BBBForum 2018 Summer edition

From The Chair

Khalid Al-Zayani OBE Chairman Welcome to the Summer edition of the BBBF magazine. We have had a very busy first half of the year with numerous events, lunches and SIG meetings.

We are delighted that the Forum members always enthusiastically partake and support these activities we organise.

A number of you will shortly be taking a well-earned opportunity to visit the UK and cooler climates on your summer holidays. After the summer break, we will kick off again with Back to Business in September with a full program lined up for you. We start off with the Minister of EWA, HE Dr A.Hussain Bin Ali Mirza as our VIP guest guest speaker at our Business Networking Lunch Meeting on the 18th September. Please visit our website www.bbbforum.org for more on our events and meetings program.

Today, the BBBF is still an integral contributor to the great relationship between Bahrain and the UK. Since its beginning the BBBF has been members of the Arab British Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) to promote trade relations between the UK and Bahrain, as well as promoting Bahrain as a regional centre for business. We work in close cooperation with the British Embassy in Bahrain to organise business related events and provide information regarding the latest business functions and trade exhibitions. We are grateful to H.E. Simon Martin CMG and the entire team at the British Embassy for their continued support.

As well as the collaboration with the embassy, the BBBF signed an MOU with the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry in 2010. This MOU was signed with a mutual desire to cooperate and coordinate both organisations efforts to activate the role of the private sector in attracting foreign investment, and strengthening relationships between the private sector in the Kingdom of Bahrain and the UK. The BBBF aims to promote trade and investment

The next edition of the BBBForum magazine is scheduled for the Autumn.

A full page advert is charged at only BD330 and a half page at BD200.

Please contact the compiler, Andrew Mead on 0044 7940 55 99 25 or andrew@sbtd.co.uk if you’d like to appear

Registration number ISSN 1985-9929

between Bahrain and Britain in a non-discriminatory, non-political and non-profit making manner. The forum is widely recognized both in Bahrain and the UK as a leading impartial business sector group. The BBBF works to create and sustain a favourable business environment and strives to assist and introduce new trade and investment to both countries to benefit and enhance the common economic interests of the forum s member companies.

Since the introduction of the Special Interest Groups (SIGs) in 2009 which have increased from the original four to nine.

The SIGs offer members and guests a valuable medium for exchanging industry specific ideas and discussing issues relevant to a particular sector and continue to go from strength to strength and are now an integral and widely respected component of the BBBF. Our sponsors 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 the events that we organise for your benefit and enjoyment.

As we move into the Summer holiday period we do hope that you enjoy this edition of the Forum magazine and that you have a relaxing and enjoyable Summer, in Bahrain or wherever that may take you. The Committee look forward to seeing you, and your guests, at forthcoming BBBF events.

Kind Regards Khalid Al Zayani OBE

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

Contents Executive Committee....2 Welcome to New Members..............3 Advertiser Index............5 Diary Dates...................5 Member Benefits ..........6 Why join the BBBF? .....7 From Her Majesty s Ambassador.................8 SIG Update ...............10 SIG ICT ......................11 SIG Oil & Gas & Energy...... 11 SIG Legal ...................11 Financial Sector VAT Update ................14 News from the EP ......16 Health Matters............18 Hotel & Leisure News .20 Bahrain News .............22 Crown Prince in the UK ....................28

Cover Picture: The Crown Prince, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister taking the Passing out Parade Salute at Dartmouth s Britannia Royal Naval College. See page 28 Forum

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The 2017-19 BBBF Executive Committee

Chairman Khalid Al Zayani OBE

Deputy Chair Paula Boast Tel: 3319 4445

Hon-Secretary Ben Elsworth Mob: 3633 1167

Treasurer Jonathan Trafankowski Mob: 3914 8599

Member Nasser Al Arayedh Tel: 1727 2575

Member Mazen Alumran Tel: 1771 5555

Member Adel Fakhro Tel: 1727 5000

Embassy Representative Mohamed Ismail Tel: 1757-4124

Member Mark Gravener Tel: 3976-6565

Member Ava Garbutt Tel: 3941 1938

Executive Manager Dena Wales Tel: 3969 6191

This edition of the BBBF Forum magazine was compiled by Andrew Mead at Mead Management Services Ltd. email: andrew@sbtd.co.uk UK Mob: 0044 7940 559 925 Bahrain Mobile: 00973 3627 2969 KSA Mob: 00966 506 271 151 If you would like to contribute to a future edition please telephone or send an email to info@sbtd.co.uk A full page advert is charged at BD330.

A half page advert at BD200, A quarter page advert at BD110 A small panel at BD55 Assistance with Advert design is available if required Please note: The BBBF nor its agents do not warrant the services of any of the individual or corporate members of the BBBF. The views and opinions expressed by independent contributors must not be regarded as those of the BBBF or its agents.

Publication of any article or advertisement does not imply any endorsement of the views, products or services described therein.

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Welcome to New Members Ahmed Al Saegh Infonas Head, Government Liaison and Business Strategy Tel: 1750-0170 Mob: 3333-1139 ahmed.alsayegh@infonas.com

Mark Carpenter MARKSON Specialist Services Technical Manager Tel: 3399-7841 Mob: 3934-4710 marksonservices@gmail.com

Amjed Alfaraj Hill & Knowlton Strategies Senior Account Executive Tel: 1753-3532 Mob: 3959-5402 amjed.alfaraj@hkstrategies.com

Emlyn Anthony Conlon Al-Hilal Enterprises Co. Projects & Design Manager Tel: 1759-0006 Mob: 3235-5444 emlyn@primeproj.com

Michael James Ammitzboll Al-Hilal Enterprises Co. Operations Manager Tel: 1759-0006 Mob: 3963-8671 mike@primeproj.com

Christopher Core Al-Hilal Enterprises Co. Chartered Construction Manager Tel: 1759-0006 Mob: 3948-4381 christophercore@hotmail.com

Eman Bakri KSI - Consultants & Public Accountants Audit Manager Tel: 1783-1171 Mob: 3439-8819 eman@ksi-me.com

Piumi De Silva KSI - Consultants & Public Accountants Senior Auditor Tel: Mob: 3416-4532 info@ksi-me.com

Esmahan Bokhowa Bokhowa Group Managing Director Tel: 1779-0203 Mob: 3887-7770 esmahan@saarmalbahrain.com

Ashraf Eid GULF HOTELS GROUP Director of Business Development & Strategy Tel: 17 71-3000 Mob: 3600-0998 ashraf.eid@gulfhotelbahrain.com

Riyadh H Bokhowa Bokhowa Group Group Managing Director Tel:q1725-9980 Mob: 3997-7779 / 3941-1112 riyadh@bokhowagroup.com

Mazen El Jardali Majestic Arjaan by Rotana General Manager Tel: 1737-0000 Mob: 3223-1336 mazen.jardali@rotana.com

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Welcome to New Members

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Geoff Fennah Procyon Group Partner Tel: +966-500-186-638 Mob: 966-500-186-638 geoff@procyon-group.com

Rob Kerry AXA Insurance (Gulf) BSC Š Senior Retail and SME Manager Tel: 1758-4538 Mob: 3966-5182 rob.kerry@axa-gulf.com

Kirsty Fielding Delmon Rehabilitation Chief Executive Officer Tel: 3323-2465 Mob: 3323-2465 kirstyfielding81@gmail.com

Ciaran Lynch Impact Estate WLL Head of Property Management Tel: 1753-5111 Mob: 3614-2555 ciaran@impact-estate.com

Chris Geraghty Royal Golf Club General Manager Tel: 1775-0777 Mob: 97339664038 cgeraghty@troon.com

Irshad Mahmood Deloitte and Touche - Middle East Partner Tel: 1721-4490 Mob: 3602-0261 imahmood@deloitte.com

Ollie Hunt Devteam Ltd Managing Director Mob: +44-7931-818-383 ollie@devteam.co.uk

Fahad Malik Unisono Account Manager Tel: 1755-8782 Mob: 3777-0555 fahad@unisonoagency.com

Abdulla Rashed Hilal Rashid Isa Al-Hilal Enterprises Co. Director Tel: 1759-0006 Mob: 3990-9090 isa.abdulla@gmail.com

Ijaz Murtaza Ghulam Murtaza and Sons WLL Managing Director Tel: 1724-4041 Mob: 3960-3165 ghulaam.murtaza@gmail.com

Faisal Rashed Hilal Rashed Isa Al-Hilal Enterprises Co. Director Tel: 1759-0006 Mob: 3933-6633 faisal@alhilalenterprises.com

Arunita Praharaj Unisono Account Executive Tel: 1755-8782 Mob: 3711-3539 arunita@unisonoagency.com

Andrew Turner Reza Hygiene Country Manager - Sales Tel: 1766-9125 Mob: 3838-2149 andrew.hygiene@rezagroup.com

Garry Wakefield Garry Wakefield Management Consultants SPC Owner/Principal Tel: 1750-2713 Mob: 3456-7247 garryw@check-right.com

Phil Williams Gulf Brands International General Manager Tel: 1772-8014 Mob: 3655-5205 gm1@gulfbrandsinternational.com

Heba Yousafali Hill & Knowlton Strategies Senior Account Executive Tel: 1753-3532 Mob: 3955-0217 heba.yousafali@hkstrategies.com

Diary Dates Tuesday 18 September Business Networking Lunch meeting Venue: tba 12noon - 2.30pm Saturday 22 September BBBF Annual Corporate Social Golf Day at the Royal Golf Club Tuesday 16 October Business Networking Lunch meeting Venue: tba 12noon - 2.30pm Friday 9 November BBBF/BBA Poppy Ball Venue: tba 7pm - 1am Thursday 6 December Members Annual Christmas Lunch meeting Venue: tba 1pm 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.

Al Hilal Life ...................................................... page 12 British Council ................................................. page 21 Bahrain Financial Harbour Holding Co............ page 27 Cushman & Wakefield..................................... page 23 Etihad Airways................................................. page 17 Mansouri Mansions ......................................... page 20 Nexus ..............................................Inside Front Cover Oasis Training Centre ..................................... page 24 Streetlight Photography..................................... page 5 Y B A Kanoo Group......................... Inside Back Cover To advertise in a future edition of the BBBForum magazine please contact the compiler, Andrew Mead of MMSL on andrew@sbtd.co.uk or call 0044 7940 55 99 25

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Benefits for BBBF Members

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

AXA Insurance 10% discounts to members on personal lines insurances. (excluding medical) Terms & Conditions Apply.

Contact: Jonathan Jane Tel: 1758-8222 Email: jonathan.jane@axa-gulf.com Bateel BBBF Members can enjoy 10% Discount when presenting their Membership Card, Complimentary collection for refilling, Complimentary delivery. Development Managers readily available for a courtesy meeting at your location.

Email: m.shareef@almoayedgeneral.com Contact: Mahboob Shareef Mobile: 3964-4222 BMC BBBF members and Organisations are eligible to a 20% discount on Team/Executive/Board Coaching and accredited Leadership/ Innovation/Business English/Coach Training as well as 10% discount on psychometric profiling.

Contact:- Dr. Clare Beckett-McInroy (Managing Director), Mobile: 3844-2727, email: office@beckett-mcinroy.com British Airways Valid until 31 Dec 2018 ** conditions apply BBBF members can enjoy exclusive discounts of up to 10% on fares from Middle East in Club World business, World Traveller Plus premium economy and World Traveller economy fares on British Airways flights. The discount rate is applicable to round or one-way trips booked before 31 December 2018 and for outbound travel by 31 December 2019. This discount is not valid on taxes, fees and surcharges. Terms and conditions apply To book please login at www.ba.com/bgme-bh GRIP Arabia 10% discount for members on 1-on-1 Executive Coaching, Contact: Kevin Craig Tel: 3619-9980 Email: kevin@griparabia.com Crowne Plaza Hotel valid until 30th December 2018 Special offer for BBBF Members - 20% discount on all Food & Beverage consumption. BBBF Membership Card must be presented at checkout. May not be combined with other offers/discounts. Call 1753-1122 (offer excludes MICE) DHL 25% discount from the cash tariff for any personal shipments being sent from Bahrain to anywhere in the world available on production of your membership card.

Tel: 1736-4100 www.dhl.com.bh Fedex Express Middle East Valid until December 31, 2018 BBBF Members can enjoy a 40% discount* on FedEx rates.

To avail this offer, Drop your shipment in-person at our FedEx Service Center at: GLS Facility, Avenue No.20, Area No. 224, Gate 23, Muharraq. Show your membership card / business card along with a valid ID. Maximum weight for each shipment 68kg See www.fedex.com/bh or call Customer Service: 1733 4448 * conditions apply

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Gulf Computer Services (GCS) IT Health Check. GCS have offered BBBF Members a site survey and assessment of all their computer hardware, software and systems.

Hasan Mansouri 10% discount to members at Mansouri Mansions Hotel and Country Club. Contact: Karim Mansouri Tel: 1772-8144 email: karim@karimmansouri.com InTouch Integrated Chiropractic Spine Centre BBBF Members can avail themselves of a 20% discount on services Tel: 1769-0100 Novotel Bahrain Al Dana Resort BBBF members can enjoy 20% discount in our Restaurants & Lounge for up to 6 persons. Special CPR promotional rates during weekends. Please contact Reservations: 1729-8411/ email: H3600-RE1@accor.com Oasis Training Centre Oasis Training are pleased to offer 10% discount to members on all English, Insurance and Professional Soft skill training programs.

For more information please visit http://www.oasistrainingbh.com, Call: 1733-0823 or email: info@oasistrainingbh.com PRIME Instant Offices & Business Centre 1. 10% off Videoconferences within Business Centre hours; 2. 10 off our Visa Processing services; and 3. One month free for all our Virtual Office packages.

4. 10% off our meeting room rates within centre hours.

Contact Emma Curtis-Smith, Centre Manager Tel: 1757-0379 email: emma@primeinstantoffices.com Protection Insurance Services offers BBBF members special rates on their personal insurance (motor, home, travel and any other insurance cover). Members will just call to select the cover type, share the credit card number and we will deliver the policy documents to his / her office.

Please call 3904-3446 or 3645-4282 Royal Over-Seas League Reduced rates for BBBF members at ROSL clubhouses in London and Edinburgh Email: membership@rosl.org.uk Tel: 0044 20 7408 0214 Fax: 0044 20 7499 6738 Servcorp Business Package First month FREE on any Servcorp Virtual Office package. For details contact: Danni Hunneyball, Assistant Manager Tel: 1750-3000 email: danni.hunneyball@servcorp.me Web: www.servcorp.bh

Why Join The BBBF?

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

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

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

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

BUSINESS between Bahrain and Britain must be promoted in order for Britain to maintain its dominant position. The BBBF has been formed to help in whatever way it can to do this and through its close cooperation with the British Embassy seeks to promote exchange of trade and good relations between Bahrain and Britain.

FORUM Is defined in the Collins English Dictionary as, an assembly or meeting to discuss topics of public concern . The BBBF provides through its monthly meetings a platform for networking amongst its members and the exchange and dissemination of useful business leads and opportunities. In addition, in return for a modest subscription, members receive the benefit of inclusion in an annual directory describing the products and services they have to offer and a listing on the BBBF website again with a description of activities, contact numbers and useful links.

BBBF Membership Application Please complete the membership form and send it to: BBBF Executive Office, Fax: (00973) 1781 3489, or Email: bbbfmemberships@batelco.com.bh.

For further information call (00973) 1781 3488, Web site: www.bbbforum.org

Cost of membership Individual Membership: BD 100 per annum, with an additional BD 40 once-only registration fee.

Corporate Membership: BD 400 per annum (up to 5 individuals) plus BD 40 for each applicant up to a maximum of 10, with an additional BD 100 once-only registration fee.

Corporate Sponsorships Three levels of sponsorship are available: Platinum: BD 5000 each year for three years Gold: BD 5000 for one year Silver: BD 3000 for one year Sponsor packages include a variety of advertisement opportunities in the Membership Directory, the Forum magazine, the BBBF website and at the regular lunch meetings. Full details are available on request.

Corporate Membership please complete separate form for each applicant

Individual Membership

Company Name

Website address of business (if applicable)

Title and full name (Surname first)

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

Position in business Nationality

Date of Birth

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

Facsimile

Home telephone

Mobile

E-mail address

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

Applicants Signature

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

Date

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From Her Majesty's Ambassador The full heat of the Summer sun is finally upon us after a mercifully long period of Spring weather. As I write the UK are also sharing an unexpected heatwave, and colleagues in London are keen to boast of temperatures of 30 degrees, but I can almost hear their jaws drop when we tell them about the heat we are now experiencing.

But while the weather is heating up, there is still no sign of our activity slowing down, with our bilateral relationship or within the Community.

As I am writing this, the Embassy is currently hosting the annual visit of a group of married Hindu ladies who, at this time of year, come to perform a traditional ceremony around our amazing, some might say enchanted, Banyan tree. The ladies are from the nearby 200 year old Hindu temple community – a wonderful testament to Bahrain’s religious diversity. Banyan trees are supported and strengthened by an amazing root system which is constantly developing, invisibly below ground and visibly above it. This, it seems to me, is symbolic of our relationship with Bahrain: our histories and connections have

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been intertwined and developed for over 200 years, but we need to ensure that we continue to nurture and appreciate these for them to continue to flourish.

It was been a busy spring for UK-Bahrain commercial relations, starting with involvement from the Embassy in the Unbound Bahrain start-ups initiative in March. Entrepreneurship is a key area of focus for us, and I was pleased to host the opening reception of the Unbound Bahrain Start-Ups Festival at the Embassy. The initiative, led by UK-based company, Unbound, and supported by the Bahrain Economic Development Board and STARTUP Bahrain as part of the wider Bahrain Start-Ups Week, provided a key platform for Bahraini and international entrepreneurs in the field of disruptive technology to connect with key investors, corporates and influential speakers.

Our continued close ties were clearly evident in April when we were visited by the Duke of York. Although only here for a short while the Duke made it clear that he wanted to make good use of his time, and we took him at his word, managing to include 7 engagements covering many of our priority areas:

Firstly Security: accompanied by HRH The Crown Prince, the Duke performed the official opening of the completed UK Naval Support Facility in Mina Salman, representing our first permanent military presence east of Suez since the closure of the former HMS Jufair in 1971.

April also saw us hosting Her Majesty Queen s Birthday Party in the Embassy gardens, and we were blessed not only with pleasant weather, but by the presence of some 600 guests, including three senior members of the Royal family. This year Shaikh Mohammed bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa was our Guest of Honour and was greeted by a Royal Navy Honour Guard before delivering a moving speech in honour of Her Majesty on her 92nd birthday.

At the end of April, the Department for International Trade in Bahrain led an inward visit to the UK by a senior Bahrain delegation, showcasing UK excellence in the field of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and promoting opportunities for collaboration between our two countries in this area.

Secondly Education: celebrating two key partnerships between the UK and Bahrain in the field of education, which remains an active sector of engagement for UK organisations in the Kingdom. Firstly, HRH the Duke of York witnessed the official launch of the partnership between the British University of Bahrain (BUB) partnership between the University of Salford. The collaboration will represent the opening of the first fully British operated university campus in the Kingdom of Bahrain, due to open and accept its first cohort of students in September this year. Secondly, the Duke attended a ceremony to mark the cooperation between the University of Huddersfield, of which His Royal Highness is Chancellor, with Bahrain s Royal Academy of Police for the delivery of a Master s Programme in Security Science.

And not forgetting Innovation: His Royal Highness visited the fascinating Fintech Bay to meet the young tech entrepreneurs, followed by Pitch @ Palace, the Duke of York s own initiative to support entrepreneurs by providing them with the best opportunities to access mentors and advisers, distribution systems and supply chains, connections and investment.

An incredibly exciting event saw over 90 applications, with 12 sucessful entrepreneurs reaching the final event hosted at a transformed Riffa Fort with the three winning companies receiving invitations to attend Pitch @ Palace Global which will take place at St. James s Palace, London in December 2018.

In May, we were busy with visits again, this time welcoming Dr Liam Fox, the Secretary of State for International Trade, demonstrating again the strength and importance that the UK places in its relationship with Bahrain. Dr Fox attended a series of high level meetings with government ministries, as well as private audiences with H.R.H. The Prime Minister and H.R.H The Crown Prince in which they discussed exploring new opportunities for cooperation in trade and investment.

Also in May we saw significant engagement from UK organisations in the Gateway Gulf Investor Forum 2018 hosted by the Bahrain Economic Development Board. My trade team at the Embassy hosted a visit by regional UK Export Finance representatives, who attended the forum with a view to support UK companies and further explore potential links and support for UK exports in Bahrain.

Finally, to end a busy and exciting Q2, the Bapco Modernisation Programme-UK Export Finance Exporter Fair took place in London s Queen Elizabeth II Centre on 28th June. Jointly arranged by UKEF, Bapco and the project s EPC contractors, the event provided UK companies with the opportunity to meet representatives from Bapco and EPC contractors, and outlined the procurement process for UK companies to EPC suppliers. I was hugely pleased to see this event go ahead as it represent excellent collaboration between UKEF and BAPCO designed to increase the UK content in this vital project. It is also a concrete example of the recent transformation in UKEF as an Export Credit Agency.

For more information on how UKEF is helping British-based companies exploit project opportunites in Bahrain, please contact Mohamed Ismail, our Head of Department of International Trade (DIT) or one of his team.

As we look forward to summer holidays and then to a busy autumn with an earlier Manama Dialogue this year and a number of planned visits in both directions, Sophie and I always look forward to events both formal and informal, held by the BBBF and hope to see you and your guests at one of them soon. In the meantime, for the English and those who support England, I join you in harbouring just a tinge of hope that football might - just might - be coming home ..

Simon Martin H. M. Ambassador Forum

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SIG - Update Summer is indeed here and there s denying it, whether you are in Bahrain or experiencing the 1976 beating summer of 2018 in the UK. Nonetheless, the business community here continues to be highly active with many initiatives continuing a pace. We all know how critical it is that Bahrain builds on the good news, while economic reform develops and the summer can be no excuse!

I am grateful to two of our SIG groups who squeezed in events late in June. Our Legal SIG team presented a session on the new FIDIC contracts, welcomed by many from the construction industry. Newton Legal hosted the event with their usual blend of professionalism, quality and ability to identify the prescient issues in

the market! They were ably supported by an excellent panel including CRS, AECOM and Newton Rose, thank you to them also.

Jean and Mike from SteppingStone Global hosted the latest Business Networking event under the Organisation Effectiveness banner.

Much fun was evident and most attendees left with a plethora of new contacts.

We are in the midst of some interesting research on our event attendance at the moment and will be publishing this for you in the autumn. However, at this stage I can tell you that over 800 people have attended our SIG events in the last 15 months, with an almost even split between members and guests.

It is clear that a healthy percentage

Mark Gravener Chair of SIG Heads of our members attend these events, whilst some have never tried one.

I strongly encourage you to rectify this as we go forward, with events and activities specifically targeted at the local and UK based business communities, based on detailed feedback.

I look forward to a busy program in the September December months and as always, welcome your suggestions and ideas

SIG - ICT Supported by the Economic Development Board, Bahrain British Business Forum s (BBBF) Special Interest Group for Information Communications & Technology (ICT), in collaboration with DEV TEAM and Magento, hosted a panel discussion on the future of eCommerce in the GCC. 40+ members and their guests attended the event at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel in Manama.

The industry expert panel consisted of merchants that are making a success of eCommerce in the region. The discussion provided insights and a learning opportunity from industry leaders that are engaged in eCommerce and omni-channel retail.

Mark Gravener, Chair of BBBF s SIGs, opened the meeting and Ollie Hunt, Managing Director of DEV TEAM moderated the discussion. The panellists were Stephanie Kershaw (Magento), Mohammed Sajjad (eXtra), Pavlos Babiolakis (Alosra Supermarket), Mark Warman (East Innovations) and Faezeh Faiz (Maison Du Maillot). The panellists shared their knowledge and experience in building and running successful eCommerce operations in the GCC. 10 Forum

Above: (L to R) Pavlos Babiolakis, Faezeh Fais, Mark Warman, Stephanie Kershaw, Ollie Hunt, Khalid Al Zayani, Paula Boast, Mazen Alumram, Mark Gravener, Mohammed Sajjad.

Ollie Hunt commented: eCommerce and omni-channel retail in the GCC come with their own unique challenges. With a host of eCommerce platforms available, payment gateways and delivery partners to manage, it can become challenging for business owners to make the right decisions for their business. We are pleased to share our know-how with individuals and companies looking to take their business digital, and those interested in getting involved with and managing their company s eCommerce operations.

Topics discussed included the current and future state of local, regional and international eCommerce, and how to build an eCommerce strategy, effective team and partnerships for digital success. How to determine t h e r i g h t p l a t f o r m f o r d i ff e re n t types of businesses, as well as the barriers to online success and how to overcome them were also deliberated upon.

SIG - Oil, Gas & Energy

Sponsored by

The Worlds Energy Mix is Changing

In order to address this critical need, Bahrain aims to source 5% of the country s electricity consumption via renewable energy resources by 2025 and the private sector will play a pivotal role in helping the Government achieve this objective.

Renewable Energy applications have already seen the Request for Concept Tender for a 100 megawatt Solar Power Plant and there are further plans for a significant Waste-to-Energy plant in Tubli which will convert Bio-Sludge and other Municipal Waste into Electricity utilizing a Sustainable Thermal Conversion process which is widely used in Europe and North America therefore reducing the reliance on harmful landfilling. Converting

SIG Chair - Mark Gravener Banking & Finance -Arshad Gadit, David Parker, Melika Betley

The world s energy mix is evolving, which has created a greater focus on affordable and renewable energy sources.

The Bahrain 2030 Economic Vision, which was launched in October 2008

by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, is a comprehensive economic vision for Bahrain, providing a clear direction for the continued development of the Kingdom s economy and at its heart, is a key shared objective of building a better life for Bahrain s citizens.

SIG Heads as at February 2018

Projects & Construction Emyr Rowlands, Simon Baines, Gary Laing Hospitality, Leisure & Tourism Rodney Davis, Anna Marie Dowling Simon Bromyard BBBF Oil, Gas & Energy SIG Chairman Waste-to-Energy provides an efficient Baseload power source which is highly efficient whilst also providing a cleaner environment as harmful emissions are eliminated.

Last year, the Government of Bahrain introduced the National Energy Efficiency Plan and the National Renewable Energy Plan, supported by the elected Sustainable Energy Unit (SEU). The SEU is tasked with accelerating development across the country s energy sector and facilitating investment into renewable energy. In leading the BBBF O&G and Energy Special Interest Group (SIG), OAK Group Holdings intends to continue to promote the Kingdom s Renewable Energy objectives by sharing important technical and commercial experiences and in doing so aims to sponsor the next event sometime in September when the

ICT Ravi Jayasundera, Mike Jackson Legal Aamal Al Abassi, Nicholas Williams Sumana Abdulkarim, Oil, Energy & Gas Simon Bromyard Organisational Effectiveness Mike Orlov Women in Business Georgina Munnik, Emila Mateva Young Professionals Ava Garbutt, Daniel Edwin

majority of us will have returned from our respective summer holidays, coinciding with further details of the pioneering Tubli Waste-to-Energy Project!

Wishing you all a safe and enjoyable Summer 2018.

SIG - Legal Newton Legal Group, which heads the Legal SIG at the BBBF hosted a panel discussion at the Capital Club in June to highlight the recent changes to the most widely used construction industry standard FIDIC contract forms and their effect on the industry.

FIDIC has been long renowned for its flexible suite of standard forms of contract for use in international construction engineering projects.

The key strengths of the FIDIC suite of contracts are that they: are capable of use across a diverse range of legal systems; have been proactively updated to respond to the needs of the industry; have a fair and balanced risk approach (with the exception of the Silver Book)

and finally, the fact that they are tried and tested contracts.

Sumana Abdulkarim, Senior Associate at Newton Legal Group, moderated the discussion. The expert Sumana Abdulkarim Aamal Al Abbasi panel of leading legal and Joint SIG Chair Joint SIG Chair engineering practitioners were Paula Boast (Partner at Charles forms and their implications. The Russell Speechlys), Joanne Taqi (Partner panellists also provided their views from at Norton Rose Fulbright), and Ian Lunt- a legal and technical perspective.

Bell (Principal Engineer at Aecom).

Newton Legal Group is planning on Questions about FIDIC s new standard hosting its next Legal SIG event after forms of contracts were put to the panel the summer, on the new Bankruptcy who clarified the common themes to Law that was recently passed in the changes in the different standard Bahrain.

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Youth & Financial Planning

‘It is not possible for civilisation to flow backwards while there is youth in the world’ - Helen Keller Our youth, whether it is children in the early stages of growth or young adults in the second decade of life, are the progressive powers that call for the advancement and improvement of economy, technology, politics, and society as a whole. They are the future generation of tomorrow, and in a sense, the future of any society depends on the molding of its youth. They are an inseparable part of society, and they engage in struggles for the realisation and defense of important societal ideals and values.The stage of youth is one of assimilating knowledge, where searching for understanding is at its peak.

global development efforts. Individual families can also plan ahead to ensure the proper education of their children, thus mobilizing them into the world s workforce and contributing to society s advancement.

Through education, society will strive to empower and cultivate its youth into a promising future. It is the best tool to promote sustained economic growth and development. Increased efforts towards education accessibility, quality and affordability are central to

Education Plans are financial planning tools that assist families in achieving their educational goals through consistent and regular monetary contributions made by the participant (purchaser of the plan), to arrive at a final lump sum available at the

12 Forum

Studies have shown that schooling promotes economic well-being, and it takes little analysis to show the educational differences between developed and developing countries.

Individual earnings are also almost always higher in population pools where education is attainable and sought. Studies have uniformly shown that more schooling is associated with higher individual earnings.

maturity of the plan s term. Prior to maturity date and while the child is still at school, the insurance component built into the plan will make sure that the child receives the funds needed for continued education, even in the unfortunate event of the passing of the parent. Al Hilal Takaful (an Islamic life insurer, part of Ahli United Bank group) is a provider of such Shariah compliant plans that are aimed at securing the financial capability of educating the youth.

With inflation and rising prices, some families may find it difficult to save up the right amount of money to fund the education of their children. But with adequate financial planning, educational goals can be realized.

Educational goals differ between families, some may aim for higher education through universities and post graduate institutions and others will aim for shorter term educational goals such as private high schools.

Through its Financial Planners, Al Hilal Takaful can arrange for an Education Plan that will suit a family s specific needs.

Our youth, especially the ones in the younger age spectrum, are increasingly dependent on their parents/guardians for their livelihood. The loss of life of a parent or guardian can lead to great emotional and financial stress for the whole family in general, and the children in particular.

The passing of a wage earner may dramatically compromise a family s standard of living, thus reducing the financial means of a proper future education. Life protection becomes especially important for families with young children.

Thankfully, adequate financial planning can mitigate such risks. Al Hilal Takaful offers life insurance plans that can put the minds of worrying parents at ease. In the unfortunate event of death,the chosen beneficiaries will receive a lump sum that will aid the family in times of financial stress. In addition to providing income to cover everyday living expenses, your family may need insurance to cover any outstanding debts.

Special attention should be paid to our youth as they pave the way to our future.

Our certified financial planners are trained to aid you in planning to financially secure your children and will assist you in prioritizing your savings for their proper education.

Should you wish for a financial planning review, please feel free to contact us on +973 1758 9800 or email: info@alhilal.life to set up an appointment, or visit our website on www.alhilal.life.

Key Man Insurance and Succession Planning Time and again we have witnessed the tragic consequences business owners face when running a company without the right protection in place from severe financial repercussions to bankruptcy and business closure.

In the Gulf where family owned companies and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) account for a substantial portion of businesses in the region, and make a significant contribution to the economy, such planning and protection is crucial. In Bahrain alone, SMEs make up nearly 90% of all firms operating in Bahrain when branches of foreign companies are included, or around 97% of local businesses. According to the MoIC, SMEs account for almost 30% of the country s Gross Domestic Product and provide jobs for 73% of private sector employees.

Yet despite the clear need for business owners to adopt a robust and solid succession plan that could potentially save the company from a devastating financial blow, little awareness, coupled with the transient nature of many businesses, is leaving many companies in Bahrain unprotected.

A recent survey by Nexus Group found that over 90% of Bahrain based SMEs lack a solid succession or contingency plan. This can lead to a number of issues ranging from family related complications and partnership issues to the inability to provide employees with salaries and the prevention of business continuation and expansion.

The survey showed that most business owners, and even CEOs of large organisations, tend to place significant emphasis on growth and expansion, while failing to recognise the major impact of losing key personnel in the business.

And although it certainly is important for SMEs to grow, the lack of a comprehensive succession plan can lead to the deterioration of businesses and the personal relationships of those involved. Drawing up a succession plan and reviewing it periodically will not only safeguard the business and its employees, but also protect the wellbeing of family members and dependents of business owners.

Questions that may arise during the planning process include who will adopt the role of the affected individual, what role other family members will play, how the assets of the business will be allocated, what expansion routes to take, and an alternative solution should a family member decide against an assigned role.

If a business owner does not have a succession plan what will often happen is that the business will suddenly fall into the hands of an investor

or relative who does not necessarily have the skillset or a genuine interest in running the company.

This is where tailored corporate owned policies, such as key man, partnership insurance or share protection can make a difference. Such policies protect the interests of a business by providing an organisation with the financial compensation it requires to continue operating should an unfortunate event happen, such as death or permanent disability of a key person.

In this case, a key man insurance or partnership insurance policy can protect the company profits by compensating the business should it lose income and revenue caused by that person s absence. It can cover the costs resulting from loss of revenue, loss of intellectual capital, downtime and the training and recruitment fees associated with replacing that person.

While there is no hard and fast formula for calculating how much a key person is worth, insurance companies will typically look at a number of factors, including shareholder agreements, company valuations, contributions to revenue, value of intellectual capital, and costs of replacement.

A well designed succession plan enables business owners to achieve their personal and business goals, ensures survival and growth of the business and maximises company value in both good times and bad.

by Rod Allderidge DipPFS, General Manager Nexus Financial Services WLL. Nexus Group is the region s largest independent financial advisor.

Forum 13

VAT Update Although there has been no official confirmation from Bahrain s Ministry of Finance, it is understood a consultant has been appointed to assist it with the implementation of VAT in the Kingdom. There have also been no further updates on the likely date of implementation, with Shaikh Ahmed s comment on 21 February 2018 that the Ministry would be be working with parliament on VAT to have everything set up by the end of 2018 the most recent comment. With the widely reported announcement from Kuwait s parliamentary budget committee delaying VAT until 2021, questions have been asked on whether Bahrain is likely to delay the imposition of VAT. There are a number of reasons to suggest that Bahrain will implement VAT in the near future, although the most likely date for implementation now looks like 1 January 2019.

Although we have seen a prolonged recovery in the oil price with a barrel of Brent crude recently valued at over $80 for the first time in over three years there is some way to go before the price of oil reaches Bahrain s fiscal break-even point even if the oil price continues to rise. JP Morgan is not alone in forecasting a decline in the oil price over the next 12-18 months, despite regional unpredictability. In addition, any production from Bahrain s recent discovery of significant tight oil and deep gas reserves is unlikely to happen in the short-term. So the financial imperative which was a strong driver in VAT s implementation is still with us.

Secondly, the GCC s two largest economies Saudi Arabia and the UAE have introduced VAT and there has been no suggestion that they have any interest in abandoning their move towards a more fiscally mature economic environment.

In particular, the tax authority in Saudi Arabia has been taking a tough approach when dealing with companies on their VAT (and corporate tax and zakat) compliance obligations. The Saudi economy dwarfs that of Bahrain US$646b against US$32b according to World Bank figures from 2016 and

Ahli United Bank Launches Mobile App for Customers Feedback Ahli United Bank has launched AUB MyVoice , a new mobile application designed to make it easier for customers to communicate with the Bank and report any concerns, complaints or suggestions they might have relating to their banking experience with AUB. 14 Forum

by Mubeen Khadir Head of Tax at Keypoint Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman s whirlwind of change includes a determination to get more Saudis spending more money at home. While Saudis should still continue to visit Bahrain, it is unlikely that the Saudis will want a tax arbitrage that encourages Saudis to shop for luxury goods in Bahrain to last for too long.

Thirdly, as the recent visit to Bahrain by the IMF made very clear, there is still an economic imperative to broaden government revenues, with the importance of implementing VAT as planned added to a suggestion that the Kingdom might want to consider additional measures, such as corporate taxation. While this currently may be seen as a step too far, there are actually advantages to businesses particularly international businesses - from operating in a low tax rather than a no tax environment. VAT when correctly implemented and properly understood should not be a cost to companies.

What then have we learned from VAT implementation in Saudi Arabia and the UAE? One key learning is the importance of training and education. VAT knowledge must be pushed from the top down and from the bottom up.

Internal and external messaging needs to be consistent with communication with stakeholders suppliers, customers and others a critical determinant of eventual success or failure. Businesses are stronger when they speak and act with one voice so it is important that companies learn from each other as well as raising issues with regulators and governments through industry bodies. Businesses in Bahrain should consider resourcing, ensuring that there are enough resources (including people) to carry out required changes and clearly delineate responsibilities. Bahraini businesses have two significant advantages: they can learn from the mistakes made by their peers in Saudi Arabia and the UAE and they have time starting the VAT preparation process early is imperative.

Grant Thornton Bahrain welcomes new members of the VAT team

Nirav Rajput Grant Thornton VAT Manager

Suresh Rohira Grant Thornton VAT Partner

Jatin Karia Grant Thornton Senior Partner

Jassim Abdulaal Grant Thornton Managing Partner

Grant Thornton Bahrain Managing Partner Jassim Abdulaal and Senior Partner Jatin Karia are pleased to announce expansion of their local VAT practice.

Nirav already has extensive experience assisting clients with VAT implementation in the UAE.

VAT e-learning module available for Bahrain market

regulations. Businesses need to ensure their VAT processes and procedures are effectively aligned to the regulation.

Grant Thornton s VAT Advisory service arm is headed by Suresh Rohira.

Suresh brings more than twenty-four years of experience in indirect taxes.

Suresh is supported in Bahrain by VAT project leader, Nirav Rajput, and his recently joined team in Bahrain. Nirav is a Chartered Accountant with over six years postqualification experience in indirect tax advisory.

The Grant Thornton VAT team have conducted several VAT workshops and training programs for clients in several industries, including the financial services sector, the energy sector, FMCG and industrial goods sector, amongst others.

Managing Partner Jassim Abdulaal said This global expertise leveraged by our local firm will be of huge benefit to companies within Bahrain, ensuring a smooth transition to VAT.

Available to download onto both iPhones and android devices, the new app provides AUB customers with a fast and convenient outlet not only to raise any pressing issue or complaint directly and reliably with the Bank but also to track its status and view its entire history.

Once downloaded, the process of reporting an issue to the Bank through the app is very straightforward. By simply entering their account number, AUB customers will receive a onetime password on their mobile phones to authenticate their request.

Once logged-in, customers will be prompted to choose the appropriate category from an exhaustive list of potential issues, ranging from account

Grant Thornton Bahrain has recently launched an interactive e-learning module which assists companies in Bahrain with VAT preparation.

This e-module is a digital application which explains the basic principles of VAT to its users. It is targeted towards businesses who wish to learn about the mechanics of VAT. Senior Partner Jatin Karia explained VAT is a transaction tax which requires compliance with numerous rules and

He added, This e-module is an important step for many in Bahrain, helping businesses gear up for the proposed VAT regime. This e-module will aid local businesses to convert efficiently and effectively to VAT. Grant Thornton will provide a certificate upon successful completion of the course.

The e-module can be requested from our VAT department by sending an email to vat@bh.gt.com

maintenance to credit card issuance to loan applications, as well as provide a brief description of the issue at hand.

Prospective AUB customers can also share feedback on their experience with AUB services by providing their mobile number and basic contact details. The app supports the use of both the English and Arabic languages.

Shafqat Anwar, Deputy GCEO, Technology and Operations, commented: Delivering superior, quality products and services is at the heart of everything we do at AUB. We work proactively to anticipate and meet customer needs and ensure they receive the professional and efficient service they expect in the most seamless manner .

Submitted feedback are received and acted upon by a dedicated team at the Bank for resolution and reporting back to the customer within the shortest possible delay. The new app is in addition to the usual means of communicating with AUB, whether in person, by phone or email, or through the customer feedback section on the Bank s website.

We are proud to be the first bank in Bahrain to launch a dedicated mobile app for customers feedback. This is part of our efforts to be more accessible and engaged with a digitally active generation and to remain evermore focused on listening to customers voices and concerns and ensuring their satisfaction throughout .

Forum 15

News from the Eastern Province and supported the UK Government in substantial trade deals and has set up a long term investment process for UK businesses. This is excellent news and is married to a high level working group between both governments.

David Burck Chairman, BBA(EP) The BBA Eastern Province would like to wish all of our colleagues at the BBBF a very Happy Ramadan and a wonderful summer.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has seldomly been in the news for such positive reasons. The pace of change in all aspects of the Kingdom s society, business and infrastructure is incredible and often hard to keep up with.

Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman has instigated

Saudi Snippets Qatar to be cut-off

According to Saudi media reports, Saudi Arabia has invited companies to construct a canal that would turn the emirate into an island.

Mekkah newspaper reports that the KSA has invited five companies to bid for the project, adding that a Saudi military base would be built in the kilometre-deep buffer zone between the future Salwa Canal and Qatar.

The project had been first floated in the Kingdom s media in April, when the Saudi-owned Al-Arabiya broadcaster said the 60km 16 Forum

A major concern to contractors and to expatriate workers are the ongoing increases in the costs associated with expatriate employees. The increases have been ongoing for 2 years and by the time we reach 2020, these costs are expected to have increased 10 fold over approximately a 4 year period. The Kingdoms domestic unemployment currently stands at over 12.5%, and with almost 70% of the population being under 30, employing Saudi nationals has become a key issue.

The key driver in the Kingdom s economy continues to be crude oil prices, which have steadily increased over the last 6

The British Business Association (BBA) - Eastern Province Tel: 0580 102 207 Email: secretary@bbaep.org Website: www.bbaep.org months and now hover slightly over US$70 per barrel. Demand remains strong in spite of significant production increase by non OPEC members, including the US who have become the world s largest producer.

The BBA Eastern Province have continued to balance the requirements of keeping members and British business interests updated with all the challenges and the possibilities for new trade lanes and business investments. We have strong links with the BTO (British Trade Office) in Khobar to assist with the SIG s (Special Interest Group) delivery in excellent business related information and networking opportunities.

Going forward there will be several SIG s and networking nights plus a number of informal networking family events, spouses will be encouraged to attend.

The AGM took place and a new committee was elected. They have met and started to plan future events. The BBA Eastern Province remains in good shape and I am confident that we can look forward to a continuation of the successes of the past few years.

Warm wishes from the Easter n Province to all BBBF Forum readers.

Kind regards, David Burck, Chairman

by 200m canal would include a tourist resort and a nuclear waste dump in addition to the military base.

There was no official Saudi confirmation of the project.

The Mekkah newspaper said the contact winner would be announced within three months.

Some Saudis celebrated the news. Yet another historical moment for our country, we are changing geography of the world (sic), wrote one on Twitter.

Qataris have reacted with outrage. Their country s only land border is with Saudi Arabia.

Malika Favre is a name suddenly on everyones lips at the moment after the Arab News commisioned a special celebratory cover on the day women in Saudi Arabia were allowed to drive.

A French artist based in London, her bold, minimal style often described as

Pop Art meets OpArt is a striking lesson in the use of positive/negative space and colour.Her unmistakable style has established her as one of the UK s most sought after graphic artists. Malika s clients include The New Yorker, Vogue, BAFTA, Sephora and Penguin Books.

It s been less than four months since women in Saudi Arabia were told they would finally be allowed to drive. Now they also want the chance to fly.

Eqbal Darandari, a female member of the Saudi Shura Council, is reported as saying that allowing women into aviation would be an important step in realising the Kingdom s goal to increase women sparticipation in the workforce from 22% to 30%.

We ve seen Saudi women piloting aircraft outside the Kingdom; now it s time for the Saudi aviation authority

MODA Mall encourages the local community to embrace a healthier lifestyle

Health Matters Gulf Diabetes Specialist Center expands its Radiology department

The Gulf Diabetes Specialist Center (GDSC) announces the expansion of its radiology services. The Multix Fusion Max, from Siemens Medical, offers fast, high-quality image results. The digital X-ray system is built to streamline the workflow without compromising on image quality. It is patient friendly being ceiling mounted and easy patient access with low table height. No more radiation dose than is necessary; the Collimator is always automatically adjusted according to the selected organ program.

The Multix Fusion Max meets all the needs of modern routine radiography.

It produces fast, high-quality results and consistent performance. The intuitive, streamlined workflow combined with easy-to-handle, state-of-the-art detectors enable an efficient daily routine that allow the radiographer to stay focused on the patient.

Additional features include over 1,000 organ programs for fewer adjustments

and faster examinations – with precise post-processing integrated into the workflow, and a built-in quality management clinical assurance program, exposure index (EXI) and deviation index (DI) monitoring, and DICOM dose reporting.

Extends a helping hand to Bahrain Center for International Mobility

Everyday radiography at its best. The Multix Fusion Max has everything it takes – plus the MAX effect.

The Gulf Diabetes Specialist Center offers a comprehensive range of medical services including its stateof-the-art ophthalmology clinic for the diagnosis and management of medical and surgical eye diseases, including the latest SCHWIND AMARIS 750S LASIK vision correction (say goodbye to glasses and contact lenses), Diabetic Foot Clinic, Diabetes and Endocrinology, Neurology, Cardiology and General Practise.

Pictured Top Right: MODA Mall team with representatives and children from Bahrain Centre for International mobility Bottom Right: Visitors to MODA Mall undergoing free medical tests and screening 18 Forum

Engaging the local community in a healthy lifestyle event, MODA Mall hosted fitness and health check-up sessions in collaboration with Gulf Diabetes Specialist Center and tenant partners, Fitness First and Healthy Calorie. Focusing on how people can live healthier and make better active choices, the Healthy Lifestyle event presented a fun and interactive platform for the mall visitors, corporate and retail tenant partners, and the media, to live healthier through expert advice and useful tips.

A 3-km walkathon led by qualified trainers from Fitness First along with warm-up sessions kicked off the Healthy Lifestyle initiative. This was followed by a host of exciting work-out sessions including Body Balance and Zumba over the course of the day. Coinciding with the physical activity sessions, the participants were also treated to a nutritious breakfast organised by MODA Mall s tenant partner, Healthy Calorie, highlighting how the right diet and exercise can help you become fit.

with Gulf Diabetes Specialist Center.

This included free counseling and health check-ups for blood sugar, blood pressure, weight and height, body mass index (BMI) and Glaucoma screening tests for all participants of the Healthy Living event and mall visitors.

The day also witnessed the Bahrain Centre for International Mobility highlighting its various communitydriven initiatives and projects that have successfully engaged people with disabilities and supported them in pursuing better lifestyles. Furthermore, MODA Mall extended a financial contribution to the Bahrain Centre for International Mobility acknowledging their ongoing efforts in providing

social rehabilitation and services to the disabled in Bahrain.

Bahrain World Trade Center and MODA Mall s managing agent, Cushman & Wakefield Bahrain, Kelvin Crutchlow, Director & General Manager said, We are pleased to extend our support to various social causes and charitable activities across the Kingdom and create a dialogue amongst the community about tackling health issues.

With this being our first health-focused event, the participation we had today reaffirms our belief that people are conscious of their health and are willing to invest their time in physical activities and regularly exercise, which are essential to living healthy.

Alongside the fitness sessions, the mall also took the lead in educating the local community on Diabetes, its early detection and preventive care through free medical tests and screenings organised in partnership Forum 19

Hotel & Leisure News

Kanoo Travel Attracts More than a Thousand Visitors at Arabian Travel Market

Swiss-Café introduces new lunch offers this Summer

Above: Fahad Fawzi Kanoo (4th from right) with Kanoo Travel Team and Guests Kanoo Travel s booth in the 2018 Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai attracted more than a 1000 visitors ranging from small to mid-level agencies including existing customers.

Krystal Online, a new cloud-based travel technology owned and distributed by Kanoo Travel played a pivotal role in attracting the large number of visitors.

Being in the 2018 Arabian Travel Market was an opportunity to strengthen relationships with our clients and to inform them about our latest technology, Krystal Online, which received a lot of attention from many travel agencies. It was also an opportunity to showcase our 81 years of history in the Travel Industry, said, Nabeel Khalid Kanoo, Board Director at YBA Kanoo Group.

The new technology allows travel agents to search and book from multiple global

20 Forum

suppliers, over 500,000 hotels & car rentals worldwide, with dynamic content such as maps, photos, and videos through its travel affiliate network program.

During the four days event, executives of renowned institutions such as Sabre, Amadeus, American Express, Emirates, Etihad, and Oman Air were introduced to Krystal online. We received a lot of positive feedback regarding the new technology and discussed several partnership proposals, mentioned, Interim Executive General Manager of Kanoo Travel, Zaeem Gama.

The 2018 ATM also witnessed the signing of a strategic agreement between Kanoo Travel and Kalaam Telecom to enhance the service excellence of the call center hubs.

Kanoo Travel a fully owned business division of Yusuf bin Ahmed Kanoo Group (YBA Kanoo) boasts a wide market presence with offices in Bahrain, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Egypt, and the UK. It also prides itself in solely representing American Express Global Business Travel, one of the largest travel management companies globally.

Swiss-Belhotel Seef s all-day dining restaurant, Swiss-Café, is introducing two new lunch options in the heart of Seef with amazing value for money.

From Sunday to Thursday, a Mediterranean Lunch will be served for only BD 6 net per person. The offer includes access to the buffet along with a plated main course that the guest can select from a special menu. The buffet displays an esquisite selection of starters , mezzeh and salads, followed by soup, tasty main courses and a wide selection of homemade pastries and desserts. An ideal option for both a quick business lunch or a more relaxed meal.

During weekends, Swiss-Café will embrace the Greek culture by offering an extensive buffet with traditional dishes from Greece every Friday and Saturday for BD 8 net per person, inclusive of soft beverages. A perfect pick to enjoy some family time as the restaurant offers complimentary meals for two children under 6 years old for every paying adult and 50% discount for children under 12 years old.

Swiss- Café restaurant is located on the hotel s 10 th floor and offer a beautiful panoramic sea and city view.

Guests will enjoy dining in a comfortable environment filled with day light, wooden floors, modern fittings and a scenic outdoor terrace overlooking the city.

Forum 21

Bahrain News

MODA Mall BD5,000 worth gift voucher awarded to mid-Ramadan campaign winner Sami Matar has been announced as the mid-Ramadan winner of the MODA MALL gift voucher worth BD 5,000 as part of the latest Shop & Win campaign being held at MODA Mall.

Ecstatic with his first-ever raffle draw win, Sami Matar, a huge fan of watches and shoes, said, I have an avid interest in accessories. I had recently shopped for a luxury watch at MODA Mall and now that I have won the gift voucher, I am planning to treat myself to another high-end watch.

MODA Mall s latest Ramadan Shop & Win campaign is rewarding shoppers for their purchases of BD30 or more with a raffle ticket and a chance to win shopping vouchers worth a total of BD15,000. The lucky mid-Ramadan winner of MODA Mall BD5,000 worth gift voucher was selected through a raffle draw, conducted under the supervision of Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism officials.

Adding to the Ramadan festivities, MODA Mall is showcasing illustrious Bahraini craftsmanship featuring local artisans and their unique skills, to offer an all embracing cultural experience for its visitors. This includes intricate boat and traditional chest making, alongside classic Arabic calligraphy and also showcasing Bahrain s masterful pearl extraction skills.

Yusuf bin Ahmed Kanoo Group holds Ramadan Gabgha 22 Forum

Above: Bahrain World Trade Centre and MODA Mall s managing agent, Cushman & Wakefield Bahrain, Kelvin Crutchlow, Director & General Manager with Sami Matar, MODA Mall mid-Ramadan campaign winner.

Yusuf bin Ahmed Kanoo Group held its Annual Staff Gabgha at the Gulf Hotel.

The Ramadan event was attended by board members, the Group Acting CEO, and staff members of YBA Kanoo.

gathering to bring our various business divisions to celebrate together. It is an event that will be kept in our annual calendar for years to come , Group Acting CEO, Fawzi Ahmed Kanoo said.

In the spirit of our ongoing transformation and our One Kanoo initiative, we wanted to have this

More than 250 attendees took part in the festivities which included a variety of fun team building games and quizzes.

Forum 23

Bahrain News

Kanoo Shipping Upgrades to ISO 9001 2015 Certification Kanoo Shipping, a business division of the Yusuf bin Ahmed Kanoo Group (YBA Kanoo), one of the largest, independent family-owned multinational businesses in the Middle East achieved a milestone of having all branches across Bahrain and Saudi Arabia upgraded to the new ISO 9001 2015 Standard certification.

The new standard requirements help to improve overall performance and provides a sound basis of sustainable development initiatives, which fits into the Group s Vision 2020 transformation programme.

Upgrading to ISO 9001 2015 in Kanoo Shipping branches reflects our serious commitment towards delivering sustainable excellence through all the Group s businesses. This achievement came as a direct result of accurate implementation of the systems by the operations and support team in respective branches Fawzi Ahmed Kanoo, YBA Kanoo s Acting CEO said.

Certification is required for doing business with all major clients. It is part of making sure that clients are working with a world class service provider that is able to maintain the highest standards.

First Institute of Risk Management (IRM) Course to be offered in Arabic across the Gulf Cooperation Council region (GCC) The Institute of Risk Management (IRM) is delighted to announce that Oasis Training Center (OTC) Bahrain (the first provider of the internationally recognised Fundamentals of Risk Management (FoRM) course in the region) will now be running the training course in Arabic across the GCC, including: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

Pictured from Left to Right: Jameel Al Sharaf, Group Corporate Services Manager, Fawzi Ahmed Kanoo, Deputy CEO of YBA Kanoo Group and Robert Moss, Executive General Manager of Kanoo Shipping & Logistics

Branches of Kanoo Shipping which received the ISO 9001 2015 upgrade are in Dammam, Riyadh, Jeddah, Rabigh, Jubail, Khafji, Ras Tanura, all in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as well as the branch in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The audits in Saudi Arabia were held by ABS Quality Evaluations while Bureau Veritas conducted the ones in Bahrain.

Sanjay Himatsingani, Director of Training, IRM said: We are very pleased to be working with Oasis Training to deliver FoRM in Arabic. This is a first for the IRM as all of our training has historically been delivered in English. There has been a big demand for this in the region and we re delighted to be able to offer the Arabic option with our partners.

The FoRM course is well respected and attracts delegates from a wide variety of organisations from all over the world. FoRM gives students an introduction to the principles and practices of enterprise risk management and can be applied to anyone from any sector globally; it is also a great introduction to the Inter national Certificate in Enterprise Risk Management.

Dr Suzanne White, Managing Director Oasis Training Center, said: Risk management is a hot topic at all levels in Middle Eastern organisations. Having an IRM introductory 2 day course available in Arabic will contribute to organizational effectiveness across the region .

The IRM offers a variety of in-house and short courses on over 20 risk related topics for all levels of role from FoRM to Risk in the Boardroom.

24 Forum

Alosra supermarket and Ireland s Musgrave enter into commercial deal BMMI Group s fully owned subsidiary Alosra supermarket has entered into a commercial deal with Ireland s leading food retail and wholesale company, Musgrave.

With seven stores across Bahrain and two in Saudi Arabia, Alosra supermarket is a leading grocery retailer that has been a true lifestyle partner to its customers since 1987. Established in 1876, Musgrave is one of Ireland s leading retailers, with brands including SuperValu, Centra, and Daybreak, as well as Musgrave MarketPlace, the country s leading wholesale supplier to retail, foodservice and SMEs. The deal will give Alosra the opportunity to bring in exclusive Irish products, widening its offering to include some of the European country s best-known and loved brands. Similarly, through exporting their products to Bahrain, Musgrave has an ideal opportunity to expand their reach to another international market, helping showcase Irish products across the globe.

Alosra and Musgrave have proven to have solid brand synergy and to share similar values, including their support for the local community. For example, Alosra s Think Local programme supports local producers and farmers to sell their products in their stores, Musgrave also runs a Food Academy programme in conjunction with Bord Bia (the Irish Food Board) where small businesses and producers are nurtured through their journey from start-up through to gaining their retail listing.

Alosra has had a longstanding interest in and a relationship with Ireland, said BMMI General Manager of Food Retailing and Production, Jaffar Al Asfoor, who oversees Alosra supermarket.

The Alosra team has been travelling to Ireland frequently for years, and we have always been impressed with the quality and diversity of their offering, said Mr Al Asfoor.

In fact, many members of our team have actually trained in

Above: Musgrave and Alosra announce their commercial deal at Bord Bia s Marketplace International conference. Pictured at the announcement in Dublin are (from left) Tara McCarthy, CEO, Bord Bia; Jaffar Al Asfoor, BMMI General Manager of Food Retailing and Production; and Chris Martin, Musgrave CEO.

Ireland and we have always been inspired by how passionate the Irish people are about their heritage and their food. In Musgrave, we have a like-minded partner providing a great opportunity for a taste of Ireland to come to Bahrain.

The Alosra team also recently attended Marketplace International in Dublin, a unique, invitation-only event that brings together top Irish food and drink exporters and international trade buyers. Organised by Bord Bia, the trade show has a major focus on sustainability, with all participating Irish suppliers at the event being Origin Green verified members, which is a national sustainability programme.

Marketplace International was an ideal platform for Alosra to further develop their relationships with Irish suppliers who, much like Alosra, are committed to the importance of sustainability.

Furthermore, the event provided an opportunity to promote Bahrain s thriving grocery retail sector and Alosra s strong position in the market.

FedEx Express Wins Express Logistics Company of the Year at 2018 Logistics Middle East Awards FedEx Express, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) and the world s largest express transportation company, was named Express Logistics Company of the Year at the 2018 Logistics Middle East Awards for its commitment to delivering excellence and providing access to customers around the world.

The company has more than four decades of global experience and has been present in the Middle East for more than 25 years. With a fleet of more than 600 planes, FedEx provides access to 220 countries and territories and connects markets that comprise more than 90 per cent of the world s GDP.

FedEx Express leverages a global air and ground network and innovative solutions to deliver unparalleled service to our customers. Being named Express Logistics Company of the Year is testament to the dedication of our team members across the region, who are committed to going above and beyond to provide our customers with the level of service they expect from FedEx, said Jack Muhs, regional president, FedEx Express Middle East, Indian Subcontinent and Africa (MEISA).

The Logistics Middle East Awards, formerly known as the Supply Chain

and Transport Awards (SCATA), were first held in 2007. The awards are a celebration of excellence in the supply chain and logistics communities of the Middle East.

Forum 25

Bahrain News

Middle East a priority focus for newly-combined Charles Russell Speechlys and Couchmans Sports practice

C

harles Russell Speechlys is delighted to announce that the partners and staff of Couchmans LLP have joined the firm to form a unique full-service legal offering for the sports sector with a focus on the Middle East market.

By combining its pre-eminent sports law practice with Couchmans sport law boutique service, Charles Russell Speechlys is uniquely placed to advise clients internationally on all the legal and strategic issues that they may encounter in the sports and related technology, media and lifestyle sectors.

With sporting calendars growing in many Middle Eastern countries to include new annual tournaments and massparticipation sports events such as marathons, triathlons and cycling events, in addition to the headline large-scale events that continue to dominate the region s sporting diaries, good governance and integrity are hot topics and of paramount importance to investors, organisers, and participants.

Nic Couchman, head of sport at Charles Russell Speechlys, says: Charles Russell Speechlys provides the perfect platform for us. Both firms are immersed in this sector and have a track record of innovation and working on ground breaking projects. We have helped to shape and guide the change and growth in the sports sector over two decades.

This exciting next step in our development allows us to meet the needs of our clients who want sector specialist advice across the full range of legal disciplines with a global outlook. The Middle East market, with its rapidly-growing calendar of sporting events, increasing prominence on the world sporting stage, and increasing focus on sports and active lifestyles, is of huge importance to us, and we look forward to working with the organisations and investors making this happen to ensure the highest standards of good governance, sporting integrity and best commercial practice are applied.

Our interest and experience ranges from major football and equine sports rights and investments to niche and lifestyle sports.

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Working in tandem with our local office network and partners in the Middle East, we intend to set a new standard for sports law firms, not just in the UK, but internationally.

Couchmans was founded in 2001 by Nic Couchman, and was known one of the leading brands in sports law for nearly two decades.

The arrival of the Couchmans team coincides with the appointment of Darren Bailey as a consultant.

Darren was previously Director of F o o t b a l l Governance and Regulation at The FA, and is a leading expert in sports law, integrity and regulation. Darren s role will include advising footballing authorities in the Middle East region on integrity and governance issues.

James Carter, Managing Partner at Charles Russell Speechlys, says: We are delighted to join forces with Couchmans.

Charles Russell Speechlys has been at the forefront of providing legal advice to the sports sector for over 100 years and has acted in many of the leading cases and projects that have helped to shape what is now known as sports law.

The addition of the market leading Couchmans team is a bold and innovative step forward for both firms and creates what we believe will quickly become the pre-eminent international sports sector legal practice.

We firmly believe that through this combination, we will stay at the cutting edge of the sports business as it becomes increasingly global. Clients will have access to a commercially orientated, sector specialist service on a full service international platform, but will continue to benefit from the personal attention that is the hallmark of both firms.

The Bahrain Financial Harbour Masterplan development in the heart of Manama includes the Harbour Gate commercial / retail property, between the two 52 storey Harbour Towers office buildings.

More importantly it has helped to spread the inclusion message in a powerful way.

H

arbour Gate is promoting space it has available for a wide range of events so as to become a social hub.

It has engaged in a charitable collaboration with RIA Institute Bahrain by providing RIA space for their events to support their programs, creating a safe and accessible space for children, as a contribution to the society. The partnership with Harbour Gate has undoubtedly raised RIA s profile and helped RIA gain sponsors and donations in Bahrain, especially through all the media coverage they have managed to garner.

Students at RIA have an individual, educational and social learning plan.

Working hand in hand with their families, building the learning path that will be of the most benefit to the student s emotional, intellectual and physical needs. The events held in Harbour Gate are supporting their learning programs & it allows students to interact with others through art. RIA will be attending the Inspiration International Congress in Birmingham UK, where one student will be talking about her life and work in Bahrain and the opportunities she has had through participation in the events at Harbour Gate.

Undoubtedly our partnership with Harbour Gate has helped to raise RIA s profile in the business community as well as with government bodies and members of the public who visit Harbour Gate on a day to day basis. By hosting inclusive events in such a prestigious location, together we are sending a powerful message that everyone, regardless of their ability, should be fully included in all aspects of Bahrain s vibrant society. I cannot thank the staff at Harbour Gate enough for their ongoing and whole-hearted support. explained Christine Gordon MBE, Co-founder of RIA Institute Bahrain.

I am often asked why we hold events at Harbour Gate especially when more often than not Baloo, my chocolate labrador, has been the central attraction. By bringing children with communication difficulties and their 4 legged friend to Harbour Gate we are saying quite simply we want to be included . If one business person or government official goes away from one of our fun, collaborative events with the idea that inclusion of those who are differently abled is valuable to their organisation then we have succeeded.

Through their unwavering support, the management and staff at Harbour Gate have demonstrated what is possible through a collaborative, inclusive model. Said Sarah Clarke, writer and founder of the Baloo s Buddies program at RIA Institute Bahrain.

Angus Campbell, CEO of Bahrain Financial Harbour Holding Company BSC(c) Said: We are delighted to support RIA Institute Bahrain by hosting their events at Harbour Gate.

Harbour Gate, the social hub of the Bahrain Financial Harbour Masterplan, has a variety of spaces for a wide range of events and exhibitions and plenty of easily accessible visitor parking.

We want to reposition Harbour Gate as a more lively social hub / popular lifestyle destination not just a commercial centre.

We hope to be able to announce exciting new plans for the property in the very near future.

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HRH Crown Prince attends Lord High Admiral s Parade at Britannia Royal Naval College Dartmouth

The Crown Prince of Bahrain has taken the Passing out Parade Salute at Dartmouth s Britannia Royal Naval College. He was making a return visit to BRNC to inspect the 152 young officers completing their Royal Navy Initial Naval Training course.

The Crown Prince, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, Kingdom of Bahrain, previously attended the Lord High Admiral s Parade in 2015 to see his son, His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al-Khalifa, commission as a Naval Officer.

The parade also included 11 international students from other nations including Fiji, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Ghana, Malta, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Guyana and the Bahamas.

During the Parade, His Royal Highness presented the intake s winners with prizes and delivered an address in which he congratulated the newly-commissioned officers on the significant achievement of completing their training.

Addressing the cadets, he said: You have all been tested, both physically and mentally, from the parade ground to the classroom, from the wilds of Dartmoor to the expanse of the open sea, you ve all met the challenges thrown at you, for which you should now feel an immense sense of achievement and satisfaction.

His Royal Highness acknowledged the proud history of the Royal Navy, which has been at the forefront of the United Kingdom s global role for over four centuries and spoke of Bahrain s long-standing ties with the Royal Navy which span 28 Forum

over 200 years, noting that these ties have been further strengthened with the establishment of the new UK Naval Support Facility.

The Commanding Officer of BRNC, Captain Jolyon Woodard said: It is a privilege to welcome His Royal Highness back to BRNC to inspect those passing out today...All have completed the demanding 29-week Initial Naval Training (Officers) course and they are now ready to serve as Commissioned Officers in their respective navies across the globe.

Also taking part in the parade were Officer Cadets half way through their training who will pass out in August. The musical accompaniment was provided by the Band of Her Majesty s Royal Marines, Plymouth.

Dignitaries from other Navies and organisations were among the VIP guests.