From The Chair Dear Members, Welcome to the autumn edition of the BBBF magazine. I hope that you managed to get an opportunity to recharge your batteries over the recent Eid holidays and are suitably refreshed to tackle the final instalment of another very exciting and prosperous year. Unfortunately, Julie Lomas has stepped down from the Committee due to business commitments. I would like to thank Julie for her leadership and tremendous contribution to the BBBF over recent years. We wish Julie all the best with her business in the future.
Her place on the Committee will be taken by Robin Watson who is a familiar face within Bahrain and a long standing member of the BBBF. Once again, we will be hosting three Chelsea Pensioners as our guests of honour to mark Remembrance Sunday. The Pensioners will be visiting a number of schools, clubs and will also attend a Garden Party on Saturday 10th November at the Bahrain Rugby Football Club, which we hope you will be able to attend. We would like to thank the following who have kindly sponsored the visit by providing food,
Contents accommodation, flights and transport respectively – The British Club, Golden Tulip Hotel, Gulf Air, and Khalid Al Zayani. A special mention also to our corporate sponsors, HSBC and Standard Chartered, who continue to be a great source of financial support and generous encouragement to the BBBF and the activities we undertake. We hope that you enjoy this edition and look forward to seeing you, and your guests, at the forthcoming BBBF functions.
Letter from H.M. Ambassador ............ p3 BBBF Internal News ........ p4 Welcome new members .. p5 Member Benefits .............. p6 Application Form ............. p7 Special Interest Groups .. p8 UK-OK ............................. p10 TRA signs MOU .............. p12 Air industry News .......... p14 Standard Chartered Bank pledges support to Clinton Global Initiative p16 Financial News ............... p18 New Golf Course takes shape .................... p22 CRISP Update ................. p24 Bahrain Construction Update ..... p26 Dear DoctorA story of hospital life ... p32 Hotel Industry News ...... p34 Bahrain News ................. p36 And Finally ..................... p40
Austin Rudman Registration number SBBB 492
The 2007-8 BBBF Executive Committee
Chairman Austin Rudman Mob: 3969-9475
Deputy Chairman Peter Lyall Mob: 3933-5003
Treasurer Patrick Dornan Mob: 3924-3739
Member Robin Watson Mob: 3669-9605
Member Rob Grey Mob: 3966-3452
Member Linda Jennings Mob: 3962-5004
Member Bill Frost Mob: 3963-5110
Embassy Representative Rebecca Eriksson Mob: 3953-6989
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
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From Her Majesty’s Ambassador areas over the coming months. On financial services, there are set to be at least three high level official visits in both directions during the winter. We will release further details when they are tied down.
This is my first Ramadan in Bahrain. It’s a hugely satisfying and enjoyable time of year for me. The round of Majlises in the evenings gives me the chance to meet hundreds of Bahrainis and to hear what is on their minds, especially about the relationship with Britain and business. The Embassy will be particularly focussed on two
The second area is business and climate change. Earlier in the year Dan HamzaGoodacre, an official from the UK Department of Environment, spent a month working in the Embassy. He is now working for us again, part-time and mostly from London. He is reviewing projects undertaken by business in the UK aimed at reducing carbon emissions, assessing which may work in Bahrain and looking at possible mechanisms for establishing them here. Dan will be visiting Bahrain in October for a full programme
UK Foreign Office Blogs The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has launched a new blogging platform.
Miliband, Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, who writes:
This is a new platform for UK Ministers to engage in a dialogue about international affairs and the work of the FCO. To begin with there will be six bloggers including Foreign Secretary David Miliband, and Europe Minister Jim Murphy, as well as staff from throughout the organisation. The FCO has also launched a new YouTube video channel and Flickr photo account.
“Politics should be about dialogue and debate, and new technology makes this more possible than ever. But the gap between politicians and the public seems to be growing.
To access, log onto www.britishembassy.gov.uk/ bahrain and follow the links provided on the Welcome page. A interesting explanation of the new facility is provided by David
This is why in my last ministerial job I began writing a blog. I found it a great way to engage with people: to explain my work and my thinking in a more personal and less formal way than the usual Ministerial speeches; and to hear directly what people thought of what I was doing. As Foreign Secretary I want to keep blogging. But it will
of consultations with both business people and Bahraini officials. At that point we will be able to decide exactly what practical activity we pursue. I told the BBBF lunch in July that we would shortly be circulating a questionnaire on this subject. After a delay this has now been done. Dan’s research in the UK has thrown up a couple of ideas which we are building into our work. I also hope that we will shortly be signing our bilateral Memorandum of Understanding with the Bahraini Government on climate change and environmental protection. I know that a number of British companies are very active on issues related to the environment and climate change. We have had meetings with both WS Atkins and Ernst and Young need to be a conversation with people across the world, as well as with the people of Britain. At the heart this is the idea that diplomats need to reach out beyond governments to talk to people – at home and around the world. I want to explain to you the decisions we are making and what we are trying to achieve. And I want to hear from you what you think about what we’re doing, what we could do better, and how we can solve problems which affect us all, such as conflict, climate change and poverty. Having learnt some lessons from my previous blogs, I am also keen to try a couple of new approaches. First of all, my blog will be joined by blogs from different members of my FCO team around the world. This will show more of the enormous
recently. If your company, be it British or Bahraini, has a particular focus on the subject we would be interested to hear. (julia.harrison@fco.gov.uk) Despite this focus we are not losing sight of the high levels of activity in other sectors. British companies are clearly alive to this: the Embassy’s Trade and Investment Section is handling a record level of enquiries from businesses in the UK. As always, any intelligence you have about opportunities for British companies is welcome. Kull aam wa intum bi khair Jamie Bowden British Ambassador range of interesting, and challenging, work we do and why we do it. I am also keen to make this blog a real dialogue. I can’t, of course, respond to every single comment we receive. But we will try to keep abreast of your comments and ideas, and respond to them.”
BUT BEWARE... I thought I better take a look around the new facility before publishing this note. and it’s fascinating. The links and trails seem to be endless, truly an amazing insight on more sides of the FCO than I knew existed. Kim Howell’s video on preparation for Question Tme was particularly good. Three hours later, my wife was enquiring if I was ever going to get to bed!... Ed Forum
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BBBF Internal News Notes from the Committee The BBBF Benefits are detailed in the Forum magazine as bone fide offers or promotions available to members of the organisation. We regularly check with those companies concerned to ensure the discounts etc are as advertised and remain available during the specified period. In many cases these are long standing promotions which are reconfirmed on an annual basis. Whilst we are keen to develop the range of benefits available it should be pointed out that neither the BBBF nor its agents warrant the services being offered by any of the individual or corporate members of the BBBF. It is very important to recognise the support provided to us by our Corporate Sponsors who, for 2007, are Standard Chartered and HSBC. We would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their continued involvement with the BBBF. Hopefully, we will attract further sponsors for 2008 in addition to Standard Chartered who this year agreed a three year Platinum Corporate Sponsorship to run through into 2009. Some members have contacted us recently concerning a publication which suggests a ‘unique personal business introduction’ or a ‘personal business introduction’ to the BBBF. We have asked the organisation in question to refrain from making such comments as this implies they have exclusive access to the group, which is inaccurate. One of the main purposes of the BBBF is to provide a platform for networking amongst its members. The regular meetings also offer an opportunity to welcome guests, both as visitors and as potential new members, and to act as a conduit for information exchange, business development and networking. The benefits should be the same for all concerned and the Committee does not and cannot endorse particular organisations who suggest otherwise. On a lighter note, we are looking to expand the range of promotions, offers etc available to members. If you feel your organisation can help, please contact the BBBF office.
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Mr Nabeel Ajoor, Director AR & EM AJOOR & CO.WLL PO Box 402, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1725-1132 Fax: 1727-2439 Mob: 3960-9939 ajoortex@batelco.com.bh Mr Nasser Al-Arayedh, Chairman Al-Arayedh Group PO Box 15555 Adlyia, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1727-2575 Fax:1727-2565 Mob: 3961-7575 arayedh@batelco.com.bh Mr Santhosh Balakrishnan GM of ICT Sales Business Comms. Services WLL PO BOX 54061 Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1755-8686 Fax:1755-4680 Mob: 3926-6251 santhosh@bcs.bh Mr Andy Broughton Country Sales Manager DHL Express PO Box 5741 Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 17828914 Fax:1782 6400 Mob: 3663 8877 andy.broughton@dhl.com Mr Michael James Craven Operations Manager British Club PO Box 26401 Adliya, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1772-8245 Fax:1772-8087 Mob: 3953-2196 michaeljcraven@gmail.com
Welcome to New Members Mr Jamie Crooks Chief Operation Officer Business Comms. Services WLL PO BOX 54061 Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1656-4564 Fax:1656-4545 Mob: 3992-3010 jamie@bcs.bh
Mr Daniel Robinson Managing Director InterSearch in the Gulf PO BOX 20705 Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1750-2836 Fax:1750-3030 Mob: 3663-9211 dr@intersearch.ae
Mr Tom Gilbert Head of Business Development Ernst & Young PO Box 140 Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1753-5455 Fax:1753-5405 Mob: 3909-9421 tom.gilbert@bh.ey.com
Mr Keith Scott Chief Business Officer ESKAN BANK PO Box 5370 Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1756-7704 Fax: 1756-4114 Mob: 3918-5906 keith.scott@eskanbank.com
Ms Kasha Jaromin Sales Manager Diplomat Radisson SAS Hotel PO Box 5243 Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1752-5213 Fax: 1753-1663 kasha.jaromin@radissonsas.com
Mr Roy Stordy General Manager IT Business Comms. Services WLL PO BOX 54061 Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1755-8686 Fax:1755-8680 Mob: 3964-6983 roy@bcs.bh
Mr Anthony Medlicott President /CTO Business Comms. Services WLL PO BOX 54061 Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1656-4564 Fax:1656-4545 Mob: 3661-6160 anthony@bcs.bh
Mr David Kelvin Turner Chief Human Resource Officer Business Comms. Services WLL PO BOX 54061 Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1656-4564 Fax: 1656-4545 Mob: 3606-9011 d.turner@bcs.bh
Mr Ted Muttiah Managing Director, APL Bahrain PO Box122174, Jeddah 21332, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Tel: +966-2-6680912 Fax: +966-2-6678867 Mob: +966 505 810481 ted_muttiah@apl.com
Mr David Wales General Manager O&M Business Comms. Services WLL PO BOX 54061 Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1656-4564 Fax: 1656-4545 Mob: 3960-3432 david@bcs.bh
Mr Tim Paul Director Engineering Solutions Atkins PO Box 5668 Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1753-0101 Fax:1753-2502 Mob: 3988-0791 timothy.paul@atkinsglobal.com
Mr Peter Woolston Sales & Marketing Manager Techno Arabia International Co. PO Box 54082 Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 1729-1388 Fax: 1729-1389 Mob: +966 503 871 507 peter.woolston@technoarabia.com.sa Forum
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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.
Morgan Price International Healthcare 15% discount on GlobalHealth Individual Insurance Plans on published rates. Contact: Samy Ebrahim Tel: 1753 3151 or 3940 4160 Email: samyaziz@morgan-price.com
Al Faris Auto Centre Special discounts on parts and services Contact: Yousif Eid Tel: 1787 7222 Email: yesadadi@batelco.com.bh
National Hotel Services (NHSC) 5% on beers, 15% on wines and spirits with the exception of products already on special offer Contact: Bill Beddall Tel: 1781-5929 Email: nhsc1234@batelco.com.bh
Azrek Search Associates 20% discount on search and headhunting services Contact: Rory Adamson Tel: 1771 4709 Email: rory@azrek.com AXA Insurance Some benefits/discounts to members on personal and corporate insurances. Contact: Stephen Wagstaff Tel: 1758 8222 Email: stephen.wagstaff@axa-gulf.com Conscious Connections 5% discount on Crystal Therapy and Awareness, 10% discount for group bookings and group workshops Contact: Julie Lomas Mobile: 3960 6712 Email: julie@batelco.com.bh Dessange 15% discount to BBBF Members Contact: Louise Moy Tel: 1771-3999 Email: louise@alghalia.com Hasan Mansouri 10% discount to members at Mansouri Mansions Hotel and Country Club. Contact: Karim Mansouri Tel: 1772 8144 Email: mansouri@batelco.com.bh Hertz 10% discount on all prepaid rentals processed through their call centre in Bahrain. Simply show your membership card. Contact: Ali Ebrahim Kashef Alghata Tel: 1729 9147 Email: alihasan@hcc.com.bh Mercure Discount Card Please note that registered members can collect their card direct from Sinan Koseoglu, the Executive Assistant Manager F&B, Mercure Grand Hotel Seef. Mob:+973 397 99 020 Tel: +973 17 584 406 Fax: +973 17 582 352 E-mail: h5685eam@accor.com.bh
Riffa Golf Club Exclusive Membership Offer to BBBF Members only Join Riffa Golf Club and receive, 1 x Complimentary Golf Lesson, 5 x Complimentary Cart Seat Vouchers & 1 x Complimentary Golf Shirt - Please contact BBBF member Anita Ghavami directly on 3943-1310 or anita@riffagolfclub.com.bh Royal Over-Seas League The Royal Over-Seas League has clubhouses in London and Edinburgh which include hotel-style accommodation. A quarterly journal issued to members free of charge. Reduced rates for BBBF members. Application forms for membership are obtainable from the Membership Secretary at: Royal Over-Seas League, Over-Seas House, Park Place, St James’s Street, London SW1A 1LR Tel: 0044 20 7408 0214 Fax: 0044 20 7499 6738 Email: fvanicek@rosl.org.uk Spa Arabia by Betsy 25% Discount on all Spa, Beauty and Hairdressing Treatments and 15% Discount on all Spa Shop Purchases. The Spa Treatments are for ladies only but male members can visit and make purchases from the Spa Shop.( Skin Care, Hair Care, Cosmetics, Sun Care, Aromatherapy Oils, etc and Skin and Hair Consultations) They can also purchase Gift Vouchers at 25% off discounted rate. Conditions are: Discount on full price treatments and products only; Discount cannot be used in conjunction with any other special offers. Contact: Betsy Mathieson Appointments can be booked on Tel 3961 3739 Speedy Discount of 15% on repairs and maintenance. 20% on self drive cars through Europcar. Contact: Keith Issitt Tel: 1768-2999 for Car Repairs and Tel: 1732-1249 for Car Hire The MakeOver Experience Discounts to corporate members for training courses. Contact: Leila Edwards Tel: 1759 2019 Email: leila@themakeoverexperience.com
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 KSA Mob: 00966 506 271 151 Bahrain Mobile: 00973 3910 0113 and produced in cooperation with Krishnan Surendran at Jumana House, Riyadh, KSA Tel 009661 402 4785 Fax: 00966 10 405 9861 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 BD300. A half page advert at BD180, A quarter page advert at BD100 A small panel at BD50 Please note: The BBBF nor it’s 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 it’s agents. Publication of any article or advertisement does not imply any endorsement of the views, products or services described therein.
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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. BRITISH Trade with Bahrain is now subject to significant competition in this era of globalization particularly from countries in Europe and from the USA.
Membership directories are distributed to members of visiting Trade Missions and are available to businessmen visiting Bahrain through the Embassy and business centres in five star hotels. 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.
Cost of membership Individual Membership: BD 50 per annum, with an additional BD20 once-only registration fee.
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.
Corporate Sponsorships Three levels of sponsorship are available:
BBBF Membership Application
Corporate Membership: BD150 per annum (up to 5 individuals) plus BD 40 for each applicant up to a maximum of 10, with an additional BD 50 once-only registration fee.
Platinum: BD 2500 each year for three years Gold: BD 2500 for one year Silver: BD 1000 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
Please complete the membership form and send it to: Individual Membership BBBF Administration Manager, Fax: (00973) 1781 3489, or Email: bbbforum@batelco.com.bh. For further information call (00973) 1781 3488, Web site: www.bbbforum.org 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.
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Special Interest Groups As part of an ongoing development of the BBBF we are looking to establish Special Interest Groups (SIG’s). Members can meet on a regular basis to discuss items of mutual interest, to exchange ideas and generally to get to know others involved in a similar line of business. I spent some time in Riyadh where the Riyadh Group for British Business has operated SIG’s for many years. Some are quite formal meetings whereas others are as much a social gathering, but the format is decided by the participants themselves. There are a wide range of possible options but, to try and make this work, I propose to ‘kick off’ with a few suggested groups, as follows: -
A, Construction B, Finance (to include Banking, Insurance, Accounting & Legal) C, Oil, Gas, Petrochemical, Power and Water D, Security & Safety E, Communications & IT There are other sectors including Retail, Healthcare, Industrial & Manufacturing and Human Resources which make this a more comprehensive list but we have to start somewhere! To enable the BBBF and the British Embassy (who can utilise some of the information to relate to trade specific delegations etc) we would like to categorise companies, job functions and Special Interest Groups.
Again with the help of the RGBB, we have put together a more comprehensive listing for various companies, to include the following: Business Category 1 Banking 2 Financial / Insurance 3 Accountants / Legal 4 Ministries / Government Agencies 5 Education 6 Consultants - Engineering / Design / Marketing 7 Construction / Services / Materials 8 Manufacturing 9 Operations & Maintenance 11 Consumer Goods / General Trading 12 Oil / Chemicals / Gases 13 Airlines / Aerospace / Aircraft / Safety 14 Telecommunications / Electronics / IT 15 Agriculture / Livestock / Fishing 16 Pharmaceuticals 17 Hotels / Residential Accommodation / Catering 18 Hospitals / Medical Services 19 Shipping / Forwarding 21 Printing / Publications 22 Public Transport 23 Security & Safety 99 Other (please state)
September Supper
Diary dates Tuesday 20th November 2007 Speaker: Alan Horne of TRA Venue: Golden Tulip Hotel Time: 12 noon for 1pm Cost: BD8.00 Tuesday 11th December 2007 BBBF Christmas Lunch Details: tba Our thanks to all the advertisers. Without their support this issue would not have been possible. Please give them yours. Al Ghalia .............................................. American Mission Hospital .................. AXA Bahrain ....................................... BAE Systems Bahrain ......................... Best Western Hotel Juffair .................. British Club .......................................... British School Bahrain ......................... Budget Car Rental .............................. Business Communications Services ... Cathay Pacific ..................................... Dessange ............................................ GAC .................................................... HSBC .................................................. MJS ..................................................... Riffa Views .......................................... RSA Bahrain ....................................... Standard Chartered Bank ................... TNT ..................................................... 8
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P39 P33 Outside Back Cover P13 P35 P23 P31 P27 P37 P15 P9 P29 Inside Front Cover P27 20 / 21 P2 P17 Inside Back Cover
Pictured above is Patrick Hill, Business Development Director of SAB Media, the local Licensee of The Times and The Sunday Times who spoke at the September BBBF supper. BBBF members were recently circulated with a letter from George Brock of The Times offering them a subscription discount on the retail cost of international editions of The Times and
The Sunday Times along with free daily delivery to home or office.This is the first time that an international newspaper has been made widely available, hot off the presses, across the region. Readers will now have the opportunity to read one of the world’s most respected newspapers either at home or place of business on the morning of publication.
Job Function Code (individual member) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Financial General Management Legal Personnel Production Sales / Marketing Technical Purchasing
Potential Special Interest Groups Aviation Construction, Industrial & Manufacturing Human Resources Finance (Banking, Insurance, Accounting & Legal) Communications and IT (COMMIT) Health Care Oil, Gas, Petrochemical, Power & Water (OGPPW) Security & Safety
These will appear as a part of the new member application form as well as the renewal of existing memberships for 2008. For the SIG section, members will be asked to enter ‘M’ to request membership, ‘I’ to be kept informed of activities, or simply to leave the boxes blank. Members can be involved with more than one SIG, on the basis that we all want the groups to work. If there are a group of members who wish to start a SIG, please let me know. I, along with other Committee members, will be looking to help get things started, but the actual SIG members may encompass a broader range
of interests, or something more specific if that suits those concerned. In the meantime, if anyone has any suggestions please let me know. Anyone who is keen to be involved or perhaps even to ‘chair’ a group, please contact me.
Peter Lyall BBBF Committee.
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The Duke of York inaugurates new UK Visa Application Centre
His Royal Highness The Duke of York, Prince Andrew opened the new UK Visa Application Centre (VAC) in September, located on the 23 rd floor of the Bahrain Financial Harbour’s west wing. Prince Andrew cut a ribbon to inaugurate the new centre, which opened to the general public on 5 September. His Royal Highness gave a short speech to mark the occasion, hailing the warmth of the friendship between Bahrain and Britain and stressing the improvements that the new centre will offer to applicants. The British Ambassador, Mr. Jamie Bowden and the Partners in the venture, VFS and ARAMEX were in attendance. Also present was the Chief Executive Officer of the Financial Harbour, Mr. Stephen Rothel. Ahead of the official implementation and launch, 10 Forum
local media were invited to attend a preview of the new Visa Application Centre. During their visit the media were able to experience firsthand the new application procedures. They were given a detailed presentation outlining the various changes as well as a
demonstration of electronic fingerscanning (biometrics), designed to protect identity and improve security. Visa Application Centres are not a new concept and have already been introduced successfully in other countries by the British Government’s visa
department, UKvisas. The facilities are operated by a number of different commercial partners who effectively become the first point of contact for the majority of visa applicants. In this region the VACs are run in partnership with VFS Global Ltd. This is a subsidiary of the Swissbased Kuoni travel company and specialises in serving visa sections of diplomatic missions by providing administrative support to the visa sections – for example collection of the visa fee, checking the correct visa form is used and so on. This enables the missions to focus on the key tasks of assessment and decision making. VFS Global Ltd plays no part in the decisionmaking process – all decisions are still made at the British Embassy by UK visa officers. VFS Global Ltd acts as an agent of UKvisas to process all new visa applications on behalf of the British Embassy making it easier for
applicants to apply for British visas through conveniently located centres in a comfortable environment with extended opening hours, particularly at times of peak demand.
way. The Visa section will return passports and supporting documents after a decision has been made, for delivery back to
With effect from 5 September all applicants in Bahrain will need to attend the VAC to provide their biometrics data rather than applying in person at the British Embassy. This data will be collected by VFS and treated in full confidence, processed and disclosed in accordance with UK data protection legislation. The VAC will receive visa applicants from Sunday to Thursday between 0800 – 1200 and in the afternoon from 1300 to 1700. During Ramadan, opening hours may vary. Upon completion of the fingerscanning and relevant documentation, VFS forwards the applications to the Visa section of the British Embassy for consideration in the normal
applicants. For the overwhelming majority of applications, decisions will still be made within 24 hours and the passport returned to the Commercial Partner in that time. Payment for the visa is undertaken at the VAC in cash, although from January 2008, it is hoped that payment can also be
made by credit or debit card. Foreign Office Minister, Dr Kim Howells, said: “The UK has a unique and historic relationship with people of the Gulf. Our histories have been intertwined for centuries through commerce, culture, travel and tourism. We want to
strengthen the links between our people at all levels and maintain and enhance our position as the destination of choice in what is an increasingly competitive global market.” Dr.Howells continued: “The UK-OK! Campaign which we launched back in May signals the introduction of new initiatives. We are opening new Visa Application Centres throughout the Gulf region from September 2007 which will offer a premium service to our valued Gulf customers.” Contact details for the VFS office in the Financial Harbour are Tel: 1721-5538 Fax: 1721-5639 www.vfs-uk-bh.com For further information about UKvisas and to apply for a visa to the United Kingdom please also visit:
www.uk-ok.info Forum
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TRA Bahrain signs MoU with TRA Lebanon The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Bahrain, represented by its General Director, Alan Horne and the TRA of Lebanon, represented by its Chairman and CEO, Dr. Kamal Shehadi, signed in Beirut on September 22 nd an MOU covering issues of bi-lateral and multilateral interest. The MOU is an instrument to strengthen bonds between both authorities. It covers areas of cooperation related to consumer affairs and protection, spectrum management, quality of service, exchange of expertise and staff training among other subjects. Both Bahrain and Lebanon authorities have the highest level of independence in the Region. A meeting was held after the signing of the MOU where the scope of cooperation was discussed. Discussions also covered issues related to the Arab Regulators Network (ARNET), of which both authorities are members, and
From left to right: Mahassen Ajam,Board Member,TRA Lebanon: Dr. Kamal Shehadi, Chairman and CEO, TRA Lebanon; Dr. Emad Hubballah, Board Member, TRA Lebanon; Alan Horne, General Director, TRA Bahrain; Dana Chehab, Director of Communications and Consumer Affairs, TRA Bahrain. Bahrain is currently presiding. “Working closely with TRA Lebanon would contribute to furthering ARNET’s activities, generating and accelerating harmonization between Arab Regulators” said Mr. Horne. “We look at Bahrain as a
successful liberalization case that brought investors and international companies to the country, created jobs and encouraged competition on the basis of quality of service as well as availability of services options” said Dr. Shehadi.
Lebanon is in the process of rapidly liberalizing the telecom market and the TRA has an essential role to play in driving it to success. The TRA Lebanon will soon be launching a mobile license auction to start the privatization of the sector.
About TRA Lebanon The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) was established by Law 431 of 2002 and effectively started operations after the nomination of its board members in 2007. TRA is an independent body and its duties and powers include, among other areas, protecting the interests of subscribers and users and promoting effective and fair competition among existing and new licensed operators.
About TRA Bahrain The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) was established by Legislative Decree No. 48 of 2002 promulgating the Telecommunications Law. TRA is an independent body and its duties and powers include, among other areas, protecting the interests of subscribers and users and promoting effective and fair competition among existing and new licensed operators.
More information regarding TRA Lebanon can be viewed at www.tra.gov.lb
More information regarding TRA Bahrain can be viewed at www.tra.org.bh
Media Contact: Telecommunications Regulatory Authority Marfaa 200 Building Beirut Central District Email: info@tra.gov.lb 12 Forum
Media Contact: Dana Chehab Director of Communications & Consumer Affairs Tel: 00973 1752 0000 Mobile: 00973 3971 0033 Fax: 00973 1753 2125 Email : comms.director@tra.org.bh
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Air Industry News Bahrain International Airport implents new hand-baggage rules implementation in Bahrain was delayed in keeping with the huge incoming traffic after the summer vacations.
At the end of September, Bahrain International Airport introduced hand baggage regulations to bring it into line with security guidelines put in place by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) last December. Airport director Mohammed Al Kaabi says the
Under the new rules, all departing international passengers, departing from or transiting on commercial flights (incl. charter flights) at Bahrain International Airport will have to undergo extra security screening for liquids, gels and aerosols. Prescription medicines, accompanied by prescriptions, will be the only exceptions. All liquids, gels or aerosol containers of not more than 100ml each taken from home shall be required to be carried in one standard re-sealable
plastic bag with a maximum capacity not exceeding 1 litre. The plastic bag must be presented separately from your hand luggage and other items such as coats, jackets or lap-tops at the x-ray checkpoint. Also, all liquids, gels or aerosols purchased from Airport Shops/Duty Free in the security restricted areas (after the x-ray checkpoint) of the terminal on the day of travel must be placed in approved security Sealed Tamper-Evident Bag (STEBs) with receipt attached to it as proof of purchase. The new rules cover Liquids such as water, drinks, soups,
Ethihad unveiled as new Chelsea FC sponsor Etihad Airways has signed a three-year deal to be a Platinum Sponsor and Official International Airline Partner of Chelsea Football Club. Etihad Airways’ chief executive, James Hogan said: “The partnership with Chelsea marks a new and
exciting chapter in the history of Etihad Airways and will provide the airline with terrific exposure to a global audience. “It also illustrates Etihad’s ambitions to be associated with the best names in sport and therefore we are delighted that the Etihad
Etihad Airways’ chief executive, James Hogan, Chelsea FC Midfielder, Shaun Wright-Phillips and Corporate Sales Account Manager, Etihad London, Mohammed Al Bulooki (left to right) celebrate Etihad’s new partnership with Chelsea Football Club. 14 Forum
brand will be seen every week at Stamford Bridge and on Chelsea media and merchandise.” In addition to the placement of Etihad’s logo and branding at the English Premier League team’s Stamford Bridge stadium in west London, the partnership will see the airline and Chelsea work together on several projects including potential team tours to the UAE and the Far East. Chelsea chief executive, Peter Kenyon said: “This partnership with Abu Dhabi based Etihad is an exciting one for Chelsea. We have similar aspirations in our respective fields and that made this deal a natural one for both companies. Etihad is quickly establishing itself as a major force in the airline industry and we look forward to working with each other during the next three years.”
syrups and other beverages, gels, (including hair and shower gels), pastes (including toothpaste), mascara, lip gloss, creams, lotions, oils, perfumes, sprays, liquids/solid mixture, contents of pressurized containers (including shaving foam and deodorants), aerosols and other items with a similar consistency. Items that cannot be taken on board will be confiscated by Airport Security. Neither airports nor airlines will accept any liability for items that have to be left behind or confiscated by security at check points as a result of failure to comply with the regulations.
Arab world air passenger traffic up 14.5% A report issued by the Arab Air Carriers Organisation showed that air passenger traffic in the Arab world rose by 14.5 percent in August compared to August 2006, following a growth of 10.5 percent in July compared to a year earlier. The report indicated that in August, passenger traffic inside the Arab world increased by 8.7 percent compared to August the previous year. Traffic grew between all the world regions, apart from traffic within the Arab Peninsula, which declined by 1.2 percent. Passenger traffic between the Arab world and other world regions increased by 17.8 percent in August compared to August 2006.
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Standard Chartered Pledges $8 – 10 billion to Renewable Energy at the Clinton Global Initiative Standard Chartered Bank committed in September to take a leading role in the financing of new renewable and clean energy projects in Asia, Africa and the Middle East, with the biggest pledge in the Bank’s history at the Clinton Global Initiative. The pledge, which amounts to $8-10 billion, will involve a five-year commitment, and will focus on energy projects such as wind, hydro, geothermal, solar, bio mass and coal bed methane in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. The development of renewable energy projects will help achieve the goal of containing the growth of greenhouse gas emissions – a stated objective of a number of countries in which Standard Chartered operates. Standard Chartered’s role may be as lead arranger of debt, financial advisor, or as equity investor. The Bank will use a combination of innovative approaches to build scale in the sector, such as financing of first-ofkind projects in developing economies and
encouragement of local currency financing and refinancing. The Clinton Global Initiative, now in its third year, is a catalyst for action, bringing together a community of global leaders. It is headed by former US president Bill Clinton and aims to devise and implement innovative solutions to global problems. Present at the annual meeting was Peter Sands, Standard Chartered Group Chief Executive. Mr. Sands said: “We believe we really can make a difference to the environment and climate change. Businesses need to do more and with this pledge we are leading by example.” Environment and climate change are key parts of Standard Chartered’s overall approach to building a sustainable business. Many markets where the Bank operates have fastgrowing economies in which exponentially increasing energy needs have led to increased greenhouse gas emissions.
By making this pledge, Standard Chartered will be helping to develop renewable and clean energy projects which will create sustainable energy alternatives in these economies. This year’s pledge builds on the Bank’s commitments made at last year’s meeting, which were to establish a $500 million microfinance facility, to educate one million people about HIV/ AIDS, and to support the Vital Voices Global Partnership. On 24 September, Standard Chartered Bank was honoured as “Best in Class” in its approach to climate change disclosure in a report released by the Carbon Disclosure Project, a coalition of over 315 global investors with more than $41 trillion in assets. The CDP report, now in its fifth year, is a survey of the responses of “Financial Times 500” corporations on the issue of climate change. In the report, Standard Chartered was included in
the “Climate Disclosure Leadership Index (CDLI)”, a prestigious honour roll for global corporations addressing the challenges of climate change. Standard Chartered PLC, ranks among the top 25 companies in the FTSE-100 by market capitalisation. The London-headquartered group has operated for over 150 years in some of the world’s most dynamic markets, leading the way in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Its income and the number of employees have more than doubled over the last five years primarily as a result of organic growth and supplemented by acquisitions. The group now employs over 60,000 people, representing some 100 nationalities, in more than 1,400 branches located in over 50 countries. The bank generates more than 90 per cent of its profits from Asia, Africa and the Middle East, with balanced income derived from both Wholesale and Consumer Banking.
About the Clinton Global Initiative The Clinton Global Initiative is a project of the William J. Clinton Foundation that brings together a community of global leaders to devise and implement innovative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges. CGI has approximately 1,000 members, diverse and influential leaders from all over the world, who make tangible commitments to create or support projects within CGI’s areas of focus. During the three-day Annual Meeting, attendees participate in workshops and meetings focused on four main topics: Global Heath, Education, Poverty Alleviation, and Energy & Climate Change. Attendees are required to make specific commitments to address one of the topics and report back to President Clinton on the progress made throughout the course of the year. Attendees who do not make or keep their commitment will not be invited to attend future meetings. 16 Forum
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Financial News Qatar Commercial seeks $800m for UAE bank stake Commercial Bank of Qatar is borrowing $800 million to help fund its acquisition of the United Arab Bank of the United Arab Emirates, according to the Reuters News Agency. Commercial Bank said in September that it had won initial approval from the central bank to buy 40% of the UAE lender for $601 million. ‘It’s for general corporate activities and partly to finance the acquisition of United Arab Bank,’ one banker told Reuters in Dubai. A second bank confirmed the information to Reuters in Bahrain. Both asked not to be identified. The loan would be a ‘club deal’ they said, meaning it would be
Bahrain’s Perigon Capital to buy stake in AirAsia X The Star newspaper wrote that Malaysian long-haul budget carrier AirAsia X will sell stakes of 10 percent each to Japan’s Orix Group and Bahrain’s Perigon Capital for a total of $75 million, Reuters reported. The deal, which values the airline at $375 million, aimed to raise funds for its fleet expansion, the newspaper said. The funds raised through the stake sale will be enough to see the airline through the next two to three years and it will meet its funding needs to purchase the new aircraft, it added. 18 Forum
financed by lenders directly involved in the transaction rather through syndication to other banks. Nine banks are reportedly involved in the deal including Barclays Plc, JPMorgan Chase & Co, ABN Amro and BNP Paribas. Commercial Bank’s chief executive officer, Andrew Stevens, declined to comment to Reuters. The United Arab Bank purchase would be the biggest ever for Commercial Bank, which bought a 34% stake in National Bank of Oman in 2005. United Arab has nine branches, including three in Dubai and one in Abu Dhabi, according to its website. The lender is based in Sharjah.
Bahrain takes ‘winning formula’ to US A high-profile delegation will visit the US in October with the aim of enticing top US financial institutions to set up operations in the kingdom. Bahrain Financial Services Development (BFSD), a part of the Economic Development Board, and the Bankers’ Society of Bahrain (BSB) are co-hosting a reception on the sidelines of meetings between the IMF and World Bank in Washington . ‘Bahrain: The Winning Formula - First for Finance in the Middle East’ is a premium networking event held in the Smithsonian Institute and attended by Finance Minister Shaikh Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Central Bank of Bahrain Governor Rasheed Al Maraj and Bahrain ambassador to the US Dr Naser Al Balooshi.
BFSD events and conference manager Jacob Kristiansen said the Bahrain delegation was heading to the event with one goal in mind. “Our practical job is to make sure financial institutions apply for licences with the CBB. We will be collecting cards and making contacts and hopefully this will lead to some one applying for a licence,” he said. “The theme is racing. When people arrive they will get a paddock pass around their neck, and there will be a model of Bahrain International Circuit set up with a Scaletrix track for guests,” Kristiansen said, adding that if the reception proved a success it was likely to be repeated next year, possibly in New York or Chicago.
UAE freezes $1.3m of suspected terrorist funds The United Arab Emirates announced early in October that it had frozen 17 bank accounts totalling $1.3 million because of suspected links to terrorism financing. “Some accounts have been frozen in line with UN resolutions,” said Abdulrahim al-Awadi, head of the antimoney laundering unit at the UAE central bank.“They have been referred to a special committee at the United Nations,” he told Reuters in Abu Dhabi. A committee of the UN Security Council is responsible for deciding whether suspect individuals and entities should be added to a global al Qaeda and Taliban sanctions list, obliging all nations to freeze
their assets. The list currently comprises 142 Taliban associates, 223 individuals and 124 entities linked to al Qaeda, the latter including several Dubaibased firms. Since the September 11 attacks, the United States has leaned hard on Gulf countries, among others, to tighten controls in their financial systems to choke off terrorist finance. Awadi said the UAE central bank had also frozen 259 accounts for suspected money laundering and other fraudulent activities, and referred them to the local courts. Since 2003, the UAE has
also required informal money transfer outlets, known as hawala brokers, to register with the central bank. It has approved 246 hawala brokers and is processing the applications of 70 more, Awadi said. Hawala brokers are often used to remit money to remote areas such as rural Pakistan or Afghanistan, where the banking system is least developed. Brokers accept funds in one country and promise to pay a beneficiary in another for a fee that is smaller than at a bank. “Now we know who they are, who their clients are, how much they are remitting, what is the destination,” Awadi said.
Financial News Oil prices likely to remain volatile In its Global Energy Weekly bulletin 27 September, Merrill Lynch suggests that Oil could rise to $100/bbl in the not to distant future. In our view, the report states, the latest crude oil price rally to $84/bbl is not the result of speculation or geopolitics. Rather the surge in prices is pretty much linked to the underlying supply/demand fundamentals and the weakening USD. To start with, world oil production contracted by at least 650 thousand b/d or 0.8% YoY in the third quarter, putting phenomenal downward pressure on inventories. While US oil demand growth has eased, emerging market demand is holding up well and is so far detached from credit woes in the US and Europe. As a result of this wide global supply/demand imbalance, front-to-third month WTI crude oil timespreads are now reflecting the tightest market since the end of the Iraq War in 2003. Perhaps, more worryingly, relatively mild weather has reduced the intake of petroleum in OECD countries in the summer, but normal winter weather could unveil much stronger underlying demand in OECD economies. Therefore, in the energy markets the worst is ahead of us, not behind us.
Within 14 pages of charts and analysis the report continues... Thus, even if the economy decelerates in the next two quarters, there are significant upside risks to crude oil prices, and a colder winter
than last year could be extremely price supportive given the low levels of crude oil stocks. The risk of a spike in heating oil prices is even more prevalent in Europe, where heating oil sales have been depressed by high gasoil prices. Outside of heating oil, we also find that transportation fuel demand, despite rolling over in recent months, remains relatively robust in Europe and we expect it to hold up at relatively high levels despite the softening in the manufacturing PMI in September. Where does this leave us? Taking into account the low levels of oil stocks, we find that weather poses an asymmetric risk to prices. Even though OPEC has just announced a sequential output increase of 500 thousand b/d, this expansion will only affect oil prices 4-5 months from now. Thus we do not exclude the possibility of an oil price spike above $100/bbl in the near-term if we have a cold start to the winter. However, longer-term the risks to the downside are equally large. With food price inflation in China already accelerating to 20% YoY, we are now broadly concerned about inflation in emerging markets. In our view, global economic growth could suffer severely in the second half of next year as a result of overstretched consumers, large government deficits in OECD economies and rising inflation rates. Combined with the expansion in OPEC production as well as nonOPEC capacity, the band for
oil prices then widens also to the downside. In such scenario, $60/bbl is more likely than $100/bbl.
Jadwa Investment’s Monthly bulletin for October tackles the same situation remarking... Recent oil market developments have improved the economic outlook for Saudi Arabia. Oil prices hit all time highs in late September. This was caused by oil market tightness, rather than the type of adverse global development (either geopolitical or weather related) usually associated with oil price peaks, and happened even though Opec agreed to increase output earlier in the month. High prices and rising production will lift economic growth and the budget and external surpluses in Saudi Arabia to above the levels forecast earlier this year. Oil prices averaging over $65 per barrel over the medium term will provide a very healthy backdrop for the non-oil sector. WTI peaked at $83.9 per barrel on September 20 and has been above $80 per barrel for most of the period since mid-September, around one-third higher than it was at the start of this year. Concern about a continued imbalance between demand and supply has been the fundamental factor pushing oil prices up. Demand growth has remained solid despite rising prices, while new supply, mainly from nonOpec sources, has not come on stream as fast as had been anticipated. Falling US inventories over the last few months have raised market expectations of a shortfall in supply in the final quarter,
when demand peaks due to the northern hemisphere winter. Fallout from the woes in the US sub-prime mortgage market has so far had a surprisingly positive impact on oil prices. While a slowdown in the US economy would hit demand for oil and therefore lower oil prices, the larger than expected cut in US interest rates in September and the prospect of further reductions has allayed the concerns of many in the market about the health of the US economy (resulting in the Dow Jones share price index hitting a new high). In addition, with oil being perceived as safer than many other assets during the current period of financial market volatility, speculative money has helped to spur the recent run-up in oil prices. There is very little geopolitical risk driving oil prices higher. During the summer spike in the price of oil in 2006 there was greater concern than today about Iran’s nuclear program, the upcoming hurricane season in the Gulf of Mexico, ethnic violence in Nigeria and other factors that could disrupt oil supply. With less attention being paid to these factors currently, despite continued risks, we believe there is a chance of a further spike in prices to $90 or even $100 per barrel. Such a spike based on geopolitical developments would be unhealthy for producers and consumers alike, and Opec would likely intervene to calm markets and bring prices down. Both bulletins advise readers that they make no warranty or admit liability for any content stressing that no recommendation, option or advice is expressed or implied. Forum 19
New Golf Course at Riffa Views takes shape
Riffa Golf Club closed its doors at the end of August to allow construction of a new 18 hole championship golf course to gather pace. The new course, designed by golfing legend Colin Montgomerie, is expected to open in April 2008 and will form the centerpiece of Riffa Views. The new course has been designed by Colin Montgomerie Design in association with Robin Hiseman of European Golf Design and the construction is being carried out through a joint venture between British company Braemar Golf Development and Bahrain-based Nass Corporation.” During the closure period, the existing club house will be completely renovated and extended and the golf academy will also be redeveloped. The luxurious new club house will feature additional restaurant outlets, a large retail boutique as well as corporate meeting facilities. The new golf academy is expected to 22 Forum
boast indoor teaching studios which open out onto the driving range and will be equipped with all the latest in golf tuition technology. Adjoining the renovated club house will be a new country club which will consist of tennis courts, ladies and gents’ gyms, an exercise studio, a swimming pool, crèche, lounge, restaurant and an activity garden for children.
“Construction of the new golf courses is on schedule and is taking shape nicely,” confirmed Michael Braidwood, golf club general manager. “The majority of the trees have been transplanted out of the immediate construction area. A turf nursery has
been established and the new strain of Paspalum grass that we will be using, Sea Isle Supreme, is taking root well. Everyone at Riffa Views is looking forward to the completion of our fantastic new courses and vastly improved facilities,” concluded Braidwood.
Another new facility currently under construction at the club is a 9 hole, par 3 academy golf course which will be floodlit to allow golfers to enjoy night golf. Holes 10 – 18 of the championship course will also be floodlit. “Having a 9 hole academy course adjacent to the championship course will be a great addition to the club,” said club head PGA professional, Scott McCaw. “It will be ideal for newcomers to the sport, whether adults or juniors, to practice on, prior to graduating to the more challenging 18 hole championship course.”
Colin Montgomerie tests one of the new golf holes during his site visit in January
The Globe Cocktail Lounge Enjoy a relaxing drink before ordering from our extensive Concorde Restaurant menu or try one of our famous cocktails in a comfortable setting. This refurbished lounge is located opposite the Coffee Shop.
Belgrave Arms Decorated in a traditional pub style this bar is open from 12 noon until 11pm.
Sports Bar
The John Clarke Lounge Comfortably furnished and decorated in cool pastel shades, it’s the ideal place to meet friends or just relax. Situated adjacent to the Coffee Shop, refreshments and snacks are easily available.
The John Clarke Bar A quiet, smoke free environment with a pleasant atmosphere, situated off the above lounge.
The Sports Bar is adjacent to the poolside area and is open from 12 noon on SaturdayThursday and from 11am onwards on Fridays and on public holidays.
Coffee Shop Adjacent to the Lounge, the Coffee Shop is open seven days per week from 10am until 10.30pm.
Concorde Restaurant The Restaurant seats 85 persons and is open for lunch from noon until 3.30pm and for dinner from 6.30pm until last orders at 10pm daily except Fridays when the Restaurant closes at 3pm.
Poolside There is a swimming pool, children’s pool and poolside kitchen. Waiter service is available with a varied menu. Surrounding the pool are sun-loungers, chairs, tables and adjacent there is a lawn where one can relax and sunbathe, eat or drink and at the same time watch the children on the sanded area which has children’s play equipment.
Library Situated above the changing rooms, access may be gained by the adjacent stairs. It has approximately 7,000 volumes in the adult library and 2,500 in the junior library, with regular additions.
Gallery Bar Situated along from the Library, this room is used for private parties, seminars, small functions etc. Members may book this room for private functions.
Windsor Room A large hall used for entertainment and indoor games such as badminton, aerobics and social functions. An excellent stage and dressing rooms add a professional touch to shows and productions. A function bar services the hall and buffet lunch is provided on Fridays from noon until 3pm.
Health Club – “Velocity Fitness Studio” Here we have state of the art facilities – all you need to keep fit. Our highly trained, dedicated fitness instructors will be only too pleased to help and advise you on your personal fitness needs. Our Mission Statement “To meet and exceed members’ expectations through quality service and instruction and to provide a safe and motivating environment”.
Sports & Leisure Activities For raqueteers, we have two flood-lit tennis courts and an active tennis league for those who enjoy the competitive edge. For the very fit and would-be very fit, our squash courts have excellent facilities. Other sports activities include Cricket, Darts, Cycling, Football, and Aqua Aerobics. Other activities of interest available are Drama, Line Dancing, Badminton and Tae Kwon Do.
Crown Prince’s International Scholarship Program
2007 CPISP Graduates HH the Crown Prince and Commander-in-Chief of the BDF, Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, honoured on Monday, September 3rd, 2007 the fourth group of graduating students from the Crown Prince’s International Scholarship Program, in a Graduate Recognition Ceremony at the Court of Crown Prince.
HH the Crown Prince presented certificates of recognition to the following students:
2007 Recipients
at colleges and universities in the U.S.A., U.K., and France.
The Crown Prince’s International Scholarship Program selected its 8 th Group of scholarship recipients in the summer of 2007. This year’s group includes 6 government school students and 5 private school students, who are currently studying
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- Alaa Saeed, London School of Economics and Political Science (BSc in Philosophy and Economics) - Faisal Buali, University of Durham (LL.B. in Law)
CPISP 2007 recipients include: - Alia Sayed Redha, who is pursuing her A-Levels at Cheltenham College in the UK. - Fatema Abdulla Ahmed
- Fatema Al Arayedh, Yale University (BSc in Political Science) - Fatima Sayed Redha Ebrahim, University of Cambridge (BSc in Economics) - Isa Al Sabea, Oxford University (BSc in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics) - Nada Abdulmonem Al Bastaki, University of Warwick (BSc in
MORSE: Mathematics, Operations Research, Statistics, Economics) - Noora Al Sindi, University of Michigan (BSc in Political Science and Middle Eastern Studies) - Reda Al Fardan, University of Cambridge (BSc in Chemical Engineering) - Sawsan Humaidan, University of Harford
Kayed, who is pursuing her A-Levels at Malvern College in the UK. - Fatema Al Rayes, who is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Economics at University College London in the UK. - Hasan Tariq Al Hasan, who is pursuing a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Politics
Politics, Finance, & Corporate Strategy at Sciences Po in Menton, France. - Hassan Kadhim Al Halwachi, who is pursuing his A-Levels at Sherborne School in the UK. - Mashael Adnan Fakhro, who is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in
Endowment Fund Gala Dinner (BSc in Special Education) - Ali Ahmed Al Rahma, Emory University (BSc in Business Administration and Decision Information Analysis) - Nadia Khalaf, Oxford University (MPhys/Phil in Physics and Philosophy - Aysha Al Shirawi, University of Durham (MA in Islamic Political Economy) HH also honoured the secondary schools of the Program’s 2007 scholarship recipients, which include: Bayan School, Ibn Khuldoon National, School Sh. Abdulaziz Boys School, Al Naim Boys School, St. Christopher’s School, Jidhafs Secondary Girls School, Saar Girls School, Isa Town Girls School, and Al Noor International School.
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Applied Mathematics at Harvard University in the U.S. Mahmood Adel Abdulla, who is pursuing a High School Post Graduate Diploma at the Lawrenceville School in the U.S. Mishal Emad Awadah, who is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering at the University of Pennsylvania in the U.S. Mohammed Abdulnabi Al Sadadi, who is pursuing a High School Post Graduate Diploma at the Hun School of Princeton in the U.S. Subah Khalid Buali, who has gained provisional acceptance at Warwick University in the U.K. Zainab Hassan Abdulla, who is pursuing her ALevels at Sedbergh School in the U.K.
On September 2 nd 2007, the Crown Prince’s International Scholarship Program (CPISP) held its 2 n d annual endowment fund gala dinner, under the patronage of HH the Crown Prince and Commander-in-Chief of the BDF, Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa,
marking the establishment of the Crown Prince’s International Scholarship FUND, which has allowed individuals and organisations from the private sector to offer financial support and contribute to the development and gradual expansion of the Program.
The event was attended by HRH the Prince Andrew, Duke of York; Deputy Prime Minister Sh. Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Khalifa; Ministers; University guests of honor; CPISP Sponsors; and diplomats and officials from the government and private sectors, as well as CPISP students and alumni.
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Bahrain Construction Update Sunset Hills Project work on target The infrastructure work is set to start at the Sunset Hills Project, part of $1.3 billion Al Areen development. The $100 million project, which is a joint venture between Abu Dhabi Investment house (ADIH) and Kuwaiti investment firm Sorouh Investments, has successfully completed the first and second phases ahead of schedule. ‘We launched Sunset Hills last year with an ambitious timeframe for completion. This latest milestone places us well on track for meeting our targets,’ Sunset Hills’ newly-appointed chairman Shaikh Mohammed bin Daij Al Khalifa said.
BWTC work complete The Bahrain World Trade Center (BWTC) announced in September that the internal building work on all 50-floors of the iconic twin towers has just been completed. Each of the finished floors feature elegant marble finishings, high speed elevators and elegant glass windows framing a priceless view of the Arabian Gulf, making the development one of Bahrain’s most prestigious business addresses. Each floor will now be handed over to tenants who will take advantage of the Kingdom’s first intelligent offices employing the latest Smart systems capable of delivering unsurpassed security and maximum efficiency in office management. 26 Forum
The completion of the floors is a milestone for both the project, which is scheduled to open at the beginning of 2008, and for the people who have worked on its construction. One of those people is Bahraini Hassan Mohammed Hakeem Hassan (site engineer for Atkins) who has worked on the sustainable building since its groundbreaking in 2004, when he started out as an inspector and worked his way up to become site engineer. “The handover of the floors to the tenants is a moment we are all looking forward to”, said Hassan who is one of many Bahrainis who have worked on the development. “Over 1,300 people have worked on this project and it is truly testament to their hard work, dedication and commitment.”
‘The interest we have received so far from our clients is highly encouraging and we are confident that Sunset Hills will not only leverage Al Areen’s
success, but will further enhance its value proposition.’ Scheduled for completion next year, Sunset Hills occupies 200,000sq/m in Bahrain’s Al Areen Development, situated in the development’s southern gateway.When it is completed, Sunset Hills will house 300 real estate units, including villas, town houses and luxury apartments. Multipurpose buildings are also planned for the development. Additionally, future Sunset Hills residents will benefit from the facilities and attractions around the project such as the renowned Banyan Tree Resort, the Delmon Waterpark, the Bahrain International Circuit, future shopping district and many more.
$488m highway project approved Bahrain’s Cabinet has approved a BD184 million ($488.2 million) six-year development plan for the King Faisal Highway. This is part of a series of projects to enhance Bahrain’s infrastructure to meet the requirements of the current investment boom and to upgrade the road network to minimise traffic congestion. One of the main features of the project is the transfer and protection of services in addition to the construction of a tunnel. This will ease traffic movement during the work and construction of a road from Bahrain Bay to the junction of Al Fateh Highway with King Faisal Highway and
also the completion of the road network and proposed bridges in the north of Bahrain. The project will also cover the upgrading of some junctions on King Faisal Highway including those with Palace Avenue, Shaikh Isa Al Kabeer Road and Al Furdha Avenue. Tunnels will be constructed in these locations to ease traffic movement. After looking into the memorandum on the project presented by Premier’s Court Minister and head of the ministerial committee Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, the Cabinet assigned the Finance Ministry to provide the required funds.
Bahrain Construction Update Qatar - Bahrain Causeway agreement signed The ‘Jissr Qatar-Bahrain’ (Qatar-Bahrain Causeway) Foundation has signed a MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) with a consortium of five international firms to build the causeway project. The project is expected to begin in the summer of 2008 and is due to be completed in 48 months. Ambassador Dr Ahmed Hassan Al Hammadi, Board Chairman of Jissr QatarBahrain Foundation, signed the agreement with Vinci Construction Gulf Area Manager Engineer Yanick Garillon representing the partnership between Qatari Diar and the French firm Vinci
Construction and several other major international firms at a function held at Four Seasons Hotel in Doha.
Hammadi said that the MoU underscores a new drive in the constructive relations between Qatar and Bahrain.
The signing ceremony was attended by board members of Qatar-Bahrain Causeway Foundation including, from the Qatari side, Muftah Jassim Al Muftah, Engineer Ali Abdullah Al Abdullah, and Nasser Hassan Al Ansari and from the Bahraini side, Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa bin Ahmad Al Khalifa, Sheikh Mohammed bin Ali Al Khalifa, Dr Yousef Abdel Karim Mohammed and Engineer Raed Mohammed Al Salah.
He added that the causeway would contribute to strengthening ties between the two brotherly countries and their people.
Speaking prior to the signing of the agreement, Al
Later, Al Hammadi told a news conference that the
The MoU, Al Hammadi pointed out, represents a general outline of all aspects related to the mega project with a final agreement to be reached within a period not exceeding four months which will include in-depth technical and engineering details of the project.
project’s total costs will be determined once the final designs of the causeway are completed, but estimated they would not exceed $2bn. He noted that the 40km-long causeway will be one of the world’s biggest which will comprise several traffic lanes, an emergency route, in addition to a railway line for high speed trains that will eventually link the capitals of the two countries. The beginning of the causeway in Qatar will be located at Ras Ashairij area, five kilometers south of the city of Al Zubara, and a similar spot will be located north of Askar village in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
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Bahrain Construction Update Bahrain’s Emcan plans IPO
Bahrainisation rate amended
Bahrain-based construction company, Emcan, is planning an initial public offering (IPO) worth BD10 million in the next two years to raise capital.
An article in the GDN on the 5th September stated “The Cabinet has slashed the required rate of Bahrainisation in the construction sector from 15 to 10% in response to businessmen’s demands.
from 18,247 in 2004 and 10,882 three years ago.
Minister Dr Majeed Al Alawi stressed the ministry’s commitment to Bahrainise the nonphysically demanding jobs in the sector - particularly drivers, storekeepers and administrative jobs.
Referring to statistics released by the Industry and Commerce Ministry, he said “3,519 commercial registrations had been issued in favour of the construction sector over the last four years, up to August 31. These include 3,315 third class CRs, 143 second class and 61 first class.
“We plan the offering to be around the beginning of 2009. This IPO is to raise the capital of the company,” Emcan chairman Fayez Boday said in September.
Boday has said his company plans to offer 400 new housing units for sale by the end of this year, comprising of villas and apartments. “Emcan’s offering of 67 units in its first project this year was successful,” he said. Emcan expects to complete the setting up of a BD2 million ready-mix plant in the next few months.
Logistics facility to be built at BIW First Bahrain Real Estate Development Company (FBREDC) have announced plans to build a $22 million warehousing and logistics facility at Bahrain Investment Wharf (BIW).
The development will meet the increasing demand from SMEs for comprehensive modern warehousing and logistics facilities for the operation and growth of their businesses.
The project is seen as a major step towards stimulating growth in the small and medium enterprise (SME) sector in the Kingdom.
“Strategically located with easy access to airports, seaports and overland routes to Saudi Arabia, the company’s facility is expected to deliver direct cost savings to SMEs engaging in import and export activities” said Al Sabbagh.
The agreement to lease the land for the facility in BIW was signed between FBREDC general manager Amin A. Al Arrayed, and Wharf chairman Ahmed Al Qattan. The signing ceremony was also attended by Wharf chief executive officer Muhannad Al-Durrah and company head of investments Mounther H. Al Sabbagh.
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The complex, designed by Tebodin, is to be built in two phases over an area of 43,000 square metres and will offer approximately 150 units for lease which will range in space starting at 80 square metres upwards.
“Construction companies can achieve the required benchmark of 10% by Bahrainising such jobs.” he added. He was responding to a column ‘When will we adapt to reality...?’, written by Akhbar Al Khaleej Editor-in-Chief Anwar Abdulrahman. “We abide by rules and regulations in dealing with companies which prove unable to honour the benchmarks due to lack of skilled Bahraini workforce.” said Dr Al Alawi. A total of 25,712 new construction work permits were issued last year, up
The sharp increase reflected the extent of the ministry’s co-operation and flexibility towards contractors.
Singling out companies which achieved a 25% rate, he said Bahrainis are willing if provided with a good work environment and reasonable wages. He also defended the ministry’s caution amid mounting cases of fictitious CRs, runaways and work permits black market. “Work permits are being sold for up to BD1,300, hence the necessity to make sure the companies are in real need.” he added.
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Bahrain Construction Update Bahrain Bay HQ for Albaraka Banking BSB Expansion The British School of Bahrain is expanding to fill an ever present need for quality education in the Kingdom. From small beginnings it has grown to over 800 students and building is well advanced for the accommodation of around 1250 students in the near future.
Bahrain-based Islamic financial institution Albaraka Banking Group (ABG) will build a new corporate headquarters at Bahrain Bay. The firm joins Bahrainbased investment firm Arcapita in choosing to base itself within the high-profile development in the heart of Manama. “ABG’s decision to select Bahrain Bay as an ideal location to build its headquarters stems from our strong belief in the importance of Bahrain as a major international and regional Islamic banking and financial centre,” said ABG chairman Shaikh Saleh Abdulla Kamel. “We believe Bahrain Bay will be an excellent location for our new headquarters. We feel that Bahrain Bay fits our
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aspirations and philosophy perfectly,” added ABG president and chief executive Adnan Ahmed Yousif. “What also appealed to us very strongly was Bahrain Bay’s commitment to building a genuine community, where neighbourhoods will be created which will offer opportunity to all those who live and work within them. Albaraka Banking Group is proud to be part of Bahrain Bay’s vision,” he said. The latest investment in Bahrain Bay follows similar commitments by leading businesses, such as The Four Seasons, which will build and operate a 220room, 285m high premium hotel located on its own island at the heart of the development.
The school was opened in 1995 and until this year has been housed in Adliya in adapted premises. New ownership and significant financial investment has resulted in a major building programme. A new location in Hamala, on the western side of the island, will house the whole school by September 2008. The Infant School has already moved and enjoys first class facilities, spacious classrooms, a large sports hall and one of only three indoor swimming pools in the Kingdom. Work on the Junior and Senior Schools begins this month. The school, when complete next summer, will have its own theatre, multimedia library, soccer-pitch and underground parking for close to 200 vehicles. It will also have first class facilities for science, music, art and design technology. The school follows the National Curriculum (UK), enters children for SATs at the end of Key Stages 1, 2 and 3 and for GCSE, A/S and Advanced Levels in the Senior School. Examination results are excellent and students, young and old enjoy a challenging academic experience and a wide range of extra-curricular and enrichment activities through carefully chosen joint
ventures, including the Duke of Edinburgh Award and the accredited English Football Association coaching awards. Academic standards are comparable to those selective grammar schools in UK but the BSB also offers a rigorous and individual support for students with educational needs. “Whilst we are proud of our academic success (the school has never had a failure at Advanced level) we are equally proud of the successes of all our students outside the formal curriculum. Our ‘value added’ and our care for the individual pupil are perhaps our most impressive achievements”, said Director Bill Frost. The school was one of the first in the Kingdom to offer senior students a fully fledged work experience scheme and is indebted to the BBBF for its help in developing this programme. This term Business Studies and Economics students have established a Young Enterprise Scheme where proceeds will go towards continuing the schools financial assistance programme for local Bahraini undergraduates in need. The BSB is investing in technology and plans to prepare its pupils and students for the digital age by providing an on-line curriculum. Interested families can look at the school’s website at www.thebsbh.com or contact the admission officer, Kate Hunt-Saviour on 00973 1771-0878 or e-mail direct to enquiries@thebsbh.com
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Dear Doctor – A story of hospital life The doctors and nurses have the ability to smile easily; it’s probably that medical humour. They enjoy working here and that attitude is passed on to patients. Good Doctors come from all over the world these days, not just Europe and USA. The hospital has an increasing number of specialists including pediatrics and cardiology.
We have all heard stories and watched films about hospitals and Doctors – student Doctors pranks, mishaps, medical jokes not to mention more recently superbugs and aggressive patients (you never heard about those in the past). Then there are the old sayings such as an apple a day keeps the Doctor away. So when Dr Paul Armerding asked me to join the American Mission Hospital as Director of Communications & Development I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but part of me thought there might be some surprises. As luck would have it, I already had some medical experience, as an insurer but now I was being asked to sit on the other side of the fence. Plus I had been a nonexecutive Director of the hospital and had played in the AMH Island Classic for many years. I had also studied physiology as part of my athletics coaching qualifications in the United Kingdom. I also believe that the old Roman adage ‘ mens sana in sana corpore’ does work. Basically when translated it means do crosswords and Sudoku plus 32 Forum
take long walks or go mountain biking. It also means in my view not waiting until you are ill to see a Doctor. So what’s the story so far ? Well the first thing that struck me was I knew that American Mission had been in Bahrain for over 100 years but it was really when I walked around and looked at the wonderful photographic display in the hospital in Manama that I had a real feeling of the history of the hospital. It really was like a frontier town back at the start of the 20th Century and a dangerous place as well with thousands of deaths from cholera and typhoid in the early years. That history brings respect from all walks of life and all nationalities. Many sponsors have supported the hospital in the past and still do. Many Bahrainis and Expatriates have been born here. The American Mission is part of the social fabric of Bahrain. It is still not for profit. There aren’t any shareholders to receive huge dividends and staff don’t receive huge bonuses. So if it’s financial rewards you want, stick to banking.
Patients are much more aware and informed about medical conditions and illnesses than they were before the coming of the internet. So doctors have more questions than before. That’s a positive thing as again knowledge can help in the cure and recovery. The hospital is accredited by the Australian Council for Healthcare standards. That sounds an easy thing to say but I now know how hard it is for a hospital to achieve that accreditation. Everything has to be run exceptionally well and further improvements made in the future. So what about the apple a day? Yes it is true. Apples contain malic and tartaric acids that inhibit fermentation in the intestines. Their high fiber content adds bulk that aids the digestive process and they contain pectin, a soluble fiber that encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract. They also contain flavonoids, antioxidants that improve immune function and prevent heart disease and some cancers.
Apart from that green apples act as a liver and gall bladder cleanser and may aid in softening gallstones. They give gums a healthy massage and clean the gallstones. And they have a lot less calories than a Chocolate bar or a hamburger. So start buying more apples. I always thought that the medical profession should do more about awareness and prevention of illnesses. Most of you reading this will know that I have an active sports life so fitness is something I have always been involved in, before it was fashionable. These days there seems to be so much talk about diet, exercise, calories that to be honest it’s confusing. In the past there were those who did sport because they were good at it and those that didn’t because they were probably more interested in something else that they were better at. After all why would a pianist want to run around a football field? Today we are certainly much more health conscious and this has 2 elements; what we eat (Calories in) and what we do to expend energy (Calories out). If we take in more energy than we need we put on weight. Putting on weight can lead to an increased risk of heart attacks, higher blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes. So are more people watching what they eat and exercising. Yes they are but they are still not aware of a few basics.
So let’s look at a few medical numbers. I am not going to make any observations just ask whether you know what yours are. Lets start with BMI BMI stands for Body Mass Index which is a ratio of height and weight. If your BMI is under 18.5 you are classed as underweight, up to 25 normal, 25 to 30 overweight and after that see a Doctor. If you want to calculate yours check it on any of the medical websites. Cholesterol is something we have all read about as one of the risk factors for heart disease and stroke. So do you know how much cholesterol you have in your blood. The first confusing part is that there are two types of cholesterol the good type that keep your arteries clean (HDL) and the bad type that fur them up (LDL). Secondly
we make our own cholesterol in our livers so diet is not the only factor here. A target total cholesterol level is 5 mmol/l (millimoles/liter) or 200 mg/dl (milligrams / deciliter. One more for luck to identify a diabetes risk is the measurement of sugar or glucose in the blood. A normal level is around 6.2 mmol/l (millimoles/liter). Those 3 simple numbers will give an indication of your health so if you don’t know them already please give me a call and I’ll arrange for you to see one of our smiling nurses.
Rob Grey Director Communications & Development American Mission Hospital
Regular physical exercise is a vital element of an effective weight loss program. But not for immediate weight reduction benefits. Typically, it takes a minimum of 10 hours of walking, or 5 hours running, to burn off 1/2 kg of fat. 1/2 kg = 3,500 calories. So to lose 1/2 kg weight you need a deficit of 500 calories every day for a week. Activity Calories burned (one-hour duration) Person weighing Person weighing 64 – 68 kilograms 77 – 82 kilograms Aerobic dancing
416-442
501-533
Bicycling (stationary)
448-476
539-574
Bowling
192-204
231-246
Canoeing
224-238
270-287
Golfing (carrying bag)
288-306
347-369
Jogging, 5 mph
512-544
616-656
Running, 8 mph
864-918
1,040-1,107
Skating (ice- or roller-)
448-476
539-574
Skiing (cross-country)
512-544
616-656
Stair climbing
576-612
693-738
Swimming
384-408
462-492
Tennis
448-476
539-574
Volleyball
192-204
231-246
Walking, 3.5 mph
243-258
293-312
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Hotel Industry News Travelodge trials second generation Travelpod In August, Travelodge unveiled its second generation Travelpod, what it calls “the world’s first mobile hotel room.” The latest version has been designed with new features in response to findings from the initial Travelpod trials in 2006. The modified Travelpod is 40% bigger than the initial prototype and has been styled in the hotel company’s contemporary room design, incorporating a red, white and blue colour scheme and has the following features: · · · ·
Air conditioning Heater Flat screen TV DVD player with a collection of DVD’s · Ambient lighting which includes bedside lights and a illuminated headboard · Tea / coffee making facilities · Washroom with biodegradable toilet and washbasin with running water facilities In addition, the furnishings are made from recyclable timber and lighting has been designed to use low wattage
bulbs. The room comes complete with a luxury double bed, bedside lights, duvet, pillows, fully carpeted floor, window blinds, dressing table with light, mirror and chair. The palatial pod is sealed in a 6 metre (length) by 2.4 metre (width) x 2.6 metre (height) clear polycarbonate glass box but inside, the features replicate the conventional Travelodge hotel room just
recently re-designed. Travelodge’s Director of Sleep, Leigh McCarron, said: “The Travelpod is a ground breaker in outdoor accommodation. We ran some tests on the original Travelpod concept last year and those findings have been used to develop this second generation model for customer trials”. The new Travelpod will be tested over the next couple
of months and the general public will have the opportunity to participate in trials by entering a prize draw at: www.travelodge.co.uk. The Travelpod is the ultimate accessory for lovers of outdoor entertainment. It’s the world’s first mobile hotel room that can be transported to any outdoor event such as a music festival, sporting event or any other major outdoor event.
Ritz-Carlton announce new staff apppointments new capacity, she is responsible for the key wholesale partners and agents in Europe, covering all aspects of marketing, contracting, assisting preferred partners as well as managing the operation.
Julia Rothe has been appointed Wholesale Manger for the European market at The Ritz Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa. In her 34 Forum
Before her assignment in Bahrain, Julia was most recently at The Ritz Carlton, Berlin, Germany, after working at an independent hotel in Vienna, Austria.
Michiel Lugt has been appointed the new Assistant Food & Beverage Director at the beachfront, 245-room Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa. In his new capacity, he is responsible for all matters pertaining to the food and beverage operations. Before his assignment in Bahrain, Mr. Lugt was Assistant Food and Beverage Manager at the Peter Island Resort, British
Virgin Islands. Prior to that, he used to work in the same position at the Grand Hotel & Spa in Rodina Sochi, Russia.
Hotel Industry News New Dubai Hotel MD named for New Chef at to open Nov 1 Jeddah Hotel Mansouri Emirates Hotels and Rosewood Hotels & Resorts Mansions Hotel Resorts’ first city-based has appointed Hans-Peter hotel, the 59-storey luxury Emirates Marina Hotel & Residence, will open on November 1. The 261 suite hotel with a range of single, double and three roomed accommodations is one of Dubai’s top-ten highest buildings at 256 m. The hotel is the second in a series of new projects owned and managed by Emirates’ Hotels & Resorts, the hospitality division of Emirates airline. The first, Emirates Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, is among the Condé Nast Traveller’s Top 20-Hotel List.
Leitzke as Managing Director of Rosewood Corniche Jeddah. Leitzke joined Rosewood in May 2005 as hotel manager for Hotel Al Khozama in Riyadh. The new hotel has an exclusive Ladies’ Floor where female butlers pack and unpack ladies’ luggage, provide information about the city’s facilities for women. In another hotel ‘first’, staff wear uniforms designed by international fashion icon, Yehya Al Bishri, whose couture collection has been worn by Saudi Royals and HRH the Prince of Wales.
September saw the recruitment of new Executive Chef Darren Bannister into the Mansouri Mansions fold. A British National, Darren brings with him over sixteen years in the professional Hospitality Industry, and looks forward to stamping his own signature on to the various eateries that the Mansouri Group offers. Darrens wealth of experience includes Fine Dining, Royal Functions and Marquee Events to name but a few. Having traveled extensively throughout the World,
Darrens culinary ability and passion is unlimited. Although his dishes are very much in the Classical European Style, ingredients from all four corners of the world are not too far away. He prefers not to be pigeon holed into one particular group of Culinary Styles, instead, he is just committed to producing quality cuisine time after time.
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Bahrain News New members for the BBBF With 6 new BBBF members welcomed in this edition, we asked Ashok Kumar, Director, Strategy & Corporate Devlopment to tell us what BCS was and does. Herewith his reply: BCS, Bahrain based Business Communications Services is an ICT (Information & Communication Technology) company specialised in the Consultancy, Design, Engineering, Installation, Operation, Maintenance and Support of IT & Telecom Networks. BCS has proven expertise in catering to requirements such as Outside / Inside Plant, Structured Cabling, IP Telephony, PBX Solutions, Telecom Switches, Power Solutions, Wireless / Fiber / Satellite Connectivity, IT Infrastructure Solutions and IT Business Solutions. BCS takes pride in executing projects to exacting specifications. BCS works extensively on US Armed Forces Middle East projects through General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT), General Dynamics C4S, International Telephone & Telegraph (ITT) and Computer Sciences Corporation. BCS has an exclusive 5 year contract with GDIT and a similar agreement with CSC. To date, BCS has completed projects in Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. BCS has worked on various ICT projects in support of several hundred organisations in the Bahrain public and private sector. BCS is working closely with local project 36 Forum
developers to provide consultancy and engineering support for their projects.
Al-Ansari Group set to expand.
Arencon Security win new contract
BBBF Member Abdul Jaleel Al Ansari writes in to tell us that his company will be opening the new EMPORIO ARMANI & GUCCI Boutiques in the World Trade Centre, Moda Mall by end 2007 and the new ARMANI JEANS & ARMANI JUNIOR boutiques will be opened at the Al A’ali Shopping Complex at Seef in early 2008.
BBBF Member Richard Monkhouse writes to tell us that his company has won a significant piece of business for security installations at the Shura Council and Parliament premises in Gudaibiya.
New manager at B.I.T.
New manager at Star International Real Estate
Although winning the work ison the public record, the nature of the work is confidential.
BCS has established a strategic alliance with Alloptic for state-of-the-art connectivity solutions based on Fiber Optic cabling. BCS is a Motorola and Redline Communications authorized Reseller Partner for Point-to- Point and Point-toMultipoint wireless solutions and a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner.
BBBF Member Paul Clayburn writes to tell us of a new appointment this year. Monique Gardel has returned to Bahrain after 3 years in Kenya to head up ‘The Collection’ a selection of hand-picked luxury holidays which can be tailored to individual client requirements.
BCS personnel are highly trained in the design and delivery of sophisticated ICT systems for demanding environments. Established in 2002 with just 5 personnel, presently staffs over 130 people and operates from a swank corporate office on Gajria Towers in Sanabis.
Michael Jackson in more trouble
BCS posted impressive, double digit growth and reported a CAGR of 220% for the first 5 years of its operations. BCS is led by Chairman/CEO Fred J. Donnelly and President/CTO Anthony D. Medlicott. With a team of dedicated personnel, superb infrastructure and firm assurance of business, BCS is all set for exponential growth.
Fox News went big in October with reports that Michael Jackson had seriously upset Prince Abdulla Al Khalifa. The prince is claiming that Jackson has an agreement with him to record two albums, write and produce a live-Broadway kind of show with Jackson’s music and a cast album, and to write and publish an autobiography. The deal would tie Jackson up until at least 2012, if the prince enforces it. Jackson, the prince states in his filed claim, moved to Bahrain on June 29, 2005, some 16 days after the pop star’s acquittal on charges of child molestation and conspiracy.
BBBF Member Melanie Bonas writes to tell us that she’s moved to a new company where she will be offering an extensive range of property services including investment and holiday homes in a variety of locations.
For one year, the prince underwrote Jackson’s life in Bahrain, everything including living accommodations, guests, security and transportation. That number is in the millions. In April 2006, Jackson finally signed an agreement with the prince to create 2Seas Records. He also agreed to a lot of other things, too. The prince built him a state-ofthe-art recording studio. He gave Jackson a $7 million advance for all this. And what did Jackson do with the money? He left for Japan and then Ireland. He exited Bahrain and never looked back. He took the money and moonwalked right out the door.
Bahrain News AXA Insurance Gulf launches Office Secure In response to the recent rise of calls to insure offices & businesses, AXA Insurance Gulf has launched its comprehensive Office protection product Office Secure.
business. Office Secure covers all these and also goes a step ahead to cover office equipment, money and the office premises all at a reasonable premium in a quick and easy process.”
Says Stephen Wagstaff, Area Manager, AXA Insurance (Bahrain), “It has become necessary for any businessman to take workmen’s compensation & public liability for his
Fire, theft, equipment malfunction, lawsuits, loss of money, are but just a few of the disasters that can threaten the smooth running of any business. Office Secure insurance protects you and
your business financially by compensating you for the cost of lost or damaged office equipment, lost income due to interruption of business, or the cost of a settlement of a third party legal action against one’s company. A survey from the Geneva Association report of 2006 says that as much as $2900 mn was lost due to fire in the year 2003 and that accidental damage is the no.1 cause of loss to computer equipment in offices and theft ranks as the number two cause for overall laptop/ PC loss.
Office/ Business insurance has become very critical for small business owners and hence the enhanced product development of Office Secure. AXA in the GCC, with a workforce of over 380 employees, 11 offices regionwide, a substantial customer base and a gross written premium of over US$ 190 million, is a major international insurer in the Middle East offering a wide range of insurance products and services for corporate and individual customers.
Revolutionary Eco-Friendly Car washing service launched in Bahrain required for about one month, just a simple dusting off will be sufficient between Ecowash treatments. The service is of particular interest to vehicle dealers who want to present their new or used cars in spectacular style and has been in full use by the biggest dealerships in the Eastern province for over a year already.” Following the highly successful creation and development of waterless car washing in Australia, Ecowash is now being launched in Bahrain by long term Bahrain car business operator and BBBF member, Brian Davis. Ecowash is a totally waterless process – a unique 2-in-1 product lifts the dirt from the surface of the paint and leaves a fine layer of polish which is wiped away to reveal a polished and protected surface. The plan is to rollout the service to the car industry during the fourth quarter of 2007, expanding into public and other corporate sectors 38 Forum
in the New Year. The service is completely mobile and offers different levels. “The Ecowash process is totally waterless and scratch free.” says Mr. Davis, “Because we are waterless, an Ecowash can be performed anywhere, anytime. We are totally selfcontained. We come to you and clean and polish your car so you don’t have to do it in your spare time or put your valuable asset at risk from the amateur ‘bucket and sponge’ brigade. Our operators are fully trained so that you know what you get with an Ecowash. Seeing is believing, you can’t compare an Ecowash to anything else! No further washing is
The Ecowash process protects your car so that it will look better, longer. The service caters for all requirements – from an external make-over to a complete renovation. “Our products have a 10 year
history of cleaning and protecting cars and are specifically designed for car care. We have a complete range of products to ensure a complete service.” says Mr. Davis, “We also intend to set up Bahraini entrepreneurs who lack start-up capital, by offering exclusive territories, training, equipment as well as specialised vehicles in order for them to run their own businesses; experience has shown that such a business model has a far higher than average success rate, we can therefore help those with ambition to succeed where otherwise they might not get the chance.”
Bahrain News ACE approved to establish Property & Casualty insurance operation in Bahrain The ACE Group of Companies announced in June 2007 that it has received approval from the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) to underwrite commercial property and casualty insurance and reinsurance in Bahrain. The licence was approved on 13th June 2007, and ACE hopes to begin the property and casualty operation in August. ACE has an established representative office in Manama, Bahrain, which was licensed in November 2006. The Company’s property and casualty business will operate from the same location.
The newly licensed operation will write both domestic Bahraini business and facultative reinsurance throughout ACE’s Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, initially focusing on the areas of: Oil & Gas; Power Generation; Large and / or Complex Property risks; Construction; Casualty and Directors and Officers insurance. Further product lines will be added as the business develops.
Middle East and North Africa. “The establishment of this branch and our ability to write local business with the backing of strong A+ financial ratings is a key part of our strategy to develop our presence to the region. We intend to build on this quickly through the recruitment of underwriters and engineering expertise to deliver innovative and client focused insurance solutions.”
“We are delighted to have been granted this licence, and would like to thank the CBB for their assistance and guidance throughout this process,” said Giles Ward’s Regional director for the
John Keogh, Chief Executive Officer, ACE Overseas General, said; “The establishment of a branch office in Bahrain show’s ACE’s commitment to the MENA region. We see
a great opportunity for our Bahrain branch to unlock future potential for growth in this area and provide local solutions, reinforced by ACE’s global network specialist expertise. The ACE Group of Companies is a global leader in insurance and reinsurance serving a diverse group of clients. Headed by ACE Limited (NYSE: ACE), a component of the Standard & Poor’s 500 stock index, the ACE Group conducts its business on a worldwide basis with operating subsidiaries in more than 50 countries. www.acelimited.com
Energy Central expansion continues power generation services. Established in 2005, by major organizations including Zamil Industrial Investments Co. and Kuwait Finance House, Energy Central is soon to announce the award of district cooling and sea water desalination concession agreements for two major clients within Bahrain. In response to a number of major utilities projects in the region and to an increasing demand of high quality services, Energy Central continues to expand throughout the Gulf region in order to better serve its clients. Based in Bahrain, Energy Central has opened an office in the UAE and has established a subsidiary company in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Energy Central is a partner of choice specialising in the provision of district cooling, sea water desalination, wastewater treatment, and
“Our mission is to double in size every year and become the supplier of choice. Our soon to be announced successes will be testimony to our commitment to deliver quality services to the satisfaction of its clients.” said Commercial Director, Mr. Greg Garner (pictured) Energy Central continues to build its reputation by contributing knowledge, people, and expertise to developing, owning, and operating integrated utility, energy, and environmental systems. Forum
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Bahrain News TNT launches new portfolio of morning delivery services
And Finally What was that you said? English is a rich and innovative language. But you can’t help feeling we’re missing out. While English speakers have to describe the action of laughing so much that one side of your abdomen hurts (hardly an economical phrase), the Japanese have the much more efficient expression: katahara itai.
TNT, one of the world’s leading express and mail delivery companies, announced the launch of its new service portfolio to offer customers an extended range of standardised international and domestic services across the globe. Adding two new timeguaranteed services - ’10:00 Express’ and ‘12:00 Economy Express’ - to the existing ‘9:00 Express’ and ‘12:00 Express’, TNT puts a strong emphasis on morning deliveries and now offers more morning delivery services than any of its competitors. The new service portfolio was launched globally and has been operational from September 17th. With the new offering, TNT recognises a universal customer need for guaranteed morning delivery, more choice of services and less complexity through service alignment. TNT conducted extensive research involving 7,500 express service users in key markets around the world. The results demonstrate that, apart from speed, weight and coverage capabilities, customers expect convenience, 40 Forum
reliability and control from their provider of express services. TNT’s new range of services directly answers these requirements. “TNT is the company to turn to for all morning deliveries”, says Marie-Christine Lombard, Group Managing Director of TNT’s express division. “Our new offering creates growth opportunities by allowing us to sell more time guaranteed services to our customers. Customers will benefit from a wider choice of morning delivery services, with the simplicity of a one-stop-shop solution”. Drawing on TNT’s fully integrated air and road network infrastructure, the new service portfolio offers greater geographical coverage for deliveries by 9:00, 10:00 and 12:00 to more cities and business locations worldwide than before. TNT has launched an international communications campaign to support its new portfolio. Using the theme ‘Good Morning!’, it combines print and outdoor advertising, viral and direct marketing, online and internal communications.
Of course, the English language has borrowed words for centuries. Khaki and croissant are cases in point. So perhaps it’s time to be thinking about adding others to the lexicon. Malay, for instance, has gigi rongak the space between the teeth. The Japanese have bakkushan - a girl who appears pretty from behind but not from the front. Then there’s a nakkele - a man who licks whatever the food has been served on (from Tulu, India). When photographers attempt to bring out our smiling faces by asking us to “Say Cheese”, many countries appear to follow suit with English equivalents. In Spanish however they say patata (potato); in Argentinian, Spanish whisky; in French, steak frites; in Serbia, ptica (bird) and in Danish, appelsin (orange). These fabulous examples have been collected by author Adam Jacot de Boinod into The Meaning Of Tingo - a collection of words and phrases from around the world. Having pored over 280 dictionaries and trawled 140
websites, he is also convinced that a country’s dictionary says more about a culture than a guide book. Hawaiians, for instance, have 108 words for sweet potato, 65 for fishing nets and 47 for banana. The German propensity for compound words pays dividends. Kummerspeck is a German word which literally means grief bacon: it is the word that describes the excess weight gained from emotion-related overeating. A Putzfimmel is a mania for cleaning and Drachenfutter - literally translated as dragon fodder - are the peace offerings made by guilty husbands to their wives. Or there’s die beleidigte Leberwurst spielen - to stick one’s lower lip out in a sulk (literally, to play the insulted liver sausage). Perhaps it’s a Backpfeifengesicht - a face that cries out for a fist in it. ‘Toulours Tingo’ is the amusing sequel to the first best selling volume and asks us, How do we cope in English without ‘rhwe’ from Tsonga in Africa which means to sleep on the floor without a mat, usually drunk and naked?