BBBForum Autumn 2018 by Andrew Mead MBE

From The Chair

Khalid Al-Zayani OBE Chairman Welcome to the autumn edition of the BBBF magazine. The final quarter of the year is shaping up to be very busy with a flourish of business activity expected and interesting meetings/ events. We have all enjoyed a long summer break but are now back to business as demonstrated at our well attended lunch in September. We were pleased to kick off our business networking lunches with VIP guest of honour and speaker - H.E. Dr Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Minister of EWA, who gave a presentation on the latest development in renewable energy in Bahrain. His Excellency highlighted the great opportunity provided by this initiative to promote, support, inspire and contribute to the development in Bahrain, as well as support the Ministries mission to push creative boundaries and seek out more diverse collaborations in the local community.

Moving in to November we have our annual Poppy Ball on Friday November 9th where we join forces with our partners the BBA (British Business Association Eastern Province) from across the bridge. This is a very well supported event in aid of three charities (The Royal Chelsea Hospital Building Fund, The Earl Haig Poppy Fund and The Bahrain Mother & Child Welfare Society). The Poppy Ball is one the highlights of the year s social calendar in Bahrain. I look forward to seeing many of you at the Poppy Ball, for what shall be a wonderful evening of commemoration and remembrance - and a lot of fun - all for a good cause. Also in November, we will once again host the Chelsea Pensioners to mark the Armistice Day. The Chelsea Pensioners will attend the laying of the wreath to commemorate fallen comrades, as well as do their usual busy round of appointments and visits to schools and clubs in Bahrain. No doubt you will see them out and about. Please give a warm welcome to them along the way. To end the year, we will be holding our annual traditional Christmas lunch on December 6th where we are delighted to

Registration number ISSN 1985-9929

have joining us as our guests of honour HMA Simon Martin CMG and Sophie Martin. We do hope you all will be able to join us for this enjoyable end of season festive lunch! Our SIG s continue to drive forward, actively engaging and offering our members and guests a valuable medium for exchanging industry specific ideas. They also offer an excellent way to make new contacts in a particular industry and connect with like minded professionals. I would like to thank the SIG Heads and everyone that has supported the SIG s with enthusiasm throughout the year. I would like to sincerely thank our sponsors for their unwavering support of the forum. Their continued backing and generous encouragement allows us the financial security to increase the number of initiatives and enhances the quality and quantity of business networking events that our members benefit from and enjoy immensely. The BBBF continues to build on our solid membership base and seek to attract additional members, to work to create and sustain a favourable business environment and strive to assist both the UK and Bahrain to benefit and enhance the common economic interests of the forum s member companies. We hope that you enjoy this Forum edition. The committee as always looks forward to seeing you and your guests at up and coming BBBF meetings and events.

Kind Regards Khalid Al Zayani OBE BBBF Tel: +973 1781 3488, Fax: +973 1781 3489, Email: bbbforum@batelco.com.bh Bahrain British Business Forum, P. O. Box 10051, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain

Contents Executive Committee....2 Welcome to New Members..............3 Advertiser Index............5 Diary Dates...................5 Member Benefits ..........6 Why join the BBBF? .....7 From Her Majesty s Ambassador.................8 Ensuring businesses survive and thrive........10 Financial Sector ..........12 Brexit - Jargon Explained .....14 The Future of Mobility .16 News from the EP ......18 Property & Construction...............20 Hotel & Leisure News .26 Golf Day results ..........28 Bahrain News .............30 Chelsea Pensioners parade in London .......32 Cover Picture: BBBF Members and guests listen to H.E. Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Electricity & Water Affairs, as he outlines the latest developments in renewable energy in Bahrain at the September BBBF Networking lunch meeting. More photos page 11. Forum

The 2017-19 BBBF Executive Committee

Chairman Khalid Al Zayani OBE

Deputy Chair Paula Boast Tel: 3319 4445

Hon-Secretary Ben Elsworth Mob: 3633 1167

Treasurer Jonathan Trafankowski Mob: 3914 8599

Member Nasser Al Arayedh Tel: 1727 2575

Member Mazen Alumran Tel: 1771 5555

Member Adel Fakhro Tel: 1727 5000

Embassy Representative Mohamed Ismail Tel: 1757-4124

Member Mark Gravener Tel: 3976-6565

Member Ava Garbutt Tel: 3941 1938

Executive Manager Dena Wales Tel: 3969 6191

This edition of the BBBF Forum magazine was compiled by Andrew Mead at Mead Management Services Ltd. email: andrew@sbtd.co.uk UK Mob: 0044 7940 559 925 Bahrain Mobile: 00973 3627 2969 KSA Mob: 00966 506 271 151 If you would like to contribute to a future edition please telephone or send an email to info@sbtd.co.uk A full page advert is charged at BD330. A half page advert at BD200, A quarter page advert at BD110 A small panel at BD55 Assistance with Advert design is available if required Please note: The BBBF nor its agents do not warrant the services of any of the individual or corporate members of the BBBF. The views and opinions expressed by independent contributors must not be regarded as those of the BBBF or its agents. Publication of any article or advertisement does not imply any endorsement of the views, products or services described therein.

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Welcome to New Members Rala Ajakie Director of Client Servicing Unisono Tel: 1755-8787 Mob: 3392-8980 rala@unisonoagency.com

Alban Dutemple General Manager Swiss-Belhotel Tel: 6631-0000 Mob: 3684-5845 gmsbse@swiss-belhotel.com

Mahmood Al Araibi Senior Associate Al Tamimi & Company Advocates Tel: 1710-8919 Mob: 3899-4192 m.alaraibi@tamimi.com

John-Paul Fox E-Marketing & Insight Manager Gulf Brands International Tel: 1772-8014 Mob: emark@gulfbrandsinternational.com

Dalal Al Kooheji Associate Newton Legal Tel: 1700-6571 dalal.alkooheji@ newtonlegalgroup.com

Khalid Hassan Sales Manager Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Tel: 1763-6368 Mob: 3995-3428 h6722-sl11@sofitel.com

Abbas Al Radhi Managing Partner AWAEL Tel: 1710-4666 Mob: abbas@awael.bh

Luke Meehan Senior Associate Norton Rose Fulbright (M.E.) LLP Tel: 1650-0244 Mob: 3943-1151 luke.meehan@n ortonrosefulbright.com

Ayah AlBadri Account Executive Hill & Knowlton Strategies Tel: 1753-3532 Mob: 3896-8780 ayah.albadri@hkstrategies.com

Sohail Nawaz CEO Adsertor Tel: 3384-4452 Mob: 3384-4452 sohail.nawaz@adsertor.net

Yassir Demnati Director of Sales The Merchant House S.P.C Tel: 1667-1000 Mob: 3401-8558 yassir.demnati@ themerchanthouse.com

Andrew Noble Business Owner, Barrister Noble Consulting Company Tel: 3379-8077 Mob: 3379-8077 Noble@ NobleConsultingCompanySPC.com Forum

Welcome to New Members

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Andrew Price School Business Manager St ChristopherÂ&#x2019;s School Tel: 1760-5012 Mob: 3720-0340 andy.price@staff.st-chris.net

Iain Sword Retail Manager Gulf Brands International Tel: 1772-8014 Mob: retail@gulfbrandsinternational.com

Maxim Raimann Deputy Regional Exams Manager British Council Tel: 1726-6141 Maxim.Raimann@ sa.britishcouncil.org

Lan Vy Tran Country Director Oxford Business Group Tel: 1715-1582 Mob: 3560-5822 vtran@oxfordbusinessgroup.com

Jeff Smith Executive Director British School of Bahrain Tel: 1761-0894 executivehead@thebsbh.com

Sharina Viegas Office Manager Trowers & Hamlins Tel: 1751-5640 Mob: 3217-0317 sviegas@trowers.com

Our thanks to all the advertisers in this edition of Forum. Without their support, this issue would not have been possible. Please give them yours.

Diary Dates Tuesday 16 October Business Networking Lunch meeting 12noon - 2.30pm Wednesday 31 October SIG Legal - Breakfast Meeting Friday 9 November BBBF/BBA Poppy Ball 7pm - 1am Thursday 6 December Members Annual Christmas Lunch meeting Tuesday 11 December SIG ICT - Breakfast Meeting Tuesday 22 January Business Networking Lunch meeting Tuesday 19 February Business Networking Lunch meeting Wednesday 27 March AGM - Election Year

Adsertor........................................... Inside Back Cover Al Hilal Life ........................................................ page 5 Bahrain Financial Harbour Holding Co............ page 25 Basic Lines ...................................................... page 21 British Council ................................................. page 31 British Embassy................................................. page 9 Cushman & Wakefield..................................... page 23 Dilmun Club..................................................... page 29 Etihad Airways................................................. page 17 Grant Thornton ................................................ page 13 Gulf Court Hotel............................ Outside Back Cover Mansouri Mansions ........................................... page 6 Nexus ..............................................Inside Front Cover Skin Health Centre .......................................... page 11 Streetlight Photography................................... page 10 Wyndham Gardens ......................................... page 27 Y B A Kanoo Group......................................... page 19 To advertise in a future edition of the BBBForum magazine please contact the compiler, Andrew Mead of MMSL on andrew@sbtd.co.uk or call 0044 7940 55 99 25 Full page inside the magazine BD330 Half Page BD200 Quarter Page BD110

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Benefits for BBBF Members

Benefits for all our members may be obtained on production of their Membership card at the concerned outlet. We would like to hear your feedback concerning these discounts. Please do not hesitate to offer your services to our members by contacting the BBBF office. If any member has any difficulty obtaining a discount, please contact the BBBF office so we can rectify the situation.

AXA Insurance 10% discounts to members on personal lines insurances. (excluding medical) Terms & Conditions Apply. Contact: Jonathan Jane Tel: 1758-8222 Email: jonathan.jane@axa-gulf.com Bateel BBBF Members can enjoy 10% Discount when presenting their Membership Card, Complimentary collection for refilling, Complimentary delivery. Development Managers readily available for a courtesy meeting at your location. Email: m.shareef@almoayedgeneral.com Contact: Mahboob Shareef Mobile: 3964-4222 BMC BBBF members and Organisations are eligible to a 20% discount on Team/Executive/Board Coaching and accredited Leadership/ Innovation/Business English/Coach Training as well as 10% discount on psychometric profiling. Contact:- Dr. Clare Beckett-McInroy (Managing Director), Mobile: 3844-2727, email: office@beckett-mcinroy.com British Airways Valid until 31 Dec 2018 ** conditions apply BBBF members can enjoy exclusive discounts of up to 10% on fares from Middle East in Club World business, World Traveller Plus premium economy and World Traveller economy fares on British Airways flights. The discount rate is applicable to round or one-way trips booked before 31/12/18 and for outbound travel by 31/12/19. This discount is not valid on taxes, fees and surcharges. Terms and conditions apply. To book please login at www.ba.com/bgme-bh GRIP Arabia 10% discount for members on 1-on-1 Executive Coaching, Contact: Kevin Craig Tel: 3619-9980 Email: kevin@griparabia.com Crowne Plaza Hotel valid until 30th December 2018 Special offer for BBBF Members - 20% discount on all Food & Beverage consumption. BBBF Membership Card must be presented at checkout. May not be combined with other offers/discounts. DHL 25% discount from the cash tariff for any personal shipments being sent from Bahrain to anywhere in the world available on production of your membership card. Tel: 1736-4100 www.dhl.com.bh

Fedex Express Middle East Valid until December 31, 2018 BBBF Members can enjoy a 40% discount* on FedEx rates. To avail this offer, Drop your shipment in-person at our FedEx Service Center at: GLS Facility, Avenue No.20, Area No. 224, Gate 23, Muharraq. Show your membership card / business card along with a valid ID. Maximum weight for each shipment 68kg See www.fedex.com/bh or call Customer Service: 1733 4448 * conditions apply

Gulf Computer Services (GCS) IT Health Check. GCS have offered BBBF Members a site survey and assessment of all their computer hardware, software and systems. Hasan Mansouri 10% discount to members at Mansouri Mansions Hotel and Country Club. Contact: Karim Mansouri Tel: 1772-8144 email: karim@karimmansouri.com InTouch Integrated Chiropractic Spine Centre BBBF Members can avail themselves of a 20% discount on services Tel: 1769-0100 Novotel Bahrain Al Dana Resort BBBF members can enjoy 20% discount in our Restaurants & Lounge for up to 6 persons. Special CPR promotional rates during weekends. Please contact Reservations: 1729-8411/ email: H3600-RE1@accor.com Oasis Training Centre Oasis Training are pleased to offer 10% discount to members on all English, Insurance and Professional Soft skill training programs. For more information please visit http://www.oasistrainingbh.com, Call: 1733-0823 or email: info@oasistrainingbh.com PRIME Instant Offices & Business Centre 1. 10% off Videoconferences within Business Centre hours; 2. 10 off our Visa Processing services; and 3. One month free for all our Virtual Office packages. 4. 10% off our meeting room rates within centre hours. Contact Emma Curtis-Smith, Centre Manager Tel: 1757-0379 email: emma@primeinstantoffices.com Protection Insurance Services offers BBBF members special rates on their personal insurance (motor, home, travel and any other insurance cover). Members will just call to select the cover type, share the credit card number and we will deliver the policy documents to his / her office. Please call 3904-3446 or 3645-4282 Royal Over-Seas League Reduced rates for BBBF members at ROSL clubhouses in London and Edinburgh Email: membership@rosl.org.uk Tel: 0044 20 7408 0214 Fax: 0044 20 7499 6738 Servcorp Business Package First month FREE on any Servcorp Virtual Office package. For details contact: Danni Hunneyball, Assistant Manager Tel: 1750-3000 email: danni.hunneyball@servcorp.me Web: www.servcorp.bh

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Why Join The BBBF?

BAHRAIN The Pearl of the Gulf has had a long standing relationship with Britain and is still a major trading partner.

Membership directories are distributed to members of visiting Trade Missions and are available through the Embassy and business centres in five star hotels.

BRITISH Trade with Bahrain is now subject to significant competition in this era of globalisation particularly from countries in Europe and from the USA.

Simply click on “Sign Up” on our website www.bbbforum.org complete the application form and click submit. Sounds simple, it is, it must be worth it.

BUSINESS between Bahrain and Britain must be promoted in order for Britain to maintain its dominant position. The BBBF has been formed to help in whatever way it can to do this and through its close cooperation with the British Embassy seeks to promote exchange of trade and good relations between Bahrain and Britain. FORUM Is defined in the Collins English Dictionary as, an assembly or meeting to discuss topics of public concern . The BBBF provides through its monthly meetings a platform for networking amongst its members and the exchange and dissemination of useful business leads and opportunities. In addition, in return for a modest subscription, members receive the benefit of inclusion in an annual directory describing the products and services they have to offer and a listing on the BBBF website again with a description of activities, contact numbers and useful links.

BBBF Membership Application Please complete the membership form and send it to: BBBF Executive Office, Fax: (00973) 1781 3489, or Email: bbbfmemberships@batelco.com.bh. For further information call (00973) 1781 3488, Web site: www.bbbforum.org

Cost of membership Individual Membership: BD 100 per annum, with an additional BD 40 once-only registration fee. Corporate Membership: BD 400 per annum (up to 5 individuals) plus BD 40 for each applicant up to a maximum of 10, with an additional BD 100 once-only registration fee. Corporate Sponsorships Three levels of sponsorship are available: Platinum: BD 5000 each year for three years Gold: BD 5000 for one year Silver: BD 3000 for one year Sponsor packages include a variety of advertisement opportunities in the Membership Directory, the Forum magazine, the BBBF website and at the regular lunch meetings. Full details are available on request.

Corporate Membership please complete separate form for each applicant

Individual Membership

Company Name

Website address of business (if applicable)

Title and full name (Surname first)

Describe how you / your company contribute to substantial business interests in Bahrain (Maximum 150 words)

Position in business Nationality

Date of Birth

CPR Number Address of business (P.O.Box & Town) Business telephone

Facsimile

Home telephone

Mobile

E-mail address

I agree to abide by the BBBF Constitution & Internal regulations. Applicants Signature

Please note that the granting of individual or corporate membership is subject to BBBF Committee approval.

Date

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From Her Majesty's Ambassador I have just returned from a weekend trip to Mussandam with Sophie. What a wonderful place to visit I have to say I never expected to find myself still in the Gulf - sailing through fjords on a traditional dhow, flanked on both sides by leaping dolphins. I would recommend it to everyone. But even in this seemingly pristine environment I was quickly brought back to reality by the sight of plastic in the ocean. A sad sign of our times and further reminder that we must all work together to limit the damage we are causing to our environment and be responsible in disposing of our waste. It is good news therefore that the Bahraini authorities are increasingly engaged on this issue and are stepping up their efforts across the piece. Earlier in October I found myself on a beach clean-up at Dry Dock, together with Dr Mohamed bin Daina, CEO

of the Supreme Council for the Environment (and Dr Mohamed represented Bahrain at the Illegal Wildlife Trade Conference in London this week). Everyone who attended the BBBF lunch to hear Minister of Electricity and Water Dr Abdulhussain Mirza on 18 September will, I am sure, have been impressed with the suite of initiatives he described in this field. And I m glad to say there is already much British involvement: three British universities (Loughborough, Aston and Oxford) are involved in joint research into renewables and desalination with University of Bahrain; Bluewater Bio are looking to extend their biological water treatment operation in Tubli, with a view to ending the pollution in the bay; Oak Solutions hope soon to start work on a project that aims to deal with the existing pollution, converting it to energy; meanwhile Mott MacDonald have been retained to advise the Government on its waste management strategy.

Above: 2018 marks the 200th anniversary of the founding of the Institution of Civil Engineers. Members of the BBBF Construction SIG were invited to an anniversary celebration in September hosted at the British Embassy by the British Ambassador. 8

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EWA has launched a tender aimed at building a 150MW solar plant to provide green electricity to Amazon s massive new Cloud Region project inward investment spurring environmental action. So the prospects for green technology are taking off and we are looking to maximise the UK involvement in this revolution, including through the availability of UK Export Finance (on which more below). If you think we can help please get in touch by contacting Yara Tawfeeq yara.tawfeeq@fco.gov.bh in the Embassy s Department for International Trade team. Louis Taylor, CEO of UK Export Finance visited Bahrain in the early summer, after which we worked together with UKEF and BAPCO to organise an Exporter Fair in London with a view to maximising the UK content in the modernisation and expansion of BAPCO. Set to be completed by 2022, the project will expand the capacity of the Sitra oil refinery from 267,000 to 380,000 barrels per day, improve energy efficiency and ensuring the highest levels of environmental compliance. We are in touch with BAPCO to ensure UK companies are given the chance to bid for specific outsourced projects within the wider framework which UKEF and BAPCO have established. Again, please contact Yara if you would like to hear more. Tech Week has just ended in Bahrain and I have to say the vibe was electric. We are working on ideas to multiply the existing UK-Bahrain connections in the tech field, including in the exciting world of fintech. More on this anon. As we approach Autumn, the heat and humidity outside

is starting to subside, while, the Embassy work schedules are hotting up. The big dates in my calendar are: Opening of British University of Bahrain for the first cohort of students

21 Oct

Manama Dialogue, with UK attendees including Ministers Alistair Burt (FCO) and Tobias Ellwood (MOD)

26-28 Oct

Bahrain International Air Show

14- 16th Nov

World Islamic Banking Conference

26 28th Nov

Embassy Carols for the British Community

10th Dec

As always, a busy and exciting time of the year for business in Bahrain. And of course everyone with an interest in the Britain-Bahrain economic and commercial relationship is following the Brexit situation closely. I have to say I am both moved and hugely encouraged by all the goodwill I am receiving every day from concerned Bahraini friends, and expressions of confidence in the UK and our shared future together. And this is supported by our growing trade figures and the strong evidence of ongoing Bahraini investment in the UK. There will be much more to report in future editions, but in the meantime thank you for all this support.

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Ensuring Businesses Survive and Thrive We are often approached by other consultancies, executive-coaches and training institutes about the core to our offering and how we work with such a diverse group of clients. We are delighted to share some of SSG s approach with other BBBF members. Enterprise owners more often than not approach us to aid them with transformation and change, working with them to create more agile businesses which become higher performing and deliver more successfully, prepared to handle turbulent environments. Invariably these owners want their management teams and employees to be prepared to implement changes, to do it quickly, and to create sustainable differences from other organisations. Doing things quickly is one of the conversations we have on a regular basis; lack of urgency is one of the most debilitating issues in companies, as people resist the challenges of change. No amount of advice helps with this issue; demands hard work through the tiers of the organisation. Maximising the platform for senior management s and directors flexibility and agility is vital if any transformation and change plan is going to have any chance of success. If the enterprise is burdened with, and cannot lose, unnecessary and repetitive bureaucracy then potential success will be hampered. The tendency of ineffective managers who need forms and paperwork to justify their existence can be minimised when there is trust between owners and and management teams who are connected by normalised and shared

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values and a clear vision, giving them agreed direction and boundaries of authority. Working on developing and implementing more trust, improving communications and aiding the acceptance of different perspectives is key to our work with owners, C Suites, directors, management and employees. Building on this trust will enable those working in an enterprise become more focused on agreed purpose, vision, values, broad goals and specific objectives. Stimulating implementation of exceptional strategic execution is so important to clients they are just not interested in advice without help to make things happen. Helping to

define strategy, prepare future leaders, and navigate enterprise culture and dynamics are invaluable elements we have been asked to regularly deliver for clients. Keeping everyone in the organisation focused on ownership and accountability for their responsibilities are keys to future success for clients and are key to the success for any service company brought in to aid with transformation, change and sustainable future success. We hope these thoughts are of some value and look forward to sharing more in the future with others involved in advising, consulting, executive-coaching and training as well as implementing change-platforms for future sustainable success for clients.

Mike Orlov from SteppingStone Global WLL heads up the Organisational Effectiveness SIG and together with his colleagues has organised events such as the ‘Speed Networking’ evening held earlier in the year.

Above: Electricity and Water Affairs Minister Dr. Abdulhussain Mirza delivered a keynote speech at the BBBF Business etworking lunch in September. Over 200 Bahraini & British business representatives were present. Forum 11

Financial Sector

Bahrain s parliament approves draft VAT law Bahraini legislators approved a draft law early in October that would see valueadded tax (VAT) imposed for the first time in the kingdom. The House of Representatives approved a Gulf Arab agreement to introduce VAT after a royal decree ordered parliament to hold an extraordinary session without giving details of the vote. State News Agency BNA announced that the upper house have given final approval a few days later. Royal Assent is now said to be a formality within the week. The move came a few days after Bahrain s wealthier neighbours Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Kuwait offered a $10 billion aid package to avoid the risk of a debt crisis in the country, which was

also tied to fiscal reforms. Introducing VAT at a 5% rate was part of a GCC agreement in 2018, a big step for governments that have traditionally levied little tax and relied instead on oil revenues. Todate only KSA & UAE have introduced VAT so far this year. Other senstive reforms, including changes to the pension system and a new subsidy programme, are still pending as part of Bahrain s efforts to fix its public finances. The Kingdom has been hit hard by a drop in oil prices in recent years, with its dinar sliding to its lowest in more than a decade. Bahrain also released a 33page fiscal plan to fix its debt-burdened

finances and essentially abolish its budget deficit by 2022. The plan, which promises further cuts in public spending, comes at a sensitive time as the Kingdom prepares to hold election next month. The govenment says it has reduced spending by BD854 million a year since 2015 and plans BD800 less again for the next three years. According to various press reports the introduction of VAT in Bahrain will be effective from 1st January 2019 thus contradicting the IMF suggestion in February this year that Bahrain along with Qatar, Oman & Kuwait would not be ready for the implementation for at least 18 months.

Be professional in your business, take advice. Should you self-diagnose using google, or see a doctor? That seems a ridiculous question. However, businesses are not following the same logic. The majority of businesses in Bahrain do not use Insurance brokers. Instead they go direct to Insurance companies, which is akin to going straight to the pharmaceutical company and ordering drugs after self-diagnosis. An insurance broker can save you time, money and worry. Just like an accountant or lawyer who provides you with professional advice, based on years of training and experience, a qualified broker can do the same with your insurance. Insurance can be incredibly complicated to fully understand, and an insurance broker can help you understand the details of a policy and also work out what level of cover you need so that you are properly protected. Using a broker doesn t necessarily cost more. Often it costs less because brokers have knowledge of the insurance market and the ability to 12 Forum

negotiate competitive premiums on your behalf. In addition, because insurance brokers deal with a range of insurance companies directly, sometimes they can access policies that are not available to most consumers. If the worst happens and you do have to make a claim, a broker will act on your behalf, liaising with the insurance company to negotiate the best possible outcome. Here are some items to review: Group health care: Health cover is a key factor in an employee s decision to come on board and stay. Health care is an area undergoing rapid, innovative change. There are ways to control costs. Does your coverage meet your needs? Are you aware of all the options available to you as a company, especially the recent developments designed to maintain quality health care services while controlling costs? Group pensions: Providing pensions for employees can be a very cost effective way to recruit and retain high quality employees. However, to make the most of this, advice is required to navigate the complex options.

Key executive cover: If you don t have key person coverage on your most valuable people, you ought to at least explore its advantages. If you, a partner, or a key employee died or become disabled, the loss to the company could be devastating to your business. Business continuation; business interruption insurance and property cover: a fire, vandal, or storm can wipe out your business in minutes. If your facilities were destroyed, would your business be able to recover? Succession planning; This type of plan helps ensure that your family is appropriately compensated for the business if anything happens to you, by providing the money for partners to buy your share of the company from them. Professional liability insurance: Also known as errors and omissions (E&O) insurance, covers a business against negligence claims due to harm that results from mistakes or failure to perform. There is no one-size-fits-all policy for professional liability insurance. Each industry has its own set of concerns that will be addressed in a customised policy written for a business.

Balancing the Budget with retirement As part of streamlining operational government expenses, Bahrain is forming six task forces to identify and implement a reduction in the government operations expenses.

approval with the recommendations of the task force. However, the committee reserves the right to approve or reject the purchase request based on the task forces recommendation filed to them.

They include Government building rents task force, ICT task force, Government building maintenance task force, Travel and transport task force, Medical resources task force as well as other operational expenditures task force.

As part of the plan, the government has also announced a voluntary retirement scheme for government employees allowing them to retire early with full benefits and incentives. The move, according to the report, enables the employees to contribute to economic growth through entrepreneurship or participation in the private sector.

To ensure hassle-free operation, the government has also developed a working mechanism to support the effective implementation of the fiscal balance programme which is expected to reduce the deficit by BHD 800 million annually over the coming years. As per the mechanism, all purchase requests from the government entities will be submitted to a ministerial committee for financial affairs and rationalisation of expenditure, which will then be referred to a relevant task force for review. These requests will be then submitted to a Ministerial committee for

To participate, the employees should satisfy certain eligibility criteria. Those applying for voluntary retirement should be full-time employees registered under the civil service bureau and should have at least 10 years of actual service. The scheme, however, excludes senior position and requires that the employee shall not return to civil service after retirement. Those fulfilling the said criteria will be granted up to 5 years of series plus a one-off direct

cash compensation equal to the cost of purchasing five additional years of service. The selected employee will also be eligible for end of service promotion and end of service indemnity. At present under the new Labour Law of 2012 the retirement age in Bahrain is 60 years for both male and female employees. In Saudi Arabia it is 55 years and in the UAE 65 years. (In China it is 60 years for men, 55 years for female civil servants and 50 for female workers.) In the UK new legislation stops employers from compulsorily retiring workers once they reach the age of 65. If employers still want to enforce retirement, their decisions will have to be objectively justified, but workers can no longer be forced to retire on the grounds of age alone. The State Pension age is currently 65 for men. ItÂ&#x2019;s gradually increasing for women from 60 to 65. From 2019, the State Pension age will increase for both men and women to reach 66 by October 2020. The Government is planning further increases, which will raise the State Pension age from 66 to 67 between 2026 and 2028.

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BREXIT

The jargon explained

Hardly a news programme or newspaper in the UK is without an article or story about what has been described as ‘the most important decision in UK history’. We try to explain some of the terms in the conversations. Acquis communautaire: A French phrase meaning the entire body of European Union law. Countries have to incorporate it into their own law before joining the European Union. Article 50: The European Union s exit clause. It is part of the Lisbon Treaty and by invoking it or triggering it a country formally and legally signals it is leaving the European Union. Blind Brexit: Situation where the UK leaves the EU and enters a transition period before agreement is reached about the long-term future relationship. Brexit bus: Refers to a bus hired by the Leave campaign in the run-up to the European Union referendum. On its side was a slogan that became one of the most controversial of the campaign and was credited by some with swinging the result: We send the EU £350m a week. Let s fund our NHS instead. Vote Leave. Brexit day: 29 March 2019: the day when the UK is due to leave the European Union. Brino: Brexit in name only. Canada model: Refers to a free-trade agreement between the EU and Canada which removes lots of barriers to trade between the two, but not as many as the Norway model - which involves signing up to more EU rules, contributing to the EU budget and allowing the free movement of people. 14 Forum

Chequers plan: A plan for Brexit which was agreed by the Cabinet at the Prime Minister s country residence, Chequers, on 6 July 2018. It includes: a common rulebook for all goods traded with the EU and a facilitated customs arrangement which aims to maintain frictionless trade in goods between the UK and the EU whilst allowing Britain to develop an independent trade policy with the rest of the world. The plan would end free movement of people. Cliff edge: The prospect of the UK crashing out of the European Union with no deal at all. That would mean having no agreement on the terms of Britain s withdrawal or future trade relations, and could lead to serious disruption to businesses and individuals in Britain and across the EU. Council of Ministers: A European Union body that represents member states national governments. It is made up of government ministers from all member states who meet regularly. Together with the European Parliament, the council has the power to make EU laws and decide the budget. Customs partnership: This proposal, also known as the hybrid model, would enable trade in goods between the UK and Europe without the need for customs checks. Proponents say it would help solve the Irish border question too, as the UK would collect the EU s tariffs on goods coming from other countries on the EU s behalf. If those goods stayed in the UK and UK tariffs were lower, companies could then claim back the difference. Customs union: A trade agreement under which two or more countries decide not to have taxes on imports (tariffs) of goods from countries in the union. Countries also decide to set a common tariff on goods entering from outside the union. The EU customs union includes EU member states and some small non-EU members and forbids members from negotiating trade agreements separately from the EU. DExEU: The Department for Exiting the European Union: the name of the new UK government department responsible for managing the UK s departure from the EU.

Divorce bill: The money the UK has in principle agreed to pay the European Union as part of the deal on Britain s departure. It includes the UK s share of the EU s unpaid bills, contributions to the EU budget for 2019 and 2020, pensions for EU officials and a long list of smaller items. The independent Office for Budget Responsibility has estimated the cost of the financial settlement at £37 billion. EU referendum: A national vote held on 23 June 2016 to decide whether the UK should leave or remain in the European Union. It was decided on a simple majority and the Leave campaign won by 52% to 48%. Only 72% of those eligible to vote did so. EU Withdrawal Bill: Legislation passing through the UK Parliament that will repeal the European Communities Act, which took Britain into what was then the European Economic Community. It will also convert almost all EU law into UK law. Parliament will then be able to decide which EU laws it wants to keep and which it wants to get rid of. This bill is also sometimes known as the repeal bill. European Commission: The European Union s civil service. The European Commission has a key role in initiating EU legislation. European Council: A body of the European Union that makes its most important strategic decisions. Its members are heads of state or government of the 28 EU countries, the European Council president and the president of the European Commission. European Economic Area (EEA): An area covering the 28 European Union countries plus Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein, which enables those three countries to be part of the EU s single market. They abide by the rules of the EU single market and its freedom of movement of people, goods, services and money. European Free Trade Association (EFTA): An organisation made up of four countries: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. They are allowed to trade freely with the single market in return for accepting its rules.

They re not in the EU customs union and can negotiate trade deals with thirdparty countries such as China. European Parliament: The directly elected parliamentary institution of the European Union. It has 751 members and is elected by citizens in all 28 European Union member states. Facilitated customs arrangement: A plan for a post Brexit customs agreement in which goods destined for the EU would be charged an EU tariff and goods headed to the UK would be charged the UK s own potentially lower tariff. The plan would keep the UK aligned to EU regulations and is designed to resolve the Irish border question while allowing Britain to pursue partially independent trade policy. Four freedoms: The free movement of goods, capital, services and people in the EU s single market. Free-trade agreement: An agreement between countries to reduce trade barriers, including import or export taxes (tariffs) and import quotas, in order to increase trade in goods and services. Freedom of movement: One of the founding principles of the European Union. It means that citizens of EU member states and their families can live and work in any other member state. It is a major factor in public debate about Britain s capacity to control immigration. Frictionless trade: Trying to do business between the UK and the European Union with the minimum of tariffs, quotas, customs checks and other obstructions. Hard border: A border controlled and protected by customs officials, police, or military personnel. Hard Brexit: This phrase is often used by critics of Brexit who think it will harm the UK economy. A hard Brexit would be one where few of the existing ties between the UK and the EU were retained leading to more disruption than a Soft Brexit. Henry VIII powers: Legal provisions for ministers to decide on changes to

existing UK law without the normal process of scrutiny in Parliament. The term is named after King Henry VIII s preference for creating laws by royal proclamation rather than through Parliament. Irish border: The border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. After Brexit, it will become the only land border between the UK and the European Union. Max-fac: Maximum facilitation - an option favoured by Brexiteers who want a complete break with the EU customs regime and would rely instead on technology to minimise border checks. Declaration and clearance procedures would take place in advance, away from the border, and surveillance would be intelligence-led, rather than old-fashioned random searches. Meaningful vote: The government says Parliament will be given a meaningful vote to accept the withdrawal deal or leave the EU without one. Its critics argue that for the vote to be meaningful other options, including renegotiation should remain open; and that it should be up to Parliament, rather than the government to decide what happens if the withdrawal deal is rejected in a parliamentary vote. No deal: Britain leaving the European Union with no formal agreement on the terms of the UK s withdrawal or new trade relations. Norway model: An arrangement in which the UK would have to allow freedom of movement of people, make a contribution to the EU budget - smaller than it currently makes - and abide by many of the EU s rules, in exchange for remaining in the single market. Passporting: The arrangement under which British companies and foreign companies with bases in the UK are allowed to sell financial services across the European Union with no regulatory barriers. Reste à liquider: A French accounting term meaning outstanding bills. In the context of Brexit it refers to projects the EU has agreed to support financially, but has yet to pay for.

Schengen area: The 26 European states that have abolished passport controls at their mutual borders. Some EU member states, including the UK, are not in the Schengen area. Some countries that are not members of the EU are in the Schengen area. Settled status: A legal status that will give European Union citizens and their families the right to stay in the UK and access benefits and public services after Brexit. Single market: The way the European Union is treated as one territory with a free market in goods, money, services and people. The single market embraces 500 million consumers and includes EU member states and four other countries that have secured access but retain some optouts. Soft Brexit: Leaving the European Union but staying as closely aligned to the EU as possible. It could keep the UK in the single market or the customs union or both. It could involve British compromises on free movement of people, allowing European Union citizens rights to settle in the UK with access to public services and benefits. Tariff-free trade: Trade without any taxes or duties to pay when goods are imported or exported. Transition: The period between the UK leaving the European Union and the start of new arrangements for future trade. The UK calls it an implementation phase . TTIP: Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership: a proposed trade agreement between the European Union and the United States. The deal was put on hold by the US shortly after the election of Donald Trump as US President. World Trade Organization (WTO): A global organisation dealing with the rules of trade between states. If the UK were to leave the European Union with no new trading relationship agreed, UK trade with European Union member states would have to abide by WTO rules, significantly increasing the costs to business. Forum 15

The future of mobility is clean and affordable

by Herbert Ruecker, Head of Macro & Commodities Research, Julius Baer Mobility is essential in today s world. We need it to commute to work, meet family and friends or to keep our supermarkets stocked with fresh supplies. It is a key determinant of economic growth, the artery system of our society. Today s mobility, however, is a dead end. Congestion takes its economic toll as growing traffic runs up to infrastructure constraints. Unnecessary long commutes limit the accessibility of the job market. Supply delays curb the productivity of factories. Transportation is a key source of urban air pollution and meaningfully contributes to climate change, two environmental challenges that shape the policy agenda. Mobility is at the beginning of a new era. We are seeing more and more electric cars on the road and Silicon Valley is putting the vision of autonomous vehicles to reality. Electric cars are at the cusp of mass market. Battery technology progress raises energy density, lengthens driving ranges between charges and improves every day comfort. The majority of consumers lose their range anxiety once the range exceeds 300 kilometers according to a leading automaker. A wave of new electric car models will come to the market over the coming years offering this kind of long mileage, increasing the choice and convenience for consumers. A breakthrough in battery technology is not necessary. Of course, electric cars are not the solution for those regularly driving long distances. Instead, the mass market should evolve one costumer segment at a time. New services bring greater choice of options There are more trends to watch beyond technology. The world population grows and wealth accumulates. The demand 16 Forum

for transport increases in particular in Asia. China is the world s largest car market. The world urbanizes. Cities have less cars as density favors mass and shared to individual transport solutions. Asian megacities already are at car ownership levels comparable to the western world. The golden age of booming car sales might be ending soon as urbanization and China s changing demographics in part offset the wealth effect. There is also the trend towards using instead of owning. Services such as ride hailing or bike sharing have a profound impact. These services change the consumers attitude towards mobility, sharpen the perception of mobility needs and related costs, and bring a greater choice of options. There are many different future pathways. These trends highlighted above could develop evolutionary. Or, electric cars, autonomous driving and mobility services could develop a self-reinforced, disruptive impact causing a mobility revolution. Electric vehicles and autonomous driving are complementary technologies. Affordable and convenient mobility services could follow the often referred to S-type adoption curve, boosted by the change in consumer attitude to using from owning. There has hardly ever been a vision as clear and uncontested as the coming era of electric, autonomous and pooled vehicles. However, the promise of self-driving cars depends on public policy. Electric cars solve the pollution issue, autonomous driving can solve the congestion issue. Demand for mobility grows with affordability. Solving congestion and keeping traffic flowing in part requires policy support for shared autonomous vehicles over individually owned self-driving cars.

Winners and losers: technology companies vs. automakers? The impact is profound and will trigger large shifts of value pools, creating winners and losers. Cars provide a living for many industries, not only automakers. We stop at gas stations, regularly due maintenance and pay insurance. Among the main beneficiaries are auto suppliers. Hybridization, i.e. combining electric motors with combustion engines, is the most popular option to meet tightening emission and fuel efficiency limits. Auto suppliers deliver these parts. The technology sector seems particularly well positioned, as electric mobility and autonomous driving will lead to more electronics in cars. For automakers, the future holds more threats than opportunities. Electric mobility levels the playing field and new entrants intensify the competition. Significant investments in technology are necessary to stay on top requiring a solid financial health and access to capital. Declining car ownership and peaking car sales would be the consequence of the widespread use of shared, autonomous vehicles. This revolutionary scenario would force automakers to a challenging transition of their business model from selling cars to selling mobility services. Oil demand could peak around 2035 as the future of the combustion engine is at stake. Rising fuel efficiency and electric cars dent road fuel use, which accounts for almost half of total oil consumption. Nevertheless, the energy business seems less at risk than commonly perceived. The oil companies have significant stakes in natural gas and chemicals, two markets where demand

should continue to grow long term. The shale revolution brings abundant and affordable natural gas supplies. Meanwhile, the impact on electricity use tends to be overestimated. Electric cars raise household electricity use by roughly 50%. Households account for roughly a third of total electricity consumption. Even under very positive assumptions for electric car sales, it takes time for the entire fleet on the road to turn electric. Clean energy such as wind and solar become cost competitive contributing to ample electricity supply, which will more than adequately meet incrementally rising demand. For utilities, the clean energy threat is bigger than the electric mobility opportunity. Contributing to a future that serves the next generations The broader impact goes even further. The future mobility looks clean and affordable. Spending less on mobility means households have more budget available for other expenses, which overall adds to economic productivity. Autonomous driving makes mobility accessible for everyone. Distances shrink and social interactions expand. The urban space could change its face. Fleets of autonomous vehicles make on street parking obsolete, freeing up urban space for other use. Road funding dries up as fuel tax income declines with fuel use declining. The only viable option is mobility pricing, a political hot potato. Charging the car at home, potentially with rooftop solar exemplifies a bigger story: the democratization of energy. Energy use shifts from resources to technology, from trade to self-reliance, from big to small, which triggers a geopolitical power shift. Most importantly, as consumers, citizens and investors we contribute to shaping a future of mobility that serves the next generations.

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News from the Eastern Province international companies that far-flung colleagues are asking about the new Saudi Arabia and what s happening.

David Burck Chairman, BBA(EP) KSA Welcome break from your summer vacations, we hope you all had a lovely break and we wish you Eid Mubarak. It s always difficult getting back into work mode after a long summer break, however with the pace of change rapidly spearing into all facets of Saudi Arabia life this year we can say has been the exception. The news of cinemas opening, ladies now driving has sent shockwaves and welcome interest from all corners of the globe into Saudi Arabia. This is manifesting itself in many forms, namely from speaking to colleagues and friends in

Saudi Snippets The Saudi Chartbook from Jadwa Investments for July had some interesting reading about inflation saying that prices rose in July by 2.3% year-on-year, and by 0.1% month-on-month. Food and beverages prices rose by 6.7%, marking the highest annual rise since February 2018. Recreation and culture rose by 1.1% year-on-year, following a previous rise in June. Moreover, restaurants and hotels also saw a significant rise, by 7.6% year-on-year, 18 Forum

The interest is now slowly turning into demand led projects, new commercial and residential buildings and increased infrastructure. The scale of some of the mega projects currently and close to being developed are staggering and often, must be seen to be believed. The BBA in E/P have been working hard since our AGM to reinvigorate our SIG s (special interest groups) and networking events. We recently held a SIG on the Ras al Khair mega project in the E/P of Saudi Arabia. This is a new maritime city incorporating large scale industrial manufacturing, a deep-water port and ship and rig building dry docking. There are some exciting events coming up to include a myriad of topics such as Education, Ladies involvement in KSA industry and a raft of social events including a dining night and a Halloween bash and our marking the highest annual rise since the beginning of the year. Riyadh's commercial real estate prices were down 5.2% year-on-year while Makkah rose marginally by 0.1%. On Industrial production the IIP index showed an increase in the overall index by 0.6% quarter-on-quarter, and by 3.4% year-on-year, during Q1 2018. The boost came mainly from an increase in mining and quarrying output turning into positive territory for the first time since Q4 2016.

The British Business Association (BBA) - Eastern Province Tel: 0580 102 207 Email: secretary@bbaep.org Website: www.bbaep.org (in)famous Christmas night to end the year. The wider social changes in Saudi Arabia have manifested themselves into a plethora of shows, events, musicals, children s shows (including Disney characters), laser light shows, WWE wrestling and circuses across all major cities and regions. The world of entertainment is coming to Saudi Arabia and the population are very grateful for it. The main barometer here in the E/P of Saudi Arabia of course is the price of oil. We have continued to see the rise over the last 6 months and its now hovers just over US$70 per barrel. Demand remains strong despite significant production increase by nonOPEC members, with regional uncertainty of course a major figure in the higher price allied to a greater demand placed

Diplomatic Quarter

The inaugural Diplomat s Cup Football Tournament has kicked off in the capital. Diplomatic staff from more than 20 embassies are participating in the historic event, organised by the British Council. The tournament is being hosted by Al Shabab Club. The participating embassies include the US, the UK, Canada, Australia, Pakistan, Germany, France, Austria, South Africa, Senegal, Egypt, Morocco, Jordan, Mexico, Brazil, Uruguay, Venezuela, Mauritius, Azerbaijan, Japan,

by orders from Asia. During the end of Q2 2018, we heard the announcement by His Excellency Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman that Saudi Arabia and the UK have agreed a GBP 65 Billion trade and investment deal. A $2 billion line of credit between the British government (UK Export Finance) and Saudi Aramco is a clear sign of intent to support the business relationship between both countries. This is excellent news for all UK companies operating in KSA and those of us working for companies with existing trade with the UK. The relationship between the United Kingdom and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues to grow closer each passing year which is great news for us all. Warm wishes from the Eastern Province to all BBBF Forum readers. Singapore, Indonesia and Malaysia. The British Council has also assembled a team. Salman Qureshi of the British Council was the driving force of the international cultural initiative, with assisted by Ziyad Al-Obaidi, the tournament s head organiser. Speaking at the opening ceremony held recently, Qureshi said that the event aims to improve relations between the diplomatic communities and support the Kingdom s plans to expand and diversify all areas of socio-cultural life in line with Vision 2030.

Property & Construction

MAS Architecture Int Ltd wins Best International Architecture & Design Consultancy - UK & Best Villa Project (Bahrain): Villa - Hamala, Bahrain

When interviewed for BUILD magazine, after receiving the award, BBBF member Maan Al-Salloum said

Since its inception in 2014, Mas Architecture has been involved in the design and delivery of many diverse projects including: hospitality, healthcare, lifestyle, work place, civic/ public, retail and infrastructure projects.

Looking to the future, Maan plans to build upon the current success of MAS Architecture by opening a number of offices across the UK, Asia and the Middle East and grow the practice internationally.

To ensure excellence in every project, we listen to our clients and work collaboratively with them throughout the design process. Communication is important in all projects and as such we always start a project by requesting a brief from our clients, we then brain storm and test our ideas against the brief and the client.

New Warehouse for Kanoo Logistics in Dammam Kanoo Logistics, a business division of Yusuf bin Ahmed Kanoo (YBA Kanoo) Group has launched its brand new, state-of-the-art logistics facility near the King Abdul Aziz Port in Dammam, Saudi Arabia with a 100,000 square meters yard including a 10,000 square meters warehouse. The multipurpose facility contains 500 square meters of elevated staging area and 5000 square meters of parking space. We at YBA Kanoo and through Kanoo Logistics are always looking for solutions that will benefit our customers and will help their businesses grow, therefore we chose the area near King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam to build the new warehouse since it is an ideal location to store both imported and exported goods. Fawzi Ahmed Kanoo, YBA Kanoo s Acting CEO said. Kanoo Logistics network includes both dedicated and multipurpose warehouses 20 Forum

Fawzi Ahmed Kanoo

in KSA (Dammam, Jeddah and Riyadh), UAE (Jebel Ali, DAFZA and Al Quoz), Oman (Muscat), and Bahrain, which have a combined capacity exceeding 40,000 square meters of storage space. It also holds open yard storage facilities in Saudi Arabia, comprising over 325,000 square meters. The network

provides storage for a variety of products including the Petrochemicals and Automotive industries, as well as Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) and has a specialized hazardous chemicals facility in Dammam. These warehouses and yards are in close proximity to ports in each of these locations.ces

Adding professional expertise to Bahrain s real estate sector

s the economy of Bahrain continues its positive trajectory, the real estate sector is once again taking pride of place. Recent developments, including the establishment of the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA), should encourage further advances in a critical economic sector. Recognising the need for professional real estate services, the team behind Basic Lines first established in Jordan in 2012 has decided that the time is right to enter a market offering significant opportunities to inter national, regional and local investors. Recognised as trusted advisors, Basic Lines will offer a full suite of real estate services from valuations and letting services to advisory and management functions to all of Bahrain s stakeholders, according to Zaid Abu Sham, who has focused on real estate services in Bahrain, across the GCC and in Jordan, for over 20 years. Abu Sham says that there is a critical need in Bahrain for professional, targeted real estate services. We look forward to showing stakeholders - public sector organisations, banks, real estate developers and investors - how our professional work ethic and ethical business approach, our relationships, our adoption of inter national standards and our reporting are going to have a real impact. Rami Al Jallad, another key member of Basic Lines management team, adds: We want to work across Bahrain s real estate universe, interacting with gover nment bodies, contractors and architects, banks, professional bodies and the legal profession. We are qualified, experienced real estate professionals, with a wide business network, a reputation for high quality work products, and a focus on trust and confidentiality. Basic Lines has seven particular areas of expertise, according to Al Jallad, a Bahraini national. Property valuations are going to be an initial area of focus. As a broker, we will

focus on letting and selling properties both commercial and residential. A third area of focus will be facility management, with associated accounting, budgeting, forecasting and portfolio management services. We have deep feasibility expertise, having been involved in an unmatched variety of real estate deals across the region over the last 20 years. A relatively new concept for the Bahrain market but one which has really taken off in Jordan - is home owner associations and we look forward to sharing our HOA expertise. We understand Bahrain s real estate

regulations and our experience including the drafting of agreements and ownership registrations should help expedite formalities. Finally, our real estate advisory practice, offering research and strategic services such as leasing strategies, optimal use advice, marketing and transaction advisory services will help establish Basic Lines as the advisor of choice for any real estate stakeholder, predicts Al Jallad. Basic Lines has offices in the NBB Tower and is currently open for business.

VALUE AND QUALITY ARE BASIC DISCIPLINES IN ALL WE DO

We offer market-leading: Valuations Brokerage & letting services Facility & lease management Feasibility studies Home owner association set up & management Regulatory formalities Real estate advisory

Rami Al Jallad I rami.aljallad@basiclines.com I +973 6500 0060

Forum 21

Leading presence in high-end retail space

MODA Mall continues to expand its retail portfolio with new lifestyle experiences Luxury car brands will be showcased with a Behbehani Brothers vehicle showroom and new food & beverage offerings AMORE café, Flat White and Mana juice bar will open.

ahrain s retail real estate sector, one of the most dynamic sectors, has been expanding steadily over recent years, at an annual rate of 13%*. This has been significantly driven by tourism, large-infrastructure projects, the Kingdom s favorable economic climate, its proximity to Saudi Arabia and a growing population of expatriates. With this, the demand for luxury retail has been growing as consumers are travelling more frequently and have become increasingly discerning of the world s leading luxury brands. Capitalising on this demand, MODA Mall is further expanding the scope of luxury retail in Bahrain, with new lifestyle experiences to complement an already impressive portfolio. With an unrivaled presence of leading retail names, the Mall has maintained a consistent leased area approaching 15,000 square meters. An additional four new stores have opened over the past twelve months including Artemis 360, Esmerelda Fashion, Limited Edition and Theresa Spa with further food & beverage and service retail offerings due to open shortly. MODA Mall s current tenant mix comprises Luxury Fashion with 41%, Exquisite Jewellery with 23%, Fine Dining and other F&B offerings with 8% in addition to other offerings including Antiques & Collectibles, Gifts & Confectionary, Service Retail, Health & Beauty, Perfumes & Fragrances and Consumer Electronics with 28%.

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Aligning the retail portfolio to its leasing strategy and acknowledging consumer trends, the Mall will witness the opening of new concepts and experiential offerings during the remainder of 2018, featuring homegrown and international brands. Amongst the latest launches at MODA Mall is PERLE, a multifaceted concept store for pop-up events, miniart expos and special events. Messika, one of the world s most innovative and modern diamond jewellery houses will debut in Bahrain at MODA Mall, along with renowned Kuwait perfume brand Atyab Al Marshoud. Mia Moon, a multibrand luxury jewellery store, Artemis, a multi-designer Arabic fashion store and two kiosk outlets, Mariam Al Shaik and Signature Jewellery are also set to debut at the Mall. In addition, MODA Mall will be launching a luxury spa and wellness concept to enhance its recreational offerings.

Spokesperson: Bahrain World Trade Center and MODA Mall s managing agent, Cushman & Wakefield Bahrain, Kelvin Crutchlow, Director & General Manager

Delivering on its strategic leasing initiatives, MODA Mall has worked closely with key stakeholders to help boost Bahrain s growing retail economy. Its ongoing collaboration with the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB) has enabled the Mall to successfully host industry networking forums, including the Middle East Council of Shopping Centres (MECSC) Next Gen Networking Event. In addition, MODA Mall serves as an advisory for local, regional and international brands, helping them to launch, or expand their existing presence in Bahrain.

MODA Mall has also actively engaged with the Bahrain Tourism Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), supporting initiatives such as Shop Bahrain, aimed at attracting shopping tourism, in addition to hosting several other communityfocused cultural and welfare activities. With the retail industry continuing to expand and attracting participation from all major stakeholders, MODA Mall is paving the way for new opportunities, concepts and future growth in Bahrain s retail economy.

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Empower your business to great heights! New Harbour Suites within the Harbour Towers-West. Rapid changes in the work place are being implemented across small and large organisations due to the nature of work, changes in business processes, technology improvement and changes in the market. Finding a supportive landlord like Financial Centre Development Company B.S.C. (c) could be vital to a company s success in implementing work place and to reduce operational and occupational costs. The improvement in technology over the years has allowed people to work more efficiently. Financial Centre Development Company B.S.C. (c), the owner of Harbour Towers, has created new professional office spaces that are carefully designed on high specifications to accommodate the needs of small businesses, independent professionals, start-ups and entrepreneurs. The company will launch the new fully fitted and furnished Micro Offices on the 37th floor in the Harbour Towers West, known as Harbour Suites. These range from 35 sq m to 50 sq m with readily available access to shared facilities including pantry and seating area. The office spaces are available

on competitive rents, fully inclusive of electricity, service charges and chilled water on flexible lease terms.

has a central telephone data service hub able to connect to. The offices also have excellent mobile signal reception.

Harbour Suites, situated within Harbour Towers-West, are an ideal partner in helping start-ups to promote their businesses. It is a great starting point for a business to be located at Bahrain s number one commercial address in the heart of Manama.

Harbour Towers, within Bahrain Financial Harbour Masterplan, is the premier goto business address set in the heart of Bahrain s capital, Manama. The largest office building in the Kingdom of Bahrain, Harbour Towers, offers a first class experience with intelligent technology, secure facilities, 24/7 security access, unrivalled panoramic views and generous parking. Each of the two office towers (East & West) consists of over 52 floors with more than 100,000 sq m of modern office spaces. Harbour Gate connects the Harbour Towers East & West and the multi-story car parks. There are currently 4,000 car parking spaces on-site with additional 1,250 spaces in the West car park. Harbour Towers houses a full spectrum of financial service providers and institutions including those in banking, legal and insurance sectors, consultancies, management companies, government bodies, as well as ICT and Oil & Gas firms.

Ignite, a leading digital marketing and design company, have been a Harbour Towers tenant for 3 years now, occupying a Micro Office in Harbour Towers-East. In their opinion, the key benefit of running a Micro Office is the convenient private area with the same services enjoyed by the large offices such as the welcoming reception area, 24/7 security and maintenance at a competitive price. They have also highlighted that it is ideal for start-up companies with small teams. Harbour Towers are fully network cabled with optic fiber cables, high-speed broadband with true options of service from five service providers. Each floor

Impact Estate appointed as property and facility management company for Kazerooni Heights 1 ARK Properties, the subsidiary of Kazerooni Group, has assigned Impact Estate w.l.l. as a property and facility management company for its freehold residential project Kazerooni Heights 1. Impact Estate will be overseeing various property and facility management aspects for Amwaj-based tower, which was completed in first quarter of 2018, starting from handovers, snagging, implementation of policies and procedures as well as appointing and supervising subcontractors. The company will be also taking care of all common area facilities which include infinity swimming pool, temperature controlled jacuzzi, barbeque facility with dining area, exclusive state-of-the-art gym with Technogym equipment and a multi-purpose party hall. 24 Forum

By combining a special approach that involves liaising with landlord and tenants to ensure all operational and facilities issues are attended to in a timely manner, with the extensive know-how of construction snags, Impact Estate is set to provide smooth day-to-day operation of the building activities. Ciaran Lynch, Head of Property and Facility Management of Impact Estate said: We are excited to partner up with ARK Properties and to handle the facility management of the Kazerooni Heights 1. We have started to appoint key vendors to ensure the provision of high levels of soft and hard services to the building. By utilizing an integrated on-line based property management IT platform Impact Estate will deliver hassle-free customized solutions for property owners and tenants.

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Hotel & Leisure News The Merchant House

Courtesy of international hotelier Gordon Campbell Gray, the hotlyanticipated The Merchant House in Manama, Bahrain, is set to open its doors later this year. Located next to the vibrant Bab elBahrain Souk, the hotel development comes at an exciting time as the surrounding area is currently being regenerated, re-establishing the prominence of the old Souk and original heart of Manama. The Merchant House will be an all-suite boutique hotel with 47 suites in total, each featuring an open plan kitchen and dining area, as well as open plan sitting rooms which have been designed to be ideal for both business and leisure. As with all Campbell Gray Hotels, artwork will be a prominent feature of the interior design and Gordon Campbell Gray has, over the past year, been putting together an exciting collection comprising well-established Bahraini artists as well as new and upcoming young talent from both Bahrain and the Gulf region. The design is, as with all Campbell Gray Hotels, completely original and has been created specifically for The Merchant House, working within the framework of this unusual building. Gordon always says that their hotels should feel like cousins but not brothers and sisters. There will be lots of vibrant colour - goodbye to oatmeal! - and dramatic details of graffiti and concrete alongside white linen sofas in the lobby, which is overlooked by the glamorous, colourful and carefully curated library.

The rooftop - another Campbell Gray speciality - is where the bar and restaurant can be found with options to eat indoors or outdoors. The design here is akin to a garden - very unexpected and very green - the feel is of a little magic kingdom on the roof; easy and relaxed, as will be the food. There is also a rooftop pool and a gym, as well as a small boardroom for meetings and private events. Every aspect of The Merchant House has been planned and designed to be fun and relaxed - perfect for its location, near the Old Customs House and the financial district. At The Merchant House, as with all Campbell Gray Hotels, great emphasis will be placed on service and a sense of recognition yet privacy. It will be the hotel of choice for leisure and business travellers alike a small gem of an hotel created for interesting and individually minded cosmopolitan guests. Commenting on the project, Gordon Campbell Gray, Founder of Campbell Gray Hotels said: We are so looking forward to bringing our special brand of hospitality to Bahrain this year"

Gulf Hotels Group announces the soft opening of its first hotel in Dubai the Gulf Court Hotel Business Bay

Gulf Hotels Group (GHG), Bahrain s leading home-grown hospitality provider, announced the opening of the latest addition to the Group s hotel portfolio, the Gulf Court Hotel Business Bay in Dubai. The new hotel is the first part of GHG s regional expansion plan which will include Saudi Arabia and other GCC countries. The 269 room, four-star deluxe hotel is ideally situated within one of Dubai s grandest projects, the Dubai Water Canal and just 15 minutes away from the Dubai International Airport. The Gulf Court Hotel Business Bay offers a variety of room categories and suites all with views of the canal and boasts a number of restaurants and lounges, a banquet hall and meeting rooms, health and recreational facilities including a swimming pool, kid s pool and fitness centre, a spa, nightclub, karaoke rooms and ample car parking. The hotel will cater to both business and leisure travellers, being in close proximity to the central commercial district, as well as having easy access to Dubai Mall, with its array of international shops and Burj Khalifa, both of which are just 11⁄2 kilometres away. Online bookings available as well as for direct booking in Bahrain please call Ms. Marianne Licud at the Gulf Hotels Group office in Bahrain on mobile No.: (+973) 3622-0888.

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Treat for Bahrain Media Wyndham Garden Manama in Juffair hosted a Brazilian churrascaria dinner for media members of Bahrain at its newly opened Brazilian restaurant, Via Brasil.

New Mediterranean restaurant YA HALA opens at Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands Fans of Mediterranean cuisine will be delighted as brand new restaurant Ya Hala has opened its doors at the rooftop terrace of Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands. The hotel is within walking distance from Amwaj Marina and the Amwaj Lagoon, and only a few minutes drive from Bahrain International Airport, making it conveniently accessible from both the leisure and business districts of Manama. The restaurant and lounge has a menu that boasts influences from the Middle East, modern Southern Europe to the Levant, all served up in a cozy and welcoming setting with a splendid view of Amwaj Marina.

Via Brasil is a Brazilian style all-you-can-eat barbeque restaurant, where guests have unlimited meat cuts served straight to the table by our Passadores (meat waiters). Located on the rooftop of Wyndham Garden Manama, Via Brasil offers fantastic city skyline views of Manama with live entertainment. The restaurant is open 7:00pm to 02.00am. Wyndham Garden Manama features seven specialty dining options ranging from Indian, Italian, International, Brazilian, Sports Bar and Open roof top terrace outlet

The food is flavourful and expertly prepared, using high-quality ingredients. It serves tapas plates, pastas, sandwiches, excellent choices of main courses that s worth splashing out for and mouthwatering desserts complemented by a delicious beverage from an extensive drinks selection.

LET BRAZIL COME TO YOU Take a journey through our festive fare with live music & city skyline views from our roof top restaurant Opens from 7:00 pm to 2:00 am

The restaurant has also live music and open from 5pm till 2am for weekdays and from 12 noon till 2am on weekends.

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Ya Hala makes it the perfect place for get-together with friends and colleagues after work or as an evening venue for the perfect celebration. For more information, call +973 1600 0099

that is sure to deliver the finest experience in the very heart of the city.

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Hotel & Leisure News

he annual Bahrain BBBF Corporate Social Golf Day in partnership with Etihad Airways, Gulf Brands International, EuroMotors JLR, AECOM, AXA, Dilmun Club, Nexus, British Club, and Select Property Group, took place at the Royal Golf Club on Saturday 29 September. Nearly 80 players took to the field to compete in an 18 hole Texas scramble followed by a prize giving dinner, with guests of honour - HE Simon Martin GMG, British Ambassador to Bahrain, Sophie Martin and HE Justin Siberell, American Ambassador to Bahrain. First place winners with a fantastic score of 54.7 The British Club B team made up of Mark Washburn, Paul Fourie, Kian Higgins, Mark Price each winning a EuroMotors JLR Driving Experience at the BIC track.

Taking second place with a net score of 54.9 and winning a prize sponsored by the Capital Club Team aka Willis, made up of Prakash Panthula, Paul Adamson, Steve Wagstaff, David Axtell In third and fourth place with a net score 56.9 and 57 were Team DG Jones and Team Stantec Khonji each winning a prize from the Gulf Hotel and Rotana Hotel respectively. Lucky winner of the Etihad Prize Draw Dylan Watson took home 2 Business Class return tickets. Royal Golf Club Tournament Coordinator, Jerome Ackermann commented: We are honored to hold The BBBF Corporate Social Golf Day again this year. The BBBF are great supporters of the club and we hope everyone enjoyed their day as much as we enjoyed hosting this annual event.

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Kanoo Travel Wins Arabian Travel Awards Board Member. These awards are a testament to Kanoo Travel s professionalism, our passionate team who deliver world-class solutions to a regional client base of loyal customers, and our strong focus on innovation and technology. I d also like congratulate the wider YBA Kanoo Group which provided all the needed support for the business.

Nabeel Khalid Kanoo

The Arabian Travel Awards, which were contested by companies from the MENA region, celebrate the best in the Travel and Hospitality Industry. They are judged to the most rigorous standards by an independent panel of industry experts. Kanoo Travel, a business division of Yusuf bin Ahmed Kanoo (YBA Kanoo) Group has won the Best Travel Management Company and the Best Corporate Incentive Tour Operator at the 2018 Arabian Travel Awards. Representatives of Kanoo Travel offices from KSA, UAE, Oman, and

Bahrain received the awards during a prestigious ceremony in Dubai s JW Marriot Hotel which was attended by the region s Travel and Hospitality Industry experts and investors. It s a great honor to be recognized twice at this year s Arabian Travel Awards , said Nabeel Khalid Kanoo,

Kanoo Travel boasts a wide market presence with offices in Bahrain, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Egypt, and the UK. It also prides itself in solely representing American Express Global Business Travel, one of the largest travel management companies globally.

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Bahrain News

Gulf Medical and Diabetes Center expands its services The Gulf Diabetes Specialist Center has changed its name to the Gulf Medical and Diabetes Center (GMDC). This allows the Center to expand its scope of services and to better serve its patients and the community. As part of its expansion programme GMDC extends a warm welcome to Dr. Emil Hanna, Rheumatologist, and Dr. Pravin Dangle, Ophthalmologist. Dr. Emil Hanna specialises in bone and joint diseases, neck and back pain and a whole range of rheumatic diseases. Dr. Emil also runs an Osteoporosis Clinic and a Vitamin D Deficiency Clinic. The Center s BMD (bone mineral density) scanner further supports Dr. Emil s clinic. Dr. Pravin Dangle, consultant ophthalmologist, specialises in diabetic retinopathy, intravitreal injections and lasers, optical

Dr Emil Hanna

Dr Pravin Dangle

coherence tomography/fluorescein angiography, cataract, glaucoma, eye/eyelid surgeries, dry eye and comprehensive treatment of all general eye disorders. Dr. Pravin is supported by state-or-the-art ophthalmic technology, an operating theatre, and a LASIK Unit. GMDC offers a comprehensive range of medical services including Gastroenterology, Diabetes and Endocrinology, Neurology, Diabetic Foot Clinic, Cardiology, Rheumatology and General Practise. Ophthalmology includes the latest SCHWIND AMARIS 750S LASIK for vision correction (say goodbye to glasses and contact lenses). GMDC is further supported by efficient services in laboratory, pharmacy and radiology.

Bahrain ELT professionals network organises seventh annual conference

Delegates will also have access to the latest ELT publications at the exhibition from international publishers such as Garnet Education, National Geographic Learning and Macmillan Education. Information about ELT courses and international teaching qualifications will also be available for participants from University of Derby and AlMawred Education Services. The Bahrain English Language Teaching (ELT) Professionals Network, supported by the British Council, is organising its seventh annual conference on Saturday, 20th October, 2018 at Crowne Plaza Hotel. The conference, which attracts more than 200 ELT professionals from Bahrain and the MENA region, will be held under the theme 21st Century Teaching Practices: Challenges & Solutions . It is a platform that brings together English educators to share experiences, enhance their teaching skills and connect them with international educational organisations. 30 Forum

Attracting over 200 English teachers annually This year s conference is anticipated to be the biggest with three keynote speakers, Jamie Keddie; a teacher trainer, storyteller and author, and Russell Stannard; an education technologist from UK as well as Peter Lucantoni; an education consultant and author from Cyprus. Additionally, the 7th ELT Conference will include 24 breakout sessions delivered by local and regional speakers.

The conference is sponsored by British Council Bahrain and British Council Exams as well as Tamkeen as a Strategic Partner. The Bahrain ELT Professionals Network aims to help educators in the field of English Language teaching to share information, to find working partners and to collaborate on events and projects. Registration to attend the conference in now open. For more information about registration and sponsorship opportunities, kindly contact Noora Al Sabah on 17266166 Ext 252 or email elt.professionals@britishcouncil.org.bh

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Chelsea Pensioners lead centenary parade for those who contributed to the First World War effort in London Chelsea Pensioners proudly led a parade in September to mark the end of the First World War. Marching down Kings Road in Chelsea, the veterans were accompanied by representatives from London Units Including London s Maritime Reserves, The Royal Yeomanry, and the First Aid Nursing Yeomanry Following the parade, a community event was held at the Royal Hospital Chelsea s Burton Court from 11am, which offered plenty of activities for all the family to enjoy. The occasion was held to commemorate those who contributed to the First World War effort in the London community, following nearly a 100 years since the Armistice of November 11 1918. Some 300 army veterans live at the Royal Hospital, which was set up by King Charles II 326-years-ago. Representatives from The Royal Hospital will be visiting Bahrain in November and attending the Poppy Ball

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Until the 17th Century, the state made no specific provision for old and injured soldiers. Care for the poor and sick was provided by the religious foundations. Most of this provision ended following the dissolution of the monasteries during the reign of King Henry VIII.

In 1681, responding to the need to look after these soldiers, King Charles II issued a Royal Warrant authorising the building of the Royal Hospital Chelsea to care for those broken by age or war . Sir Christopher Wren was commissioned to design and erect the building. Sir Stephen Fox was commissioned to secure the funds necessary to progress the build. The chosen site, set adjacent to the River Thames in the countryside of Chelsea contained the uncompleted building of the former Chelsey College . In 1692 work was finally completed and the first Chelsea Pensioners were admitted in February 1692 and by the end of March the full complement of 476 were in residence. But it s not just the buildings that have survived into modern times. King Charles II s understanding that the country owes a debt of gratitude to its old soldiers informs the spirit of the Royal Hospital today. The residents of the Royal Hospital, known the world over as Chelsea Pensioners, have all served as ordinary soldiers in the Armed Forces at some point in their lives, and now, in their later years, find a warm welcome amidst the camaraderie and banter of their fellow veterans.

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