temple sits proudly alongside the car giant’s headquarters. Guided tours will take you round more than 100 cars and motorbikes through the ages, which also include Rolls-Royces and Minis. And the kids can design their own car. Terrific.

Highlights You’d expect a major city in Europe’s most important country to be stacked with fascinating museums and

galleries, majestic palaces, magnificent churches, and beautiful parks and public gardens. The best way to start is simply to go for a walk. Much of the city was flattened in World War II, and many of the destroyed buildings have simply been rebuilt in their former glorious image.

Marienplatz, a large square, is the city’s focal point and the Neue Rathaus takes up the whole of one side of it. Its clock is a chiming glockenspiel of dancing and jostling figures. You can take a lift within this splendid neo-Gothic structure for a commanding view of the city.

Then, a stroll of no more than 15 minutes will bring you to Munich Residenz, one of the most spectacular palaces in Europe and the former home of Bavaria’s dukes and kings. Be sure to spend the best part of a day here, and don’t miss out on the impressive courtyards, shimmering fountains, verdant gardens, and delectable ponds. Speaking of open spaces, which is always good to know when you’ve got kids in tow, head for the Englischer Garten (English Garden).

Covering 910 acres, it’s reckoned to be the biggest public park in Europe and draws joggers, cyclists, and walkers to its charming pathways. Its woodland, winding streams and artificial lake make it an urban oasis when your museum day has become a bit much.

If fashion is your wife’s thing, then you’ve come to the right place. Maximilianstrasse is where the world’s top designers have their Munich stores. But you can actually find a few outlets here that will offer you ‘last season’ items at very reasonable prices. Shoppers can also head for Theatinerstrasse. It’s just off Marienplatz and is replete with cool boutiques, arcades, cafés, and bistros. For lunch or dinner, the restaurant scene can be delightfully down-to-earth, to suave and sophisticated: it’s not just sauerkraut and pretzels here; delicious though they are.

OO FS OF THE RED R NEAR THE E H C FR A U E N K IR ATZ MARIENPL

Lowlights None, but Germans like rules and order. Service staff will usually be ruthlessly efficient but they won’t necessarily greet you with a smile. And if they can’t give you change from a 20 Euro note, they will imply it’s your fault not theirs.

Don’t take this to heart, relax and smile; you’re on holiday..

Souvenirs If you must have some of the traditional outfits then most of the lederhosen outfitters can be found in shops off Marienplatz. Of course, Germany’s outdoor markets are a delight, especially at Christmas. Foodies must check out the bustling and charming Viktualienmarkt, which is open from 8:00 a.m. till 8:00 p.m. daily except on Sunday, and is where you’ll find all manner of meat, bread and pastries, spices, cheeses, fruit, and flowers.

Getting there Oman Air operates daily flights from Muscat to Munich. The flight time is just under seven hours.

Where to stay As you’d expect, all the world’s top hotel chains are represented here. As well as the usual suspects on

Booking.com, Hotels.com, Expedia, and Kayak, you’ll find more minimalist options in the south of the city. Most are cheap, not necessarily cheerful, but very clean and efficient.

A TRA DITIONA L BAVA RIAN B PLAYS AND IN FRON MARIE T OF NPLAT Z TOW N HALL

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-FI THE TECH IN YOU

Destination

Cars

Gaming

Y-FI

AI INGENUITY

In our digital do-it-all world, Team Y finds some devices that really deliver

SMART HOME

THE EDITOR

The Google Home is synonymous with AI – and rightly so, due to its wide range of practical uses.

The home assistant makes use of a microphone, a set of speakers, and Google’s legendary and evergrowing database to provide you with the best user experience that you can possibly attain from a portable device. Underneath the slick exterior lies a setup that can conduct tasks such as playing music, carrying out web searches, switching on the lights or a/c in your home, among several other tasks. It also learns your voice, actions, and routines to tailor your results. Buy yours from store.google.com for RO50.

Just a decade ago, Artificial Intelligence, which is commonly abbreviated as ‘AI’, was taboo. Today, everything from our smartphones to our cameras comes pre-loaded with added virtual assistance. While the technology may not be enough to progress with the annihilation of humankind as yet, it has come on in leaps and bounds in day-to-day use.

This Graava video camera incorporates some rather interesting tech inside: it uses sophisticated AI algorithms to identify and automatically edit the best moments of your footage without you having to pan through hours of footage.

In essence, this is the most costeffective video editor your RO96 can buy. Get it from getgraava.com.

PERSONAL ASSISTANT A personal butler that would tend to your needs but not cost as much as one: that would be the dream. We’re not undermining the job of a butler, but AI devices such as the Mycroft Mark 2 are slowly adapting to our everyday needs – thereby eliminating the need for a personal butler. This device makes use of AI to communicate with the devices in your home – like the door locks, airconditioners, security cameras, refrigerator, and even your stove – and makes your life easier. It can also conduct simple tasks such as setting up an alarm and play you a personalised message on the day that lays ahead. This nifty piece of gadget is all yours for RO72 from mycroft.ai/shop.

PIXEL PERFECT

EDITOR’S PICK

“AI IN A PHONE (?) THAT’S NOT REALLY ORIGINAL,” ONE MIGHT SAY. BUT, WE’D LIKE TO ARGUE THAT AI TECHNOLOGY, IN ITS MOST PRIMITIVE FORM, PERFORMS BEST ON A SMARTPHONE – AS IS SEEN ON THE ALL-NEW GOOGLE PIXEL 3 AND PIXEL 3XL. AFTER IT BROKE ONTO THE SCENE JUST LAST WEEK, THE DEVICE HAS BEEN PLACED UNDER THE SCANNER FOR ITS CONTROVERSIAL LOOKS, WHICH IS LED BY THE LARGE BLACK NOTCH ON THE TOP OF THE SCREEN. AND THERE’S NO OTHER WAY TO PUT IT: IT’S UGLY! THAT SAID, GOOGLE’S LATEST CREATION SITS AS THE PINNACLE OF SMART DEVICES, CURRENTLY. SURE, IT’S ONLY A PHONE, BUT ITS AI BRAIN IS UNPRECEDENTED. IT ALL COMES TO LIFE VIA A BRILLIANT 12.2MP 28MM F/1.8 CAMERA THAT SITS SNUGLY ON THE BACK OF THE DEVICE. THIS CAN THEN MAKE USE OF FEATURES SUCH AS ‘TOP SHOT’, WHICH CAN CAPTURE ALTERNATE SHOTS IN HDR+ AND THEN ENDORSE THE BEST ONE FROM THE SEQUENCE. MORE IMPORTANTLY, IT CAN MAKE USE OF LIVE IMAGING FOR FUNCTIONS TO PROVIDE TRANSLATIONS, OBJECT DETAILS, LOCATION, AND SO ON. BUY IT FROM STORE.GOOGLE.COM FOR RO308

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The Last of Us

Info Box

Genre: SURVIVAL HORROR Platforms: PLAYSTATION 3 AND PLAYSTATION 4 Awards: BAFTA GAMES AWARD FOR BEST GAME, BAFTA GAMES AWARD FOR PERFORMER, BAFTA GAMES AWARD FOR STORY

Team Y tries out a game that turns out to be as infectious as its theme ‘The Last of Us’ changed our lives – literally! While we don’t intend to glorify anything as life-changing – much less a game – there’s no denying that several elements in the title can come across as thought-provoking, and frankly, adaptable in real life… no jokes.

Hear us out: the game revolves around the lives of two individuals – the protagonist, Joel and a young girl, Ellie – trying to make it through post-apocalyptical environments such as towns, buildings, and forests by taking nothing but gritty decisions and making use of makeshift weapons to murder mutants.

While all of that makes way for a rather generic storyline, the platonic bonding between the duo, and the turns that take place in between sequences really make way for a great experience.

On the face of it, the game is incredibly simple to play: all you need to do is shoot your way through hostile humans looking to make it themselves by looting your resources and cannibalistic creatures infected by a mutated strain of the Cordyceps fungus.

The creatures are vile – and often, you’ll see yourself making the tough and emotional decision to shoot an infected companion (with whom you connected during the gameplay).

These are also the hardest

decisions to take. Looking someone in the eye and having to pull the trigger can be unnerving – and the butter- smooth graphics don’t help to make it any easier.

The tears in their eyes will say it all, as infected humans don’t have any control over their bodies but are probably aware of everything happening around them.

It’s almost as if the person is trapped inside their own body.

That said, the way the writers capture the strong connection between Joel and Ellie is noteworthy.

Ellie, a young 14-year-old survivor herself, has no life experience – but there’s a catch: she may be the one to cure the infection. Joel, on the other hand, is a survivalist who also works as a smuggler in the heavily quarantined zones wherein the healthy humans reside.

The developing team has created custom engines for the game – and for the most part, they work wonders. The occasional stutter and frame-rate loss may bog down the console but it’s in no way a hindrance to the game.

Yet, the game strikes the right balance between fantasy and reality; making use of the gamer’s decisions to proceed with the storyline.

The overall experience may be short – with gameplay running for only about 60 hours or so – but it’s worth every second.

In fact, we’re taking the stand to say that it’s the best game we’ve ever played, and as we stated earlier, it’s a life-altering experience.

Whether you’re a professional gamer or not, you’ll come out of the game a changed human with a newfound respect for life.

This review really can’t shed enough light on the greatness of the game. It must be played to be experienced.

We can’t wait for The Last of Us Part II.

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HEALTH& BEAUTY

Health

Beauty

SPOOKY FASHION

FASHION

It’s October, which means it’s officially Halloween! High Street stores have already started stocking up on a variety of spooky dresses and accessories, and we are so excited to put together some fashionable-yet-scary costumes. Let’s start with this sparkly dress, with spider earrings, from Primark.

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k o o L e h

aran K e tin hris C , t ry tree esto s o h h g s e hi rmy h a t e o t H end e look. ram h g g hi th the to get n Insta m Fro s you tine o is help w Chr o Foll

T t Ge

This is a pretty cool T-shirt and we are sure that one of us is going to be wearing it at Y-Mag HQ very soon.

This statement tee from NEXT can be paired easily with anything to celebrate the spirit of Halloween.

For those who want to enjoy the real essence of Halloween, we’ve found the right dress for you. The spiders and cobwebs designed across this dress bring out the true Halloween ‘spirit’.

Buy it from TU at RO10.

A little too late for that elaborate Halloween costume you had decided on? Don’t worry, pair this ultrafashionable ‘Skeleton hands’ necklace from H&M with a black dress and you are instantly ready for Halloween. Grab it today for RO4.5.

Ready to go on a spooky yet fashionable trick-ortreating spree? We’ve got the perfect dress for you. This silver to black ombrè dress from M&Co is impeccable for partying in! Buy it for RO40.

There will always be that one friend who shows up to the Halloween party without an appropriate costume so this Bat hair band is for her. Just pop this on her head and she’ll ready for fright night! Buy it from H&M at RO2.5.

Halloween is not complete without spiders! So why not add them to your costume?

These cute and sparkly spider earrings from New Look are a must-have to increase your ‘scare’ factor.

Buy them for RO1.5.

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HEALTH& BEAUTY

Health

BEAUTY

Fashion

Home

Family

GREY MATTER So, you’re noticing a little snow on the peak? We bring you some sterling styles that will definitely have you going grey with grace

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emember when celebrity Kelly Osbourne dyed her hair lilacgrey? Or when US stylist Stacy London made the silver-streak her ultimate fashion accessory years before that? What was once an unwelcome fact of life has now become a symbol for empowered fashionistas of any age.

Here are some style tips to help you rock it.

Head to the salon If you’ve dyed your hair and decided that those constant root touch-ups just aren’t worth the cost and hassle, a visit to your stylist is a must. Do you want to keep your greys, cover them up fully, or blend them with another shade? Talking to your hairdresser can help you find a style, cut and shade that works best for you. Don’t try going it alone!

To chop or not to chop If you’ve been a lifelong colour addict, the options are essentially to continue dyeing to cover up or to grow out your greys while undergoing a series of strategic cuts. If you do continue to go down the colour route, 042

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try and avoid boxed dyes as much as possible and stick with a professional colourist. Or, if you just can’t stand the thought of waiting for your colour to grow out, try letting your grey roots come in as much as possible and then go for a shorter cut or a pixie cut that will let your silver tresses grow in fully.

Not all hair products are the same This is especially true when looking after your silver mane. Grey hair can easily turn brassy or ‘yellowed’ when using products that aren’t meant for its condition. It can also be prone to dryness and frizz. Help maintain a fresh, silvery allure by using purple shampoo or conditioner to offset any brassiness. We love L’Oreal’s Serie Expert Silver Shampoo.

Be fearlessly bold Taking the leap to go grey is a big step. But this hallmark of ageing doesn’t mean you can’t still embrace your youth with a cut and style that keeps it modern. Also, now that your hair is essentially colourless, that means amping up your look by going bold in other ways. Be creative! Try punchy lipstick hues, vibrant jewellery and accessories, and a wardrobe that showcases your youthful spirit with styles, colours, and patterns that reflect the inner you.

Beauty

HEALTH

Fashion

Home

Family

THINK PINK

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month worldwide, and we bring you the need-toknow tips towards early detection that could save your life, with the help of Frincy Francis and Sheeba Elizabeth John from the Sultan Qaboos University College of Nursing

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urrent global statistics related to breast cancer are on the rise – and Oman is no exception.

One in four women becomes prey to cancer irrespective of their race, culture or ethnicity, accounting to 14 per cent of all cancer-related deaths.

A recent survey reported a disturbing pattern of incidences of breast cancer in Middle Eastern countries and especially among Arab women.

As of now, there’s still an increased need for awareness – and it has been a challenge for health professionals to convince Omanis of the necessity for screening and early detection.

Here are some points to remember during this month of awareness: Focus on health Weight gain has been linked to an increase in breast tissue, resulting in a higher risk of breast cancer. A focus on eating a healthy, plant-based diet may help to reduce this risk. Regular exercise to help curb weight gain is key, and 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week is essential to overall health.

times we sense the slightest change if something is not right.

• Touch and feel – Knowing the steps to perform an at-home breast selfexamination to feel for a mass using finger-pads could begin as early as the age of 20.

• Look out for symptoms – Identifying visible symptoms like peau d’orange (skin with the appearance and dimpled texture of an orange peel), abnormal secretions, changes in the shape of the breast, and pain at a localised point means you should see the doctor..

• Check with a doctor – Your healthcare provider may collect firsthand information from you to identify any risk factors. She will also perform a clinical breast examination and recommend advanced screening techniques such as a mammogram.

How to raise awareness: • Know your body – Activity classes that teach anatomy and the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, along with steps for self-examination, could be a good introduction for girls in high school or college classes.

• ‘Pink’ birthdays – Organise peer events with friends and family that celebrate the birthdays of breast cancer survivors where they can interact with other women and spread a message of awareness and motivation for a better quality of life for those affected.

• WhatsApp reinforcement – Social media is a huge motivating factor for younger generations of girls and young women. Forming a WhatsApp or other social media group with female family members or friends can create a safe space to share educational resources and instill awareness about breast cancer. This can influence young women who, in turn, become messengers of awareness to their mothers, aunts, and sisters.

Every small attempt towards health promotion and disease prevention will have a big impact in the long run in the global fight against breast cancer. We hope this October, you’ll do more than just wear pink.

TLC (Touch - Look- Check) Technique: As women, we know our bodies best – and most OCT 18 - 24 / ISSUE 540

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Trend

New Restaurant

Reviews

YUMMY

5

new Muscat restaurants that are rocking it

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When you’ve put in a long day and need to kick back, relax, and enjoy a good nosh up, here are five new eateries that let you do just that

W

e’ve all been there: after a long day at work, you scamper home only to find yourself with the onerous task of preparing a meal for you and yours.

It’s no walk in the park either.

Sometimes, all you want is a relaxing supper with your loved ones and one that means leaving the saucepan and pasta spoon alone, even if it means having a NATO summit-like debate about where to dine.

If, like us, you have explored every nook and cranny of Muscat’s food scene then you’ll need some inspiration. And that’s exactly what we have for you here.

This week, we take a gastronomic adventure into the heart of the capital city to find the hottest and latest eateries to keep you and your loved ones’ taste buds satisfied.

Trend

New Restaurant

Reviews Zale Beach Club & Lounge

W

hen it comes to dining with a view, there’s no beating the Zale Beach Club & Lounge. Not only is its proximity to the azure waters of the Arabian Sea and the never-ending coastline a calming setting for dining, but its food is second to none. Zale offers multicultural cuisine, with the magazinestyle menu serving up everything from succulent burgers (yes, we’ve tried them out), chargrilled fish, and some healthy salads for health watchers. If that’s not enough to set the mood for the evening then let the talented mixologists take over and invent a beverage to sip on while the calm sea breeze takes you to a state of nirvana.

YUMMY

5

Cuisine: Indian, American Location: Muscat City Centre Contact: 8006-6800 Opening hours: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

3RD Street Donuts

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o lies: no one in Oman does doughnuts better than the folk from 3RD Street Donuts. Simply writing about it makes us want to sink our teeth into the frosty crust of a ‘Nutella Bomb’ and watch the melted chocolate gush from the insides. Leave all your shame at the entrance door, too; for there’s no better way to enjoy a doughnut than with your hands. After you’re done exploring their wide variety of doughnuts, you can try out their thick shakes or their specially-brewed coffees. Give this eatery a shot: you won’t regret it..

Cuisine: American Location: Behind The Sultan’s School, Seeb Contact: 9306-6666 Opening hours: 2:00 p.m.

-10:00 p.m.

that are rocking it

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ravelling in a tuk tuk (a rickshaw) on a balmy evening in a crowded Indian city cannot be put down as anyone’s finest moment. However, this restaurant – which, as its name suggests, is inspired by the yellow tuk tuks from Mumbai and it is definitely turning heads. Its décor isn’t even its strongest suit but its food is. Classic North Indian food blended with Western cuisine makes this restaurant a must-try for anyone visiting the Muscat City Centre. The zesty flavours of paneer marinated in Kashmiri chilli and served as quesadillas will have anyone’s palate titillated.

Cuisine: International Location: Kempinski Hotel Muscat, Al Mouj Contact: 2498-5000 Opening hours: Mon-Sun – 12:30 p.m. - 1:00 a.m.

new Muscat restaurants

044

Tuk Tuk Taxi

When you’ve put in a long day and need to kick back, relax, and enjoy a good nosh up, here are five new eateries that let you do just that

W

e’ve all been there: after a long day at work, you scamper home only to find yourself with the onerous task of preparing a meal for you and yours.

It’s no walk in the park either.

Sometimes, all you want is a relaxing supper with your loved ones and one that means leaving the saucepan and pasta spoon alone, even if it means having a NATO summit-like debate about where to dine.

If, like us, you have explored every nook and cranny of Muscat’s food scene then you’ll need some inspiration. And that’s exactly what we have for you here.

This week, we take a gastronomic adventure into the heart of the capital city to find the hottest and latest eateries to keep you and your loved ones’ taste buds satisfied.

Lebanese Village Restaurant

T

here’s a saying: “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. Sadly, restaurants here try to reinvent the wheel (figuratively, of course), leaving us with inconsistent dishes for those crucial moments when all you really need is a nice slice of tender chicken to munch on. That’s where the Lebanese Village Restaurant steps into the picture. Consistency, it seems, is the only way this restaurant sees it. Aside from its overly conspicuous name, the chefs are all trained to bring the best of Lebanese food – hummus, shawarmas, grilled fish and meat – to your table with a smile. That said, the locale (which is in the environs of the Dolphin Village in Baushar) is quite upscale, too; meaning you’ll find yourself enjoying the view as much as you relish the food.

Takara

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apanese food at its best, and we’re yet to find another Asian restaurant that serves up sushi and broth like Takara does. Opened earlier this year, this eatery, located in the InterContinental Muscat, earns bragging rights to some of the most scrumptious fare but also offers a relaxing atmosphere with its Japanese-inspired soft lounge music. That said, the menu also offers steaks, kebabs, and noodles so you’ve got it all covered for the kids.

Cuisine: Japanese, Location: InterContinental Muscat Contact: 9759-4809 Opening hours: 6:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Cuisine: Arabic, Mediterranean Location: Dar Al Atta office near Dolphin Village Contact: 9911-3344 Opening hours: Noon to midnight

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FOOD DRINK

Tr e n d

New Restaurant

REVIEWS

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an R d i

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Info Box

KERANADU

Lobby level, Al Bahjah Hotel, Wadi Bahayis St., Seeb Souq Opening hours: Sun-Sat, 6:00 p.m. – 3:00 a.m.

Contact: (+968) 2442-4400 Dinner for three: RO22.90

KERANADU

THIS KERALITE CATCH-ALL IN THE AL SEEB AREA’S AL BAHJAH HOTEL IS A TASTE OF HOME FOR THE SOUTH INDIAN POPULATION, AND A FAMILIAR HAUNT FOR THOSE CRAVING AUTHENTIC TASTE AT AFFORDABLE PRICES. TEAM Y TUCKS IN

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Verdict : 8/10 SERVICE 8/10 FOOD 6/10 AMBIENCE Flavourful South Indian specialties served family-style Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals

lightly and rolled in a flavoursome blend of Indian spices, tossed with roasted cashews, chilies and crispy curry leaves. Completely moreish once you dig in you won’t be able to stop popping them back.

After making quick work of the platter, a hearty helping of chicken tikka biryani arrives steaming in a copper pot to the table. Enclosed in a mountainous portion of saffron basmati rice topped with a boiled egg, are piping-hot mouthfuls of robust chicken tikka enrobed in a coating of rich spice paste. The depth of flavour is hearty and each spoonful drizzled with lashes of cooling yogurt raita are Indian comfort food at its best. We struggle to finish the portions.

Other notable Keranadu standouts are the masala dosa – easily a half-metre-long it comes stuffed with lightly spiced curried potato and sambar and coconut chutney for dipping.

Crispy, hot, flavourful and filling – job done.

Lastly, no culinary journey to South India would be complete without sampling some seafood. We recommend the grilled pepper prawns which come served on a sizzling griddle and aren’t for those who can’t handle a little spice with dinner.

What Keranadu lacks in ambience it makes up for in its culinary offerings and staff who go the extra mile to make you feel like family. Because, after all, if there’s one thing South India can stake its claim to, it’s hospitality.

uscat’s Al Seeb Souq heaves with life when the sun goes down.

Denizens of a vibrant streetscape clamour for space on streets chocka-block with vendors offering every type of item or service available. Eye-glass shops jostle for elbow space amid oud vendors, electronic repair WHAT KERANADU LACKS IN kiosks and juice stalls. Parking is at a premium – AMBIENCE IT MAKES UP FOR IN ITS but it’s an area that’s best explored on foot.

CULINARY OFFERINGS AND STAFF Perched among its cacophony of neon signage WHO GO THE EXTRA MILE TO MAKE is the Al Bahjah Hotel, a local mainstay and YOU FEEL LIKE FAMILY watering hole that’s home to Keranadu, a South Indian restaurant, the homely exterior of which evokes a sense of geographic and culinary nostalgia in equal measure. The entrance is adorned with cultural artefacts from the south of the subcontinent – hand-painted masks and pottery while the dimly-lit interiors of its family room and separate lounge areas are strung with traditional fishing nets, drums, and ships wheels that conjure the fishing culture of South India.

It’s no surprise that seafood features prominently on the menu which is, as the restaurant’s name suggests, an homage to the best dishes from the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. As we tuck ourselves behind a wooden table in one of the restaurant’s inner recesses, the electric light from the restaurant’s central fish Do you have a favourite restaurant that you’d like to see tank emits an eldritch glow that lends the space an otherworldly ambience. We could be in the hold reviewed? Let Y know at editor@y-oman.com of a tall ship – or in the Hotel California.

Our waiter Satiesh gets us settled and started with some complimentary popcorn and fresh papadums – albeit flatter versions that are more like crispy wafers than the delicate puffs most usually associated with the accompaniment. They come served with a side of a sour green chutney and a sweeter chili version that is the clear winner.

Tonight we’re craving an easy-to-eat starter, and opt for a platter of the chicken uruval. A Mangalorean specialty, this dish hails from a little further north from the state of Karnataka and is the Indian equivalent of popcorn chicken – on flavour steroids. What arrives is a main-size portion of gushing morsels of chicken battered every so

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JUAN DIEGO FLÓREZ With Fatma Said

25 October - 7:00 pm

East meets West in an exciting operatic concert, as world-famous Peruvian tenor, Juan Diego Flórez appears with the rising star, Egyptian soprano Fatma Said, accompanied by the Hungarian State Opera Orchestra under the baton of Guillermo García Calvo.

SARAH JANE MORRIS A GREAT JAZZ-SOUL VOCALIST

28 October - 7:00 pm

With her strikingly sensual voice, British singer and songwriter Sarah Jane Morris straddles rock, blues, jazz and soul in a four-octave range. Themed on Africa, her latest album juxtaposes visceral lyricism with intense moral engagement.