From The Chair
Khalid Al-Zayani OBE Chairman Welcome to the Summer edition of the BBBF magazine. It has been several months since our last magazine and all of our various Special Interest Groups have been very active. I would like to thank everyone who organised the numerous events, our sponsors and our members who support the BBBF with enthusiasm throughout the year. In particular I am pleased to note that our new Oil & Gas Special Interest Group is now up and running, looking to closer collaborations with our colleagues in Eastern Province and through the BBA. On a similar topic our most recent Trade Mission visitors from the UK focused on energy, oil and gas and were very well received. We have had tremendous
feedback. So thank you to our members for engaging with the Trade Mission visitors and we will continue to liaise and collaborate with them through our close ties with UK Trade & Investment. The clear message from senior Bahrainis during that visit was that they want to see more British companies winning business in the Kingdom in the energy, oil and gas sectors. We were very lucky to have the Bahrain Minister for Energy, H.E. Dr Abdul Hussain Bin Ali Mirza, join us for lunch in May. He gave an informative insight presentation focusing on the conservation and sustainability of our islandÂ’s natural resources. The clear message is that we will be doing things better with a focus on conservation for the future. The line-up of projects deriving from that strategy heralds excellent business opportunities for British companies. As we move into Ramadan and the Summer holiday period we are sadly forced to say our goodbyes to HMA Iain Lindsay who will be leaving Bahrain with his wife Bridget. He provided
Registration number ISSN 1985-9929
us with his closing thoughts on his time in Bahrain at our lunch this June. We shall miss his energetic input and commitment to strengthening ties and trade between Britain and Bahrain. We wish them all the very best for their new posting in Budapest and of course we welcome our new British Ambassador along with his Deputy Head of Mission. HSBC and Standard Chartered Bank continue to be a great source of financial support and generous encouragement. Their unwavering support allows us the financial security to increase the number and quality of events that we organise for your benefit and enjoyment. We are also pleased to see Etihad continuing its sponsorship relationship with us. We do hope that you enjoy this edition of Forum and that you have a relaxing and enjoyable summer, in Bahrain or wherever you may go. The Committee look forward to seeing you, and your guests, at forthcoming BBBF events. Kind regards Khalid Al-Zayani
Contents The 2015-2017 Executive Committee........2 Welcome to New Members..................3 Member Benefits ..............6 Why join the BBBF? .........7 Advertiser Index................8 Diary Dates.......................8 From Her MajestyÂ’s Ambassador.....................9 Embassy News...............10 SIG Update ...................12 SIG Security ..................13 SIG Legal .......................15 SIG Org. Effect. .............16 SIG Banking & Finance ...17 Financial News ...............18 Feature Article Not all Dinars are born equal ................20 Education Sector............22 Farewell to HMA .............26 Health Matters................28 Motoring News ...............30 Construction Sector .......36 News from the EP ..........38 Aviation News.................40 Hotel & Leisure News .....42 Bahrain News .................46 Fedex donates $1m........54 And Finally......................56
The Bahrain Minister for Energy, H.E. Dr Abdul Hussain Bin Ali Mirza with BBBF Committee members at the May Networking lunch.
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
Cover Image: Pictures from the May Business Networking Lunch with H.E. Dr Abdul Hussain Al Mirza, Minister of Energy held at the Diplomat Radisson Hotel. Forum
1
The 2015-17 BBBF Executive Committee
Chairman Khalid Al Zayani OBE
Deputy Chair Paula Boast Tel: 3319 4445
Hon-Secretary Ben Elsworth Mob: 3633 1167
Treasurer Jonathan Trafankowski Mob: 3914 8599
Embassy Representative Heather Hopper Mob: 3947 4208
Member Adel Fakhro Tel: 1727 5000
Member Nasser Al Arayedh Tel: 1727 2575
Member Mazen Alumran Tel: 1771 5555
Member Ava Garbutt Tel: 3941 1938
Member Rick Hopper Tel: 3979 1090
Executive Manager Dena Wales Tel: 3969 6191
This edition of the BBBF Forum magazine was compiled by Andrew Mead at Mead Management Services Ltd. email: andrew@sbtd.co.uk UK Mob: 0044 7940 559 925 Bahrain Mobile: 00973 3638 7595 KSA Mob: 00966 506 271 151 If you would like to contribute to a future edition please telephone or send an email to info@sbtd.co.uk A full page advert is charged at BD330. A half page advert at BD200, A quarter page advert at BD110 A small panel at BD55 Assistance with Advert design is available if required Please note: The BBBF nor its agents do not warrant the services of any of the individual or corporate members of the BBBF. The views and opinions expressed by independent contributors must not be regarded as those of the BBBF or its agents. Publication of any article or advertisement does not imply any endorsement of the views, products or services described therein.
2
Forum
The BBBF Directory The 2015 printed edition of the BBBF Directory is now available. Keep your information up-to-date by checking the data on the BBBF Website at www.bbbforum.org, follow the link to the Directory and use the Text or Picture Search facility to find your entry.
Welcome to New Members Ohood Abdulghaffar CPISP (Crown Prince s Int l Scholarship Program Senior Account Manager Mob: 3886-1120 ohood.abdulghaffar@gmail.com
Nada Bastaki CPISP (Crown Prince s Int l Scholarship Program Superintendent Mob: 3363-3966 nada.albastaki@gmail.com
Anastasia Ageeva Impact Estate WLL Sales and Marketing Manager Tel: 1753-5111 Mob: 3955-5745 anastasia@impact-estate.com
Bashar Bazian Two Seas Trust, CEO & ELIAN, Middle East Head Tel: 1720-6802 Mob: 3943-3460 bashar.bazian@twoseastrust.com bashar.bazian@elian.com
Marwa Aleskafi CPISP (Crown Prince s Int l Scholarship Program Senior Officer Mob: 3990-4848 marwa.aleskafi@gmail.com
Tania Bearryman Two Seas Trust Vice Chairman Tel: 1720-6802 Fax: 1720-6800 tania.bearryman@twoseastrust.com
Mockbul Ali British Embassy Deputy Head of Mission Tel: 1757-4115 Fax: 1757-4101 mockbul.ali@fco.gov.uk
Simon Bromyard OAK Utility Solutions & Dev.WLL Projects Director Tel: 1753-6768 Mob: 3981-5642 sbromyard@oakbh.com
Ali Al-Jazzazi Ramee Grand Hotel Director of Sales and Marketing Tel: 1711-1999 Mob: 3689-7389 dosm@rameegrandbahrain.com
Angus Campbell BFH Holding Company B.S.C © CEO Tel: 1710-2600 Mob: 3416-9393 angus@bfharbour.com
Vibeke Andersen Impact Estate WLL Sales & Marketing Manager Tel: 1753-5111 Mob: 3646-5553 vibeke@impact-estate.com
Stephen Daniel The Domain Hotel & Spa Assistant General Manager Tel: 1600-0000 Mob: 3914-7782 stephen@thedomainhotels.com
Forum
3
4
Forum
Andrew Dawson Zurich International Life Ltd General Manager Tel: 1756-3322 Mob: 3219-8393 andrew.dawson@zurich.com
Khalid Latif Alba Chief Marketing Officer Tel: 1783-7800 Fax: 1783-0881
Peter Griffiths Ernst & Young Middle East Partner Tel: 1751-4777 Mob: 3987-4434 peter.griffiths@bh.ey.com
Ajith Lobo British Airways Key Account Manager Tel: 1758-9615 Mob: 3941-8358 Ajit.lobo@ba.com
Mark Hardiman APM Terminals Bahrain Chief Operating Officer Tel: 1736-5500 Fax: 1736-5505
Sari Mabire Hill & Knowlton Group Account Director Tel: 1753-3532 Mob: 3944-9184 Sari.Mabire@hkstrategies.com
Humphrey Glennie Trowers & Hamlins Senior Associate Tel: 1751-5600 Mob: 3217-4479 hglennie@trowers.com
Marco Neelsen APM Terminals Bahrain Chief Executive Officer Tel: 1736-5500 Mob: 3888-5595 marco.neelsen@apmterminals.com
Sunil Joseph APM Terminals Bahrain Chief Commercial Officer Tel: 1736-5500 Fax: 1736-5505
Henre Pretorius Almoayed Wilhelmsen Ltd. General Manager Tel: 1781-3000 Mob: 3885-0541 henre.pretorius@wilhelmsen.com
Oksana Konyshevska Impact Estate WLL General Manager Tel: 1753-5111 Mob: 3955-5028 oksana@impact-estate.com
Simona Maria Romeo Oxford Business Group Country Director Tel: 1715-1582 sromeo@oxfordbusinessgroup.com
Welcome to New Members Paul Sagar Bahrain Bay Dev. B.S.C.(c) Director – TIO Tel: 1750-5555 Mob: 3944-8468 psagar@bahrainbay.com
Steve Sutton Behzad Group General Manager Tel: 1770-1166 Mob: 3671-2233 steve@behzad-group.com
Yusuf Salman Sanad APM Terminals Bahrain GM - Commercial Services Tel: 1736-5500 Mob: 3888-8020 yousif.sanad@apmterminals.com
Travis Thompson Gulf Brands Sales Director Mob: 3655-4755 dos@gulfbrandsinternational.com
Neil Sandilands British Council Deputy Teaching Centre Manager Tel: 1726-6140 neil.sandilands@ britishcouncil.org.bh
Andrew Wilson BAE Systems General Manager (Bahrain) Tel: 1723-3688 Mob: 3502-4510 andrew.wilson@baesystems.com
Andrew Spiers Nexant Limited Senior Vice President Tel: 1750-2964 Mob: 3810-0127 aspiers@nexant.com
Amit Yadav APM Terminals Bahrain Chief Financial Officer Tel: 1736-5500 Fax: 1736-5505
Forum
5
Benefits for BBBF Members
Benefits for all our members may be obtained on production of their Membership card at the concerned outlet. We would like to hear your feedback concerning these discounts. Please do not hesitate to offer your services to our members by contacting the BBBF office. If any member has any difficulty obtaining a discount, please contact the BBBF office so we can rectify the situation. AXA Insurance 10% discounts to members on personal lines insurances. (excluding medical) Terms & Conditions Apply. Contact: Stephen Wagstaff Tel: 1758 8222 Email: stephen.wagstaff@axa-gulf.com
DHL 25% discount from the cash tariff for any personal shipments being sent from Bahrain to anywhere in the world available on production of your membership card. DHL Customer Service Tel: 1736 4100 www.dhl.com.bh
Bahrain Kuwait Insurance Company (BKIC) Special schemes have been arranged with BKIC for BBBF members for the following classes of insurance: House & Contents, Domestic Servants & Motor Insurance. Special terms are available on production of your membership card.
Expat Angels 10% discount on all packages and services. Contact: info@expatangelsbahrain.com
Bateel BBBF Members can enjoy 10% Discount when presenting their Membership Card, Complimentary collection for refilling, Complimentary delivery. Development Managers readily available for a courtesy meeting at your location. Email: m.shareef@almoayedgeneral.com Contact: Mahboob Shareef Mobile: 3964 4222
Tel: 3832-0439
Gulf Computer Services (GCS) IT Health Check. GCS have offered BBBF Members a site survey and assessment of all their computer hardware, software and systems. Hasan Mansouri 10% discount to members at Mansouri Mansions Hotel and Country Club. Contact: Karim Mansouri Tel: 1772 8144 Email: karim@karimmansouri.com
BIZNET BBBF female members can join BIZNET for a 25% reduction in the fees (BD 75 for 9 events instead of BD 100). This also includes complementary entrance to mixed events. A member discount card is also provided. BBBF male members are welcome to attend mixed events for BD10 per session.
Hotel Services (NHSC) 5% on beers, 15% on wines and spirits with the exception of products already on special offer. Contact: Ian Bricklebank Tel: 1781-5929 Email: nhsc1234@batelco.com.bh
BMC BBBF members and Organisations are eligible to a 20% discount on Team/Executive Coaching and Association for Coaching International Coach Training as well as 10% discount on other training, consulting and psychometric profiling. Contact:- Dr. Clare Beckett-McInroy (Managing Director & Master Coach), Mobile:- +973 38442727, Email:- clare@beckett-mcinroy or office@beckett-mcinroy.com
Nexus Financial Services 10% premium discount to members on personal lines insurances.(e.g. Motor, Medical, Travel and Home Contents etc). Premium Allocation Benefits for International Retirement and University Education Funding Plans. plus Free Monthly Premium Benefits for Life Assurance and Critical Illness Policies. Terms & Conditions Apply. Contact: Emanuel Lantzos Tel: 1753 1766 / 1753 1703 Email: Emanuel.lantzos@nexusadvice.com or info.bahrain@nexusadvice.com
Charm Ladies Beauty Salon & Spa - 15% discount offered to BBBF Lady members and to BBBF male members wives on all their packages and products (valid until 28th February 2016). To avail this offer members must show their BBBF membership card. For more details and to see their brochure visit their Website at www.charmbahrain.com or telephone +973 1310 8598 Craig Consultants 10% discount for members on 1-on-1 Executive Coaching, Contact: Kevin Craig Tel: 36199980 Email: kevin@craigconsultants.com
Protection Insurance Service offers BBBF members special rates on their personal insurance (motor, home, travel and any other insurance cover). Members will just call to select the cover type, share the credit card number and we will deliver the policy documents to his / her office. Please call 3904-3446 or 3645-4282 Ritz-Carlton, Doha Stay for minimum 2 nights at the club level of The Ritz-Carlton, Doha and get a Food & Beverages credit of USD 50/day. 15% savings for all treatments at The Ritz-Carlton Spa Contact: Hanny Gunawan, Director PR, Tel: +974 4484 8303, email: hanny.gunawan@ritzcarlton.com Royal Over-Seas League Reduced rates for BBBF members at ROSL clubhouses in London and Edinburgh Email: fvanicek@rosl.org.uk Tel: 0044 20 7408 0214 Fax: 0044 20 7499 6738 Servcorp Business Package First month FREE on any Servcorp Virtual Office package. For details contact: Danni Hunneyball, Assistant Manager Tel: 1750 3000 email: danni.hunneyball@servcorp.me Web: www.servcorp.bh
6
Forum
Why Join The BBBF?
BAHRAIN The Pearl of the Gulf has had a long standing relationship with Britain and is still a major trading partner.
Membership directories are distributed to members of visiting Trade Missions and are available through the Embassy and business centres in five star hotels.
BRITISH Trade with Bahrain is now subject to significant competition in this era of globalisation particularly from countries in Europe and from the USA.
Simply click on “Sign Up” on our website www.bbbforum.org complete the application form and click submit. Sounds simple, it is, it must be worth it.
BUSINESS between Bahrain and Britain must be promoted in order for Britain to maintain its dominant position. The BBBF has been formed to help in whatever way it can to do this and through its close cooperation with the British Embassy seeks to promote exchange of trade and good relations between Bahrain and Britain. FORUM Is defined in the Collins English Dictionary as, an assembly or meeting to discuss topics of public concern . The BBBF provides through its monthly meetings a platform for networking amongst its members and the exchange and dissemination of useful business leads and opportunities. In addition, in return for a modest subscription, members receive the benefit of inclusion in an annual directory describing the products and services they have to offer and a listing on the BBBF website again with a description of activities, contact numbers and useful links.
BBBF Membership Application Please complete the membership form and send it to: BBBF Executive Office, Fax: (00973) 1781 3489, or Email: bbbfmemberships@batelco.com.bh. For further information call (00973) 1781 3488, Web site: www.bbbforum.org
Cost of membership (2015) Individual Membership: BD 100 per annum, with an additional BD 40 once-only registration fee. Corporate Membership: BD 400 per annum (up to 5 individuals) plus BD 40 for each applicant up to a maximum of 10, with an additional BD 100 once-only registration fee. Corporate Sponsorships Three levels of sponsorship are available: Platinum: BD 3500 each year for three years Gold: BD 3500 for one year Silver: BD 1750 for one year Sponsor packages include a variety of advertisement opportunities in the Membership Directory, the Forum magazine, the BBBF website and at the regular lunch meetings. Full details are available on request.
Corporate Membership please complete separate form for each applicant
Individual Membership
Company Name
Website address of business (if applicable)
Title and full name (Surname first)
Describe how you / your company contribute to substantial business interests in Bahrain (Maximum 150 words)
Position in business Nationality
Date of Birth
CPR Number Address of business (P.O.Box & Town) Business telephone
Facsimile
Home telephone
Mobile
E-mail address
I agree to abide by the BBBF Constitution & Internal regulations. Applicants Signature
Please note that the granting of individual or corporate membership is subject to BBBF Committee approval.
Date
Forum
7
Our thanks to all the advertisers in this edition of Forum. Without their support, this issue would not have been possible. Please give them yours. 2 Connect ........................................ Inside Back Cover Al Jazira Supermarket ..................................... page 48
Diary Dates
Allied Pickfords......................................................... 53
BFC ................................................................. page 18
Tuesday June 17th Business Networking Lunch Venue: Diplomat Radisson Speaker: HMA Iain Lindsay OBE Registration: 12 noon
Budget Car & Van Rental ............................... page 31
June 17th / 18th Ramadan begins
Almoayed Wilelmsen Ltd................................... page 8 AXA Insurance ............................. Outside Back Cover
Crown Relocations .......................................... page 33 DHL ................................................................. page 25 Dipomat Radisson Blu..................................... page 43 Etihad .............................................................. page 23 Euromotors Land Rover .................................. page 35 G4S ................................................................. page 51 GPIC................................................................ page 41 HSBC .............................................................. page 21 Mansouri Mansions ........................................... page 6 Nexus ..............................................Inside Front Cover Streetlight Photography..................................... page 5 The Robin Hill Hotel ........................................ page 49 Trafco .............................................................. page 55 Viva ................................................................. page 39 To advertise in a future edition of the BBBForum magazine please contact the compiler, Andrew Mead of MMSL on andrew@sbtd.co.uk or call Caroline Wilkie on 3671-8115
8
Forum
Wdnesday July 8th Ramadan Quiz Night Venue: British Club Buffet Dinner: 6.40pm Quiz begins: 7.00pm July 17th - 19th id Al Fitr Tuesday Sept 15th Business Networking Lunch Venue: tba Speaker: tba Registration: 12 noon Tuesday Oct 20th Business Networking Lunch Venue: tba Speaker: tba Registration: 12 noon Events in the pipeline Please note - dates and timings are subject to change. Visit the BBBF website www.bbbforum.org and check the calendar for updated details on the above and other events/ meetings being held.
From Her Majesty's Ambassador
Well, nearly 4 years on with just a couple of months to go until I leave, this is my last contribution to the BBBF magazine. By the time you read this I will have given my valedictory speech to the BBBF on 17 June, so let me give you a brief flavour of that. But first, a round-up of bilateral relations since March and an assessment of how I see the next few months, in light of the British election. I wrote in March that I had just said goodbye to the Foreign Secretary, Philip Hammond. Well, he came back again shortly before the election, en route from Baghdad to London, spending a couple of hours with His Royal Highness the Crown Prince. Given developments in the region, there was much to discuss. Those discussions continued in London a couple of weeks ago when the Crown Prince saw the Prime Minister, Mr Hammond and Defence Secretary Fallon. The Crown Prince once again showed that he is one of the most articulate and erudite of Gulf and Arab leaders. It was compelling stuff as he laid bare his concerns about the rise of theofacism and his commitment to reform. From a bilateral perspective, it was good to see the Crown Prince in No10 a couple of weeks after the election, underlining the strength and closeness of the bilateral relationship. The body language spoke volumes. I ll come back to what next shortly. His Majesty King Hamad was also in the UK shortly
beforehand, at the Royal Windsor Horse Show, where he saw Her Majesty The Queen and other members of the Royal Family. It is quite obvious from some lovely photographs of the occasion that the relationship between our two Heads of State and their families is very warm.
importance. There is a huge amount of work going on in London as I write about what needs to be done to make that a reality. My own view is that we need to be ambitious if we are serious about wanting to see a stepchange in an already close partnership.
April saw two major British events in Bahrain and another noteworthy British success. The Queen s Birthday Party was our biggest yet. As last year, His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa represented the King, again highlighting the special relationship between the UK and Bahrain. And our highly successful GREAT Advanced Engineering and Innovation event, celebrating British excellence and our partnership with Bahrain, took place on the morning of the Bahrain Grand Prix. Very kindly, Lewis Hamilton both took the hint and the chequered flag (in his Northamptonshireengineered Mercedes!).
Here in Bahrain we are already doing our (significant) bit. The new UK Maritime Component Command (ie Royal Navy) HQ opens on 15 June. This is separate from and was planned long before the bilateral defence arrangement we signed in December on our first permanent base east of Suez since 1971. Our hope is that work on the new base will start later in the summer with an official opening towards the end of next year, to coincide with the Bicentenary of bilateral relations.
On the business side, it is good to see continued growth in UK exports to Bahrain, up 5% in the first quarter of the year, following last year s 7% increase. I and my UKTI team, now under the leadership of Heather Hopper, continue to provide strong support to British companies chasing business here, to the extent that some Bahraini ministers may be glad to see the back of me! I ve got bad news for them. My successor will be no different! So, what next? As David Cameron made clear to the Crown Prince, the new government sees the strengthening of UK/GCC relations as being of strategic
Our reform support, which sets us apart from any of Bahrain s other partners and is virtually unique in the region, goes from strength to strength. In 2012 we were doing hardly anything. Now we are providing support across a broad range of reform with British advisers posted here and visiting regularly. As I reflect on my 4 years here, the ingredients which made our reform support possible are, I believe, the same ones responsible for the significant improvement we have seen in UK/Bahrain relations. Namely, trust and confidence. In 2011, and onwards, we had to rebuild trust and confidence, and thus rebuild the bilateral relationship. Looking across all aspects of the relationship I think we have succeeded.
Indeed, many of you who have known this relationship for far longer than me suggest that it is now better than it has been for many years. One senior Bahraini thought it was the best since independence in 1971. My firm view is that this is because that trust and confidence has led to a much closer partnership, working together as close friends and allies should do. It s no surprise then that Bridget and I are sad to be leaving. It s the people, like you, that make Bahrain so special. The welcome we got here was second to none in 35 years travelling around the globe. So, finally, some thank you s are in order. First, to Khalid Al Zayani for his steadfast support, advice and friendship throughout my assignment here. Next, to the BBBF team in the Embassy it has been great to have you as part of our team. To the BBBF committee and you, the members, for your friendship and encouragement. Lastly, for his patience and indulgence, a huge thank you to our editor and publisher, Andrew Mead. Viszontlátásra! Találkozunk Budapesten!
Iain Lindsay OBE HM Ambassador Forum
9
Embassy News
GREAT Advanced Engineering and Innovation Event In partnership with the Bahrain Economic Development Board, UKTI Bahrain held an exhibition and series of seminars showcasing cutting edge UK technology from global leaders in the automotive and aerospace industries including McLaren Automotive, RollsRoyce, JCB, BAE Systems and National Express. The event highlighted the best of British advanced engineering and innovation to nearly 200 guests and included the launch of the new McLaren 570S.
Head of UKTI in Bahrain, Heather Hopper, visited the NEC Birmingham in May to discuss and support UK businesses who are interested in rail opportunities linked to the GCC rail network opportunity. The US $19bn project will cover the entire GCC beginning in Kuwait near the Iraqi border and ending in Salalah, Oman. As well as establishing interest from UK companies, there was the opportunity for UK companies to meet with commercial officerÂ’s from across the globe.
EIC Mission to Bahrain UKTI Bahrain in collaboration with the Energy Industry Council (EIC) hosted a delegation of UK-based companies in Bahrain. The delegation comprised ten energyfocused companies who were keen to explore the opportunities in the oil and gas sector in the Kingdom. As in neighbouring Saudi Arabia, domestic demand for gas in Bahrain is also on the rise, and Bahrain plans to increase the importation of natural gas. The government plans to complete construction of a 400 MMcf/d LNG import facility by the beginning of 2017. On the downstream side, $10 billion is being invested to expand the capacity of the Sitra refinery to 360,000 b/d, and 10 Forum
a further $1.7 billion is being invested on the expansion of the Sitra chemical plant. As part of their programme, the delegates got the opportunity to meet
with the main players in the oil and gas industry, including BAPCO, Tatweer Petroleum, and the National Oil & Gas Authority (NOGA).
BBBF welcomes CPISP Alumni as new members The Bahrain British Business Forum (BBBF) has offered free membership for a period of three years to Crown Prince International Scholarship (CPISP) alumni who graduated from UK universities and who are currently working in Bahrain. Ohood Abdulghaffar, Nada Bastaki, and Marwa Aleskafi are the first CPISP alumni to become members of the BBBF. BBBF Chairman Khalid Al Zayani welcomed the new members during the Forum s Annual General Meeting, and praised HRH the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa s support of educational and training programs like the CPISP, which provides top university opportunities for outstanding Bahraini students and prepares them for the job market so that they can contribute to Bahrain s development. Mr. Al Zayani affirmed that the BBBF s objectives include working to create and sustain a favorable business environment, promoting trade and investment between Bahrain and Britain, and enhancing the joint economic interests of the Forum s member organizations. He stated that the new members will be joining
BBBF Chairman Mr. Khalid Al Zayani, HE Iain Lindsay the British Ambassador and Ms. Ava Garbutt with the CPISP Alumni. a network which has grown to 450 businessmen and women representing all sectors of business. The BBBF holds regular monthly lunch meetings which feature prominent guest speakers from the community and business world to address the latest issues relating to this field. The BBBF also works in close cooperation with the British Embassy in Bahrain to organize business related events and provide information regarding
the latest business functions and trade exhibitions. CPISP Director Dr. Cynthia Gessling thanked Mr. Al Zayani for BBBF s generous efforts, which reflect the business sector s keenness to support promising youth and incorporate them into the business community. Additional pictures below from the AGM.
Forum 11
SIG Update
Many of you will have noticed that I have now taken up the elected position as Vice Chair of the BBBF. W ith that in mind I am delighted t o i n t ro d u c e y o u r n e w Paula Boast Head of Special Interest Groups, Rick Hopper of Atkins. Rick has spent the last few years driving the Projects & Construction SIG. He will continue to do so under his new role where he will be assisted by Steve Sutton, General Manager of Behzad Group. So all of your queries, suggestions, feedback and similar anecdotes can now be directed to Rick at: rick.hopper@atkinsglobal.com. I have no doubt he will take the SIGs from strength to strength including our new oil and gas special interest group. The Oil and Gas SIG has been many years in the making. We look forward to annoucining a prestigious high level SIG Head for that group in due course. That
What is a yank doing on the Bahrain BRITISH Business Forum committee and now h e s i n c h a r g e o f t h e SIG s?! . For those that I haven t had the chance to meet yet, my name is R i c k H o p p e r, I a m t h e Managing Director of A t k i n s h e re i n B a h r a i n and now your new S p e c i a l I n t e re s t G ro u p C h a i r. A l t h o u g h I a m American, my ties to British business, Britain and Bahrain are very strong. I lived in the UK for several years before relocating to Bahrain almost seven years ago to work for Atkins, a flagship firm for British Engineering. My kids are being raised in beautiful Berkshire, England. Now, a l l o f t h a t s a id , I h a v e been accused of being an Anglophile but I like to think of myself more as a well-travelled American who likes to back the winning horse. 12 Forum
That out of the way, let s get down to business! Below are a few points I intend to develop/ continue in my new role: Joint SIGs: As the BBBF SIGs have matured and grown over the last couple of years, with many more meetings and events, we have realised that we need t o b e m o re j o i n e d u p . Therefore, some of you may have noticed that we are holding more crosssector events and trying to draw in as many of the relevant SIGs to each event. We believe this is a great way of making sure we share lear ning across sectors and ensure better networking opportunities. New SIGs: I g e t a p p ro a c h e d f ro m time to time with enquiries about starting up new SIG s to ensure we cover as many sectors as possible in the local business market. One
head will work alongside SIG Sponsor Simon Bromyard of Oak Utilities and his team there who will be organising oil and gas focused events for you through the remainder of 2015. We hope to see a high level of collaboration for that SIG with our colleagues from the BBA in Eastern Province KSA. Jill Boggiss returns to the fold to continue leading our Organisational Effectiveness SIG. We thought we had lost her to London but we were wrong and we are delighted that she will continue in her role. We have seen steady interest in the Banking & Finance SIG which has focused on collaboration with the Legal SIG of late. That looks set to continue through 2015. My stepping down is a good opportunity for me to say a big thank you to all of our SIG Heads who give up their time and energy to bring you the SIG programme through the year. We look forward to seeing ever growing numbers of attendees.
such sector is Hospitality & To u r i s m , w h i c h i s a growing market with the Bahrain government focusing future economic sustainability on the same. This and other new sectors will be explored in the upcoming months with an aim to be as inclusive as possible. SIG Heads: In the near future you ll be seeing some new faces in charge of some of our existing groups, especially in the Construction and Finance groups, watch this space. The aim is to re-invigorate the SIGs. That said, we could all use your help, if you have the time and energy, all of the SIGs could use assistance so please feel free to contact them directly if you have an interest in their sector. Speakers: We want you! If you have anything you would like to present or know anyone that might, please send them our way!
Rick Hopper SIG Chair Fun Stuff: Once a year, around the Christmas holidays, we have a social get together. I d like to make sure this continues and we make sure we take a break to reflect on the past year, so please make sure you join us! Please make sure to read on about our past events and upcoming events in the SIG sections that follow. If you would like to discuss anything you ve read or have ideas on what we could do to improve the SIGs, it would be my pleasure to speak with you.
BBBF SIG Security
SIG Sponsor
Challenging and testing times continue to eat away at ones resolve; here and all around the world.
The GCC, Middle East & North Africa, with so many countries suffering conflict of one type or another, is certainly not immune from further security concerns that will further test the resolve of all. Unfortunately these challenges do and will continue to impact on all that we do, be it in the workplace, environment, travel and of course our personal lives. With this
Anthony Peter Palys MBE all in mind this edition will focus on reminding the reader of some Security Awareness pointers, relating to the issues mentioned above, that one hopes will empower you to Challenge the Norm & See Something Say Something .
Presentations: Guest Speaker: Jason Wale Head of Group Operations – Secure Services Topic: Security Awareness in the Workplace Accessing sensitive information unrelated to the user s role without following the proper procedures
Jason led the presentation discussing the risks in information security within the workplace. He noted that one of the biggest risks to an organisation s information security is often not a weakness in the technology control environment. Rather it is the action or inaction by employees and other personnel that can lead to security incidents for example: Through disclosure of information that could be used in a social engineering attack, not reporting observed or unusual activity
Jason also shared a number of tips and recommendations that individuals and organisations must follow to implement an effective security awareness programme so as to ensure that: Employees are aware of the importance of protecting sensitive information What they should do to handle information securely The risks of mishandling information. The presentation was the first of a proposed programme of Best Practices for implementing a Security Awareness Programme in the workplace and beyond. The presentation also included an insight into Identity Theft & ATM Fraud For Example:
Bahrain probes mobile phone ‘identity theft’ cases
The Continuous Evolution of ATM Fraud Attacks
The authority is currently investigating around 10 cases in which consumers complained of identity theft, and it is clear that the operators have not met their obligations as per the telecom law,
T h e A u t o m a t e d Te l l e r Machine (ATM) has always been a popular target for criminals looking to quickly steal cash.
TRA cyber security director Dr Khalid bin Duaij Al Khalifa was quoted as saying. We are deeply concerned with the amount of open cases that we have uncovered in this investigation and are prepared to explore every possible avenue within our authority to help resolve them.
More than likely, you have heard of criminals robbing people who have just made a cash withdrawal, but there are a range of other things criminals can do to manipulate the ATM itself. These attacks can range from subtle card skimming mechanisms to more brazen approaches such as removing the entire ATM using industrial equipment like a fork lift truck, exploding the AT M after filling it with gas, or even tunnelling u n d e r g ro u n d to penetrate the ATM from below. Forum 13
BBBF SIG Security - continued Personal security awareness
It is always advisable to keep your security and situational awareness levels high:
Know and understand your companies security reporting policy
Know your respective Embassy contact details
Register with your respective Embassy to ensure that you receive timely and up to date Warden / Demo messages Avoid crowds or large gatherings when traveling in public Know where you are going and have a plan of what to do in the event you encounter demonstrations or violence Identify safe areas (for example police stations, hospitals, government buildings) in your area and know how to get to them quickly
Tell co-workers or neighbours where you re going and when you intend to return
Minimise your profile whilst in public
Always carry a cell phone & car charger and make sure you have emergency numbers pre-programmed into your phone including the emergency numbers for the Police, Fire, and Rescue - 999
Be prepared to postpone or cancel activities for personal safety concerns
Report concerns you may have to the UK Embassy + 973 17574100 and / or your Company staff member responsible for staff Security
14 Forum
Travel Security Awareness:
When preparing for your journey, remember to observe good personal safety practices. Part of your travel planning should include examining relevant advisories, crime statistics and present geo-political issues. An excellent starting point is visiting your respective embassy website for travel tips, country specific information in addition to alerts or warnings. Prior to travel you can register with your embassy in your destined country, typically online, and receive important e-mail notifications with current information. Lastly, know the street address and telephone number of your embassy or consulate in your country of travel in case of an emergency. Extended holiday travel means time away from home. After your itinerary is arranged and before you board your flight consider the following tips to safeguard your residence:
Using remote electrical timers to activate your home lighting can give a lived-in appearance
Temporarily stopping mail and newspaper delivery will prevent overflow and remove the tell-tale sign of an empty home
Asking your trusted neighbour to park extra vehicles in your driveway can help with a homey façade
The best safety measure is not behaving and looking like a victim. Active situational awareness of:
Knowing your surroundings, assessing people and their intentions as well as blending into your environment can greatly reduce the chance of victimization
Choose your dress carefully and without flashy jewelry and accessories to reduce targeting by thieves and pickpockets
Keep your money and wallet in your front pants pockets and use a money belt to best secure your identification and currency
Avoid using handbags, purses or satchels that can be easily grabbed, but if necessary wear them with a sturdy strap slung diagonally across your chest
Safeguard your zippered backpack compartments with travel locks to deter potential pickpockets
Remember to make photocopies of your identification, passports and travel itineraries
Keep your bank contact information handy in the event your credit cards are stolen or compromised
Using your smartphone camera take photographs of your luggage to help you describe them to airport personnel and overcome language barriers if lost in flight
An itinerary placed inside your luggage may help direct it to your destination if lost and the airline tag is removed or damaged
Summer travel and a deserved holiday is more enjoyable when incorporating personal safety measures into your vacation plan:
Have an emergency point of contact available who knows your travel schedule
Limit your social media footprint during your holiday until you return home to share your journey to keep criminals from targeting an empty house.
Do please Stay vigilant, Do stay safe and Do have a most wonderful summer holiday
Business Continuity and Then Some The Importance of Being Prepared
By way of a look forward we will look at this subject by examining three recent crises, around the world, in our Autumn Edition:
Emergency preparedness has become a critical consideration for our folks traveling overseas. Development of a safetyand security-minded culture is critical to any organisation. Although development of emergency preparedness plans generally falls on senior-level staff, adherence to and compliance with these plans often falls on the layman who may travel to security hotspots or be faced with the fallout from a national disaster.
Lessons Learned Nepal Earthquake: On April 25, 2015, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake shook Kathmandu and surrounding areas in Nepal. Consider having satellite phones readily available in the event that the Internet and telephone lines become inoperable. You may also consider:
To maintain security awareness, employees need to understand that they are also a crucial part of the equation.
West Africa Ebola Outbreak: The largest outbreak of Ebola virus disease (EVD) ever reported in number of infections, in geographical scope, and in duration swept through three countries in West Africa beginning in March 2014, causing over 11,100 deaths and at least 15,800 more infections. Terror Attack in Kenya: On September 21, 2013, four attackers armed with guns and grenades stormed the Westgate Shopping Mall in Nairobi, Kenya, indiscriminately attacking shoppers. The al-Shabaab terrorist group claimed responsibility for the attack, claiming retaliation for Kenyan involvement in the Somali conflict. At least 71 people were killed, and more than 175 were injured. Tony Palys can be contacted at: tonypalys@lebeckinternational.com
SIG - Legal, discuss legal implications in family breakdown The Legal Special Interest Group welcomed Mr. Grant Howell and Ms. Elham Ali Hassan to present on family law at the group s meeting. The presentation, entitled Family breakdown and the Expats in Bahrain: Where Do They Stand? sought to clarify where someone stands legally if a relationship runs into difficulties. This area of law is complex and not well known by expats living in Bahrain. While individuals can turn to lawyers for help, practitioners may be similarly unaware of the position or how to go about providing clients with the assistance they need where the laws of a foreign jurisdiction apply. Mr. Howell Grant commented: I was delighted to have had this opportunity to clarify where people stand on issues where often too little is known. Ms. Joanne Emerson Taqi, Partner and Head of Bahrain of Norton Rose Fulbright (Middle East) LLP and head of the Legal Special Interest Group, commented: We were pleased to welcome both Grant and Elham to speak to the BBBF Legal Special Interest Group. Both speakers possess a wealth of experience and knowledge of family law, a subject of considerable
importance and interest to both practitioners and nonpractitioners alike. Grant provided a valuable perspective on the position in England and Wales, while Elham s welcome contribution was very much Joanne Emerson Taqi in keeping with our aim to BBBF Legal SIG Chair promote interaction between the international law firms and the local law sphere in Bahrain. We will be following on from the success of this presentation by organising further events later in the year. Mr. Grant Howell is a Partner at Charles Russell Speechlys LLP, having been Managing Partner of Charles Russell LLP for eight years. He is recognised as a leading individual in the legal directories. He also chairs the Forum of Family Arbitrators, is a Fellow of the International Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and a member of the Centre for Child & Family Law Reform. Ms. Elham Ali Hassan founded Elham Ali Hassan & Associates, one of the leading local law firms in Bahrain, in 1992, and is acknowledged as one of the top litigators in the kingdom. Elham is admitted to both the Court of Cassation and Constitutional Court and is a member of the International Bar Association, the International Trade Mark Association, the Bahrain National Committee of the International Chamber of Commerce, and the Centre of Commercial Arbitration for the GCC Countries. Forum 15
SIG - Organisational Effectiveness
Interview with Mohamed Mahmood, Chairman of Bahrain Society for Training and Development (BSTD) As a new member of the BSTD and in my role as head of the Organisational Effectiveness group I thought that BBBF members would benefit from learning more about this large and wellestablished society. The membership covers all sections of Bahrain businesses and government entities mainly people in learning and development and human resources roles but also people running their own businesses. The BSTD won the Ministry of Labour Award for the category Best Professional Society for year 2014 for its excellent efforts and contributions to Human Development in Bahrain, the award was received by BSTD President Eng. Mohamed Mahmood in a ceremony organised by Ministry of Labour on 29th April 2015.
walks of life, fields of expertise and specializations. We have regular meetings with really interesting speakers and we are a friendly group of people committed to making a difference to Bahrain s future success. We have a lot in common with the BBBF and we would like to work together on developing young people through working with your Young Professionals Group. Membership is very good value (BD 20 per year for individuals) and gives you the chance to learn from a really experienced group of HR and L&D professionals informally and through the regular talks. What do you think are the critical issues in training and development in Bahrain over the next few years? Developing our future leaders, we need to have strong Bahraini talent coming through into the public and private sector. It is really important to develop people with great skills and attitude, people who are capable of growing the economy and creating opportunities for other young people to thrive and contribute to our country. BSTD Aims & Objectives
What are the main reasons for BBBF members to join the BSTD? Apart from the social aspects and the sense of community we have created over the years the Bahrain Society for Training and Development (BSTD) opens a world of opportunity to individuals by connecting professionals who believe in the importance of human resource development and management in enhancing the growth of Bahrain. Being a member of BSTD is enriching and will make a positive difference to your own professional development and career path; it means you will have access to the skills, knowledge and valuable experiences of over 600 fellow professionals who come from many 16 Forum
To enhance the quality and effectiveness of Human Resources Management and Development in Bahrain and the Arabian Gulf. To encourage organisations in their efforts to train Bahrainis and ensure effective Bahrainisation.
To create training awareness Jill Boggiss amongst decision makers in organisations and encourage them to invest in the training and development of their employees. To promote the personal and professional development of members in training and development through exposure to current thinking and best practices. To arrange programmes that develop the skills and knowledge of HR professionals. To encourage the exchange of information and ideas related to the development of people and explain their practical implications to organisations. To provide training and development information and guidance to organisations, training institutes and research students. To contribute to the range of training programmes offered in The Kingdom of Bahrain and support the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs in providing the necessary counsel and advice, research etc. This is the address for the BSTD website where all details about membership and activities can be found: http://www.bstdbh.org/ Below: BSTB Board
SIG - Banking & Finance
Nicole Philips Joint SIG Chair
Jonathan Trafankowski Joint SIG Chair
The Banking & Finance SIG hosted a session during March on An Introduction to Islamic Finance , presented by Herbert Smith Freehills Partner Nadim Khan.
before describing some of the more common financing structures used by Islamic banks, and providing some insight on regional plans for the Islamic economy.
W ith over a decade of experience in the Middle East, gained in Bahrain and the UAE, Nadim is recognized as one of the world s leading Islamic Finance practitioners. Nadim led participants through the basic Shari a rules of Islamic Finance,
Plans for the second half of 2015 include a breakfast panel with the Legal SIG on UK Pensions for expats, as well as a possible joint effort on banking security, with the Security SIG. Interested members are welcome to suggest additional speakers and events.
One to watch
delighted to have received such recognition from CBRE, which bears testament to the career opportunities afforded by modern progressive companies, that encourage self-development and promote the benefits of the networking opportunities that arise through BBBF membership .
BBBF member Heather Longden, who joined the Bahrain office of global real estate advisors and Corporate BBBF members, CBRE, just over a year ago as Assistant Manager in their Agency Division has certainly caught the attention of industry watchers in the region, having been promoted to Associate Director, Agency & Sales in record time. Heather, who has lived in Bahrain for nearly a decade is a Business Studies graduate of The Open University and is currently studying for a second degree in Real Estate Management & Development with Herriott Watt University commented having committed myself to a career in professional real estate advisory I am
SIG - Oil & Gas Many thanks to everyone who attended the inaugural Oil & Gas SIG event from both the BBBF & the BBA.
We do need volunteers for this group s committee but are delighted that Simon Bromyard, Projects Director of Oak Utility Solutions will lead the way. All queries, feedback & suggestions may be directed through
Simon Bromyard SIG Chair the respective BBBF & BBA committees or straight to Simon at sbromyard@oakbh.com
She added, I am very keen to initiate a Real Estate Special Interest Group (SIG) within the BBBF and would welcome approaches from like-minded members to develop this, going forward . BBBF member and CBRE Senior Director, Richard Botham, added, Heather is a tremendous asset to our team, she demonstrates that age and gender are no barrier to progression and we see her as an integral part of our business development in the Kingdom . Forum 17
Financial News
Impact Estate introduces new services to real estate investors Impact Estate is proud to announce the addition of a new department, International Properties Sales. The goal of the new department will be to help the real estate investors to find and secure an investment opportunity outside of Bahrain. The expansion into the International Property market is a new and exciting chapter for the award-winning company. Impact Estate has recently joined forces with some of the most prestigious developers in the United Kingdom and Europe, and now the company s ever-growing property portfolio includes exclusive projects in London, Cyprus and Turkey. A highly competent team of International Property division is keen to help clients to navigate through complex process of real estate investment abroad, guide them in their search and to provide full support all the way. The services of the new department will comprise assistance with locating right international investments, mortgage consultancy, property inspections including organizing transportation, accommodation and translation services, legal assistance and much more. Among the international projects represented by Impact Estate are London-based residential project Kensington
Row, luxurious villas and apartments in Cyprus as well as Turkish developments by a prominent developer GLOREST located in Alanya (Antalia), Anatolia (Marmara) and Esenyurt (Istanbul). All properties have advantageous location, modern design and high quality of finishing. Oksana A. Konyshevska, General Manager of Impact Estate w.l.l. says: We are excited to offer new services to our clients. Even that Bahrain is very attractive in terms of property investments, some buyers are looking for real estate outside of the Kingdom. Now, with new international projects in our portfolio, we can cater to a wider specter of clientele.
��������������������� ��������������������� ������������������ ������������������ ��
������������������������������������ ������������������������������������������
��
������������������������������������� ��������������������
��
�������������������������������������� ��������������������������������
����������� ����������� �����������������������
18 Forum
JO1297_BAH_FX_AD_Europe_125mmX185mm.indd 1
5/25/15 10:35 AM
Nexus Financial Services signs agreement to offer T azur savings and protection plans in Bahrain. Nexus Financial Services, the region s leading financial services and insurance broker, has entered into an agreement to offer Islamic Savings & Takaful Protection Plans of T azur Company b.s.c. (c). The growth in our business demonstrates our commitment to understanding and responding to our client needs. At Nexus we firmly believe that One size fits no one hence, providing face-to-face bespoke financial advice is a key ability for us, and therefore adding T azur to our Life & Savings product range will only strengthen the choice to our customers , said Emanuel Lantzos, Nexus Financial Services, General Manager.
forward to a long business relationship commented Yahya Nooruddin, T azur, Chief Executive Officer.
We are thrilled to be associated with Nexus Financial Services, and look
Being able to offer these quality Islamic products to those customers of ours,
Above: L-R. Hassan Mahfoudhi, Emanuel Lantzos, Yahya Nooruddin, Marwan Sakhel
and the market in general who wish to save for the future and provide for their families protection using Islamic principles and Takaful insurance is key to why we chose T azur said Emanuel Lantzos.
Elian launches New York Office Elian, the global provider of Corporate Services, Fund Services, Private Wealth and Capital Services, has extended its international footprint with the opening of an office in New York.
very exciting stage and look forward to using the significant experience I have gained in financial services to increase our profile and drive growth in the key Americas markets, said Mr Wallace.
The New York office will support Elian s fast-growing and comprehensive range of corporate services, including corporate structuring, structured finance and asset finance. The office will also support Elian s broad range of administration services to private equity, real estate and hedge fund managers.
Elian was established in September 2014 following a management buy out of the business from Ogier, the offshore legal and administration group. Elian specialises in the establishment and on-going administration of companies, funds and trusts for multi-national corporations, financial institutions, high net worth individuals, family offices and fund managers.
The office will be led by managing director John Wallace, who has over 25 years international financial markets experience. Mr Wallace has held a number of senior positions in New York, London and Tokyo with Deutsche Bank and Bankers Trust. More recently he was a founding member of Guardian Director Services, providing independent directors to boards of alternative funds, and has also provided independent consultancy advice to the alternative investment industry. In his new role Mr Wallace will be
responsible for developing a strong network of clients and intermediaries in the Americas, giving them direct access to Elian s global reach of offices and service lines. Elian is a major player in the structured finance and alternatives fund space, as such having a strong and permanent presence in the world s largest financial market is critical. I am joining Elian at a
Paul Willing, Elian CEO added The opening of our New York office is part of Elian s strategic plan to become a truly global provider of outsourced administration services to corporate, fund and private wealth clients. New York is a key location for our international clients and their advisors and I am delighted that John has decided to join us. John s experience and expertise are second to none, and I expect him to play a significant role in helping Elian become the most recognised and respected service provider in our sector. Forum 19
Financial News
Not all Dinars are born equal .
money between them to optimise my wealth. If I run out of money for food, can I transfer it from the entertainment budget? Should I? What about from the savings budget? How do I prioritise the different budgets to know which is the most important? This is what I mean that not all Dinars are created equally.
W
hy is it that I keep and therefore think I am saving money in a low or no interest bank account, but take out a car loan at a much higher interest rate? Are the Dinars in my savings account worth more than the Dinars I use to buy the car? This question puzzles a lot of people, especially me, and it is a very important question to think about when considering why people don t save enough for their future. I think the answer lies in my lack of self-control. Not only do I lack self-control, I know I lack self-control. It makes me afraid afraid that if I use the money in my savings account (that I am saving to fund my children s university education) that I will not pay myself back,
20 Forum
and thus I ll end up with a car, but not the university fund. I know I have to pay back the car loan, because it is with someone outside (a bank), and they will chase me until I do pay. It goes further than this. In my head, and recorded on a piece of paper that I update every month or so, I have created artificial budgets that I use to allocate my monthly income so much for rent, so much for car expenses, for the car loan, for food, for the kids schooling, for entertainment, for saving, for insurance and so on. This is helpful in that it shows me whether I have enough money to last me the month cash is king when it comes to budgeting. But, it is less helpful when I can t break down these artificial budgets and transfer
How I spend my money does not make sense, if I look at it from a purely economic standpoint. But then I am not a purely economic entity I have a personality (of sorts) and if I want to understand my behaviour, then I have to understand behavioural economics as well as pure economics. There is a lot written about the subject, but I still don t seem to grasp the fundamentals sometimes, and thus go on mis-allocating my spending. Why am I more likely to blow my winnings from the lottery than save them? Why am I less likely to spend a profit made on stocks and shares. Why, if I start to save for my pension, are my other
savings likely to increase, too? Why, if I want to raise some cash and need to sell some stocks, am I more likely to sell a stock on which I have made a profit than one where I am making a loss? All these questions can only be answered if I understand behavioral economics and how not all Dinars are created equal. It s because of the complexity involved in the mixture of money and personality that you should approach a financial adviser. They will be able to help you with these questions not that they understand behavioural economics any better than you would but in a very practical way can make you more aware of the need to set real and meaningful goals and then fund them over a long time, so that you can achieve a balance between income distribution (spending your salary wisely) and wealth creation (building a nest egg for you and your family s future). I wouldn t dream of telling people what to do about their finances, but I would recommend to everyone to find a trustworthy adviser to help them.
Emanuel Lantzos is General Manager at Nexus Financial Services in Bahrain. For more information contact him on Emanuel.lantzos@nexusadvice.com
Education Sector
Bahrain s St. Christopher s students place top in a prestigious Creativity Competition
much to learn, She continued, I wish I could go to Stanford, be a Ballerina, invent something in Science, and above all, write a real book! .
Mrs Joan Smutny, Director of the Illinois Center for Gifted , who run the Torrance Legacy competition, noted that both girls submissions were expressions of excellence (the work) also evidenced creativity, imagination, sensitivity, and maturity .
Two students who attend Bahrain s St. Christopher s School -also twinsrecently won in a prestigious international creativity award for children: the Torrance Legacy Creativity Award. The competition, announced last summer by St Christopher s School, is the brain child of the directors of Dr. Paul Torrance s Institute - Illinois, USA. Dr Torrance - also known as the father of creativity in the USA- has over 1800 publications and conceived the Torrance Tests for Creative Thinking. He left a legacy of creativity scholarships, and Gifted & Talented Programs run in schools all over the world. He also inspired this award. Hundreds of students from 15 countries competed for awards in 4 major categories: Creative Writing, Science & Invention, Art, Music & Composition. Students from Bahrain participated for the first time. Lilo Al-Dahwi, then aged 8, from St Christopher s, won 1st Place worldwide - shared- in the category of Poetry. This was for her Poem titled Green is Glorious . The poem is an appeal to help the needy in our globally interdependent world. Her twin, Deena Al-Dahwi, also age 8, submitted a short story in a different category, and won 2nd place. Her storywhich she started as an extra challenge in English class The Legend of Hera and Athearus depicts a courageous endeavor set in a mythical land. 22 Forum
Mrs Wendy Bataineh, Head Teacher at St Christopher s School, said We were really proud to learn recently of Lilo and Deena s success in the Torrance Legacy Creativity Awards. As far as we know, this is the first time pupils from any school in Bahrain have been successful in what is a very prestigious International competition. Congratulations to them both! The Texas-born twins moved to Bahrain 4 years ago. Their family s well-travelled lifestyle instilled in them a sense of exploration from a young age. Together with a deep passion for reading; led into creative writing, to re-live all those adventures. They each have some 20 poems and short literary pieces under their belt. Although their father heads the subsidiary of a power technology firm, and is an avid technology user, the parents made a conscious decision not to guide the girls to technology gadgets, nor significant commercial television between the ages of 2-8 years. This led to a deeper focus on reading and writing, as well as immersion in varied hobbies and sports. Their parents stressed that they really believe in the classic upbringing during the primary years with no tech gadgets. Focus at home with the twins was on general knowledge, sports, music, and lots of playing. Today, the twins enjoy full technology access, but they remain passionate readers, and writers. At school, I enjoy math, science, music and sports, but most of all I love reading and monkeying around with my friends, said Deena. Added her sister Lilo, I wish there was as large a library in Bahrain as we have back in Texas. There is so
US Ambassador William Roebuck congratules the twins on their achievement
The twins were recently received by the US Ambassador in Bahrain to congratulate them on the prestigious US-based award. Being a published poet himself, His Excellency Ambassador William Roebuck listened to some of the twins poetry, and had a good discussion about the importance of writing. Mr David Hollywood, Bahrain s resident published poet and writer commented, there needs to be more support and focus on traditional writing and poetry at schools nowadays. Together with St Christopher s administration, they started a Poetry Club. Of the twins awards he added, I was delighted when I learnt that two of my poetry club students, Lilo and Deena, achieved this remarkable success. I have also reviewed some of the twins other literary work, and find them inherently inspired . Mr Hollywood is also strongly advocating implementing events and programs to celebrate creative writing for children of all schools in Bahrain. With volunteer advocacy, as well as plans for a publication of children s poetry work in Bahrain; it all bodes well for good progress in writing for the Kingdom.
���������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������������
��������������� ����������������� ��������������������� ��������������������� ��������������� ������������������ �����������������������
Education Sector
Magnets attract Bahraini students to careers in science and engineering
Organised in partnership with Bahrain s Ministry of Education and the British Council, young engineers from BAE Systems recently completed a science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) education workshops for students in Bahrain hosting special lessons at four local secondary schools in four days.
maths and gave students a fresh look at the field and career path of engineering. Based in England and having travelled to Bahrain specifically to host the workshops, Mark and Sophie had inspiring words for students, answering questions from enthusiastic students on the many personal and professional benefits of their career choice.
The workshops focused on the basic science of magnets and their industrial applications from manufacturing and design to modern marvels of civil engineering. Students explored the concepts of magnetic fields through the use of iron filings, the world s strongest magnets and electromagnetism. Each element of the workshop was closely linked to the students regular science curriculum, offering a unique global perspective on how concepts are applied beyond the classroom.
Commenting on the visit to Al-Farabi Intermediate Boys School, Ali Hassan Jaffar, Senior Teacher for Science, said: The project is beneficial to students and will help in developing their practical skills. The event was good and the students interacted actively with the trainers .
The sessions, part of an on-going educational outreach programme for students, were held at two boys schools and two girls schools in Bahrain between April 13th and 16th. Mark Powell and Sophie Harker, both young engineers at BAE Systems aerospace division in the UK, discussed the critical importance of science, technology, engineering and
The Ministry of Education s Senior Curriculum Specialist for Science, Saeed Abbas Mahdy said: The Science Curriculum Unit for Basic Education at Ministry of Education is working with BAE Systems and the British Council in delivering a project that employs science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). A series of workshops were delivered to a group of third intermediate government school students to raise their awareness of the importance of studying science, technology, engineering and maths. These workshops included activities carried out by the students to put into practice what they had learnt. Focusing on science, technology, engineering and mathematics is very important because it leads to progress, development and innovation. The workshops will motivate students to specialise in these subjects and will provide them with opportunities for discovery, innovation and problem solving. BAE Systems last hosted a series of science and technology workshops for students in Bahrain in December 2014. Each workshop has a common set of aims; to develop thinking and engagement around science, technology, engineering and maths, to encourage team work and to encourage structured thinking in the completion of a task.
24 Forum
Crown Prince meets International Scholarship Programme students The 16th Group of scholars include the following students: Mustafa Hammad / Al Hedaya Al Khalifiya Secondary Boys School Ebtihal Jasim / Ghazi Al Gosaibi Secondary Girls School Yusuf Jailani / Bahrain Bayan School Fatima Abdulla / The British School of Bahrain His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister welcomed this year s recipients of the Crown Prince s International Scholarship Programme (CPISP), at Riffa Palace. His Royal Highness extended his congratulations to the students and their parents, and highlighted the parents role in helping the students to meet the requirements of the Scholarship Programme. The 2015 scholarship recipients were
selected among 316 Bahraini applicants from governmental and private schools in and outside of Bahrain who met the Programme s qualifying application criteria. The final selection criteria included their Grade Point Average, as well as the results of the IELTS and SAT examinations, leadership training, and the Critical Thinking course, which were organised by the CPISP as part of the candidacy training. This group of outstanding scholarship recipients includes one student who obtained a full score on his SAT Critical Writing examination.
Abdulla Husain / Muharraq Boys School Zahra Marhoon / Khawla Secondary Girls School Bassam Al Alawi / St. Christopher s School Dana Tarif / The British School of Bahrain Yusuf Ismaeel / Noaim Secondary Boys School Bayan Alsairafi / Al Noor Secondary Girls School
Forum 25
Health Matters
IHB extends its Loyalty Programme Quality healthcare made more affordable. The International Hospital of Bahrain (IHB) extends its Loyalty Programme, with its very attractive and competitive rates, ensuring quality healthcare is affordable to the whole community. The programme includes fixed price lab, x-ray and consultation rates, and surgical procedures. The last thing you need when planning a surgery is not knowing the cost. With the Fixed Price Surgery Packages you will know exactly the cost of the procedure prior
to admission. Expecting a baby? FPS packages for antenatal care, normal and caesarean delivery are also available. Unless you are advised otherwise your PFS package includes private room accommodation, nursing care, drugs and dressings, and theatre and all other clinical facilities and services provided to you by the hospital during your agreed length of stay. FPS also includes your surgeon s and anaesthetist s fees for the services provided by them during your
hospital stay, and take home drugs and medicines. The IHB is accredited to international standards of healthcare by ACHS International. The Hospital is a BUPA International Quality Assured hospital, and a BUPA Preferred Dental Center . First Aid training is available at the IHB s AHA Approved Training Centre. The Loyalty rates have been very well received, by individuals, corporations and health insurance companies alike. Direct billing is in place with many leading health insurance companies, including Aetna Global Benefits; Allianz Worldwide Care; AXA PPP International; BUPA Arabia; BUPA International; DAMANA SAICO; GEMS; GlobeMed; NextCare; ISOS; MSH International, and more
Fourth No Tobacco Clinic to open in Bahrain In a statement to Bahrain News Agency Health Minister Sadiq bin Abdelkarim Al-Shehabi said that the ministry would open the 4th No Tobacco Clinic at Hamad Health Centre within the coming two months. According to The World Health Organisation one person dies from a tobacco-linked disease every six seconds, equivalent to almost 6 million people a year. This number is forecast exceed 8 million people a year by 2030, with more than 80% of these preventable deaths occurring among people living in low-and middle-income countries. 28 Forum
InTouch Clinic builds an International team InTouch Integrated Chiropractic Spine Centre is proud to announce the expansion of the centre with new services being offered as well as the joining of new staff members to further serve the community needs. In addition to Chiropractic, Physical Therapy and Massage Therapy, the centre now offers Cranio-sacral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Hydrotherapy and Functional Exercise Rehabilitation. Integrated care at InTouch is the combination of any of the services. InTouch Clinic welcomes Dr. Andrea Ignacio who worked in the United States for six years with Massage Therapists, Physical Therapists, Oriental Medicine doctors, Surgeons and other Chiropractors. She has treated mostly post-injury patients, lifestyle related chronic conditions such as Fibromyalgia, and pregnant women. After this she spent 5 years working in Saudi Arabia at triple accredited (JCI, ACI, ACHSI) Saad Specialist Hospital, and one year starting a new Chiropractic service for the Royal Commission Hospital in Jubail before coming to Bahrain to work with InTouch Clinic. Dr. Ignacio graduated from Parker College of Chiropractic (now Parker University). I am looking forward to the challenges and experiences of interacting with and helping patients in Bahrain. It is an honor to be one of the few Chiropractors to be licensed to practice in the country, and to be a pioneer for the profession here, states Dr. Ignacio. Ebrahim Rajab (or his Scottish nickname Paul ) who is half Bahraini/ half Scottish and currently works full-time in academia will join the InTouch team as a part-time Physiotherapist. He obtained his BSc in Physiology & Sports Science, from the University of Glasgow, a M.Sc. in Physiotherapy from the University of Ulster and a PhD in Physiology and Pharmacology from the University of Nottingham, U.K. He is also a qualified lymphedema therapist. Paul has worked in academia as a physiotherapy lecturer and degree programme leader. He has worked clinically in the National Health Service (U.K.) and the Ministry of Defence (U.K.), and has a special interest in work-related musculoskeletal injuries, exercise rehabilitation and health related fitness. His research interests are in the intersecting fields of diabetes and ageing of the brain. InTouch also welcomes a new Operation and HR Manager, Mwai Exartier and a new Therapy Assistant, Desiree Ramos who both come with extensive experience in their respective fields. By the end of this year, three more Physical Therapists will have joined the team at InTouch Clinic and we are also in the process of bringing another male Chiropractor. The additional staff members join InTouch just before the centre s exhibition of the artwork that hangs on its walls as you walk through. The exhibit will be titled Journeys by Gaye Bentham. Gaye was born in England, with a free spirit and love of adventure. Gaye strives to capture emotive images that communicate the beauty, wonder, and occasional quirkiness she finds in the world. The photographs in this exhibition have been taken in Bahrain, India, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Morocco, the UK and the United States.
Tips from studio RCT As summer is just around the corner and many are planning their vacations, at Studio RCT we are getting ready for our beach physiques as well as our hot weather outfits, showing off more skin and toned up muscles than with our winter wardrobe! How to maintain fitness while away, without access to a studio or gym, is a concern for some. But there are many ways one can stay fit with minimal space required and no equipment just your body! Setting aside just 15-20 minutes each day is enough to get your metabolism going and your body toned. Exercises that involve multiple joints and a mixture of plyometric (jumping / skipping) and isometric (holding in place) contractions will be enough to keep that body in shape. One of our favorite sequences is Start with 1 minute of jumping jacks or stationary jogging, which are repeated after each exercise Plank: hold a full arm or forearm plank for 30 45 seconds (knees up or down) Squat: squat for 30-45 seconds (make sure your knees stay behind your toes and imagine like you are trying to sit down on a chair) then hold in place for the last 15 seconds. Burpees: maintaining a good plank position perform burpees for 30-45 seconds (stepping is an options for those who find it hard to jump in this position) Lunges: making sure that your front knee is bent in a 90 degree angle and your back leg is bent and heel lifted with the aim of getting your back knee down alternating between left and right lunge for 30-45 seconds (forward /backward or combo) Push-ups: maintaining a good plank position, elbows under your shoulder ears in line with your shoulder and hands either pointing forward or in a diamond shape depending on whether you would like to focus on your arms or chest - push-up for 30-45 seconds. Modify by leaning against a wall or a piece of furniture (or a tree if outdoor) when doing it from the floor is too difficult Repeat the above for 2-3 sets depending on time. Of course after every workout no matter how short, please ensure you cool down. Seated forward bend is good to release the hamstrings and lower back.In prone, hold the ankles and open your chest, great quads and flexors stretch. Proceed to rolling down from a standing position slowly, bending your knees depending on your flexibility, making sure to keep your shoulders down and relaxed. Sway your arms and move your ribs and shoulders from side to side. Slowly roll back up, keeping your knees bent, stacking your spine and shoulders with the head the last one to be positioned on them. Once you are done give yourself a pat on the shoulder and a round of applause! In just a short time you have completed a summer workout! Start from now and you will get great results in no time. Forum 29
Motoring News
Batelco and Budget Rent-a-Car sign MoU to provide WiFi solution On-the-Go for Budget Cars Batelco, Bahrain s leading communications solutions provider and Budget Rent-a-Car, a leader in the International Car Rental Industry, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate WiFi solutions for Budget s Chauffeur Driven and daily rental fleet based in Bahrain. This service will ensure that passengers can be connected and stay in touch with their loved ones while on the go, with the latest 4G LTE internet solution. The MoU was signed by Batelco A/General Manager Consumer Division Ebrahim Al Sayed and Budget Renta-Car General Manager Tony Hinder in the presence of other officials at Batelco s Headquarters in Hamala. The agreement will see Batelco provide WiFi service via its super-fast 4G network,
Mr. Hinder said that Budget was delighted to join hands with Batelco to offer the WiFi services for its customers and thanked Batelco for supporting them in their efforts to improve value added benefits for its clients.
Batelco A/General Manager Consumer Division Ebrahim Al Sayed and Budget General Manager Tony Hinder sign the MoU, in the presence of Budget and Batelco officials
in all of Budget s Chauffeur Driven Fleet. The service will later be enabled throughout the entire Bahrain based fleet. Mr. Al Sayed said that Batelco is very pleased to sign the agreement with Budget and support their efforts in providing an excellent service to ensure its customers satisfaction.
This is in line with meeting the evolving needs of customers who demand to be in touch 24/7, regardless of location. This service will enhance the lifestyle of people who want to have high speed connection on the go and it is anticipated that the service will prove to be very popular, added Mr. Al Sayed.
Customers seek high speed Wi-Fi services at all times even if they are travelling by car and it is a great benefit especially for business customers who can catch up with work while being chauffeur driven. Furthermore, it is becoming the norm for most people to stay connected through online social networks and instant messaging at all times. Accordingly, we will continue to invest in further improving our services, added Mr. Hinder.
Euro Motors garnered enormous success at Jaguar Land Rover Drive Event Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover, announced the immense success of the Jaguar Land Rover Drive Event which was held on Friday, the 22nd of May, 2015 at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC). The Jaguar Land Rover Drive Event was a hugely popular affair as hundreds of visitors thronged to enjoy the most thrilling event of the weekend as they alternated between the truly spectacular experiences that are provided by Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles as they displayed their breathtaking aesthetics, unparalleled performance 30 Forum
and exceptional handling that gave all those who partook in the drives, adrenaline-rushing memories galore. Guests who had registered for the drive were taught the Art of Performance by putting the Jaguar cars through their paces on the state-of-the-art Formula One Track and those who wished to go Above and Beyond got behind the wheel of the latest Land Rover vehicles and experienced the all-terrain capability of the SUVs at the Land Rover Experience Centre, the first Experience Centre by Land Rover in the Middle East region. The facility boasts
spacious grounds, diverse off-road tracks and is in close proximity to the Bahrain Grand Prix Circuit and thereby, gave participants the opportunity to drive state of the art Land Rover vehicles under the guidance of professionally certified, experienced instructors on an exciting and challenging off-road course. Additionally, there was a third event that
was held at the car park, namely the Dynamic Drive Session, which combined the experiences of driving the most capable SUV, Land Rover and the feeling of being alive that is ensured while taking Jaguar vehicles for a spin in sessions that were tailor-made to test the cornering abilities of the vehicles of both prestigious brands.
Motoring News
Six millionth production Land Rover rolls off the production line
Land Rover has celebrated the production of its landmark six millionth vehicle by giving it a unique design feature. The completion of a White Range Rover LWB Vogue SE on 2nd April saw Land Rover hit the manufacturing milestone and the 6,000,000th vehicle has been fitted with a bespoke puddle lamp graphic to signify its unique status. The luxury SUV took centre stage at the 2015 Shanghai Auto Show showcasing its one-off motif, which replaces the standard Range Rover silhouette projected by the vehicle s puddle lamps. The image is created by an inscribed lens within the door mirror-mounted downlight and displaying the Land Rover logo and landmark figure. The illuminated graphic, which is the width of a grain of rice, is projected through a magnifying lens onto the ground every time the vehicle is unlocked in an image which is 80cm in diameter. This same graphic was projected on to the wall of the Solihull manufacturing facility to mark the moment when the six millionth vehicle rolled off the production line.
McLaren Automotive launches third Owners Club in Bahrain McLaren Automotive, the division of the Formula 1 team that designs, develops and builds high performance sports cars for the road and their official retailer McLaren Manama, represented by Al Ghassan Motors has announced the launch of Club 63 the official McLaren Owners Club in Bahrain. Sheikh Jaber Bin Ali Al Khalifa, a figurehead of the Middle East motor racing community was named as the President of Club 63 McLaren Bahrain Owners Club, at a special event held at Manama s Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, which was attended by McLaren Honda driver and Formula 1 world champion Jenson Button, a number of McLaren owners, select leading dignitaries and key business figures from the upper social echelons of the Kingdom. The decision to appoint Sheikh Jaber Bin Ali Al Khalifa was made due to his considerable expertise and experience in the world of motor racing, and his long-standing relationship with the McLaren brand. Club 63 - McLaren Bahrain Owners Club is the third owners club launched by Al Ghassan Motors, with clubs launched in Jeddah and Riyadh and follows a very successful period for the luxury supercar maker, with strong sales across the Middle East in 2015 to date. In addition to the launch of Club 63, McLaren Automotive also recently previewed its groundbreaking new models in Bahrain the 570S from the Sports Series and the 675LT from its Super Series. The McLaren 675LT is the lightest, most powerful and fastest model in the McLaren Super Series, and with production limited to just 500 examples worldwide, is the most exclusive. The launch of the McLaren 570S Coupé, the first model in the Sports Series family, completes the brand s three-tier model strategy. This pure sports car, with driver optimised 32 Forum
layout and electrifying performance, shares its DNA with the McLaren Super Series and Ultimate Series that sit above it in the range hierarchy. The Sports Series introduces McLaren race-derived technologies and design values to a new segment and audience and is the most exclusive car in the segment by far. Ian Gorsuch, Regional Director of McLaren Automotive MEAF, said at the event: McLaren Automotive is going from strength to strength in the Middle East, with Bahrain being one of our most important markets as well as our regional home. With the launch of our third official McLaren Owners Club and the exciting debut of our 570S and 675LT models, the timing was perfect to launch Club 63. I am delighted that Sheikh Jaber Bin Ali Al Khalifa has been offered the presidency and honoured that he has accepted, I know under his valuable stewardship the club will develop and grow well into the future. McLaren owners who would like more information about Club 63 - McLaren Bahrain Owners Club, the McLaren 570S Coupé or the McLaren 675LT can speak with Stina Lund, McLaren Manama Sales Manager through contacting the Showroom on +973 663 033 11.
Audi Bahrain launches attractive all-inclusive lease plan
Two-year plan with option to buy or upgrade on lease expiry 5 models now available to lease: Audi A3, A6, A8, Q5 and Q7 Benefits include zero down payment, free service and maintenance and comprehensive insurance cover
Audi Bahrain, represented by Behbehani Brothers W.L.L., has announced the launch of the Audi Lease Plan as an attractive and convenient alternative for customers interested in driving a new Audi. Among the many benefits included in the two-year plan are: zero down payment, full comprehensive insurance, free service and maintenance, and the option to buy or upgrade the vehicle on expiry of the lease. All vehicles are brand new, 2015 model year Audi cars with a two-year lease on an Audi A3 starting at BD 245 per month. Leasing options are also available for the Audi A6 and A8 as well as the Q5 and Q7 from the brand s SUV range, offering flexibility based on the individual requirements of each customer. Highlighting the benefits of the new offering, Audi Bahrain Dealer Principal Geetan Jessen commented: We have worked hard to ensure our lease plans are competitively priced and provide an economical and convenient option for driving a luxury car, he said. Based on the success of the scheme elsewhere in the region,
Audi Bahrain Sales Manager Allen Blake alongside an Audi A3
we expect it will be particularly popular amongst expatriates but it s an attractive option for anyone wanting to drive a new car, especially those who enjoy updating their vehicles every 2 or 3 years. Upon the expiry of the two-year lease period, customers have the option to either buy the vehicle at a pre-agreed value or return the car to Audi and upgrade to a newer model. Subject to approval, participation in the Lease Plan also removes the requirement for a down payment, which is a standard prerequisite when purchasing a new car
Forum 33
Motoring News
AXA Gulf launches unique mobile application to encourage safe driving practices in the GCC In yet another innovative initiative to encourage safe driving practices and enhance awareness on road safety in the UAE, AXA Gulf, one of the leading international insurers in the region, launched AXA Drive , a unique mobile application that allows users to monitor and score the quality of their drive and thus gradually improve driving skills. The innovative AXA Drive application aims to encourage drivers of all age to stay safe behind the wheel as it monitors in real time the users overall driving behavior and scores them based on monitoring various criteria that includes acceleration, braking and turning of the vehicle. Drivers simply need to launch the application on their mobile phones at the start of their journey for AXA Drive to capture data
during the complete drive and deliver an overall score. A sharp turn or a hard brake, for example, will be recorded on AXA Drive , giving the driver a lower score, compared to a journey that is smoother, cautious and slower. The users are not required to monitor or interact with the application during the course of their drive thereby ensuring zero distraction. Given the high smartphone ownership percentage in the GCC, we were keen on leveraging the mobile application platform in order to provide personalised insights to each driver , said Alexis de Beauregard, Chief Officer - Marketing and Digital, AXA Gulf. At AXA Gulf, we are focused on not just offering innovative solutions to our customers, but also to continuously
raise awareness regarding prevention. He further added: The AXA Drive application is our initiative to support authorities strategic objectives of reducing road deaths and serious injuries through education. It will also play a key role in raising customer awareness and acceptance. This app was launched by other AXA entities in Europe a few months ago and was a huge success. We strongly believe that this region has a strong potential to be attracted to such new technology. Furthermore, in order to encourage the users of AXA Drive application to achieve high scores by driving safely, AXA Gulf will also reward users with high scores. Upon reaching 2,500 points using the application, the
users will enter into a draw and will stand a chance to win cash prize of USD 700. Besides this, the top scorer at the end of the campaign will win USD 700 off on their next AXA insurance policy. In order to participate in the campaign, all participants will be required to visit the company website, register for the competion and download the app from Apple or Google stores. AXA Gulf has launched this campaign across the UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Bahrain.
Euro Motors Announced its Sponsorship of the Red Bull X-Fighters Jams in the run up to 2015 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover announced its sponsorship of the best freestyle motocross show in the world, the Red Bull X-Fighters Jams, which took place in the Kingdom of Bahrain for the first time, during Race Fever; Bahrain International Circuit s nation-wide celebration of motorsport held as part of the lead up to the 2015 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. Four world renowned international FMX professionals, including Nick de Wit (South Africa), Martin Koren (Czech 34 Forum
Republic), Chris Brock (UK) and Julien Mannon (France) gave a new meaning to the word tricky by performing daringly innovative, jaw
dropping stunts at the Red Bull venue in Amwaj Islands on the 2nd and 3rd of April 2015. The audiences were left wonderstruck and
cheering for more when they see before their eyes the FMX riders perform captivating tricks, flips in the air and unimaginable daredevility.
������������������
���������������� ������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������� ����������������
����������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������
���������������
Construction Sector
Social & Affordable Housing Project, Bahrain - Deal Summary The Middle East Real Estate and Construction team of Charles Russell Speechlys LLP has recently advised one of their long-standing clients in relation to Bahrain s largest social and affordable housing project. The development agreement was entered into on 22 March 2015 under the patronage of the Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Ministerial Committee for Construction and Infrastructure, His Excellency Sheikh Khalid Bin Abdulla Al Khalifa. Charles Russell Speechlys has advised Diyar Al Muharraq, one of Bahrain s leading private developers, on the development and construction of circa 3,100 housing units on Bahrain s largest master planned development project. Work primarily involved drafting, advising and finalising the complex development agreement between Diyar and the Ministry of Housing of the Government of Bahrain under which the MoH has essentially committed to acquire social housing units, affordable housing units and supporting infrastructure from Diyar at a cost of over USD 1 billion. The Agreement contains complex payment provisions. The Total Project Price is based on a lump sum model but modified to include both fixed and capped elements. The capped items reflect the fact that given the size and nature of the Project, a number of cost elements cannot be pre-determined until Diyar has awarded the construction contracts. To manage potential price fluctuation risk fairly between the parties, such costs have been capped in the Agreement but with the 36 Forum
payment provisions reflecting the actual costs incurred for each relevant phase. In accordance with the provisions of the Agreement, Diyar will finance, design, develop and construct both the housing units and associated infrastructure (both primary and secondary) on approximately 1.2 million square metres of land. The MoH will be the offtaker of the developed housing units whereas the applicable Government authority will agree to own and operate the infrastructure following completion. The Project will be procured on a phased basis as more specifically set out in the agreed project development programme. Subject to the provisions of the Agreement, the first housing units will be handed-over within 2 years from the date of the development agreement and the Project will be completed within 4 years. The Project is based on a new form of PPP which has been specifically developed for this Project and reflects a move away from the previous form of PPP (substantially based on the PFI model from the UK), which had been used for other low cost housing projects in Bahrain. The current form of PPP is based on a hybrid between a traditional procurement model but with some elements being more associated with a turnkey solution. Critically, the Project does not impose any operational or maintenance obligations on Diyar as would usually be the case under a PPP structured on a concession arrangement. The Agreement is also the first
of its kind to include provisions relating to the new Social Housing Finance Scheme in Bahrain, which is the result of a collaboration between the MoH and certain financial institutions within Bahrain so as to provide financial support to Bahraini citizens to acquire housing units through a subsidised programme. The Project is extremely significant for Bahrain as it represents the single largest contract in terms of both size and value for the development of social and affordable housing units in the Kingdom. The Project therefore satisfies one of Bahrain s most important social infrastructure objectives; to provide suitable housing for Bahraini citizens and to reduce the waiting time for such citizens to avail of housing services. The Minister of Housing, H.E. Basim Al Hamer, commented: This is indeed a very important agreement as it is the largest agreement of its type for co-operation between the private and public sectors and will surely have far-reaching positive consequences for all citizens in the Kingdom. The signing of the Agreement is the culmination of over a year of discussions and negotiations between Diyar and the MoH as well as other key stakeholders such as Eskan Bank and the Ministry of Finance. Given the level of stakeholder engagement across the public and private sector, the Charles Russell Speechlys team worked very closely with the development and finance functions within Diyar to ensure that the Project was effectively and efficiently managed. The success of this joint approach between the
client and its legal adviser is evidenced by the fact that the Agreement was entered into in a relatively short period of time compared to other social infrastructure projects of a similar size and value. The Charles Russell Speechlys team was led by Simon Green (Partner and Middle East Head of Real Estate and Construction). Simon was supported by other members of the regional team including Unkar Chanian (Senior Associate), Glenn Bull (Associate) and Reem Al Mahroos (Associate). Given the requirements of the Project, other specialist input was obtained from within the Bahrain office. More specifically, Tom Briggs (Partner and Middle East Head of Corporate) assisted with all corporate and commercial requirements arising from the Project such as certain ancillary project documents). In addition, Khalid Javaid (Senior Counsel, Banking & Finance) provided assistance in relation to ensuring that the Agreement and other project documents complied with the principles of Islamic Shari ah by working closely with Diyar, Kuwait Finance House (one of Diyar s key shareholders) and their Shari ah Board. Simon Green commented: I am delighted that we have been able to assist one of our key clients in Bahrain on what is not only a major transaction for them and their master planned development project but also a transaction of significant importance for the Kingdom of Bahrain. It also emphasises the fact that we are seen as one of the go to law firms in Bahrain for large social infrastructure projects.
SSH Bahrain awarded the Sheikh Jaber Al Ahmed Al Sabah Highway SSH Bahrain, in partnership with Hyder Consulting, has recently been awarded the engineering consultancy services for the design of the road and bridges as part of the widening and upgrading of the Sheikh Jaber Al Ahmed Al Sabah (SJAS) Highway by the Ministry of Works Municipalities and Urban Planning. This project is selected for implementation by utilising a contribution from the state of Kuwait through Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development as part of GCC Marshall Fund to Kingdom of Bahrain. The project aims to reduce traffic congestion and delays during peak hours by upgrading the current highway to a motorway standard. This responds
to both the increase in car ownership and the rapid growth in the Kingdom s population from 1.4 million to an estimated 2.4 million residents by 2030. The design will also cater to changes in the traditional growth areas across the country, including large scale land-reclamation, landmark real estate and tourism developments. SJAS forms part of the strategic North-South link, connecting Manama, Sitra Industrial Area, Alba Plant and the Southern Governorate. It will also form part of the Future International Transportation Corridor with the possible Bahrain-Qatar Causeway. The services are divided into three phases. Phase one
consists of comprehensive traffic and transportation studies for widening and upgrading the highway to an uninterrupted motorway. Phase two includes preliminary and detailed design for the 4-lane dual
carriageway, pedestrian and vehicular bridges, grade separators, tunnels and underpasses, service roads, and slip lanes. Phase three, subject to award, is for construction implementation and supervision services.
Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover announced Work On Target for new bespoke showroom Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover announced that work is well on target for its new bespoke $30 million showroom that will encompass its prestigious marques, Jaguar and Land Rover. Construction of the $30 million showroom is well underway and nearing completion, with a targeted date of its inauguration being towards the last quarter of 2015. The showroom is set to be the first purpose built facility in the G.C.C. to be fully compliant with Jaguar Land Rover s latest corporate identity standards. Located adjacent to the existing Euro Motors showroom
in Sitra, the $30 million two level showroom will spread over 5,000 square meters and has been specially designed from the outset to solely house new as well as approved Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles for a minimum of the next ten years. The showroom is being constructed such that it
follows the Jaguar Land Rover Arch concept wherein one showroom entrance will lead to two separate areas, each dedicated to a particular brand and the vehicles of each marque reflecting the respective brand identity thereby emphasizing on the strengths and uniqueness of Jaguar cars and Land Rover SUVs. The housing Artists Impression
capacity for the new Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles has been doubled as compared to the existing showroom and the new and improved showroom will be expansive enough to accommodate a substantial increase in the approved vehicles section as well. The functional new showroom will also incorporate a state of the art workshop with its capacity being risen to more than twice that of the current showroom to be able to work on 32 vehicles at a time, with an increase in the total staffing levels of the whole showroom also being projected to contain 100 technical and non-technical personnel. Forum 37
News from the Eastern Province The British Business Association (BBA) - Eastern Province P.O.Box 1868, AlKhobar 31952 Tel: 03 882 5288 ext 1651 Fax: 03 882 5384 Email: secretary@bbaep.org Website: www.bbaep.com
Geoff Fennah MBE Chairman, EPBBA As I write these notes the temperatures are finally starting to hit the 40oC mark after an unusually long period of dust storms. Summer is here and the exodus for vacation is upon us so let me take this opportunity to wish you an enjoyable and well-earned break. Unfortunately, we are also seeing a rise in temperature of the security situation in KSA and I hope this does not return us to the dark times experienced in 2004/5. Business in EP continues to flourish despite the lower oil price. There has, however, been an interesting development with Aramco announcing a restructure to provide more separation in its upstream and downstream activities. There is a changing face of Aramco appearing especially given Aramco s joint involvement with Dow Chemical in the SADARA project which brings them into the chemicals sector for the first time. A few eyebrows were raised at the prospect of Aramco competing with SABIC but in reality there is little conflict as Aramco are focused on the niche specialty chemicals market.
BBA Annual General Meeting was held on 28 April 2015 with virtually a complete new set of faces elected to the Committee. Fresh faces, means new ideas so I look forward to working with the new group over the next year. The newly elected committee members are as follows: Chairman: General Sec.: Treasurer: Membership: Business: Jubail Chair: Member: BTO: BTO:
Geoff Fennah Edward Rose Bob Lee Ben Jones Jeff Stewart George Dinic Gary Hawkings Steve Graham Danial Shaikh
An initial joint meeting was held on 31 March 2015, at Bahrain Rugby Club, between the BBA and the BBBF Oil and Gas Special Interest Groups to establish a working relationship and take advantage of the synergies between EP and Bahrain. This first gathering was very successful and hopefully will prove to be the precursor for a strong ongoing working relationship and develop other sector groups where there is common interest. Thanks to Paula Boast and Jeff Stewart for their efforts in setting up this first meeting.
Sadly, the departure of HMA, Bahrain, Iain Lindsay OBE will be very close when this is published and I know he will be very much missed by both the British and Bahrain business communities. I have had the pleasure of interacting with Iain on a number of occasions and he also took the time to join us for dinner in the Eastern Province to share his perspectives on developments in Bahrain. On behalf of myself and the BBA membership I would like to take this opportunity to wish Iain, Bridget and family the best of luck in their future ventures and assignments.
By the time everyone has returned from vacation we will be approaching the 2015 annual Poppy Ball which is scheduled for 6 November. Given, the success of last year s event we are hoping for an equally significant turnout and good evening we look forward to seeing you there.
Saudi Snippets
The Saudi British Bank (SABB) was named Best Retail Bank in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by the Banker Middle East magazine. The prestigious award reflects SABB s pioneering role in the Saudi retail banking sector and the excellent line of services and products offered to customers.
Business intelligence service MEED has named the Siemens Energy Hub Project by Siemens Energy as the GCC s Daman Industrial Project of the Year. MEED also selected the Jabal Omar Phase 1 Project by Jabal Omar Development Company as Building Project of the Year and the Qurayyah Independent Power Plant 38 Forum
Project by Hajr Electricity Production Co. as the Power & Water Project of the Year. The Qurayyah Project is the largest IPP combined, cycle gas-fired power plant in the world. The three projects were announced as winners at the prestigious MEED Quality Awards for Projects 2015, in association with Mashreq, at a gala awards ceremony held in Dubai at MEED s Construction Leadership Summit.
Should you have a need to contact us then send an e-mail to our Secretary, Rachael Routledge on secretary@bbaep.org
The board of Saudi Arabia s Almarai has approved a capital investment plan
which will reach $5.6 billion in the next five years. The Gulf s largest dairy firm said the 2016-2020 programme will replace their existing investment plan and would cover expansion in the areas of farming, manufacturing, distribution and logistics. Almarai is present in the six Gulf countries as well as Egypt and Jordan. It also owns Fondomonte, an Argentinian farming firm.
����������������������������������� ��������������������������������
��������������������������������� ������������������������������������������ ���������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������� ������������� ������������������� ���� ������ �� ��������������������
�
Aviation News
BAE SYSTEMS demonstrates new eye-tracking cockpit technology in Bahrain Coinciding with the 2015 Gulf Air Bahrain Formula One Grand Prix, visitors to the British Embassy s GREAT Advanced Engineering & Innovation event at the Ritz Carlton in Manama on Sunday 18 April were able to see a new eye-tracking technology demonstrated by BAE Systems, shown for the first time in Bahrain. Designed to keep the Eurofighter Typhoon at the cutting-edge for decades to come and with potential applications in a Formula One cockpit, the technology demonstrated by BAE Systems reads human eye movements to help pilots perform actions quickly, efficiently and safely. It measures naturally and subconsciously-occurring Saccadic eye movements to help perform a task, such as selecting a displayed cockpit entity based on a pilot s or driver s gaze. During the event, Maureen McCue, Head of Research and Technology at BAE Systems Military Air & Information business, briefed delegates on the world-leading technology being developed for a number of cutting edge products, including the Eurofighter Typhoon helmet, and BAE Systems wider effort to deliver the future of cockpit and aviation technology
in partnership with universities. The next evolution of the cockpit whether in the world s most advanced combat jet or Formula One racer - means more information and more pressure to make more decisions in less time, commented Maureen. In addition to enhancing the capability of Typhoon, our aim is to always stay ahead investing in technologies that aid intelligent decision making. Eye tracking technology itself isn t new, but in this instance we are applying it in a different environment, moving it into aerospace applications. We are proud to demonstrate this technology for the first time in Bahrain in the presence of such a strong alliance of partners. BAE Systems provides cutting-edge cockpit technologies for both military and commercial aviation platforms. Its display systems, for instance, offer fast-jet pilots a real-world view of terrain along with all obstacles within their flight path, allowing them to see and avoid, even when visibility outside the aircraft is limited. The company s vast industry experience, solid partner commitment, and world-class solutions are relied upon by leading air forces around the globe.
British Airways launches new and improved On Business loyalty programme We understand the difficulties small and medium sized businesses can face when it comes to travel budgets. But we also realise the benefits of meeting your clients face to face, wherever they are. That s why we created On Business, a unique loyalty programme designed to help you and your company make the most of your travel budget. Every time you travel, you can accumulate On Business Points, which can be redeemed for valuable travel benefits. And if your employees are Members of the British Airways Executive Club, or of any oneworld® partners frequent flyer programmes, they ll personally benefit too. Since 2009, On Business has helped companies meet face to face, while saving over £40 million on flights alone. Now we have re-launched our On Business loyalty scheme which will help small and medium sized businesses make 40 Forum
even more of their travel budgets. The new and improved On Business programme now rewards points based on spend rather than distance travelled or number of flights. Other new benefits to the popular platform include: Cash discounts on selected flights. Three Tier ranking system to boost earning power. Handpicked offers and bonuses for members. A new easy to use online account management tool. The new On Business has been made more flexible so members who want immediate savings can choose an upfront discount off flights if that works better for their company than collecting points.
A three T ier system is being introduced which relates to the amount customers spend on travel each year. As users progress through the Tiers, they save more to spend on reward flights and upgrades. In addition members who are BA Executive Club or Iberia Plus member s customers will benefit from double points every time they fly, as they are rewarded in both schemes . As part of the changes, On Business has launched a brand new website, onbusiness-programme.com which will make it even easier for members to maximise their earning potential and spend their points effectively. It will also give access to custom reporting, as well as a clear view of who is earning where and when to help make further savings.
Hotel & Leisure News Mubarak crowned Scratch Champion Bahraini Hamad Mubarak was crowned the Royal Golf Club s Scratch Champion 2015 after beating off a strong challenge from last year s champion, Sam Hobday. Hobday had a four shot lead after the first round of the annual tournament and led the field through the majority of the final day. However a birdie on the 18th by Mubarak was just enough for him to steal the title on count back after both players achieved a two round gross total of 149. There was also a battle for third place after three players achieved the same two day gross score of 151. Abdulla
Al Hakam was awarded third place on count back, pushing his son, Sultan Al Hakam into fourth and fellow Bahraini Nasser Yaqoob into fifth place. Hobday achieved the best score on day one of the competition, a three under par 69. Three players achieved the best day two score of three over par 75 Rob Lane, Hamad Mubarak and Abdulla Al Hakam. Results: 1st Hamad Mubarak (74+75=149 c/b), 2nd Sam Hobday (69+80=149), 3rd Abdulla Al Hakam (76+75=151 c/b), 4th Sultan Al Hakam (75+76=151 c/b), 5th Nasser Yaqoob (73+78=151). 2s Club: Rob Lane.
MODA Mall hosts media appreciation lunch
Firas Barakat addressed the assembled media representatives
MODA Mall, the shopping and dining experience for every special occasion, located in the iconic Bahrain World Trade Centre hosted a media appreciation lunch to thank the members of the media for their continuous support and to highlight the latest developments at MODA Mall and the Bahrain World Trade Centre. 42 Forum
In April, MODA Mall unveiled its new brand campaign with a fresh look. In keeping with the refreshed branding both the Bahrain World Trade Center (BWTC) and MODA Mall websites, in English and Arabic, have been revamped to provide easier navigation, more product and boutique information, and details about dining options. Further developments at the mall include the introduction of free Wi-Fi to anyone visiting the mall. The new brand campaign s tagline For life s extra special moments says is all. It reveals that every important occasion in everyone s life calls for an exclusive celebration. MODA Mall is there for those cherished moments in life, be it a wedding or a newborn baby - to make them truly special!
commented Mr. Peter Gaynor, General Manager of MODA Mall and BWTC. Mr. Gaynor also announced several new outlets soon to join the luxury brand portfolio at MODA Mall with openings scheduled over the coming months and some of which are the first in Bahrain. The new boutiques include
MCM German leather products, Petunia Flowers and Landscaping, Toscana Italian Shoes, Cocoon Ladies Fashion, Beach Republic, Tudor Watches, Al Fardan Jewellery and Al Kooheji Jewellery. New dining options include decadent Fauchon Bahrain and Burger Hood and Urban Bites, a unique high-end gourmet burger venue.
Peter Gaynor cutting the celebration cake
Hotel & Leisure News Bahrainisation boost for hotel
The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence and Spa and its owner National Hotels Company have received the award for the “highest Bahrainisation percentage in 2014” by the Specific Council for Training in Hospitality. National Hotels Company Chief Executive Officer Abdulrahman Morshed and The Diplomat Radisson Blu
Hotel, Residence and Spa General Manager Panos Panagis received the award during a ceremony held under the patronage of Labour Minister His Excellency Jameel Humaidan. The hotel also won a number of other awards. Rehab Salem Khamis won the long service award, Jawher Naseeb Salem won
the diligent worker award. We are very proud to be recognised as the top five star Hotel in Bahrain promoting and developing local talent. Furthermore, our Bahraini employees maintain a long service tenure with a number of them having spent in excess of 20 years in our employment. The hospitality of Bahrainis
and their culture is what distinguishes them from other employees. They are an integral part of the team and show great accountability. Our responsibility as Managers remains to find ways to further develop their skills and offer them meaningful career opportunities says Panos Panagis.
Ramee Grand recieves Excellence Award Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa has been recognized as a top performing hotel based on guest reviews on Booking.com, the world leader in online accommodation booking.
for 2014, with thousands of reviews by guests from around the world, who have consistently praised the outstanding hospitality, superior comfort and world class facilities of the hotel.
The Award of Excellence is given out by Booking.com to properties on an annual basis in honour of their achievements over the past year as measured by their overall guest review score.
Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa offers splendid 5-star hospitality in the heart of Manama featuring 166 stylish suites and rooms. Located in the bustling corner of Seef, the hotel boasts easy access to entertainment and recreational options whether travelling on business or simply on a mini weekend spree.
Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa has achieved an overall review score of 8.7 on Booking.com 44 Forum
In the picture: (Front right) Group General Manager of Ramee Group of Hotels-Bahrain Mr. Shantharam Shetty, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa Director of Sales & Marketing Ali Al Jazzazi and Asst. Marketing Manager Cynthia Narvaez.
Gulf Hotel Group announces three new properties in Bahrain
The Gulf Hotels Group, which owns and manages the iconic Gulf Hotel Bahrain has proven its ability to operate successful hotels having opened the K Hotel in 2011, which has now established itself as the leading four star hotel in Bahrain. The Group recently announced that they will soon open three additional 4 star properties in the Kingdom by mid-September. The three new properties be the Gulf Inn Manama, located adjacent to Bahrain Exhibition Centre, the Gulf Court Seef located in the heart of the Seef business district and Gulf Residence Amwaj, set in the beautiful surroundings of Amwaj Island This is line with Gulf Hotels Group expansion strategy of adding hotels and luxury apartments in key locations which will be managed to the highest international standards said Gulf Hotels Group Chief Executive Officer and Board Member, Aqeel Raees. These latest additions will join the Group s exclusive collection of unique independent properties and will not only offer guests every comfort, but also excellent value for money. The service will mirror the Group s core philosophy of providing five star service for four star pricing
that cater to the The new projects business traveller are part of Gulf including spacious Hotels Group meeting rooms ongoing expansion and a boardroom plans which include featuring the the addition of a latest in modern state-of-the-art, technology. The 3,100 m² spa at meeting rooms the Gulf Hotel, Aqeel Raees can accommodate the development of a multi-outlet restaurant up to 50 guests. complex in the Block 338 area, the building of a 108 Gulf Inn Manama unit luxury apartment facility in Juffair and the 240 room five The Gulf Inn Manama, Ideally star Gulf Hotel Business Bay located just adjacent to the Bahrain Exhibition Centre in Dubai. and close to all the major shopping malls, features Hotel Descriptions: 215 spacious rooms and suites, complete with all Gulf Court Seef modern amenities. Excellent Gulf Court Seef, located in meeting facilities will also the heart of the Seef business be available, with 3 flexible district, is spread over four meeting rooms complete floors and houses 94 luxurious with audio visual equipment rooms and suites. Each of the and meeting support service. spacious rooms are equipped with chic marble bathrooms Facilities include a health incorporating separate club, a rooftop swimming bathtub and shower plus all pool, gymnasium, multithe amenities and features purpose exercise rooms and you would expect from an children s play room, together international 4 star deluxe with Jacuzzis, steam rooms, and saunas. property. For dining the Gulf Court Seef offers three restaurants serving Italian and Lebanese cuisines along with an allday dining outlet. The hotel also boasts modern facilities
Gulf Inn Manama will also offer its guests an excellent selection of authentic Arabic and Indian cuisines in the Hotel s all day dining restaurant.
Gulf Residence Amwaj The impressive Gulf Residence Amwaj building features fourstar luxury hotel apartments, within an ultramodern residential development called Amwaj Waves. The Gulf Residence Amwaj project will feature a total of 173 spacious apartments made up of 2 studio units, 42 one bedroom, 102 two bedroom and 18 three bedroom apartments, in addition to 4 luxurious 4 bedroom penthouses, with stunning views over Amwaj Island to the beautiful azure waters of the Gulf. All apartments have been designed in a modern, contemporary style with a focus on quality and functionality. Each apartment has spacious living and dining areas. Facilities will include an exquisitely landscaped swimming pool deck, fitness centre, an all-day brasserie restaurant, a lobby café and an array of shops, meeting rooms and ample parking space. Gulf Residence Amwaj will offer residents the best of both worlds, combining a cosmopolitan lifestyle with a waterfront harbour experience, just a few minutes walk from the bustling Amwaj Lagoon and Amwaj s renowned beaches Forum 45
Bahrain News
And the winner was...
Firms sign laboratory accord Bahrain-based United Enterprises Group and Facade Design and Services, in collaboration with Istishara Consultants, have sign_ ed an agreement to provide and operate Bahrain s first and only building system testing laboratory and on-site testing facility centre for building materials - UFDS. As the operator, Facade Design and Services has approached the appropriate accreditation service provider, which is the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation, with its application for accreditation under ISO/IEC 17025:2010. A company representative said being the first-of-its-kind in Bahrain, UFDS will vastly contribute to the
future and growth of construction industry in the kingdom. Today, all building system laboratory testing are performed overseas. UFDS will break these testing hurdles by making this facility available in the kingdom, covering the range from single villas to Housing Ministry projects and high-rise tower projects. These tests will be conducted by installing system samples on construction sites to provide a full quality check or to provide performance level of the existing facade. UFDS will be fully operational from August.
Everyone who attended the May Business Networking lunch at the Al Muharraq Ballroom in the Diplomat Radisson Hotel was entered into a Raffle generously sponsored by Etihad Airways who provided Business Class return tickets to the UK as the main prize. The winner, BBBF Member James Tanner of Investcorp is pictured above with (left) Paula Boast BBBF Deputy Chair, British Deputy Ambassador Mockbul Ali and Etihad Airways Representative Ammu Maria Abraham. Etihad Airways have come on board for the second year as a BBBF sponsor.
When purpose and passion collide - a personal account - An update from Jill Boggiss, Inside Change WLL First of all, thank you to all for the gift from the BBBF on the occasion of my departure from Bahrain and the BBBF committee…..It is a lovely pen and I am not going to return it
J
I want to let you know that I have not left Bahrain and to explain why. Not unreasonably people keep saying to me “I thought you had left” J My reasons for leaving were to do with returning home to be with my mum, who was ill with Parkinson’s disease and to support my sister who had a lot of responsibility related to mum’s care. Very sadly my mum died on February 8 at home and so everything changed again. In the process of planning my return to the UK I found a consultancy role in the UK with a company called Eyes Wide Opened. Now that I don’t have to return to the UK permanently I have agreed with them to develop the business in the UK and in the Middle East. (through Inside Change). I will be based here and 46 Forum
commute back to the UK to deliver programmes and develop business with schools. This is the text of a blog I have written about the work of Eyes Wide Opened and how I have made progress towards more meaning in my work. Helping to create happiness Finding purpose makes life worthwhile, challenging, interesting, stimulating, and exciting take your pick. The result is that you feel alive and want to make the most of your time. Eyes Wide Opened (EWO) helps people to discover (or sometimes to rediscover) their true passion and purpose and then equip them with practical ideas and selfconfidence that enable them to action. Working with people to realize their potential is truly the most satisfying work that I do. I do this work because it makes people happy (including me), really very happy, and in a sustainable way. This is the kind of happiness that
lights people up. You can see it in other people and you can feel it yourself. Cards on the table OK so I have been searching for this for a long time. Recently I have worked with students at the Bahrain Polytechnic and this is what tipped the balance for me. Light bulb moment, I just want to do the great part, the part where you inspire them to see themselves as you do: full of potential to do great things. Years ago I did a personal development programme focused on finding the meaning of your life. After quite a lengthy process of reflection we were all asked to write one sentence that summed up what we believed the secret to life was and I wrote down: Relax, have fun and enjoy life . I was surprised and simultaneously disappointed. If it was this easy we would all being doing it, right? I believed that you had to take the rough with the smooth and that work was by necessity quite hard (otherwise why would they pay you so well). I know I am not alone in
Capital Club Bahrain Workshop
Along with SteppingStone Global Founder and President Jean Nicolai, Mike Orlov, BBBF Member and Partner in SteppingStone Global, led the fourth in a series of evening workshops held at the Capital Club on 20th May 2015. This event focused on Strategy Execution
following the previous three sessions which had concentrated on leadership, management and empowerment.
this but a lot of time at work I struggled, I took things too seriously and as a result I didn t enjoy life as much as I could have. Relax, have fun and enjoy life , I wasn t able to do this; the two days I had given up seemed like a long time and the result seemed like a pipe dream. I needed to earn my living and generally speaking this was not relaxing or fun, although there were clues to my passion and purpose even back then.
I could get work outside of financial services and would still be able to earn good money.
I was working in marketing in financial services in the 80s and 90s. There were elements of my work that I loved, and they were all related to people, connections and relationships. Identifying my strengths was the route to my passion I loved managing a team, I was new to people management but instinctively I was able to create vision, set direction and play to people s strengths. I was able to influence and persuade people to do things that they didn t always want to. I had a way of connecting with people, creating good relationships. All of these qualities were transferable and if I had some help to join the dots I might have had the courage to know
Over 90 senior business executives from large family concerns, multinationals, and also small and medium sized
In the end it was redundancy that gave the opportunity realize my purpose My passion (interest in peoples potential) and my purpose (catalyst for change) collided and I was able to focus my energy to do work that I loved (not all the time but much, much more of the time) There have been twists and turns ever since. Nine years ago I decided to leave the UK to work in Bahrain. I am now living in Bahrain and my experience of working with young people here has definitely been a defining experience. I love using my experience, connections and personality to inspire graduates to make the most of their potential. I have plans to do this in partnership with employers and with educators.
enterprises signed up for the lively debate and discussion. Ultimately the dialogue focused on how vital it was to have the right people on board, and how important it was to maintain, coach and train people to ensure they delivered their best performance. That is why getting the opportunity to work with EWO on the What makes me, ME programme was quite literally a dream come true. I worked on the April course and I watched the participants work together to identify their strengths, to hear people tell their stories in ways that were authentic and compelling and to be able to imagine new possibilities for their futures. Long journey, exciting destination Realising my passion and purpose has taken me a lot of time. I wish I had been able to get here faster.
The value of a creative framework – the “What makes me, ME” course
I will be launching courses in September and developing ideas to support young professionals and recent graduates. I intend to develop work with educators, particularly schools. I believe that if I had received more guidance when I was at school I would have made better choices about my areas of focus for my studies and my working life. I want to offer the chance to young people to discover their passion and purpose more easily.
I am now in my fifties, I have had the main body of my working life and I now see things much more clearly.
This is the Eyes Wide Opened website: www.ewopened .com Forum 47
Bahrain News
Trowers & Hamlins team strengthened with new appointment. Trowers & Hamlins has experienced a strong start to 2015 as we continue to provide legal advisory roles on ground breaking projects and transactions across our departments. Based on recent successes, we are now acknowledged as the leading housing firm in the region and, amongst other projects, we are currently advising the Government of Kuwait on the delivery of a major low-cost housing project which will be the largest ever housing PPP in the Middle East. We are pleased to announce that we have been joined in Bahrain by Humphrey Glennie, a senior construction lawyer. Humphrey is a specialist in both contentious and non-contentious construction advice and joins us from New Zealand. He also previously worked in South East Asia. Humphrey will provide specialist construction support on the ground, working closely with our market-leading Real Estate team as well with our wider regional construction team.
48 Forum
Finance practices are being considered and it is a testament to the strength of our practice across the firm that we have been selected as the first QFLF licence recipient.
Recently, we have become the first international law firm to be granted a Qualified Foreign Law Firm (QFLF) licence in Malaysia. The licence was approved by the Malaysian Bar Council and is effective from 4 April 2015. The QFLF licence will allow the firm to operate independently in Malaysia and advise on international legal issues, subject to certain restrictions. The Malaysian Government has made it clear that one of the main reasons for liberalising the legal market was to help boost the countryÂ’s Islamic Finance market. Only firms with strong Islamic
We are delighted to announce the growth of our presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We now have an exclusive co-operation arrangement with Prima Law & Consultations, headed by Dr Abdulrahman bin Saud Al-Kabier, with offices in Riyadh and Jeddah. Most recently, the Saudi Arabian Capital Market Authority (CMA) issued regulations enabling foreign investors to invest directly on the Tadawul All Share Index, which is widely regarded as one of the most exciting opportunities for foreign investment into the region for some time. We have prepared an exclusive briefing note on this for BBBF members which we would be happy to share with interested parties. Please contact a member of our team for further information.
Designer Shaik supports Wojooh s new shop in Muharraq
PRIME Launches New Intellectual Property Department PRIME Instant Offices & Business Centre offers business support services and serviced offices for companies setting up and operating in Bahrain. The Company holds the Affiliated Partner status with the Ministry of Industry & Commerce, is a member of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry, both the Bahrain and the Arab-British Chamber of Commerce and most recently PRIME joined the BBBF. It also has connections and key contacts with many associate firms throughout the GCC and wider MENA region allowing them to provide its Clients with an all-encompassing service offering.
Seef Mall is Muharraq s latest venture which has only recently opened in the area, and consists of up to 100 shops newly launched, including Wojooh.
PRIME is now proud to announce the successful launch of its new Intellectual Property (IP) Department which is being headed up by Mr. Qusai Al Masri, who holds ten years experience in the IP field. PRIME s new IP department delivers the full range of IP services which includes but is not limited to, copyright and trademark registrations and renewals and all types of patent services. PRIME delivers the highest quality service with the most competitive charges in Bahrain.
Chalhoub Group, a leading player in the world of luxury beauty & fashion, has been one of Designer Shaik s longest customer and believed in the brand during its humble beginnings. Designer Shaik is now one of Wojooh s largest and most successful brands and look to continue its successful long term relationship.
If you have a brand and you want to protect it, or you have an invention and you want to patent it, or you have a query related to IP in any country in the GCC and MENA region, you will find PRIME is a great choice to manage your IP rights throughout.
CEO, Mohammed Al Asfoor was delighted to give a warm welcome to the opening of the new Wojooh Beauty shop in Seef Mall, Muharraq. This wonderful new shop is one of many new points of sale that Designer Shaik has established and is continuing to show fantastic growth, now having presence in over 50 countries with 800 points of sale.
As a gesture of greeting to other members PRIME is offering 10% off their Visa Processing Services for the months of June and July. Please contact PRIME s Centre Manager, Miss Emma Curtis-Smith for more information on +973 1757 0379.
Muharraq is Bahrain s third largest city and served as its capital until 1923. It s continuous development in recent years has turned the city into becoming a successful business centre with the development of luxury islands, apartments, hotels and shopping malls.
Entrepreneurship Centre ready to open Bahrain Polytechnic aims to open the doors of its first off-campus facility once the infrastructure fit-out is completed. Situated on the first floor of Bahrain Development Bank (BDB) Riyadat Incubator, the Entrepreneurship Centre covers 500m2 of floor space and will include training rooms, a creativity room and preincubation space for Bahrain Polytechnic students.
The Riyadat centre shows the positive relationship and the on-going commitment between two organizations, both dedicated to developing Entrepreneurship. The intention will be that the space will provide an ideal off-campus location to foster and grow the enterprise ideas of our students and the local communities at pre-incubation stages and to develop the participants capacity for entrepreneurship.
The signing of an MOU between the Polytechnic and BDB in 2013 allowed a platform for the Polytechnic to provide support to BDB for training, mentorship and seminars for Bahrain s entrepreneurship communities. Over the past twelve months there have been several collaborations between Bahrain Polytechnic and the BDB for their clients and our own students through co-facilitation of several BDB Entrepreneurship Orientation Programmes and a Technopreneur Bahrain , and for the incubatees at Riyadat through customized workshops and general mentoring support. Part of the agreed strategy for the coming year will be to continue with these collaborations and to further expand the engagement once the centre opens so that Bahrain Polytechnic can achieve its Mission to produce enterprising graduates but work beyond this to support enterprise in Bahrain. Forum 49
Bahrain News
Unisono Expands Regional Footprint with Recent Client Wins Unisono, one of the region s most highly awarded creative consultancies, has been successfully growing its regional client portfolio with new business wins of key branding and design projects across the GCC from Kuwait and UAE to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Commenting on the wins, Unisono s Director of Strategy Amy Morgan says: We are delighted to be working with such brilliant new clients. We share their passion for doing exciting work and love the ambition they have for their brands. One of the region s most dynamic Islamic banking brands, Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB), has assigned Unisono for several key communications and branding projects. The consultancy is working closely with ADIB and has previously developed the award-winning Arab Link brand and its spin off product, Money Mo.
Hussain Al-Nemer and Sons has appointed Unisono to form a new identity for their real estate project Jawharat al Hadi in Hasa in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. The project s size is 1,228,969 square meters with more than 1,300 plots. The roll-out of the comprehensive communications strategy resulted in a complete sellout on the first day of the launch event. ENPAC, a part of Khonaini International Co. Ltd, provides general contracting, construction management and designbuild services for the private and public sector. Unisono is responsible for delivery of integrated brand development services for an exciting new project in the Eastern Province consisting of several new brands. Lamar Holding recently completed its own strategic brand development project with Unisono and on the foundation of this success has again commissioned the agency to develop the brand strategy and corporate identity solution for a further subsidiary company based in Saudi Arabia.
New Partner hire boosts Construction Law expertise in Bahrain Charles Russell Speechlys, a leading international law firm in the Gulf, has confirmed the appointment of Paula Boast as a new Partner within its thriving Construction practice. Paula will build on the practice and offer expert advice across the sector, at a time where construction projects are gaining real momentum across the region. Paula will act on behalf of government and regulatory clients, project employers and developers, lenders and investors, contractors, subcontractors and consultants. Charles Russell Speechlys has a market leading construction practice in Bahrain reflecting the significant growth of the sector, and Paula s skills and expertise will be used to advise key clients including Bahrain Airport, where the team have been involved in the work to modernize the Airport s facilities, and Diyar Al Muharraq, one of the leading developers in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Charles Russell Speechlys real estate and construction experience has reached new heights in 2015. The firm recently advised on the single largest contract in terms of both size and value when it advised long standing client, Diyar Al Muharraq, on the development of social and affordable housing with the 50 Forum
Ministry of Housing of the Government of Bahrain. The value of the project is in excess of USD 1 billion. Paula has considerable experience as a Construction lawyer and has advised on a number of construction projects in Bahrain and across the Middle East. Paula s previous clients have included Bahrain Airport, King Abdullah Medical City and the Bahrain National Assembly, and she also assisted the Bahrain Ministry of Works in the drafting and publication of its Standard Suite of Construction Contracts in 2009. Paula is the Bahrain Country Coordinator for the Society of Construction Law (Gulf) having previously sat on the SCL Council in the UK. She is also currently the Vice Chair of Bahrain British Business Forum (BBBF). Simon Green, Partner and Head of Real Estate Middle East commented: We are delighted to announce the appointment of Paula to our growing Construction team especially at a time when the sector is experiencing such significant growth across the region. Paula s extensive experience in the legal sector will be a huge asset to our firm, and ensure the growth and development of the practice. The construction law market is highly
competitive in the Gulf region, but such a huge hire, the calibre of Paula s appointment, represents a serious statement of intent by the firm, and we look forward to working with her. Paula Boast, Partner and Head of Construction, Middle East commented: Charles Russell Speechlys is a regional leader in the Construction and Real Estate sector and I look forward to working closely with the team to ensure positive momentum and growth within the practice as well as the wider firm. With such a thriving construction sector in Bahrain, this is a very exciting time to be joining Charles Russell Speechlys, and I hope to be able to share my industry knowledge and expertise to further the success of the firm.
Almoayed Wilhelmsen exhibit at BIAD-MECL sustainable airport development and strategic planning, multimodal logistics, airport mobility, air cargo regulation and boosting the Kingdom s capabilities as a regional warehousing and transport hub. The forum also featured a combination of speeches, presentations and panel discussions with an esteemed lineup of speakers from Bahrain and the global arena, including key representatives from the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, Bahrain s Civil Aviation Affairs, Bahrain Logistics Zone, the International Air Transport Association, Bahrain Airport Company, Lockheed Martin, Rockwell Collins, Munich Airport, SITA, GMR Airports and ThyssenKrupp Airport Services.
Almoayed Wilhelmsen Limited recently attended the Bahrain International Airport Development and Middle East Cargo and Logistics Conference & Exhibition 2015. BIAD MECL 2015 took place in Manama on the 1st and 2nd of April 2015 at the Gulf Convention Centre with more than 30 exhibitors, 200 international delegates and 1500 trade visitors attending the event. The topics of discussion focused on airport and logistics developments in the region as engines of economic growth with special emphasis on airport technology integration,
In addition to being an ideal networking platform, the event also served to showcase the Kingdom s ambitious airport-modernisation plans and to reiterate the country s significance as a strategic access point to the Gulf s trilliondollar market, highlighting Bahrain international airport s unparalleled regional connectivity and competitiveness as a major multimodal logistics hub. Founded in 1976, as a joint venture between the A.K. Almoayed Group and Wilh. Wilhelmsen, today Almoayed Wilhelmsen Ltd. is a leading local service provider of integrated shipping, logistics and maritime services, more specifically serving various major aerospace customers through our partnership with DB Schenker.
Forum 51
Bahrain News
Budget Rent-a-Car teams up with the DHL Barbarians and Bahrain RFC as part of the DHL s Annual Memorial Match The DHL Barbarians, the world s leading Logistics Company s rugby team, and Bahrain RFC played in April at the Bahrain Rugby Club premises in Janabiyah. Team members flew from across the GCC and UK to take part in the annual memorial event and raise funds for local and international charities. DHL s Memorial Match is in line with the core value system of the company where giving back to communities it operates in is a vital element of DHL s corporate social responsibility. Budget Rent-a-Car teamed up with the event to prove what was to be a very enjoyable all-day event for all. Supporting the local activities in Bahrain whilst also recognizing that all proceeds go to local and international charities meant that we had no hesitation supporting the event said Dominic Hagerty, Group Sales and Marketing Manager, Fakhro Transport. The annual DHL Memorial Match was started in 2009 to honor the fallen DHL employees who sadly lost their lives whilst working in Kabul, Afghanistan in October 2008. The match is played annually to help raise funds for local and international charities. All proceeds from the weekend event will go to charities in Bahrain, Afghanistan and the UK, including the Abdul Rahman High School in Kabul, the Teenage Cancer Trust, The BPSCA, the Bahrain Red Crescent Society, The Christian Cemetery in Salmabad and Bahrain s very own Dogfather, who runs a rescue centre for animals.
BANZ Group Begins Transformation And Change Workshops Jason Smith, Chief Executive, led the senior management team of BANZ Group in an intensive three day workshop. This is the first in a series of modules for 25 leaders and managers at the BANZ Group over coming months. These workshops have been specifically designed for BANZ Group by SteppingStone Global following initial analysis through a series of confidential and in-depth interviews with the C suite, directors, management and key staff. Jason Smith said: We are delighted with the first days of our development work with SteppingStone Global. I am particularly pleased with the 52 Forum
Back row from right: Shafeeq Ahmed, COO; Charl Rossouw, GM; Jason Smith, CEO; David Richter, Country Manager, Mike Munhuwei, CFO; Yashodhan Abhyankar, Warehouse and IT Manager; Mike Orlov, SSG. Front row from right: Husnia Karimi, Group HR and Compliance Manager; Hameeda Al Saegh, Operations Manager
way the senior management team have thrown themselves in to this initiative. Mike Orlov, Partner at
SteppingStone Global added: It has been a privilege to develop this programme, working closely with such a committed group of people.
The BANZ team is keen to get as much as possible out of the work and has made a great start on this programme.
Primedia International expands its digital offerings
International media solutions company, Primedia International, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with European-based Google certified partner tp and Bahrain-based digital agency Urbansoft Technologies. The recent partnerships are part of Primedia s digital strategy, where the company will now offer Google Adwords, website development and social media management. Primedia Chief Operating Officer, Sohail Nawaz said: These partnerships are pivotal to the next phase of Primedia s product offering to the SME market . Being able to assist SME s to win new clients on the internet via Google AdWords, building responsive websites to facilitate this and then creating communities of loyal clients for our clients signals the next phase in our overall vision of connecting buyers with sellers globally . tp. - A fully accredited online marketing agency, has been specialising exclusively in
SME marketing for close to 20 years. They have been exploring ways to expand their footprint in to the GCC market after Sohail Nawaz successfully helped them to expand from Europe into New Zealand and Australia before leaving to take up his post with Primedia International. tp. CEO, Simon Zacharias said: tp. is delighted to be working closely with Sohail once again and his new organisation Primedia International. Working in collaboration we will be able to provide effective digital media solutions to SME s. Both organisations are committed to offering the most cost effective digital media solutions across the GCC and eventually the MENA region. Urbansoft Technologies is an innovative web marketing company with a passion for the web, for design, for sales and marketing and for business development. We are very excited to be working together towards facilitating digital business transformations for our clients, added Mr. Sohail. Forum 53
FedEx Pledges $1 Million in Aid to Support Relief of Nepal Earthquake Disaster Transporting on behalf of Direct Relief large volumes of IV solutions, medicines, surgical supplies, and other medical essentials requested and approved by Nepal s Ministry of Health and Population. Sponsoring Heart to Heart International s mobile medical clinic, which contains tents, vital medicines, medical supplies, portable medical equipment, communication equipment, non-perishable food and water purification systems.
FedEx Corp. has committed approximately $1 million in cash, transportation support and a chartered flight to deliver critical medical aid and supplies to Nepal in the wake of the recent devastating earthquake. The Memphis-based global transportation and logistics company is mobilizing its disaster relief programme through its existing relationships with Direct Relief, Heart to Heart International, Water Missions International, American Red Cross and The Salvation Army. FedEx is committed to responding to the aftermath of the earthquake in Nepal, said Frederick W. Smith, chairman and CEO of FedEx Corp. Working together with international relief organisations, we are utilizing our global transportation network to assist in this massive recovery effort. Through the company s monetary and transportation contribution, FedEx will transport life-saving medical supplies and medicines, shelter, and water treatment systems to Nepal. Specific contributions include:
Transporting 12 large Living Water Treatment Systems, 31 potable water chlorinators and 12 large water tanks on behalf of Water Missions International. Combined, these systems will provide fresh water for up to 370,000 people per day. Providing a $250,000 cash donation to the American Red Cross, which works directly with the Nepal Red Cross Society. Presenting The Salvation Army with a $50,000 cash donation. In response to enormous human tragedy in Nepal, Direct Relief is working to ensure that more lives are not put at risk by providing emergency medical aid to the country s Ministry of Health and to local partners we have worked with for several years, said Thomas Tighe, president and CEO of Direct Relief. The extraordinary step FedEx has taken in making this aircraft and its amazing team available is a powerful force-multiplier to the humanitarian effort underway.
Entrepreneurs Organisation (EO) Bahrain reveals the latest results of the Global Entrepreneur Indicator research project The latest survey results from the Entrepreneurs Organisation s (EO) Global Entrepreneur Indicator research project report once again an optimistic outlook among Bahrain s entrepreneurial firms with business revenue and the number of full-time employees expected to increase over the forthcoming months.
EO Bahrain chapter president Safa Sharif says: The current results are very much like the results of the survey that was done in September 2014, which shows overall stability in the business mood. The survey presents 57.14% increase in the number of fulltime employees and a forecast of 75% for the upcoming 6 months, with 60.71% indicating an increase in business revenues and 70.37% expecting this to continue in the coming 6 months, slightly lower than the global feeling but it still shows optimism and progress. It adds that 44.83% predict continued improvement in the country s economy and 75,86% of EO Bahrain respondents report a willingness to start a business in their current economic environment. 54 Forum
Despite the optimism, the result still shows that the access to capital and debt instruments remain weak, this remaining the same will hinder growth of new ventures and indicates a remaining conservative approach from the money holders and lenders in the country , adds Sharif. The Global Entrepreneur Indicator (GEI) is conducted on a bi-annual basis and taps into the minds of the world s leading business owners to identify trends in the world and local economy. It predicts the economic outlook of the global business landscape, and is a reflection of nearly 6,000 entrepreneurs in 46 countries. The Bahrain Chapter of the Entrepreneurs Organization (EO) was established in 2004 and currently has 47 members who collectively employ over 5,700 employees and whose businesses have a combined turnover of US$200 million in annual revenue. Members of EO Bahrain are involved in various market sectors from apparel and accessories through to web design. For membership information, please email membership@eobahrain.com, visit the EO Bahrain website at http://eobahrain.com or find us on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/EOBahrain
Angus Campbell appointed the CEO at Bahrain Financial Harbour The Bahrain Financial Harbour has appointed Mr Angus Campbell as the new CEO of both the Bahrain Financial Harbour Holding Company and the Financial Centre Development Company. Mr. Campbell has extensive real estate investment and asset management experience gained in the UK, the GCC and Sub-Saharan Africa. He became a member of UK s Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors in 1987 following his graduation with a BSc Hons in Estate Management from Heriot-Watt University in 1984. He obtained an RICS Post Graduate Diploma in Property Investment from The College of Estate Management in 1995. Mr. Campbell has taken over from Mr. Ahmed Ebrahim Al Moataz, who continues as a board member of BFHHC and FCDC. Mr. Campbell said BFH would seek to improve service levels offered to existing tenants and to attract new tenants looking for prestige office and commercial space. Mr. Campbell elaborates: The Financial Centre at Bahrain Financial Harbour is the premier go-to business address set in the heart of Manama. A distinctive and highly prominent landmark on Bahrain s skyline, it is one of the most desirable business destinations in the GCC, purpose-built to meet the exacting requirements of global financial services firms. It symbolises Bahrain s dynamic economy and liberal business environment. The largest office building in the Kingdom, the Financial Centre offers a first class office space with intelligent technology, secure facilities, unrivalled panoramic views and generous parking. The Financial Centre comprises more than 100,000 square metres of Grade A office space within two towers each of 52 floors. The adjoining Harbour Mall offers a range of space for commercial
and business support services as well as retail and F&B options. The Harbour Mall provides approximately 22,000m 2 over six floors of commercial and retail space for business support services, shops, restaurants and cafes. There are currently over 3,100 car parking spaces on-site with another 1,250 car spaces under construction due for completion in 2015. There is a dedicated helipad situated on the roof of the Harbour Mall. Prior to joining BFH, Mr. Campbell was Managing Director of LIWAN Capital Advisors Ltd, a real estate investment consultancy based in Dubai. He was Head of Real Estate with a Dubai private equity real estate firm and family office from 2012 to 2014 sourcing and advising on potential real estate investment and asset management opportunities across the GCC and East Africa. He was Director of Asset Management with a development management firm in Qatar in 2011 advising Barwa Real Estate on asset management policies and procedures across its entire real estate development portfolio. Mr. Campbell moved to the Gulf Region from the UK in 2008 following his appointment as Investment Director of Dubai based private equity real estate firm managing a portfolio of commercial property assets in Dubai. Preceding his move to the Gulf, Mr. Campbell has held a number of senior positions within market leading firms including Ryden and Knight Frank.
Forum 55
Check out list
And Finally
Summer is a period when contracts often come to an end and families use the holiday period to move on to their next home. If you’re leaving Bahrain this summer hopefully the following checklist may be of some assistance. Bank Accounts, Credit Cards & Loans Remember to clear all your debts before you leave. Non payment of a debt is a criminal offence and could result in an arrest and possibly a prison sentence. If you have outstanding debts you may not be able to leave the country or you may be stopped and arrested if you try to come back to or even transit through Bahrain. Cancel any Credit Cards, loans and overdraftswith the bank. It can take up to 2 months to complete all the paperwork. Close bank accounts as they are no longer required Request a bank clearance letter for your employer. Leave a forwarding 56 Forum
check what cover you need for belongings being shipped. Cars and Possesions
address for future correspondence Employment & Visa If your contract is coming to an end you may need to handover your passport temporarily to your employer in order for them to cancel your residence visa. Failure to do so could delay your departure or mean that you are marked on the immigration system as an absconder. Request your gratuity payout statement and pament from your employer. Please be advised that the Embassy does not get involved in employment disputes and you may need to seek assistance from a lawyer in where they are disagreements. Return cards.
medical
Accommodation Give notice to your landlord in accordance with your lease.
Sell your car before you leave or leave power of attorney with a friend or colleague to sell it for you. If you do use a power of attorney you will need to see a local lawyer to advise you on this.
Collect any deposits outstanding from the utility and phone companies.
quotes for Get removals. It can take up to 6 weeks to ship your belongings back to the UK.
Cancel contracts with mobile phone, internet, and TV providers.
Decide what you are taking with you and what you will leave behind.
Cancel any local doorstep deliveries.
Organise a sale to dispose of the rest of your possesions or contact one of the specialists that can arrange a house clearance service.
Cancel your home contents insurance policy at an appropriate date and